Friday 28 November 2025
The Irish Universities Association (IUA) has welcomed the government’s announcement of the new national INSPIRE research infrastructure programme, describing it as a transformative step for Irish research, innovation, and talent development.
The overall INSPIRE investment of €750m over five years includes an initial €100m in 2026, reflecting a sustained state commitment to research capacity and talent.
Ireland’s research-intensive universities have been consistent advocates for modernising and expanding research infrastructure, recognising that advanced facilities are vital to delivering outstanding research, supporting enterprise, and preparing students and researchers to address urgent societal challenges, said the IUA.
Secure Ireland’s position among leading innovation nations
INSPIRE’s scale and multi-year structure signal the long-term vision needed to secure Ireland’s position among leading innovation nations and strengthen our ability to attract and retain world-class expertise, it said.
The IUA paid tribute to the leadership shown by Minister James Lawless, and the strategic partnership of his department and its agencies. Prioritising research infrastructure at national level reflects a clear understanding of its importance for Ireland’s future competitiveness and societal wellbeing. The IUA and its member universities look forward to continued collaboration as INSPIRE moves into implementation.
Professor Eeva Leinonen, chair of the IUA and president of Maynooth University, said: “This investment is a decisive and visionary step that positions Ireland to compete with the world’s leading innovation nations.
"World-class infrastructure enables our researchers to deliver breakthroughs, attract global expertise, and deepen collaboration with industry and international partners. It ensures that students learn and work in facilities that reflect a modern, confident, future-focused nation. Universities are ready to convert this investment into discoveries that improve lives, strengthen our economy, and secure Ireland’s leadership in global knowledge and innovation.”
Real-world impact
INSPIRE will enable stronger partnerships with enterprise and accelerate breakthroughs with real-world impact. It will drive progress in key areas such as health and medical science, energy and climate solutions, data and digital transformation, advanced manufacturing, cultural innovation, and other sectors central to Ireland’s future.
The programme’s design, incorporating both local institutional infrastructure and shared advanced national facilities, ensures efficient, targeted capacity building and optimised use of national resources.
The advantages will be felt not only within universities but across society, with modern research infrastructure acting as a national strategic asset, supporting regional growth, creating knowledge-based industries, improving public services, and expanding opportunities for students, researchers, and technical staff. It will strengthen research capability at all career stages and deepen international collaboration.