The results of this national campaign will be used to announce Ireland’s upcoming research, innovation and science and technology strategies.

It invites the Irish public to provide insights into science and research and how these can be used to shape the country in the future.

Simon Harris, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, TD, today (June 1) announced plans for a national dialogue on research and science.

“By inviting the public to be the center of these conversations, we can ensure that the research leadership in Ireland is informed by the people who serve it.”
^{– Simon Harris, TD}

The campaign, titled Creating Our Future, will run from July to November.

Events will be held across the country at this time to invite citizens to share their thoughts on current research, future directions for that research, and other research possibilities that can be explored.

“We believe it’s time to have a dialogue with the Irish people about science and research, and we want you to give us your verdict on the issues and opportunities that you think are most important to our society and our economy. Harris said.

“By inviting the public to be the center of these conversations, we can ensure that the research leadership in Ireland is informed by the people who serve it. The beginning of all the best research and innovation is simple – an amazing idea. We hope you will tell us about the ideas that motivate researchers to use all their skills and knowledge to help shape a better society.

All submissions from the public will be reviewed by expert panels. The results of their findings will be published in a report by the end of 2021, which will announce Ireland’s next strategy for research, innovation, science and technology.

The campaign is overseen by an advisory forum that meets for the first time today.

The forum is chaired by Julie Byron, Global Head of Global Cooperation at Nokia Bell Lab. With over 30 years of experience in engineering, technology and research, she brings researchers together to collaborate on innovations in her current role.

Byron said the new government initiative will provide a unique opportunity to get ideas from Irish citizens about the challenges they want to face in research.

“I encourage everyone to think about how they can intervene to ensure that we reach all corners of our community, so all voices are heard as part of this national dialogue,” he added.