600 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will consider the concerns of a person (details supplied) regarding Ireland’s failure to participate in international particle physics research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14838/07]

The Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation recognises the importance for Ireland in building its international collaborative networks in science and highlights the importance of making investments in a way that produces the greatest benefit to Ireland. Ireland is currently involved in various international programmes and initiatives including the European Seventh Framework Programme for Research (FP7), the European Space Agency, the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, EUREKA, the network for market orientated research and development and COST, European co-operation in the field of scientific and technical research.

However, I am conscious of the evolving landscape of international research initiatives and policies and consequently at my request, the Advisory Science Council (ASC) has commenced a study in order to help elaborate a strategy for Ireland's international engagement in science, technology and innovation. The outcome of this study, which is expected to be completed later this year, will be used, inter alia, to guide decision making on the international organisations in which Ireland should seek closer involvement.