Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 October 2025
870. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Health if she is aware of a rehabilitation programme based at DCU involving the use of exoskeleton technology to support individuals with mobility impairments; and if she will engage with the programme lead (details supplied) to explore potential funding options to sustain and expand this initiative. [57397/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe HRB is the funding agency of the Department of Health, focused on funding and supporting health and social care research in Ireland. There are a range of grant opportunities to fund research in high priority areas to inform health practice and policy. Any researcher or research group can submit research applications to the HRB in response to publicly launched schemes. Researchers apply via their host academic institution and applications are subject to a competitive process, which is decided by international peer review.
In addition to the HRB there are other funders whose objective it is to support the development of new technologies (e.g., Research Ireland, Enterprise Ireland).
In recent years, the HRB has funded a feasibility trial submitted to its clinical trial funding programme - Exoskeleton Training for Spinal Cord Injury Neuropathic Pain: A Phase 2, which is led by University College Dublin. This study is underway and is testing exoskeleton-based walking 3 times per week as a mechanistic-based intervention for neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury. The HRB has also funded a summer scholarship award (led by UCD) aimed at developing a low-cost and lightweight robotic hand exoskeleton for rehabilitation following stroke.
It is also noted and confirmed that an application to the HRB has been received from the team in DCU through the clinical trials funding programme, which is aimed at exploring the feasibility of a rehabilitation exoskeleton for cerebral palsy in children. The international peer review process is underway, and the outcome will not be known until Spring 2026. In the spirit of fairness, transparency and a focus on excellence, the HRB will, as always, engage with all applicants in the appropriate manner and according to the processes set out in the relevant funding programme.
