Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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478. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the progress to date on Ireland becoming a member of CERN; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7419/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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In November last year, I indicated in Dáil Éireann that my Department will prepare a proposal for Government to consider joining CERN. In order to ensure appropriate due diligence, this proposal for Government can be expected by the third quarter of 2023.

Officials from my Department are now liaising with CERN regarding the total cost of membership, the application process and membership options. Currently, an approach has been agreed, in principle, between the Department and CERN whereby Ireland could join CERN as an associate member for a period of between 3 to 5 years and then assess the appropriateness of further membership options.

Should Government commitment be confirmed, Ireland can request that CERN send a task force to Ireland to carry out a formal assessment of Ireland’s suitability for associate membership. This is the normal process for associate members and the assessment could take up to a year.