From May 5–8, the Ireland Canada Business Association (ICBA), in partnership with Ireland Gateway to Europe, led a high-impact trade mission to Toronto. Across four packed days, our delegation engaged with senior political leaders, key institutional partners, and Canadian-based investors to deepen the dynamic and growing relationship between Ireland and Canada.
The mission began with a warm welcome in Toronto and an informal gathering at the Queen and Beaver Bar, setting the tone for the camaraderie and collaboration that would define the days ahead.
Our first formal event was a lunch hosted by Ambassador John Concannon at the One King West Hotel, generously facilitated by Ireland Gateway to Europe. Here, robust discussion centred on the continued opportunities for collaboration in trade, innovation, and investment between Ireland and Canada.
That evening, Gemma Healy Murphy and Francesca D’ Aquila Kelly of McMillan LLP graciously hosted a reception at their offices in Brookfield Place. This provided an opportunity for delegates to connect with leaders across legal, financial, and governmental sectors and to hear first-hand how Canadian stakeholders view Ireland’s unique position as a transatlantic business bridge.
On Tuesday morning, we walked to the Ireland Canada Business Briefing in the Chelsea Hotel, where we were hosted the Carmel Drumgoole (ICCOTT Chair) and Philip Geraghty ICCOTT Executive Director and their team. A series of compelling panels featuring ICCOTT, IDA Ireland, and Enterprise Ireland delved into the resilience and growth of Ireland-Canada bilateral trade. The energy in the room spoke to the strength and potential of our transatlantic ties. That afternoon, we had the honour of visiting Ontario’s Legislature Buildings, including a memorable photo opportunity with Minister Caroline Mulroney, followed by an inspiring visit to the MaRS Innovation District. There, we learned about pioneering collaborations in life sciences and technology, and explored the potential for Irish-Canadian innovation partnerships.
Tuesday evening saw us welcomed by Hon. James Maloney MP for a reception and dinner at PJ O’Brien’s. In his remarks, MP Maloney spoke of the deep historical and economic connections between our nations, and of a shared future rooted in innovation, values, and mutual prosperity.
On Wednesday, we began with a visit to the poignant Ireland Park, hosted by Mark Purdy and William Peat of the Canada Ireland Foundation. This moment of reflection on our shared history reminded us of the legacy that underpins today’s strong bilateral relationship.
After some of the group travelled to Boston with Gateway to Europe, our Toronto delegation continued with a briefing from Stephen Lund, CEO of Toronto Global, and a meeting with Deirdre Moran of IDA Ireland—both key moments in understanding the scope of opportunity for Irish business in Toronto’s vibrant economic landscape.
The mission concluded on Thursday with a Business Round Table hosted by Enterprise Ireland, bringing together insights and takeaways from the week. This final event provided space to reaffirm our shared commitment to showcase and facilitate the growing Ireland–Canada ties.
