Galway Science & Technology Festival

The 2009 Galway Science and Technology Festival was launched by Minister Eamon O’Cuiv and Medtronic vice-president Gerry Kilcommins in Medtronic recently. In his speech, the Minister emphasised the crucial role of both science and engineering to the country’s economic recovery.

Minister Eamon O’Cuiv, who formally launched the event said he was hugely impressed that all the events were aimed at young people and raising awareness of science, engineering and maths as well as increasing the uptake of subjects in those areas. It would produce a new generation of problem solvers and innovators.

The Minister paid tribute to the work of the festival committee in organising the event which is celebrating its 12th  year, thanking festival chairman Tom Hyland and secretary Bernard Kirk for their dedication and hard work. He also paid tribute to Noel Treacy TD, the long-time patron of the festival.

Also speaking at the event was Mr Kilcommins of Medtronic, who spoke of the importance of harnessing the power of science and technology stating “scientific and engineering knowledge will be critical drivers of Ireland’s economic future. Thus, it is essential that we continue to grow and develop Ireland’s technological talent pool.”

Also on hand was well-known science journalist and broadcaster Leo Enright who said the success and range of the festival, and the major involvement by young people, had set a strong example for similar initiatives at national level.