NSAI Shines a Light on the Science Behind Fair Trade, Innovation and Everyday Accuracy
To mark UNESCO World Metrology Day 2025, the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) hosted a commemorative event at the National Metrology Laboratory in Glasnevin on May 20th, 2025. The celebration, which was jointly organised by the Legal Metrology Service and National Metrology Laboratory of NSAI, included a visit from Minister of State for Small Businesses and Retail, Alan Dillon TD, and spotlighted the past, present and future of metrology in Ireland.
The event featured a legal metrology historical exhibition showcasing Ireland’s journey with measurement, reflecting on its impact across industry, innovation and trade. Irish small business leaders also took part in the event, highlighting how accurate measurement underpins modern commerce, product quality and international competitiveness. In addition, local secondary school students took part in an educational programme involving NSAI’s scientists and legal metrology inspectors, designed to spark interest in the science of measurement and demonstrate its essential role in everyday life.
Metrology is the hidden engine of our economy, ensuring fairness in trade by enabling accurate pricing by weight and measure.
Geraldine Larkin NSAI CEO
UNESCO World Metrology Day, celebrated annually on 20 May, commemorates the signing of the Metre Convention in 1875 - a landmark agreement that laid the foundations for a globally harmonised measurement system. This year, 2025, marks a significant milestone: the 150th anniversary of the Metre Convention. The Convention established the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) in Paris, which continues to coordinate international metrology efforts today. This year also marks 100 years since Ireland signed up to the Metre Convention.
The theme of this year’s celebration, “Measurement for all times, for all people”, reflects the enduring importance of measurement in supporting fair trade, ensuring scientific integrity and enabling economic development worldwide. From climate monitoring and healthcare to manufacturing and digital commerce, metrology is embedded in the systems that shape modern life. Ireland’s century-long commitment to international measurement cooperation is a testament to the country’s dedication to transparency, accountability and global competitiveness.
Pictured (L-R): Dubhaltach MacLochlainn, Pamela Dagg, Minister Alan Dillon, Geraldine Larkin, and Enda McDonnell
Ahead of the event, Minister of State for Small Businesses and Retail, Alan Dillon TD said:
“NSAI plays a vital role in supporting Irish businesses - not just through metrology, but also by setting and maintaining world-class standards and certification systems. This work helps Irish companies compete globally, assures consumers of quality, and fosters innovation and compliance. I’m delighted to be part of this year’s World Metrology Day, which celebrates both Ireland’s measurement heritage and our future as a leader in precision, standards and excellence.”
Expanding on Metrology and its vital role in Irish society, NSAI Chief Executive Officer Geraldine Larkin said:
“Metrology is the hidden engine of our economy, ensuring fairness in trade by enabling accurate pricing by weight and measure. It empowers small businesses by building trust in their products and services, both at home and abroad. Metrology also safeguards consumer rights, ensuring they get what they pay for. Through our work at NSAI, we are proud to uphold the accuracy, reliability and traceability of measurements that sustain Ireland’s modern economy.”
The NSAI continues to champion metrology through its calibration and scientific measurement services, as well as its contribution to international measurement standards. As the global economy evolves, NSAI’s commitment to accurate measurement remains central to supporting sustainable growth, technological advancement and public confidence.
