"... This funding [will] deliver our institutional strategic priorities but also, add to the higher education institutions’ contribution to national policy objectives.

Government is committed to ensuring collectively we can fulfil our full potential as an economy and as country.”

Speaking at the event, Minister Chambers said:

"INSPIRE is an investment in Ireland’s future – in our talent and in our people; in our future workforce and our ability to constantly innovate, adapt, ask tough questions and find new answers that no one had ever considered..."

"...Paschal has embodied esteemed public service. As he embarks on this new chapter with the World Bank, I have no doubt that his exceptional qualities will make a positive global impact.

I wish Paschal and his family every success as he takes on an exciting new role at the World Bank."

"...Throughout his many years of distinguished service, Paschal has guided the country through difficult and uncertain times with confidence, resilience, and strategic direction. His non-partisan approach fostered trust, unity of purpose and built genuine partnership within Government..."

"...As part of our estimate negotiations, I asked Departments to assess their full allocations for 2026, not just additional funding - to identify reforms and efficiencies. Focus remains on value for money and ensuring that public spending delivers real impact for our people.”

Jack Chambers said:

“Today’s figures show gross voted spending of €77.5 billion to the end of September, broadly in line with departmental profiles and just 0.2% above expectations.

Compared to last year, spending is up 7.5%, reflecting delivery of Budget 2025 priorities..."

Speaking at the conference, Minister Chambers said:

"As we navigate this age of disruption, let us do so with ambition, with pragmatism, and with a shared commitment to building a resilient, prosperous future for both Ireland and the UK."

#ChamberConf25

The conference celebrates and acknowledges the economic and trading relationship between the UK and Ireland.

Topics discussed included; how the improved relationship between both Governments should be leveraged by the private sector to increase investment across both islands.

Speaking at the event, Minister Chambers said:

“The opening of [these] new premises underscores the scale and growing complexity of [SAGE Advocacy’s] work.

It’s clear Sage Advocacy is more than playing its part to ensure that Ireland continues to move forward with compassion, integrity, and care.”

It provides information, support, advocacy, and safeguarding services to older people, survivors of institutional abuse, and healthcare patients who need assistance accessing other services.

They work to ensure that vulnerable adults have their voices heard and are supported.

Minister Chambers said in his concluding remarks:

"We are laying the foundations to support investment and sound management of the public finances. This will reinforce our economic and fiscal resilience... This is what will sustain progress for future generations."

The address spoke of delivery, and covered measures such as the Medium Term Expenditure Framework 📈 and the NDP Review 🏗️ , as well as the issue of Value for Money 💰 and broader Government measures before outlining what all of this means for Budget 2026 and beyond.

This recognition highlights OGCIO’s transformative work in building trusted and transparent digital public service aligned with key national and EU strategies, including the Public Service Data Strategy, National AI Strategy & Better Public Services Strategy.

“The IDA’s support for companies like Acuity further demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting high-impact innovation projects. These investments accelerate the development of new technologies and ensure that Ireland remains at the forefront of global innovation.”

Speaking at the event, Minister Chambers said:

“On behalf of the Government of Ireland, I am delighted to welcome Acuity to our shores and to celebrate the opening of their new Innovation Hub here in Cork."

Speaking about the funding, Minister Chambers said:

"This demonstrates the Government’s commitment to delivering essential infrastructure across our country, including our islands and our Gaeltacht communities."

Full Press Release:

tinyurl.com/5jkneccs