HSE Reference Research Ethics Committees

What are the HSE Reference RECs?

The HSE is in the process of reforming the HSE Research Ethics Committee (REC) System. This reform is in the process of establishing six regional HSE Reference Research Ethics Committees (HSE Reference RECs). The HSE Reference RECs will provide a service to HSE and HSE-funded services that do not have access to a REC.

All HSE Reference RECs will operate to a HSE Standard Code of Governance and Management and will report to a National Committee for the Governance, Management, and Support of Research (to be operational in early 2022). These Reference RECs will be supported by the National Reference REC Support and Coordination Office (HSE REC SCO). An online information webinar about the REC reform took place on Wednesday, 3th November 2021. Webinar and presentation available to view.

The REC Reform Roadmap, which sets out the phases of development for the HSE Reference RECs is also available to view. The Standard Code of Practice for the HSE Reference RECs is in the final stage of development and will be published shortly.

HSE Reference REC Support and Coordination Office

The HSE Reference REC Support and Coordination Office (HSE REC SCO) is currently being established to support the HSE Reference RECs. The HSE REC SCO will support the recruitment and training of members, support with the implementation of all relevant operational protocols. The HSE REC SCO will develop a quality assurance program to ensure REC compliance with the HSE Standard Code of Governance and Management.

Should you have any queries please contact us at hse.rec@hse.ie