New Plan Offers Scope to Revitalise Agricultural Research, says ASA

The additional government expenditure on science, technology and innovation provides a real opportunity to revitalise research in primary agricultural production, said James Fitzgerald, President of the Agricultural Science Association (ASA).

He said that over the past decade agricultural research in Ireland has not matched the needs of the industry and the level of scientific expertise is now significantly behind that of our main competitors. If farming is to be put in a strong competitive position, an injection of new resources is urgent.

Welcoming the government's identification of agriculture as one of the target areas for increased investment in its new strategy for science, technology and innovation, the ASA President said the level of resources must match the massive challenges facing the industry and must be at least commensurate with the contribution and importance of agriculture to the economy.

"Good progress has been made in food research during the past decade. A co-ordinated approach has enhanced the scientific and technological expertise in Teagasc food centres and in the universities. A similar approach is now needed in order to correct the shortfalls in agricultural research and to develop new production systems based on best scientific practice," he said.

James Fitzgerald welcomed the inclusion of agriculture as a core element in research on energy. He said the miniscule investment in research on energy crops at present is putting Irish agriculture at a distinct disadvantage in availing of the opportunities offered by renewable energy.

He said the government's target to double research expenditure by food companies is also laudable. However, the inability of small to medium food companies to absorb new technology is a serious barrier to new product development. Innovative methods, including mentoring by experienced scientists, will need to be used in order to bring about the necessary innovation in food products.