Minister McEntee and Welsh First Minister announce expanded Ireland-Wales research collaboration

Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee TD, today welcomed Welsh First Minister, Rhun ap Iorwerth, to Dublin for the sixth annual Ireland-Wales Forum, where both leaders announced an expansion of research collaboration between Ireland and Wales.

At the Forum, it was announced that the Royal Irish Academy's Ireland-Wales Charlemont Grant Scheme will be renewed for a second year, while the Learned Society of Wales will launch a new reciprocal scheme to strengthen academic and research partnerships across the Irish Sea.

The Forum also reviewed progress under the Ireland-Wales Shared Statement, agreed in Swansea in 2025, and reaffirmed both governments' commitment to deepening cooperation across research, trade, culture, education and sport.

Minister McEntee and First Minister ap Iorwerth met recipients of the Ireland-Wales strand of the Charlemont Grant Scheme, which supports collaboration between researchers in Ireland and Wales.

Speaking at the Forum, Minister McEntee said: "Ireland and Wales have a longstanding friendship, but our focus today is firmly on the future. The renewal of these research programmes and the launch of a new Welsh scheme will create new opportunities for researchers, strengthen innovation and deepen connections across the Irish Sea."

"In an increasingly connected world, partnerships matter. Whether through research, trade, culture or sport, Ireland and Wales are working together to deliver real benefits for our people and to build a stronger relationship for the years ahead."

The Minister and First Minister also attended a panel discussion on ‘Ireland and Wales – Global Ambitions in Sports Diplomacy’, chaired by The Journal Editor Sinéad O'Carroll.

The discussion featured Ryder Cup Programme Manager Linda Hoey, former Irish rugby international Tommy Bowe, Football Association of Wales CEO Noel Mooney and Wales Netball Chair Dr Helen Williams.

Minister McEntee said: "Ireland and Wales share a belief in the power of sport to bring people together, strengthen communities and build international connections. As partners in hosting EURO 2028, we have a unique opportunity to showcase our countries to the world and leave a lasting legacy for future generations."