Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless TD, today highlighted the importance of investment in research and innovation to Ireland’s success and future growth.
Minister Lawless was speaking at the first-ever Research Ireland Forum, held at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. The hybrid event brought together over 800 people from government, universities, businesses, and other sectors. It featured a range of speakers and panellists, including Professor Aoife McLysaght (Government Science Advisor), Mark Little (journalist and CEO of Kinzen), and Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin (DCU). The Forum is a key part of the consultation process on key priorities for the future direction of the new agency.
Speaking at the Forum, Minister Lawless said:
“In today’s rapidly changing world, investment in research and innovation is essential to both strengthen Ireland’s resilience and global competitiveness, but also to drive economic growth and address the major global challenges we face. This includes advancing excellence across all areas of research, from the humanities and social sciences to science and technology.”
The Minister told the Research Forum that the forthcoming launch of the Government’s Global Talent Initiative will offer researchers looking to relocate “an environment that is secure, collaborative and that strives for excellence on all fronts. As countries around the world intensify their investment in research, technology, and skills, Ireland is acting decisively to attract these internationally based researchers while also investing to nurture and retain our top talent at home.”
“The Government is fully committed to supporting the mission of Research Ireland as it builds a world-class research and innovation system. I look forward to seeing the agency progress on its journey and to the positive impact it will have across society. I also welcome the national consultation process and look forward to receiving its outcomes,” Minister Lawless concluded.
Also addressing the Forum, Interim CEO of Research Ireland, Celine Fitzgerald, commented:
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who joined us today and who continues to contribute to the work of Research Ireland. Your insights, ideas, and engagement are vital in shaping the future of research and innovation in Ireland. Every voice matters as we develop our long-term corporate strategy, which aims to deliver on the ambition set out by Government. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected research and innovation system that can meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.”