Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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419. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if Ireland will consider applying to join the European Organisation for Nuclear Research due to the enormous scientific and research benefits associated with membership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44777/22]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Under the National Development Plan 2018-2027, as part of Project Ireland 2040, the Government outlined its intention to review Ireland's membership of international research organisations, including CERN. The Government gave a specific commitment in Innovation 2020 to initiate discussions with several international research organisations. Four organisations were identified – CERN, the European Southern Observatory, ELIXIR and LOFAR - and membership of three of these organisations has now been completed.

Impact 2030, the national strategy for research and innovation, undertakes to further review and optimise Ireland’s membership of international research organisations to ensure that our engagement reflects our existing and emerging strategic priorities. Ireland continues its consideration of CERN membership in this context.

CERN membership would generate opportunities for Irish enterprise and for Ireland’s research community. However, while the benefits of CERN membership are recognised as significant, the cost is also significant and must be assessed in the context of other Departmental and national investment priorities.

CERN membership will be considered in the context of the programme for government, national investment priorities and the evolving economic situation. Ireland continues its consideration of full and associate CERN membership and my Department remains in contact with CERN officials and the Chair-people of the CERN Ireland Users Group.