Minister Dillon highlights growth in Ireland’s space sector at International Space Summit

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment with responsibility for space policy, Alan Dillon TD, this week represented Ireland at the International Space Summit in Paris, where he welcomed €12.9 million in European Space Agency (ESA) contracts secured by Irish companies in the first half of 2026.
With 130 Irish companies now engaged with ESA and four firms winning their first contracts, Minister Dillon said the results demonstrate Ireland’s growing capability in a sector offering significant opportunities for businesses, researchers and high-value employment.

At the summit, the Minister joined government leaders, industry representatives and international partners to discuss the future of the global space economy and endorsed key declarations on behalf of Ireland.

Minister Dillon said, 

“Ireland’s space sector is building real momentum. The €12.9 million in contracts secured in the first half of this year demonstrates how Irish companies are turning expertise and innovation into international business.
 
“Four firms winning their first ESA contracts is particularly encouraging. It shows the potential for more Irish businesses and emerging start-ups to enter this market, develop new technologies and compete globally.
 
“This summit is an opportunity to strengthen the partnerships that help our companies grow and ensure Ireland plays an active role in shaping the future of the sector.”

The results reinforce the Government’s decision at the ESA Ministerial Council in Bremen in November 2025 to increase Ireland’s ESA programme subscription by €40 million, bringing total investment to €170 million.

Minister Dillon added,

 “Our increased investment reflects the strength of Irish capability and our ambition for what comes next. We want to help businesses scale internationally, access new markets and create high-value jobs at home. 

“Space technologies also deliver wider benefits, supporting environmental monitoring, climate action and innovation across the economy. Continued investment in research, alongside strong international cooperation, will be essential to realising that potential.”

On behalf of Ireland, the Minister endorsed a series of non-binding declarations supporting a more coordinated European space policy, future space transportation, Earth observation, access to reliable scientific data and the safe and sustainable use of outer space.

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