Horizon 2020 research funding
Senator Burke highlights Ireland’s shortage of consultants and increased medical-card coverage, then asks for a debate on maximising Ireland’s benefits from Horizon 2020 research funding.
I remind the other side that in 2003 the Hanly report clearly set out that-----
Comment on this
I am simply reminding the Senator of it. I will come to the Order of Business. The report clearly set out that by 2012 there would be 3,600 consultants in the country, up from 1,700. At the moment there are 2,500, which is 1,100 short. That is the first point. The second point is that since we have come into power we have provided an additional 251,000 medical cards. By the end of 2013 some 48% of the population will be on medical cards or GP-only cards. That is a fact and it was not a promise in the election. We delivered it.
Comment on this
The question for the Leader relates to the debate earlier today with the Commissioner. She referred to Horizon 2020. I raised the issue of medical research. Will the Leader arrange a debate with the Minister present on the Horizon 2020 programme and how we, as a country, can get the maximum benefit from the research funding available under that programme? Following the comments of the Commissioner it would be useful to have a debate about the need for more joined-up thinking and co-ordination between all the people involved in this research area and on connecting the business community as well.