The Government has launched a €750m investment package for research infrastructure across Ireland's higher education sector.
The INSPIRE programme is the largest single commitment to research infrastructure in the history of the State and will deliver cutting-edge equipment to universities across the country.
The investment is funded through the €4.55 billion capital allocation to the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science under this year's review of the National Development Plan (NDP).
"From quantum computing to life sciences, from AI to advanced manufacturing, INSPIRE will ensure Ireland remains a change maker, not a change taker, in the global knowledge economy," said Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless.
Speaking on his way into Cabinet this morning, Minister Lawless said the programme will transform research infrastructure across Ireland's higher education sector.
Between 2026 and 2031 over €750m will be invested, with an initial €100m in 2026.
"We are investing in research infrastructure in the higher education sector in order to grow our economy, drive innovation and ultimately to enhance our domestic and international competitiveness," said Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers.
The INSPIRE programme will be administered by the Higher Education Authority and Research Ireland and will be open for applications in the first quarter of next year.
Minister Lawless also said he is establishing a fund to upskill workers in artificial intelligence.
"AI won't take your job but somebody better skilled in AI might," he said.
Minister Lawless said he aims to upskill up to one million people in AI over 12 to 14 months, delivered on an online platform.
He said it will be a publicly available course.
