Dounreay Backs Science Campaign In Caithness Schools

23rd February 2012

Dounreay Site Restoration Ltd has agreed a three-year funding package to support the promotion of science and engineering in local schools.

The sponsorship is part of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority's work to help the local economy adjust to the effects of Dounreay's closure.

DSRL, site closure contractor to the NDA, will provide �5000 a year for the next three years to the Caithness International Science Festival, an annual event held as part of the national science and engineering week.

This year's event takes place between March 12-16.

"Caithness has a history of exporting skills and technologies to the world and our contribution aims to help foster a new generation who can continue that tradition when Dounreay has gone," said DSRL socio-economics manager Ken Nicol.

"Predictions suggest that there will be substantial future employment opportunities in science and engineering related industries. Enthusing school children about these subjects is therefore important for our economy both locally and nationally. We are delighted to be supporting the science festival and contributing to investment in our future."

Professor Iain Baikie, festival chairman, said: "I am absolutely delighted that DSRL continues to provide key financial support underpinning Science O3 projects with local schools including the Caithness International Science Festival. DRSL is also contributing a stand at the Public Science Fair in Thurso and Wick immediately preceding the festival."