Minister Lawless signs the European Quantum Pact
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From: Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
- Published on: 19 June 2025
- Last updated on: 20 June 2025
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless has this week signed the European Quantum Pact.
Together with the other EU Member States, Ireland will now cooperate to support the development of a world-class quantum technology ecosystem across Europe.
Minister Lawless said:
“As a signatory of the Quantum Pact, Ireland will be able to collaborate with other European countries in the field of quantum, working together towards better alignment of activities, knowledge transfer and infrastructures.
"Ireland is uniquely positioned at the heart of the global tech sector. We are home to nine of the top ten global software companies, nine of the top ten technology giants, and three of the top four internet companies. Quantum computing represents the next great leap in computational power. It holds the potential to solve problems that would take classical supercomputers months or years to process, in a matter of minutes. The implications are vast, spanning drug discovery, cancer treatment, life sciences, weather and climate modelling, financial forecasting, and more. This is not just incremental progress. It is a technological step change on the scale of moving from dial-up to broadband."
Quantum technologies are key to Ireland’s ambition in “deep tech”, given their immense potential in key strategic areas like semiconductors, life sciences, sustainable energy, financial services and cybersecurity.
Minister Lawless concluded:
“Ireland has already proven its strengths in quantum, for instance developing quantum-powered platforms that will ultimately impact our citizens and environment, providing new solutions to challenges like cancer, thyroid diseases, hormonal changes and increased cholesterol.
“Engaging with other EU countries will enable Ireland to build on these strengths, leveraging international networks, infrastructures and opportunities. Ireland has the expertise, the talent, and the international presence to be a serious player in this quantum revolution.”