Scientists To Pair With MLAs

Scientists are to be called into Stormont to see how their area of expertise can inform the legislation process.

The MLA/scientist pairing scheme will make Northern Ireland the first regional assembly to roll out such a concept.

The scheme will focus on geosciences.

Launching the Politics Plus exchange event in Stormont today, Energy Minister Arlene Foster said: "This scheme will lead to enhanced collaboration between politicians and scientists which will assist the development of future legislation and strengthen the impact of science on policy.

"Exploration for natural resources is one of the key drivers of economic growth. For example, for centuries hydrocarbons have been needed to fuel our cars, heat our homes and produce plastics and lubricants for our industry.

"Increasingly there is a need for a mix of energy from more sustainable sources but hydrocarbons will still be required as part of that mix. Mineral exploration is also required to source precious metals, base metals for industry, rock salt to de-ice our roads, and rare earth elements are required to make components for computers and smart phones. This new scheme will highlight the importance of these issues."

Professor Tom J. Millar MRIA, Dean of Engineering and Physical Sciences and Professor of Astrophysics at Queens University Belfast added: "Queen's is enthusiastic to both embark upon and support the opportunity to further the impact of research and innovation of its scientists and political scientists by directly engaging and working along MLAs with the aim of informing new government policy. Both MLAs and scientists will continue their own professional development through shared learning, exchange of ideas and policy research."

The Secretary of the Royal Irish Academy, Professor Vani Boroorah MRIA commented: "The Academy is delighted to work in partnership with GSNI, QUB and the NIASLT today in supporting this inaugural MLA/scientist pairing scheme. By bringing independent and expert scientists into Parliament Buildings today, we are facilitating the exchange of knowledge with the MLAs they will work with over the coming year. The Academy is committed to working with both parliaments on the island, to engage elected representatives and inform policy making."

The scheme will run until March next year.

(IT/JP)