Environment Minister Mark H Durkan.
Environment Minister, Derry MLA Mark H Durkan, today delivered the key note address at the “Horizon 2020” workshop at the Ulster University, Magee College.
Horizon 2020 is the European Commission’s €80billion flagship programme for investment in research and innovation to boost jobs and growth within a more sustainable economy.
The workshop is aimed at a range of sectors including: local and central government, research bodies, SMEs, NGOs, not for profit organisations and the agri-food sector business/industry.
Mr Durkan said: “Global resource constraints mean that it is inevitable that we are going to have to be more resource efficient in the way that we all live. We have got to find new, innovative, ways of producing the same products, or alternative products, using less energy, less water, fewer raw materials, and with fewer impacts on the environment. But we cannot do this without investing in research.”
Horizon 2020 can stimulate investment and provide opportunities to gain access to EU partners while raising the profile of Northern Ireland’s research and innovation capabilities.
The Minister added: “On this island all of us, as politicians and civic leaders, should encourage every sector of our society to strive to maximise every opportunity that arises to build A Better Environment – A Stronger Economy.
“Today, you have the chance to help do that. The expert speakers at this workshop will help to show how Horizon 2020 can provide businesses throughout Ireland with funding for the research and development that could turn their innovative idea into a commercial reality.”
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