A new government-backed report launched at the University of Galway outlines the key research and development actions needed to expand the use of timber in construction across Ireland.

Published by the Interdepartmental and Industry Working Group on Timber in Construction, in collaboration with the University’s Timber Engineering Research Group, the report identifies targeted steps to advance timber technologies, improve building safety, and boost the use of Irish-grown wood in the building sector.

Minister of State for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, Michael Healy-Rae TD, launched the report during a visit to the Timber Engineering Research Group at the Alice Perry Engineering Building. He praised the role of research in unlocking timber’s potential as a low-carbon, sustainable construction material.

The report—Research and Development Needs for Timber in Construction in Ireland—sets out priority actions including the development of an online hub for timber research and case studies, the collection of data on timber durability and lifecycle carbon performance, and assessment of policy incentives to increase timber use.

It highlights mass engineered timber as a key opportunity, while underlining the need for continued research to ensure safety, structural performance, and public confidence in timber-based buildings.

Report author Dr Patrick McGetrick, Associate Professor at the University of Galway and Chair of the R&D thematic group, said research is essential to demonstrate timber’s full environmental and structural benefits. He called for continued collaboration between academia, industry and policymakers.

The Timber Engineering Research Group, founded in 2004, is Ireland’s national leader in timber construction research and plays a key role in aligning Irish timber standards with international best practice.