Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 April 2024
1311. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health if he will initiate the (European Infrastructure For Translational Medicine Research) membership process for Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14028/24]
View answer1428. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health what steps are being taken to initiate discussions around the EATRIS membership process for Ireland considering the potential benefits for Ireland's translational research sector such as enhanced collaboration and access to specialised resources across Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14543/24]
View answer1429. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health the Government's position on Ireland's potential membership of the European Infrastructure for Translational Medicine; whether he intends to engage with the translational research sector in Ireland about such members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14544/24]
View answer1430. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Health to provide insight into the Government's perspective on Ireland's possible membership with EATRIS given its expected advantages for Ireland's translational research community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14545/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1311, and 1428 to 1430, inclusive, together.
The European Advancement Translational Research InfraStructure (EATRIS) aims to provide resources and services for research communities to translate scientific discoveries into benefits for patients.
We already have experience of benefiting from membership of other European Research Infrastructure Consortia (ERICs) and the proposed EATRIS membership has the potential to provide benefits for patients, the healthcare system, and the economy.
It is important to note that an ‘ERIC’ is a non-profit European Research Infrastructure Consortium that is a legal entity established with legal personality and full legal capacity recognised in all EU Member States. As such it important that membership is considered carefully and would be subject to a Government decision.
