At a showcase event in Leinster House, around 20 elected representatives, including three committee Chairs, engaged in discussions with the University’s academics on an all-island approach to tackling climate issues and healthcare provision. 

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD, later delivered the keynote address at the University’s ‘Innovation Without Borders’ event at the at the Royal Irish Academy’s Dublin headquarters where delegates across leading industries in the business and third sectors considered the ways in which all-island innovation could be further strengthened, saying:

“This evening’s topic on connections between higher education and enterprise is one which is critical to Ireland’s future, but it is raised to another level when this is discussed in the context of the all-island economy. The constitutional position is that there are two distinct jurisdictions, subject to respective national policies. However, to view this in a narrative framed by borders fails to acknowledge the rich and deeply historic ties between the higher education institutions on this island. It also ignores the reality of the increasing connectivity between companies and industry on this island. Let’s take this to the reality of the persons living close to the border - it is porous, with people on both sides of the border pursuing their professional careers in the neighbouring jurisdiction.”

Speaking of the cross-border engagements, Queen’s President and Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said:

“Since 1845, Queen’s has been a world leading research institution – driving innovation, strengthening workforces, and supporting economic growth across the island of Ireland. 

“Healthcare, climate change, and economic prosperity are issues that touch lives in the present and have far reaching impacts well into the future. Our unique position within Northern Ireland provides us with strong cross-jurisdictional links that enable us to deliver on government and industry priorities and collaborate on opportunities for the betterment of all across these islands. 

“Initiatives such as the Co-Centre for Sustainable Food Systems offers a unique opportunity for multiple industry and academic partners to work together to transform food systems making a real difference to people across the island.”

Each year, Queen’s contributes over £3 billion to the UK economy and makes a marked positive impact on the economy across the island of Ireland.

Today’s events were an opportunity to highlight its cross-border work including its partnership with University College Dublin in developing an all-island approach to cancer care, the Climate+ Co-Centre, which works with industry and academic partners to develop sustainable communities and agrifood transitions, and the ways in which the government’s Shared Island Fund has facilitated collaborative research that bridges communities, sectors, and borders.

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