Eleven life sciences businesses from Greater Manchester and Liverpool City region joined a joint Mayoral Trade Mission to Ireland this week.

The Irish health care sector has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by a combination of policy reforms, increased investment in health infrastructure, and a growing emphasis on digital health solutions.

The visit was a response to these dynamic changes within the Irish health care system, with businesses gaining first-hand insights into the Irish market, and identifying tangible opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and expansion.

The trade mission was led by Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham and Mayor of Liverpool City Region Steve Rotheram. They were joined by a delegation of eight life sciences businesses from Greater Manchester, and three businesses from Liverpool City Region.

The businesses were selected by GM Business Growth Hub, and Liverpool City Region Combined Authority to represent the growing life sciences sector in the North of England.

During the mission the businesses took part in visits to the health innovation hub at St James’s Hospital and University College Dublin’s innovation hub NovaUCD – alongside events at the British Embassy and Glencairn House, the UK Ambassador to Ireland’s residence.