ESRI Newsletter March 2026

April 01, 2026

Dear Reader,

This month saw the publication of our Quarterly Economic Commentary, prepared against the backdrop of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. While the full economic implications are not yet clear, we have already seen significant increases in energy prices. This has prompted renewed debate about the extent to which households should be protected from rising costs. While a range of policy options is available, our Commentary points to a clear hierarchy of measures, emphasising that any interventions should be time-bound and carefully targeted towards those most in need.

Turning to climate policy, we published new research examining barriers to retrofit uptake. The study finds that Ireland’s progress towards decarbonising residential heating is significantly behind the targets set out in the Climate Action Plan, suggesting that additional policy measures may need to be considered. The report authors, Dr Muireann Lynch and Dr Niall Farrell, were invited to present their findings to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Climate, Environment and Energy. You can read their opening statement below. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue engaging directly with policymakers.

Finally, this Thursday, we will launch a new report, produced with the Department of the Taoiseach’s Shared Island Unit, examining disability rates across the island of Ireland. The report will be launched at an online webinar at 11.00 am. You can register below.

Regards,