The economic backdrop to maintaining investment in publically funded research

Source: GBOARD and HEI R&D Reports published by Forfás

“Irish banking fraud and corruption to be exposed”

“Gardaí investigating “financial irregularities” at Dublin credit union”

“Justice Minister tells Drumm to return to Ireland to face questions about banking collapse”

Some random headlines from Irish print/web media

“Whistle blower harassed by fellow gardaí”

“There's never been a better time for white-collar crime, warns lawyer Now is the perfect time to commit regulatory white-collar offences”: 1 in 10 cases of white collar crime prosecuted”

“Martin backs justice spokesman and seeks code of conductNiall Collins admits it was inappropriate to write letter seeking leniency in court case”

Irish Independent, 17/06/2014

Irish Examiner, 20/04/2014

Irish Times, 20/06/2014

IrishCentral.com, 20/11/2010

Irish Mirror, 08/07/2013

Irish Independent, 02/06/2014

“Fraudulent research claims show crucial need for policy”Irish Times, 16/06/2014

Irish peoples confidence in major institutions

Findings of Eurobarometer Report ‘Attitudes of Europeans towards Corruption’ – Published 18/6/2014

•Overall, 86% of Irish people surveyed think that corruption is a major problem within Ireland •70% think that government’s efforts to combat corruption are not effective.

Criticisms•Investigation of misconduct relies totally on employer as the only legal basis for sanction•Ignores OECD recommendation that small countries such as Ireland should establish a national body for dealing with allegations•HEIs not required to ensure independence in investigations (only an option) – investigating themselves!•Hard to wind the hearts and minds of researchers at the coal-face if the leaders are not entirely credible (e.g. duplicate publications by director of funding agency; GMIT plagiarism cover-up; IT Tralee chairman extensively plagiarised sources in his 2008 MSc.

Positive aspects•All third level institutions and funding agencies are signatories•Provides clear definitions of FFP and ‘poor research practices’•Policy position broadly similar to European Code of Conduct•Emphasis on prevention, promotion and training•Inclusion of the option to engage an independent international expert when compiling investigation panels •National coverage sends out positive message to researchers and the public that HEIs are taking RI seriously

National Policy on Insuring RIWhat is the media response?

Sources: Irish Times 16/06/2014 and educationalstandards.wordpress.com 19/06/2014