EDT (2) SP2

Sent: 01 September 2005 10:19
To: Committee, Economic Development & Transport; Craig Mitchell
Subject: RE: Regeneration in Wales Conference 2005
Importance: High

Dear Craig Thank you for this opportunity to contribute to the Economic Development and Transport Committee's review of science policy in Wales. The potential role of science in providing R and D support, spin out business and education to emerging new industries should be taken into account in policy development and in provision of investment opportunities. The knowledge based economy in Wales should pave the way ahead to improve the national and the local economy. There are opportunities to support existing and new business enterprises through R and D tax incentives for the private sector and through research grants for universities. The application of new science based products can support the local economy throughout Wales. The Assembly should encourage dispersal of science/research investment to locations of opportunity as well as to the more established centres of activity. The emerging European Centre of UAV Excellences at Parc Aberporth is a good example and the Assembly should encourage links and networking between the industry sector and the research institutions to maximise the potential of the sector, Parc Aberporth could provide high value employment and spin out opportunities. On a similar note, there is a huge deficit in skilled and qualified food technicians to support the development and growth of local food manufacturing and processing throughout the region. The Food Centre Wales project (with WDA, Assembly, Ceredigion County Council and Objective 1 funds) provides valuable advice and support in knowledge transfer. The skills gap is of growing concern, there needs to be priority provided for skills training in key and growth sector economics. Allan
Ceredigion Council