Medtech Rising event discusses Ireland's medtech position

Over 500 business leaders gathered in Galway to discuss the pressing policies required to strengthen Ireland’s position as a global leader in patient-centred medtech. The Irish Medtech Association, the Ibec group that represents the medtech sector, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland hosted “Medtech Rising: The Business Leaders’ Conference and Awards” in The Galmont, Galway.

Ibec head of sectors, and director of medtech and engineering Dr. Sinead Keogh outlined: “At Medtech Rising, we are looking at the future of medtech and what actions are required to position Ireland as a global leader in patient-centred medtech and at the forefront of the global healthcare agenda.

“Underpinned by significant advancements in innovative technologies, the sector has undergone an incredible transformation in recent years. AI, data analytics, 3D and robotics are just a handful of elements driving major disruption in the health technology sector, improving both the development of digital health solutions, and the digitalisation of manufacturing.

“Such advancements have supported the growth of the industry, with medtech, digital health, and biopharma sectors now spanning over 700+ businesses, employing 84,000 people directly, and making a global impact with exports in excess of €105 billion. However, we cannot be complacent and leave future growth to chance.

“To support continued efforts to improve healthcare technologies, Government must develop a national health technology and life sciences strategy led by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, akin to other competitor locations.”

Enterprise Ireland head of lifesciences Garrett Murray said: “Ireland’s medtech sector has grown exponentially, scaling in terms of jobs and exports. The strength of Ireland’s medtech indigenous sector representing over 60% of businesses in the sector from start-ups through to large companies. Thanks to our highly collaborative ecosystem Ireland’s medtech sector has developed ground-breaking medtech solutions with high potential start-ups here amongst the best in Europe and globally for new technology, products, processes, and services. It continues to be essential that medtech leaders meet with important stakeholders such as clinicians, and researchers, along with other experts. That’s why Enterprise Ireland co-hosts Medtech Rising with Ibec’s Irish Medtech Association and IDA Ireland to bring the community together to share knowledge, innovate, spotlight success, and make a difference.”  

IDA Ireland’s head of medtech Rachel Shelly added: “Irish medtech is a global powerhouse, that is why Medtech Rising is an unmissable event as a global business leader’s conference. It’s about collaboration made easy creating an opportunity to share best practice, network and learn. Leading names from established FDI multinationals, entrepreneurs, and clinicians, share the stage to talk through next-generation technologies, innovation and the opportunities and challenges around digitisation and sustainability. In an ever-changing global environment, it’s more important than ever to leverage our established ecosystem, invest in our great talent, innovate, and continue to build on our reputation as a trusted gateway to the world’s medtech markets.”