19 EU countries, including Ireland, have offered to host the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The EMA is currently located in London and therefore needs a new home when the UK leaves the EU. The agency is responsible for the scientific evaluation, supervision and safety monitoring of medicines in the EU and is critical for the functioning of the EU single market for medicines.

As part of its submission, Ireland has offered to contribute €78 million over ten years to the EMA which will go towards the expenses related to the selected premises. Three premises have been put forward; two in North Wall Quay in the Docklands and one at Dublin airport. The €78 million includes an annual contribution of €7 million per year towards rent and maintenance. Ireland will also offer relocation support which will help EMA staff and their families with identifying appropriate accommodation, schools, jobs for spouses/partners and other practical issues.

In terms of other countries offerings, Denmark will pay 20 years of rent for the EMA should it decide to choose Copenhagen as its base. Barcelona is offering a ready to use building and a top class transportation infrastructure. Milan is proposing free rent for 2019 with rent slowly increasing year on year until 2022.

A final decision on the EMA’s new home is expected in November.