1 May 2026
ICBA Business Summit 2026
Excitement is building for the 8th ICBA Business Summit, which takes place on May 26th in Dublin’s iconic Iveagh House, home to the Irish government’s Department of Foreign Affairs.
This event is one of the major flagship events in the Ireland Canada Business Association calendar and it takes place at a pivotal moment for Ireland–Canada relations. It brings together business leaders and policymakers to explore opportunities, share experiences, and help shape the future of trade and investment between our two countries.
We look forward to a dynamic afternoon of discussion, insight, and meaningful connection across our vibrant network.
Sincere thanks to our event sponsors for all of their support:
Premium sponsor – Obsorne
Platinum sponsor – Intact Insurance
Platinum sponsor – Pinsent Masons
To secure your place email events@irelandcanada.com
Welcoming Our New Members
As the relationship between Ireland and Canada continues to grow, so too does our membership. We are delighted to welcome the following companies as new members to the Ireland Canada Business Association member network.
We look forward to working with you and representing your voice to policy-makers and stakeholders across the Ireland Canada business community.
ICBA Fireside Chat with Ambassador Dennis King
The latest episode of The Ireland Canada Connection features an open, honest and wide ranging fireside chat between Dr Deirdre Giblin and Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, Dennis King. This was recorded at a live event kindly hosted by FFH management Services in Dublin, which is part of the Fairfax group (see below for photos from the event).
The conversation spans many topics including Ambassador King’s journey from provincial politics to diplomacy, his first year in Ireland and how he has settled in to life in a new country, the impact of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s speech in Davos, Canada’s evolving global role and why the Ireland Canada relationship matters more now, than ever.
“Canada has what the world wants. We’re an energy superpower, with the most educated workforce in the world and rock-solid fiscal strength. The first-ever Canada Investment Summit will capitalise on those advantages to help drive billions in new investments into Canada. That means more growth for our businesses, more high-paying career opportunities, and a stronger, more independent Canadian economy for all.”
The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, announcing the inaugural Canada Investment Summit
RSA Insurance rebrands to Intact Insurance
Valued ICBA member RSA Insurance rebranded to Intact Insurance across the UK, Ireland, and Europe on October 6, 2025. This marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the business. This transition united the companies across UK&I under a single global brand, reflecting a shared purpose, values, and bold growth ambitions.
The rebrand brought together over 300 years of Irish heritage with the strength of one of the world’s most respected insurers. Intact Financial Corporation (IFC) is Canada’s largest provider of Property and Casualty insurance, a leading Specialty Lines insurer with international expertise, and a leader in Commercial Lines in the UK and Ireland. It has grown organically and through acquisitions to almost CAD$24 billion of total annual direct premiums written, with a global team of 31,000 employees.
Reflecting back on this significant milestone, Kevin Thompson, CEO, Intact Insurance Ireland commented:
“The rebrand marked a pivotal moment for our Irish business and the Irish insurance market. Now as Intact Insurance we are bringing together deep local knowledge and global expertise to deliver a more connected and easy experience for our customers and brokers in Commercial and Personal Lines. This was more than a change of symbol and name. It was a powerful statement of who we are, purpose and values driven, with a strengthened ability help people, businesses and society prosper in good times and be resilient in bad times.”
In Ireland, Intact Insurance was recognised as a Best Employer for 2025 by Mercer, the leading global HR consulting firm. Employing almost 700 people across Dublin, Galway, and Belfast. The company works with brokers nationwide to distribute Commercial, Specialty and Personal Lines solutions and has a direct-to-consumer brand, 123.ie
What does ICBA membership deliver in practice?
Thanks to ICBA Board member Hugh McGrath of IQ-EQ for delivering such a positive, optimistic and forward-looking message to mark St Patrick’s Day 2026. Hugh reflects on the lasting contributions of the Irish community in Canada, while also highlighting the strength and momentum of today’s bilateral relationship – one based on shared values, strong trade links and future opportunities.
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If you are interested in joining the ICBA please email events@irelandcanada.com