A group of people seated around a table during a meeting in a traditional book-lined room, with large windows, a fireplace, a portrait and a television screen.
Group discussion that took place this month in July at the Royal Irish Academy

British Council Ireland, Creative Ireland and Research Ireland have come together to support dialogue on the role of Creative Economy and Creative and Cultural Industries research in informing policy and decision-making in Ireland.

As Ireland's creative and cultural sectors continue to evolve, there is growing recognition of the importance of robust research and evidence in supporting sector development, shaping policy, guiding investment and demonstrating social, cultural and economic impact. Through a series of discussions and roundtables, policymakers, researchers, academics and sector leaders are exploring how research can strengthen understanding of the Creative Economy and contribute to sustainable growth across the sector.

These conversations aim to foster greater collaboration between research, policy and practice, while identifying opportunities to strengthen Ireland's evidence base and research capacity in support of the creative and cultural industries.

Roundtable Discussion at the Royal Irish Academy, July 2026.

In July 2026, the Royal Irish Academy (RIA) hosted the latest roundtable discussion in this ongoing series, bringing together leaders from across the cultural, creative, academic and policy sectors to explore the role of Creative Economy and Creative and Cultural Industries research in informing policy and decision-making in Ireland.

Building on earlier discussions convened by the British Council, Creative Ireland and Research Ireland, participants considered how research can support sector development, future economic growth and evidence-based policymaking.

The event featured a presentation from Karen Brodie, Deputy Director of the UK's Creative Industries Policy and Evidence Centre (CPEC), who shared insights into the development of CPEC, its research priorities and the ways evidence supports policymaking and investment decisions across the UK's creative industries.

Discussions explored opportunities to strengthen creative economy research in Ireland, enhance collaboration between policymakers and researchers, and support future conversations on the evidence needed to sustain and grow Ireland's creative and cultural sectors.

Read more about the first Roundtable Discussion here: