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:

• Padraig Callaghan, Executive Vice President, Kainos
• Sandra Moffat, Director Canada, Tourism Ireland
• Michael Barton, Regional Director Canada, Invest Northern Ireland -Americas
• David McCaffrey, Country Manager and SVP Canada, Enterprise Ireland
• Deirdre Moran, SVP Technology & Country Manager, Canada at IDA Ireland
  

10:10 AM - 10:30 AM

Coffee Break

10:30 AM - 11:10 AM

Panel #2 | Exploring topics related to Investment, Technology and their relevance for Canadian and Irish companies expanding their overseas operations.

Speakers:

• Jess Kelly, Presenter, 'Tech Talk', Newstalk 106-108 FM
• Jennifer Lefebvre, Director Osborne Recruitment
• John Clark, Founding Partner, P2 Capital

11:10 AM - 11:20 AM

Remarks

• Adie Mc Guinness, Executive Chairman, Sigmar Recruitment 
• Robert Strawbridge, VP Head of Canada, Options Technology

11:20 AM - 12:05 PM

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

Speakers:

• Cathy Murphy, VP EUCCAN
• The Hon. Peter Van Loan, P.C., K.C., Partner, Aird and Berlis LLP
• Adrian Thomas, CEO, Hammond Power Solutions & President EUCCAN
• Sue Rauth, Regional Director and Senior Trade Commissioner, Ontario Regional Office, Trade Commissioner Service, Global Affairs Canada

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