Upcoming Events at WIT

Title: WIT Economic Development Conference

Date: Tuesday, 21 September 2010

Location: Waterford Institute of Technology

Time:

Irish and Newfoundlanders to re-ignite the regional business proposition at WIT economic conference on September 21st 2010

September 21st will see WIT host an Economic Development Conference in conjunction with the Ireland Newfoundland Festival. The conference will draw on the historic connections between the South East region and Newfoundland and will have a strong emphasis on regional business opportunities and trade. As such, the conference will have a very practical and commercial orientation that will be informed by economic policy and research. Guest speakers include business practitioners, policy commentators, researchers, and regional executives drawing from Ireland and Newfoundland.

Dr Edgar Morgenroth, of the Economic and Social Research Institute, will frame the economic, demographic and natural advantage issues associated with the region as a platform for promoting indigenous enterprise. Several business practitioners will present cases of successful Irish and Newfoundland market initiatives that will provoke ideas and discussion. Facilitated parallel workshops will explore potential market initiatives and the supports, resources and potential barriers that influence such endeavours.

Following a Newfoundland/Canadian view on regional and community development from Mr. Patrick Curran, Executive Director of the Irish Loop Development Board, Wexford County Manager Mr. Eddie Breen will provide a perspective from within the South East region. In conclusion, a panel of guest speakers chaired by Mr. John Maher (WIT, School of Business) will synthesise reflections from the day’s events and present key action outcomes from the conference.

Benefits to participants include:
• A template for developing a business initiative.
• A schedule of websites, reports and contacts.
• A community of practice platform for the communities and agencies involved in the South East region that will drive future business activities in the South East of Ireland and Newfoundland.

Conference registration and/or further information
Registration cost (including delegate pack and lunch) is €50. If you would like a booking form and/ or further information please contact Leana Reinl by telephone on 051-845645 or email at LREINL@WIT.IE
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A close relationship has existed between Ireland and Newfoundland since the mid 1700’s. The Ireland Newfoundland Partnership, housed within the Department of the Taoiseach, manages an agreement between the Governments of Ireland and Newfoundland to recognise the deep historical links between the two regions and to explore the possibilities of mutually advantageous co-operation through business, industry, educational and cultural activities.
The Ireland Newfoundland Festival, which will take place in Southeast Ireland, is an annual festival that alternates yearly between Newfoundland and Ireland. This festival is a unique opportunity to explore ‘the most Irish place in the world outside of Ireland’. For further information visit www.irelandnewfoundland.com.