ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the nature of knowledge exchange and the requirements necessary to enhance the impact of research findings on policy development and implementation. It reviews what impacts – direct and indirect – the increased importance being placed on academic research has had on policy formation, implementation and practice. The chapter explores the growth of a knowledge exchange culture and the role of knowledge brokering in policy developments from the joint authorial perspective of a research and a policy base in Ireland. The goal of effective knowledge exchange and brokering in support of evidence-informed policymaking in Ireland is facing particular challenges. As the research literature on knowledge exchange demonstrates, the benefits of capacity building accrue to all. The objective of consultation was to afford diverse stakeholders in national policy and practice the opportunity to have influence on the final policy decision and in doing so to promote greater cohesion in the delivery of practice arising from policy change.
