Establishing a major research fund jointly supported by the UK and Ireland and a new North-South research centre have been proposed to strengthen collaboration between the two countries post-Brexit. Minister of State for Innovation, Research and Development John Halligan told the conference Brexit would have long-term disruptive effects, but bilateral research with the UK would continue, with increased funding from Dublin. This would be reflected in joint announcements in coming months – it is understood that co-operation on agri-food research will feature prominently. He strongly endorsed the case for a North-South research centre. However, he acknowledged there was a danger of UK scientists resigning from joint research projects including those funded by the EU.

Source: The Irish Times May 11, 2018 20:15 UTC