From Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science
Published on
Last updated on
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris today welcomed the agreement in principle on UK association to Horizon Europe and Copernicus.
Minister Harris said:
“I welcome the announcement on UK association to Horizon Europe and Copernicus. This is a highly positive development, which represents a significant step on the path to full UK association as envisaged in the Trade and Cooperation Agreement agreed in 2020.
“Horizon Europe is the most important international research & innovation programme, providing funding and collaboration opportunities for researchers in the EU and a number of Associated Countries around the world.”
Once all necessary legal instruments are adopted, today’s announcement will further strengthen the EU, Ireland, and UK scientific communities and their ability to jointly tackle global issues, including climate change and the digital transition.
Ireland and the UK have long had deep links in the research, innovation and higher education sectors. Today’s announcement of the agreement in principle, which is subject to Council approval processes, will be welcome news for researchers and innovators in reinforcing North-South and East-West collaborations on these islands.