May 2023

HRCI was delighted to host an Irish Health Research Forum event focusing on the research ethics system in Ireland. 

There are many good people working hard to ensure that the highest standards in research ethics are maintained in Ireland. This is often done under difficult circumstances, and many contribute in a purely voluntary capacity. Despite the huge efforts by everyone involved, the systems are fragmented and under-resourced. This results in delayed research which hampers the potential of health and social care research to make a real difference in people’s lives.

The purpose of this event was to consider the current strengths and weakness of the system and to make constructive recommendations. Over 80 people attended and key decision makers in the room included representatives from the HSE, the National Research Ethics Committees, the Department of Health, the Data Protection Commission, HPRA and the HRB. Very importantly the HRCI member charities, patient representatives, researchers and people from industry were strongly represented and had their voices heard. Following robust discussion on the day and guided by the exceptional Irish Health Research Forum Steering Group, we are delighted to produce 7 recommendations to improve the research ethics system in Ireland.

PDF and Word versions of the Report are available through the links below

If you have any difficulty in accessing the report, please contact Linda McGrath, HRCI Events & Communications Coordinator linda@hrci.ie