David Cullinane
Ceist:954. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health whether she has examined the potential for developing a brain bank in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14185/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 24 February 2026
Ceisteanna (954)
Freagraí scríofa
The establishment and maintenance of high-quality biobanking infrastructure is a key component of the government’s commitment to advancing health research and improving outcomes for patients including those with neurological conditions.
The Department of Health is aware of existing brain banks in the state, for example, the Dublin Brain Bank, a significant research resource located at the RCSI Smurfit Building in Beaumont Hospital. The Dublin Brain Bank is a collaboration between the Neuropathology Department of Beaumont Hospital and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). Since its foundation in 2008, it has operated as a non-profit organisation dedicated to facilitating research into a range of neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Motor Neurone Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Huntington’s disease.
My department continues to engage with our stakeholders and aegis bodies in terms of assessing how best to support the development of key biobanking infrastructure which can achieve the highest operating standards while also meeting the needs of the State in securing better patient outcomes.