07 July, 2006 - Carron Field Research Station Re-named Máirín de Valera Research Station

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science, Síle de Valera, T.D., today officially renamed the Carron Field Research Station at the Burren, Co. Clare in honour of her late aunt, Máirín de Valera.

Speaking at the event Minister de Valera said

"I am deeply touched by the generosity of the authorities of the National University of Ireland, Galway for their remarkable gesture in dedicating this building to my late aunt."

"The location of the centre on the west coast of the country, in the heart of the Burren, is ideal for marine algal investigations and for the carry out of research in this botanically rich region.  I know that it is the wish of the college authorities that the centre becomes a resource for the people of Carron and the wider Burren community - as an educational centre, a meeting place and a source of information on ongoing research on the Burren.  This is further evidence of the vision of NUIG.  It not only promotes the highest standards of educational attainment among its student cohort but also considers the needs and wishes of the wider community."

"As everyone gathered here today will no doubt appreciate, this fine facility might never have happened had it not been for the kind donation of the site to NUIG by the local parish."

"Co. Clare Vocational Education Committee has been a party to the continued success of this centre.  I am pleased that these two bodies, whilst coming from differing traditions but sharing a common philosophy that appreciates and promotes education at all levels, have been able to forge such a healthy working relationship that has nurtured the development of the centre."

"Investment in high quality research is unquestionably the keystone of Ireland's continued economic and social prosperity.  At the core of the Government's recently announced Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation is that by 2013, Ireland will be internationally renowned for the excellence of its research.  It is towards the achievement of this objective that the Government has provided funding of €3.8 billion over the lifetime of the strategy."

End.