The Government has approved the final steps for Ireland to become an associate member of the European Organisation for Nuclear Research.
Following a mandatory waiting period, the membership is expected to begin officially in October.
CERN is an intergovernmental organisation that operates the largest particle physics laboratory in the world on the Franco-Swiss border, just outside Geneva.
The main focus of activity in CERN is the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), a 27km underground ring in which protons are accelerated and collide with one another.
Associate membership will allow Ireland’s researchers to participate in CERN’s scientific programmes and will make Irish citizens eligible for staff positions and fellowships at CERN.
Membership will also allow Ireland’s businesses to compete in CERN procurement programmes.
Associate membership is expected to cost around €1.9 million a year, for an initial period of five years.
Following today’s Cabinet decision, the Taoiseach signed a Government Order to enable the State to meet its obligations under CERN membership.
The remaining steps are now for Ireland to notify the Director-General of CERN that the internal approval procedures for the Associate Membership Agreement are complete, and to deposit an Instrument of Accession to the CERN Protocol on Privileges and Immunities with UNESCO.
“Associate Membership of CERN will demonstrate Ireland’s commitment to science and reaffirm our reputation as a centre for scientific investment,” said Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Simon Harris.
Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless said today’s Cabinet approval is a milestone which authorises the final legal steps.
“My Department will establish an expert advisory group in the coming months to guide our national approach to CERN membership,” Mr Lawless said.
“This group will work with my Department to maximise benefits for both Ireland and CERN,” he added.
