Unlocking Opportunities for the Upper Shannon Erne Region – A Resounding Success at the Irish Embassy in London
The Irish Embassy in London recently played host to a landmark inter-county promotional event, “Unlocking Opportunities in the Upper Shannon Erne Region – Promoting Regional Success, Inspiring Investment.” This collaborative initiative brought together counties Leitrim, Longford, Cavan, and Roscommon to showcase the region’s potential as a prime destination for business investment.
The event attracted an influential audience of business leaders, members of the regional diaspora, and London-based entrepreneurs eager to explore opportunities in Ireland’s Upper Shannon Erne Region. Attendees were provided with a unique chance to connect, learn, and be inspired by the region’s dynamic investment prospects.
Leitrim County Council was represented at the event by Cathaoirleach Cllr. Paddy Farrell, Chief Executive Mr. Joseph Gilhooly, Director of Service Mr. David Minton, Senior Executive Officer Ms. Emer Connolly, and Mr. Joe Lowe, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Leitrim.
L-R David Minton, Director of Service, Leitrim County Council , Ms. Emer Connolly, Senior Executive Officer Economic Development, Leitrim County Council, Mr. Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland, Cllr Paddy Farrell, Cathaoirleach Leitrim County Council, Mr. Joseph Gilhooly, CE Leitrim County Council, Ms. Nicola Mc Manus, Administrative Officer, Economic Development, Leitrim County Council, Mr. Joe Lowe, Head of Enterprise Local Enterprise Office Leitrim
The keynote address was delivered by Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland and a proud Leitrim man, who shared valuable insights on regional development and the future of overseas investment. The event also featured a compelling panel discussion moderated by renowned broadcaster Bryan Dobson, a regular visitor to the region with contributions from leading business figures:- Barry Regan, President of Freudenberg Medical (Carrick-on-Shannon), Co. Leitrim, Raj Singh, Center Parcs, Chief Corporate Officer, Longford, Ann-Marie Kelly, Managing Director, CWS Hygiene Ireland Ltd, Roscommon, Caroline Ashe Brady, KORE Insulation, County Cavan. Barry Regan spoke about the success achieved by Freudenberg Medical, a major employer in the region, currently employing 950 staff in County Leitrim, underscoring the area’s capacity for large-scale enterprise.
Guest speakers Barry Regan, Ann Marie Kelly, Raj Singh-Dehal, Caroline Ashe Brady and Bryan Dobson.
Joseph Gilhooly, CE Leitrim County Council, Helen Beausang, Cllr Paddy Farrell, Cathaoirleach Leitrim County Council, Joe Lowe, Head of Enterprise, LEO Leitrim and Tom McLoughlin from the Leitrim Ass in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.
Speaking after the event, Cllr. Paddy Farrell emphasised the collaborative nature of the initiative stating that “This joint event showcased the benefits and opportunities of establishing a business in the region and undoubtedly has the potential to encourage new and exciting business opportunities.”
Mr. Joseph Gilhooly, Chief Executive of Leitrim County Council, added: “This partnership approach promotes the Upper Shannon Erne region as a progressive and business-friendly place to do business, stimulating further investment for the mutual benefit of all participating counties.”
Head of Economic Development, Emer Connolly highlighted the strategic vision behind the event: “We are delighted to collaborate with our neighbouring counties to showcase the business potential of the region. This initiative builds on previous promotional events in Dublin, London, and New York, all aimed at driving inward investment and enterprise development.”
The success of this event marks a significant step forward in positioning County Leitrim and the Upper Shannon Erne Region as a hub for innovation, enterprise, and sustainable growth.
Representing the four local authorities Eoin Doyle, CE Cavan County Council, Shane Tiernan, CE Roscommon County Council, John Dooley from the Embassy of Ireland, Joseph Gilhooly, CE Leitrim County Council and Paddy Mahon, CE Longford County Council.
