Council Sponsors ‘Cross Border Economy Conference’

The Council is delighted to be one of the principal sponsors at the ‘Cross Border Economy Conference’ which will be hosted jointly by Newry and Dundalk Chambers on Wednesday 8 March 2023 from 9am to 1pm in the Carrickdale Hotel.

The aim of the conference is to focus on future business opportunities within the Cross-Border Economy. At the event case studies will demonstrate how businesses, both North and South, have overcome significant challenges, using the supports available to navigate the changes in trade flows and identify opportunities for growth. Public Sector bodies from both sides of the border will set out their priorities for the region.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Michael Savage said, “The Council is delighted to be one of the principal sponsors of this conference along with key local and cross-border partners working across the area. Being located at the centre of the Belfast-Dublin economic corridor, cross-border trade and co-operation is as vital in both human terms, as it is in economic terms, to communities on both sides of the border.”

“This conference offers a vital opportunity to learn more about areas of growing importance for cross-border trade, as well as an overview of the opportunities and supports available to your business.”

President of Newry Chamber, Julie Gibbons said, “The continued growth in cross-border trade, demonstrates the strong collaboration between business in NI and RoI. For businesses interested in trading cross-border, this is a must attend conference.”

“It is an exciting time for the Newry/Dundalk regions particularly, as we are set to benefit from hundreds of millions of pounds’ worth of investment through a number of initiatives including the Belfast Region City Deal, Peace Plus Funding and Shared Island Fund Projects.”

Public Relations Officer of Dundalk Chamber, Paddy Malone said, “Our objective is to demonstrate the strength of cooperation that exists within the border economy. Businesses need to plan ahead. The conference programme includes a number of key specialists who will provide practical advice and support for border businesses. This region is well set to develop given the priority afforded to it from the 2040 Plan, M1 Corridor and the Shared Island Fund initiatives of the Government.”

CEO of InterTradeIreland Margaret Hearty said, “InterTradeIreland is delighted to continue to sponsor the Newry and Dundalk Chambers’ annual cross-border conference. This year’s event which focuses on future opportunities in the cross-border economy will provide valuable insights, advice and guidance to businesses who are keen to grow.”

“Against a backdrop of local and global uncertainty, at InterTradeIreland we’re supporting businesses to accelerate their export growth potential through our dedicated suite of trade and innovation programmes. This includes connecting them to an island wide network of partners and academics to broaden and deepen their enterprise innovation and capability, as well as tapping into opportunities available in emerging areas such as the circular economy, advanced manufacturing and transitioning to a low carbon economy.”

The conference is also supported by Louth County Council, Newry, IntertradeIreland, Louth Local Enterprise Office and Dundalk Chamber Skillnet.

Other confirmed speakers include representatives from DKIT, Enterprise Ireland, AIB, Trinity College Dublin, DELI-LITES Ireland and Kaseya.

MC for the conference will be Broadcaster and Journalist, Mark Simpson.

The conference is FREE to attend but please register in advance at www.newrychamber.com.