Science Policy
Science Policy
Science Governance
Following a decade of increasing public investment in STI, a new structure for governance of science was established in 2004. This structure is headed by the Cabinet Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation, which includes the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) and the Ministers for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation; Finance; Education and Skills; Health and Children; Agriculture, Food and Fisheries; Communications, Energy and Natural Resources; Environment, Heritage and Local Government; and the Minister of State for Science, Technology, Innovation and Natural Resources.
The Cabinet Committee is served by the Interdepartmental Committee (IDC) on Science, Technology and Innovation. This is comprised of senior civil servants from the relevant Government departments and the CSA. It is chaired by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation.
The Chief Scientific Adviser (CSA) provides independent advice to Government. The CSA attends meetings of the Cabinet Committee and formally reports to it via the IDC.
The Advisory Science Council (ASC) made up of senior figures from industry and academia prepares and provides advice on science issues from the points of view of the main stakeholders.
