The Ireland Canada Partnership: Unlocking New Opportunities, Navigating Global Challenges

The economic outlook for North America and Europe remains shaped by global supply chain disruptions, shifting trade policies, and inflationary pressures. Canada and Ireland—both dynamic, trade-driven economies—are navigating these challenges while seeking opportunities for growth and resilience.  We are delighted to invite you to an exclusive Business Summit & Networking Lunch, hosted in association with the Ireland Canada Business Association and Gateway to Europe. This event will focus on the economic ties between Ireland and Canada and how they provide a strong foundation for business growth and investment.

Date & Time: Tuesday, May 6th from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Location: Chelsea Hotel, 33 Gerrard St W, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z4 (Mountbatten Salon Room)

Event Fee: $25 ICCCTO Members and $50 Non-Members 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Full Agenda 

8:00 AM 

Registration Opens

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM 

Coffee and Pastries Served

9:00 AM - 9:10 AM

Opening Remarks

• Dr. Deirdre Giblin, Chair Ireland Canada Business Association and Director of Development and External Engagement at National College of Ireland 

9:10 AM - 9:20 AM

Economic outlook within the context of the current geopolitical landscape and an overview of the forces impacting the economy, markets and global deals in 2025.

• Richard Snook, Director, Economics and Policy, PwC Canada

9:20 AM - 10:10 AM

Panel #1 | Opportunities for Growth: Transatlantic Trade and Investment Perspectives

Speakers: 

• Michael Barton, Regional Director Canada, Invest Northern Ireland -Americas
• David McCaffrey, Country Manager and SVP Canada, Enterprise Ireland
• Sandra Moffatt, Director Canada, Tourism Ireland
• Mark Shorten, VP Financial Services & Life Sciences, IDA Ireland

Moderator: Padraig Callaghan, Executive Vice President, Kainos

10:10 AM - 10:30 AM

Coffee Break

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Panel #2 | Fireside Chat, Crossing Currents: Navigating Growth Between Ireland and Canada

Journeys and Strategic Moves in a Changing Global Landscape.

Speakers

• John Clark, Founder & Partner, P2 Capital
• Robert Henley, Vice President, Sales, Fenergo
• Brent Reuter, Head of North America, Aryza

Moderator: Jess Kelly, Presenter, Tech Talk, Newstalk 106-108 FM.

11:00 AM - 11:20 AM

Remarks

• Adie McGennis, Executive Chairman, Sigmar Recruitment 

11:20 AM - 12:05 PM

Panel #3 | Leveraging opportunities under CETA as the U.S. intensifies its protectionist policies. 

Speakers:

• Deirdre Moran, SVP Technology & Country Manager, Canada at IDA Ireland
• Sue Rauth, Regional Director and Senior Trade Commissioner, Ontario Regional Office, Trade Commissioner Service, Global Affairs Canada
• Adrian Thomas, CEO, Hammond Power Solutions & President EUCCAN
• The Hon. Peter Van Loan, P.C., K.C., Partner, Aird & Berlis LLP

Moderator: Cathy Murphy, VP EUCCAN

12:05 PM - 12:10 PM

Closing Remarks

• Cahal Sweeney, Vice Consul General, Consulate General of Ireland, Toronto
• Carmel Drumgoole, President, Ireland Canada Chamber of Commerce, Toronto

12:10 PM - 1:00 PM

Networking Lunch

1:00 PM 

Event Ends