28th May, 2009
For Immediate Release

Budget Support For Science And Technology Welcomed by Royal Society

Budget initiatives announced today in support of science and research are a big step in the right direction, according to Neville Jordan, President of the Royal Society of New Zealand.

“Investing in the country's scientists is vital, not only to help find ways for New Zealand to recover from the current recession but also, longer term, to enhance and underpin New Zealand's economic stability and growth, and our reputation as a cutting edge environment for global research,” Mr Jordan said. “On-going investment will be crucial to promoting productivity, growth and innovation to drive New Zealand forward.”

Mr Jordan said the Royal Society was especially pleased with the Budget's $9 million annual increase in investment in the Marsden Fund - the biggest increase since the Fund was established 14 years ago and one which takes its annual funding to $47 million.

“The Marsden Fund plays an important role in supporting New Zealand's top researchers and is also vital in nurturing up and coming young scientists, a role that is close to the heart of the Royal Society.”

“The increase in funding for the CRI Capability Fund, the HRC, and the Marsden Fund shows the Government's commitment to scientific excellence and building sector capability. Supporting excellence is a key role of the Royal Society, so we applaud this emphasis.”

Alongside funding increases, the Budget announcement of the Prime Minister's Prizes for Science will be a great fillip to the science community, Mr Jordan said.

“For a long time scientists have felt that they have not had the recognition commensurate with their contribution to New Zealand. That these prizes are to be presented by the Prime Minister, and will include recognising our young scientists, will help raise the profile of this contribution.”

The Royal Society looks forward to working with the government as it develops its science priorities. This Budget supports the first stages of the government's plan to raise the profile and prestige of science in New Zealand.

ENDS

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