2485. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the current status of the proposed National Guidelines on Research Security; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42374/26]

2486. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science when a National Contact Point for Research Security will be appointed in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42375/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 2485 and 2486 together.

The development and implementation of national guidelines as an integral part of a national framework for research security is a key priority in light of developments at both EU level and internationally.

In May 2024, the EU Council adopted a Recommendation on Enhancing Research Security.  This was a significant and deliberate shift in European policy recognising that research openness and research security are not in tension, but that the latter is a precondition for the responsible practice of the former. The G7 has also produced its Common Values and Principles on Research Security and Research Integrity, and Best Practices for Secure and Open Research.

Over the past year, my officials have led an extensive process of consultation with relevant government departments, research funders and research performing organisations, with the aim of developing Ireland's first research security guidelines. These draft guidelines have now been finalised and I plan to bring them to Government for approval, and subsequent publication, in the coming weeks.

Ireland's national research security framework will ensure that openness and security are complementary and mutually reinforcing values, and that institutions, funders, and government departments each have clear and distinct roles to play in implementing the guidelines once they are approved by Government.