Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 295, 296 and 297 together.

The membership of the EATRIS network could play a key role in furthering our capacity in the development of new healthcare therapeutics, products, and services with potential to improve health outcomes for patients. Membership could also benefit the economy of Ireland and make unique research infrastructures and centres in Ireland more visible, thereby increasing the opportunities to participate in major European research projects.

In considering the potential value of membership of EATRIS, Ireland’s ability to influence the priorities of the network would be evaluated. Awareness of EATRIS in the research community, access to resources and tools and participation in pan-European studies might also inform any decision to join the network.

Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) is the main funder of translational research. Considering the remit of SFI and its parent department, the Department for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, it would be important for my department to consult with these bodies and other key stakeholders such as the Health Research Board and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in determining how best to support and coordinate a potential membership process.

The Impact 2030 steering group, comprised of the government departments most active in research investment, would in the first instance be the most appropriate forum to consider membership of EATRIS. Should a decision be taken to join the European Infrastructure for Translational Medicine (EATRIS), a memorandum for government would be required to set out how membership of the network would complement and align with existing strategies and investments. A government decision would then be necessary to formally join the network.