The Unified Patent Court is like a big courtroom for all of Europe where inventors can protect their new inventions. Right now, if someone creates something new, and wants to keep it safe from being copied, they have to go through a lot of steps in different countries, which can be both expensive and complicated. This new court would make things simpler, and cheaper, as inventors would only have to go through the process once for all the countries involved.

Why should you vote “Yes” for the forty-first Amendment of the Constitution (Agreement on a Unified Patent Court) Referendum in June?

Here are 5 reasons why Ireland should vote for this change to the Constitution:

1. Cost Reduction and Efficiency for SMEs: The court system will significantly reduce the financial and administrative burden on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ireland. By providing a unified approach to patent registration and enforcement across EU member states, SMEs can protect their inventions more cost-effectively and efficiently. This is particularly important given the high costs associated with protecting patents under the current system.

2. Enhanced Intellectual Property Protection: The unified patent court offers a streamlined and uniform protection mechanism across all participating countries. This means that inventors can secure their intellectual property rights across a large part of the EU with a single application, making it harder for others to copy their patents without permission. This uniform protection is crucial for the competitiveness of Irish businesses in the European market.

3. Boost to Innovation and R&D: The amendment facilitates a more supportive environment for research, development and innovation. Lower patenting costs and a simplified legal framework are likely to encourage more inventive and creative activities within Ireland. This not only benefits the science and technology sectors but also enhances Ireland’s reputation as a hub for high-tech industries and innovative research.

4. Attractiveness to Foreign Investment: Participation in the unified patent court system signals to international investors that Ireland is committed to protecting intellectual property rights effectively. This can increase Ireland’s attractiveness as a location for foreign direct investment, particularly in industries that rely heavily on patent protection such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and information technology.

5. Legal and Economic Benefits: Establishing a local division of the unified patent court in Ireland would bring legal expertise and economic activity related to patent litigation and enforcement to the country. This not only creates jobs but also positions Ireland as a centre for patent-related legal services in Europe, further enhancing its economic and legal standing on the continent.

Voting for the amendment represents an opportunity for Ireland to modernise its approach to patent protection, align with European standards and support economic growth through innovation and intellectual property protection.