Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 25 January 2023
54. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount of funding that was allocated to the national institute for bioprocessing research and training by his Department in 2021, 2022 and to date in 2023, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3491/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) is an independent research organisation funded by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland, that conducts research and development and provides highly specialised training to support the growing biologics sector in Ireland and globally.
NIBRT is located in a purpose built, world-class facility on the campus of University College Dublin. This facility replicates a modern bioprocessing plant, with state-of-the-art equipment, and enables NIBRT to offer the highest quality training and research solutions. NIBRT accommodates 100 researchers, postgraduates, trainers, and support staff in a purpose-built 6,500 square metre building. In 2021, NIBRT reported a 14% growth in revenue and the strongest financial performance of the institute to date.
In September 2020, IDA approved funding for a significant expansion to NIBRT to develop Ireland’s offering in Advance Therapeutic Medicinal Products (ATMP), including cell and gene therapies (CGT). The funding encompasses a €15m investment in a 1,600 sq.m. building expansion and €3m for equipment to support 3 new principal investigators and associated teams, as well as additional trainers with cell and gene therapy expertise. An additional €2.9m covers related operating costs over six years.
On 13th September 2022, the Tánaiste officially launched the construction of NIBRT’s new state-of-the- art facility. The construction project is due for completion in late spring 2023.
The following table outlines the funding which was allocated by IDA to NIBRT in the years 2021 and 2022. There have been no payments to date in 2023.
|
Year |
Amount € |
|
2021 |
5,764,860 |
|
2022 |
12,050,000 |
