Government Targets Additional 200 Million Euro Of E.U. R&D Funding

The increased target will see Ireland working to achieve €600m in E.U. Framework Funding over the next six years according to Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin, T.D.

Making the announcement the Minister highlighted the significant contribution that the Framework Programme had made to the internationalisation of Irish research: "The Framework programme has enabled academic and industry research groups to work with peers across Europe and derive the benefits associated with collaborative research. Between now and 2013 we must build on the progress which has been made."

"Ireland has a reputation as a location for cutting edge research and this is bringing jobs into our communities.

"Already, Irish researchers have worked side by side with colleagues across Europe on more than 500 projects. Now it is time to build on that and our new funding target reflects our commitment to continue having a lead research role within the EU and at a Global level."

The Minister concluded by stating that the decision reflects the Government's desire to maintain Ireland's competitiveness by developing its position as a dynamic knowledge driven economy.