Minister James Lawless & IUA Council
On May 12th at the IUA Future of Ireland event – Shaping the Future of Higher Education & Research, Minister James Lawless T.D., Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, outlined his priorities and plans for the future of higher education and research in Ireland.
In his speech Minister James Lawless defined his vision for the future of Higher Education in Ireland:
“So, what is my vision for the future? - It is a vision that recognises higher education, research and skills as foundational pillars for Ireland’s economic strategy. - It is a vision that sees us working together to advance a step change in research and innovation, to strengthen our skills base and to provide high-quality and accessible higher education. - It is a vision that we can give assurance and comfort to all our citizens that we can react to any shock, any bump, any pivot. - It is a vision of the future that student, academics and researchers are inspired by and want to be a part of it. This is the future we will create together.”
Watch-back
Our Keynote Speaker
James Lawless is the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. He was appointed to this role on 23 January 2025.
Before this, he served as Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for International and Road Transport and Logistics; and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications with special responsibility for Postal Policy.
James Lawless was elected to the Dáil to represent Kildare North in 2016 and 2020 and prior to that was a member of Kildare County Council, serving as Mayor of Naas in 2015.
He studied Maths and Computer Science at Trinity College and Law at Kings Inns where he qualified as a Barrister. He practiced with a specialty in maritime/freight law.
He first got involved in politics as a commuter activist and remains a strong advocate for improving transport links, rail and bus services, better walking and cycling infrastructure including greenways.
Within the Dáil he has become a strong voice on Technology and Digital Policy introducing ground-breaking legislation on Social Media Regulation and on Cyber Harms. He served as opposition spokesperson on Science & Technology from 2016-2020 and as Chair of the Justice Committee from 2020-2024.
You can contact Minister Lawless at: james.lawless@oireachtas.ie