We were established in 1996 by a group of cancer consultants (our founding chairman was Prof. John Crown). Up to May 2016 we were known as ICORG, the All-Ireland Cooperative Oncology Research Group.
We were set up to find answers to cancer and create more opportunities for patients to access cutting edge treatments by putting a formal structure in place to make Ireland more attractive as a location to international cancer research groups and the pharmaceutical industry. In 2000, membership was expanded to include Northern Ireland.
Since 1996 more than 15,000 patients have taken part in more than 350 cancer trials.
Over the years we have developed strong links with many leading international cancer research groups, such as ECOG-ACRIN, ANZUP, NRG, TRIO, UNC Cancer Network and CRUK and global pharmaceutical companies.
As a result of these positive relationships, Irish patients can access cutting edge research options that previously would only have been available in the United States and some larger European countries.
During 2016, 37% of our trials involved collaboration with cancer research groups around world, and 38% involved working with international pharmaceutical companies.