County Wexford Chamber Welcomes Canadian Ambassador

County Wexford Chamber was proud to facilitate a high-level meeting on November 3 at The Hatch Lab, Gorey, bringing together the Ambassador of Canada to Ireland, Dennis King, and a dynamic group of business and community leaders from across the region.

The visit focused on exploring shared opportunities and deepening collaboration between Canada and County Wexford, with discussions ranging from trade and investment to innovation and clean energy.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Opportunities to build trade links between Ireland and Canada at a pivotal time
• Ireland’s strategic position as the only English-speaking EU member
• Growth sectors in Canada: clean tech, fintech, and professional services
• Upcoming trade missions, including one led by Enterprise Minister Peter Burke TD in November
• Ireland’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union (July–December 2026)
• The role of Canadian-owned companies employing over 21,000 people in Ireland
• The Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) as a framework for collaboration
• Shared legal systems based on common law, supporting smoother business operations
• The importance of competitive tax regimes, talent access, and quality of life in attracting investment

This meeting underscored the mutual benefits of closer ties between County Wexford and Canada, particularly in sectors poised for growth and innovation. We are proud to support efforts that strengthen trade and collaboration between our county, the South East, and Canada. These connections open doors for innovation, investment, and shared prosperity.

As global partnerships become increasingly vital, County Wexford Chamber remains committed to fostering meaningful relationships that benefit local businesses and the wider region.

Attendees Included:

• Malcolm Byrne TD, who arranged the Ambassador's visit to Gorey
• Conor Robinson, County Wexford Chamber President, who welcomed the Ambassador 
• Melanie O'Reilly, Honorary Consul of France to Wexford
• Angela Lawless, Senior Economic Development Officer, Wexford County Council
• James Byrne, General Manager Irish Country Meats
• Melissa Carroll, The Customs Agent
• John Robinson, Marketing Executive
• John O'Connor, CEO,The Hatch Lab
• Rita Martin, Director, BoardX
• Adeline Grenier and Jackie Ellis, Embassy of Canada in Ireland
• Deirdre O'Flynn, County Wexford Chamber