The minister of State for Science and Technology, Mr Noel Treacy, launched the 1999 Young Science Writers Competition yesterday. It is open to pupils from 12 to 19 years.
The annual event encourages students to write an essay or article on science fiction or science fact. It is run by the RDS in association with Technology Ireland, the Marine Institute and the Regional Newspapers Association of Ireland, and is sponsored by the Science Technology and Innovation Awareness Programme.
Science fact entries should be not more than 1,000 words and science fiction entries no more than 3,000 words. There are three age categories and entries must reach the science section of the RDS on or before Friday, February 26th, 1999.
Judging takes place during March, with winners announced shortly afterwards. Further information and entry forms are available from Ms Carol Power, RDS, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, (01) 668 0866.