HRCI Position Paper 2026
Two asks for elected representatives and policy makers
In the HRCI Position Paper 2026, we outline the top priorities for both HRCI and our members, aimed at enhancing health research in Ireland. While there are many aspects of health research in need of attention and support, we believe it is urgent and opportune to address these recommendations.
Ireland has a talented workforce, a strong life sciences industry and is a European leader in patient partnership in health research. Recent progress in areas such as genomics, clinical trials reform and health data legislation provides a solid foundation for the next phase of ambition. However, public investment in health research is far below where it needs to be and the presence of many pharmaceutical and MedTech industries in Ireland often doesn’t translate into direct benefits for Irish patients.
As Ireland looks to be a leader in research and innovation on the international stage, to transform health and social care, and to develop a National Life Sciences Strategy, there is a clear opportunity to align and enhance these different Government priorities. By committing to sustained public investment in health research, Ireland can build the infrastructure, workforce and system capacity needed to embed research as a routine part of care, strengthening both the economy and patient outcomes. By positioning charities and patients as partners in the delivery of the Life Sciences Strategy, Ireland can strengthen public trust, ensure innovation reflects real-world needs and accelerate patient access to new treatments and technologies.
Listening to our members and convening national leaders through the Irish Health Research Forum, there is strong consensus on the need to act. Our asks set out practical steps to realise this opportunity and to align investment, partnership and delivery. Together, they will help ensure that Ireland’s existing strengths are harnessed to realise both economic benefit and health benefit for patients and the public.
Ask 1 Commit to increased public investment in health research
Ask 2 Position charities and patients as partners in delivering Ireland’s Life Sciences Strategy
We are asking elected representatives, policy makers and everyone with influence in the health research space to prioritise them, as they plan for the year ahead.