Press Release: Wednesday 25 March 2026
Minister for Health launches open call for expressions of interest for members of the Clinical Trials Advisory Council
Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD has launched a call for expressions of interest to serve as voluntary members on the new Clinical Trials Advisory Council (CTAC). This marks a significant milestone in the Government’s ongoing work to strengthen Ireland’s clinical trials ecosystem and to position the country as a global leader in clinical research and innovation.
The establishment of the CTAC follows on from the successful work of the National Clinical Trials Oversight Group (NCTOG) and fulfils a recommendation in its final report, published by the Minister last November.
The CTAC will oversee the implementation of transformative recommendations through creating more agile and responsive systems, enhancing public and patient engagement, promoting value and incentivising activity, ensuring strategic workforce development, and promoting the use of innovative technology. This will generate clinical benefits, patient and public value, and support system-wide performance.
The establishment of CTAC and its work programme is also timely and relevant within the context of both national and EU policy developments relevant to clinical trials. The European Commission recently proposed the Biotechnology Act, which sets out measures aimed at strengthening the Union’s biotechnology and biomanufacturing sectors, including potential provisions to simplify aspects of the clinical trials regulatory environment.
The work of CTAC, particularly as Ireland takes up the Presidency of the EU in July 2026, will help ensure Ireland is well positioned to benefit from these developments and to support the growth of the biotechnology sector. The CTAC will also play a key role in supporting the forthcoming National Life Sciences Strategy, currently being developed by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment (DETE).
Minister Carroll MacNeill said:
“Clinical trials are essential and have significant impact in achieving better health outcomes for patients. Earlier access to innovative treatments, improving clinical outcomes and attracting investment are vital for building Ireland’s research capacity and supporting the wider economy.
“I have confidence that this call for members of the new Clinical Trials Advisory Council will bring important contributions to the table, supporting our efforts to position Ireland as a leader across the international clinical trials landscape.
“By working together, we can accelerate the development of novel treatments from the laboratory to real-world use and provide earlier access to treatments and preventative solutions that improve health outcomes for our patients.”
The closing date for receipt of applications is 15:00 Monday 20 April 2026. Full details, including the Information Booklet and how to apply are available on the Department website here.