Event report
FICC Business Lunch: Exploring Ireland’s Economic Outlook with Professor Alan Barrett
We were delighted to host the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce Business Lunch on 28 April at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin, welcoming over 120 guests from across the Franco-Irish business community.
The lunch brought together Chamber members, partners, business leaders and guests for an afternoon of networking, discussion and insight. It was a wonderful opportunity to gather representatives from a wide range of sectors and organisations, all with a shared interest in strengthening business links between France and Ireland.
Our sincere thanks go to our sponsors, BNP Paribas and Crédit Agricole Creditor Insurance, for their continued support. Their contribution helped make this event possible and reflects the strength of collaboration within the Franco-Irish business network.
We were honoured to welcome H.E. Céline Place and Chris Smyth, President of the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce, who opened the discussion by setting the economic context from a Franco-Irish perspective. Their remarks provided valuable insight into the broader relationship between France and Ireland, as well as the opportunities and challenges currently shaping the business environment.
Our guest speaker, Professor Alan Barrett, then delivered a thoughtful and engaging overview of the Irish economy. His address explored key growth trends, labour market developments and the outlook for the months and years ahead. He also underlined the importance of continued investment in infrastructure to support sustainable growth, competitiveness and long-term economic resilience.
Professor Barrett’s remarks sparked lively and insightful discussions around the room, with guests exchanging views on the future of the Irish economy, the needs of businesses operating in Ireland and the role of international partnerships in supporting continued growth.
Beyond the keynote address, the lunch was also a valuable occasion to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new contacts and build relationships in a relaxed and friendly setting. The strong attendance and level of engagement throughout the afternoon reflected the continued vitality of the Franco-Irish business community.
Photos from the event are available on our website.
