Ireland has established a new Clinical Trials Advisory Council (CTAC) to support the transformation of the country’s clinical trials landscape and strengthen its position as a destination for clinical research and life sciences investment.

Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD welcomed the establishment and inaugural meeting of the Council, describing it as an important milestone in the Government’s efforts to reform Ireland’s clinical trials environment.

The CTAC brings together a broad range of expertise from across Ireland’s clinical research ecosystem, including patient representatives, healthcare professionals, academic institutions, industry stakeholders, Government Departments and agencies. The diverse membership is intended to support a collaborative approach to implementing reforms and addressing challenges across the clinical trials system.

Chaired by Professor Donal Brennan, the Council will focus on advancing priority areas identified in the National Clinical Trials Oversight Group’s (NCTOG) Blueprint for Implementation. These priorities include developing more agile and responsive clinical trial systems, strengthening public and patient engagement, promoting value and incentivising clinical trial activity, supporting strategic workforce development and encouraging the adoption of innovative technologies.

The inaugural meeting of the Clinical Trials Advisory Council was held on August 27, 2026, marking the beginning of its work to translate the recommendations of the NCTOG into practical reforms.

Minister Carroll MacNeill said transforming Ireland’s clinical trials landscape remains a Government priority, highlighting the importance of increasing opportunities for patients to access innovative treatments while strengthening the country’s health research infrastructure.

She also emphasised the Council’s broad membership, noting that collaboration among patients, healthcare professionals, researchers, regulators, industry and government will be essential to implementing the recommendations set out in the national clinical trials blueprint.

Professor Donal Brennan, Chair of the CTAC, said he was honoured to continue the work of advancing Ireland’s clinical trials system. He said the Council would work with its members to implement the recommendations in the Blueprint for Implementation and deliver improvements for patients, researchers and the wider health system.

The establishment of the Council forms part of Ireland’s wider efforts to build a stronger and more effective clinical trials ecosystem. The Government aims to improve patient access to innovative medicines and therapies, strengthen health research capabilities and enhance Ireland’s attractiveness as a location for clinical research and life sciences investment.