Taskforce findings will let CRIs crack on with job

Adoption of CRI Taskforce recommendations “enables CRIs to crack on with the job of benefiting New Zealand”

“This will enable CRIs to crack on with the job of doing great science and delivering economic and other benefits to New Zealand,” says the chairman of Science New Zealand, John Morgan.

He was responding to the Government’s announcement that it will adopt the recommendations from the CRI Taskforce, chaired by Mr Neville Jordan, and released in early March.

Mr Morgan said:

“The CRI Taskforce presented the most comprehensive review of the value of CRIs in our near 20-year history. It concluded that we do a great job for New Zealand’s economic, environmental and social wealth and wellbeing – but could do a better job still if certain areas were addressed.

“The Taskforce proposed very sensible and constructive ideas, and we are delighted that the Government has given firm backing and urgency to the recommendations.

“We have more than 4400 scientists, technicians and other staff and each one is keen to get cracking with the job of advancing ideas and delivering results that will benefit New Zealand.

“The Crown Research Institutes have two-thirds of the nation’s publicly funded science researchers. We are a critical part of the nation’s science and innovation system. There is huge potential here which the changes will unleash. More science, better translation of that into New Zealand, and greater accountability and responsibility in a simplified system will make a major difference.

“We will work closely with the Government and with stakeholders, such as the private sector, iwi, other research organisations and tertiary sector, on the way ahead. This is a partnership where the skills, expertise, knowledge and insights of all those involved can maximise the impact for New Zealand.”

ENDS