Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
1098. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Health the progress that has been made to increase the number of clinical trials as per the Programme for Government 2025 commitment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15099/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI thank the Deputy for this opportunity to update on progress being made towards our Programme for Government commitment to expand the number of clinical trials taking place in Ireland. In November 2025 I launched the Final Report of the National Clinical Trials Oversight Group which contains 20 key recommendations across six priority areas. Implementing these recommendations will help create a more agile and streamlined regulatory system for clinical trials whilst maintaining the highest standards of data and patient protection, in addition to supporting the expert workforce needed to administer growing numbers of clinical trials. The resulting reduction in start-up time for clinical trials, and standardisation of the processes, will enhance Ireland's attractiveness as a host for high-quality clinical trials. As a result, more clinical trials will be conducted in Ireland, helping strengthen Irish participation in multinational trials, and increasing Irish patients' access to innovative life-saving treatments.
My Department officials will shortly begin the process of establishing the Clinical Trials Advisory Council (CTAC) with expert membership drawn from across the sector. The first objective of the CTAC will be to develop the detailed implementation plan for the NCTOG's other recommendations. Streamlining the clinical trials environment is aligned with measures proposed in the European Commission's new Biotech Act Part 1, with the net result of greatly expanded and diversified clinical trials taking place in the State. This is aligned with European moves to ensure that the wider biotech sector is competitive and fosters innovation and will also align with the upcoming National Life Science Strategy which is currently being developed by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism, and Employment.
