Caitriona Walsh
Managing Director, Country President, Novartis Ireland
We now have a choice as a nation, especially with the upcoming EU presidency in 2026, to lead or to follow in the life sciences sector.
Ireland’s life sciences sector has been steadily growing since the 1950s, thanks to a highly educated workforce and vibrant ecosystem, coupled with significant government support. As outlined in the recent Programme for Government, a life science strategy would benefit the wealth and health of the nation.
A life science strategy is necessary
A life science strategy would help create a cohesive approach to life sciences that spans many government departments, from health to education and enterprise. By removing silos and bringing various perspectives, Ireland can become more globally competitive.
If all stakeholders work together on a Life Science Council, we can co-create a powerful life science strategy. A key aspect is focusing on science and innovation from ‘bench to bedside,’ ensuring that Ireland’s prowess in life sciences manufacturing translates into meaningful health impacts for its people.
The European share of clinical
trials starts fell from 44% in
2009 to 21% in 2024.
Why Europe falls behind in R&D
Europe and Ireland face global challenges, with the 2024 Draghi report on EU competitiveness highlighting the need for more focus on the life sciences sector. Urgency has been accelerated by recent geopolitical trends.
The gap between the US and Europe has reached a tipping point, with the US announcing actions to address the trade imbalance. Over the last 20 years, the R&D investment gap between the US and Europe has widened from EUR2 billion to EUR22 billion annually.
The European share of clinical trials starts fell from 44% in 2009 to 21% in 2024. One in five medicines which gained US regulatory approval over the last decade were either not submitted for, or not successful in gaining, regulatory approval in the EU.
How Ireland can lead now
Now is the time to act if Europe is to remain globally competitive. Ireland has a choice: to lead or get left behind in the rapidly evolving life sciences area. By driving a life science strategy, Ireland has the opportunity to lead on EU competitiveness, during the Irish EU presidency, while safeguarding the nation’s future health and wealth.
