ICBA Newsletter – Winter 2024

27 November 2024

Maple Leaf Dinner 2024

ICBA Maple Leaf Dinner
ICBA Maple Leaf Dinner
ICBA Maple Leaf Dinner

A sincere thank you to all of our members, friends and colleagues who attended this year’s ICBA Maple Leaf Dinner in Dublin’s Intercontinental Hotel. We were honoured to have such speakers as Deputy Simon Coveney and MP James Maloney, both of whom eloquently highlighted the strong bond between Ireland and Canada. The raffle raised over €7,500 for the Irish Cancer Society, so a huge thanks to everybody who bought tickets and donated prizes.

Economist, Jim Power, speaks on RTE’s The Business with Richard Curran

Listen back to Economist Jim Power on RTE’s The Business with Richard Curran discussing the economic report carried out on behalf of the ICBA, the opportunities the Ireland has to build significantly on our already strong economic relationship with Canada, and the power of shared culture and good relationships when it comes to doing business.

 

ICBA Trade Mission 2025

Chris Collenette on Newstalk Radio speaking about the ICBA member survey results

Ahead of Ireland’s General Election, the Ireland Canada Business Association has formally written to all party leaders, calling on them to prioritise the ratification of The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) when elected into office. 17 countries have now ratified CETA, with Ireland playing catch up. The ICBA believes the next government must address this as a matter of priority.

Terry Fox Run Ireland 2024

There was a great turnout for this year’s Annual Terry Fox Run in Dublin on September 14th, with over €18,000 raised for the Irish Cancer Society. Combined with the proceeds from the Maple Leaf Dinner, a grand total of €26,800 has been raised this year. Thanks to everyone who has supported this great cause.

Terry Fox Run 2024
Terry Fox Run 2024

ICBA Chair Dr Deirdre Giblin and Adie McGennis of Ireland Gateway To Europe are interviewed by Jess Kelly of Newstalk on Nov 23rd, about the joint collaboration on our planned trip to Toronto in May 2025

PODCAST:  Thanks to former Canadian Ambassador to Ireland, Nancy Smyth, for taking the time to record an interview for our podcast series during the final weeks of her term. In conversation with Patrick Haughey, Nancy speaks about her career in public service, why being posted to this role was so significant for her and her family, the achievements of which she is most proud, and what she has learned about Ireland and Irish people during her term. 

Business Post

The ICBA has expressed concern about the cap on passenger numbers in Dublin Airport. The story was covered in the Business Post. The following is a quote from our press release on the issue:

Maintaining a 32 million cap on passenger numbers in Dublin airport is detrimental to the Ireland Canada business relationship. Ready access to Europe through Ireland is a vital part of why Canadian companies locate here. Year-round connectivity with direct flights is one of the factors that makes Ireland an attractive location for Canadian investment. If access restrictions are put in place through the continuance of capping of passenger numbers to 32 million, airlines will significantly reduce their routes between Ireland and Canada and fly elsewhere in Europe. 

The 75 Canadian companies located in Ireland who indirectly create 20,000 jobs in this country can easily relocate to another European country where connectivity and accessibility is paramount.  

Ireland has a unique position in Europe regarding trade with Canada owing to shared language, culture and heritage. Without frequent connectivity these advantages will be lost as there are other European cities willing and able to fill the gap.” 

Dr Deirdre Giblin, ICBA Chair

Upcoming ICBA Events include:

4th December 2024
ICBA Annual Member Reception
Stephen’s Green Club, Dublin 2
6pm-8pm

Further information on the above and future events can be found on our website – irelandcanada.com 

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If you are interested in joining the ICBA please email events@irelandcanada.com