Tag Archive for: Embassy of Japan in Ireland

AI and the Digital Economy | Panel Discussion, Dublin

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On 25 March, the Embassy of Japan in Ireland, in cooperation with the Ireland Japan Association, hosted a panel discussion on AI and the Digital Economy at the Ambassador’s Residence in Dublin, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration between Ireland and Japan in shaping the future of AI.

 

Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, noted: ‘AI has been high on the agenda in the world. Tonight’s gathering is our expression to share such sense of urgency with friends and colleagues from business and government of Ireland and Japan, two most important like-minded countries.’

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all guest speakers, moderator, and participants at the event whose insights and engagement made the discussion exciting and thought-provoking.

Our special thanks to:
Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland
John Lonsdale, CEO, CeADAR Ireland
Brian Mac Namee, University College Dublin
Richard Jones, Amazon Web Services (AWS) Ireland
Colin M. Melody, Deloitte Ireland
Raymond J. Hegarty, Vice Chairperson, Ireland Japan Association (Moderator)

 

 

Opening Remarks by Ambassador Miyagawa

“On behalf of the co-hosts, Ireland Japan Association and the Embassy of Japan, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the participants, in particular, the panelists:

– Mr. Michael Lohan, CEO, IDA Ireland,
– Dr. John Lonsdale, CEO, Center for Applied AI and Data Analytics Research,
– Dr. Brian Mac Namee, University College Dublin,
– Mr. Richard Jones, Amazon Web Services Ireland,
– Mr. Colin Melody, Deloitte Ireland, and

Mr. Raymond Hegarty, Ireland Japan Association, Moderator for tonight’s event.

Let me also take this opportunity to reiterate my sincere congratulations to Ms. Catherine Grennel-Whyte, Chairperson of the IJA, Chairperson-designate Mr. Neil Cowhey and its members for the Foreign Minister’s Commendation for the IJA’s huge contribution to the development of our bilateral relations.

AI has been high on the agenda in the world. For companies, AI would affect not only costs and benefits, but also corporate governance and the whole image of the company. In diplomacy, AI has not only reformed our day-to-day work, but also deepened our sense of urgency that there should be international rules which regulate the use of AI in appropriate ways. And in the military and security spheres, AI has dramatically changed strategies and how we both fight and prevent wars.
Given the significance of AI, the Government of Japan has established the AI Strategic Headquarters led by the Prime Minister, to proactively deal with AI issues in 2025. Tonight’s gathering is our expression to share such sense of urgency with friends and colleagues from business and government of Ireland and Japan, two most important like-minded countries.
I do look forward to fruitful discussions among ourselves tonight.”

 

Photos: Embassy of Japan in Ireland

IJA Chairperson meets with Ambassador Miyagawa at the Embassy of Japan

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We would like to sincerely thank the new Japanese Ambassador to Ireland, Manabu Miyagawa, and his team for their warm hospitality in welcoming the IJA Chairperson, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, to the Embassy for a meeting on 5th January.

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The Ireland Japan Association greatly values the close and longstanding relationship between Ireland and Japan, and we look forward to working closely together to further strengthen the ties of friendship, understanding, and cooperation between our two countries.

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson and H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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The Embassy published the following announcement about the visit:

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On 5 January, Ambassador-designate MIYAGAWA Manabu met Ms. Catherine Grennell-Whyte, Chairperson of the Ireland Japan Association. Both sides looked back at economic and cultural exchanges between Ireland and Japan generated through the IJA’s activities down through the years. They also exchanged views on future opportunities for further cooperation.
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Ambassador-designate reiterated his congratulations on IJA’s receipt of the Foreign Minister’s Commendation in 2025 for their outstanding contribution to exchanges between Ireland and Japan. The Embassy of Japan in Ireland will continue to collaborate with the IJA for even deeper and diversified relations between our two countries for many years to come.’
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アイルランド日本協会との交流
　１月５日、宮川学駐アイルランド大使は、キャサリン・グレネル＝ホワイト・アイルランド日本協会会長と会談しました。両者は長年にわたるアイルランド日本協会を通じた両国間の経済・文化交流を振り返り、また、今後の協力の機会についても意見を交わしました。大使は、同協会の日アイルランド交流への貢献に対する令和７年の外務大臣表彰につき改めて祝意を表しました。日本大使館は、これからも末永く同協会と連携して、日アイルランド関係を一層豊かなものにしていく考えです。
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L-R: Keiko Nakata, Embassy of Japan, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson and H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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Photos: Embassy of Japan in Ireland

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Announcement of the passing of former Ambassador, Junji Shimada

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It is with deep sadness that the Ireland Japan Association Council shares the announcement from the Embassy of Japan in Ireland regarding the passing of former Ambassador Mr. Junji Shimada.

Ambassador Shimada was a dedicated diplomat and an exemplary representative of Japan. He will be greatly missed by his family, the staff who had the privilege of working alongside him, and the many people in Ireland whom he met during his service.

On behalf of the IJA Council, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Ambassador Shimada’s family, his colleagues, and all who mourn his loss. His contribution to strengthening the relationship between Ireland and Japan will be long remembered.

“Ambassador Shimada will be remembered with great respect and admiration for his dedication to strengthening the relationship between Japan and Ireland. His commitment, warmth, and gracious engagement with our Association and the wider community left a lasting and meaningful impact. We are profoundly grateful for his contributions and for the friendship he extended during his time in Ireland.” – Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

The IJA Council joins the Embassy of Japan and the wider community in honouring Ambassador Shimada’s legacy and mourning his loss. Our thoughts are with all who held him dear.

Book of Condolence

A book of condolence for former Ambassador Shimada will be available at the Embassy of Japan at the following times:

Dates:
Wednesday, 19 November | 10 am – 12 pm and 2 pm – 4 pm
Thursday, 20 November | 10 am – 12 pm and 2 pm – 4 pm

Location:
Embassy of Japan
3rd Floor, Merrion Centre
Nutley Lane, Dublin 4

Messages of Condolence by Email

The Embassy also welcomes condolences sent via email until 20 November.

Email: protocol@ir.mofa.go.jp

Please include:
1. Subject line: “Condolences: Former Ambassador Shimada”
2. Name
3. Title and organisation (if applicable)
4. Message

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The IJA Chairperson’s Lunch 2025: Celebrating Friendship and Recognition

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On Wednesday, 5th November, the Ireland Japan Association was delighted to host the annual IJA Chairperson’s Lunch at the iconic Stephen’s Green Club, Dublin.

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This year’s event was particularly special as we celebrated the Commendation by the Japanese Foreign Minister, an honour awarded to the Ireland Japan Association earlier this year in recognition of its longstanding contribution to fostering strong economic, cultural, and educational ties between Ireland and Japan.

The lunch brought together members, partners, and friends of the IJA for an afternoon of connection and celebration.

We were honoured to welcome our Guest Speaker, Ivana Bacik TD, Leader of the Labour Party, who shared thoughtful remarks on leadership, collaboration, and Ireland’s growing ties with Japan. We were also privileged to hear from Koji Hirohata, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Japan, who addressed guests and congratulated the IJA on receiving the prestigious commendation.

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Ivana Bacik TD, Leader of the Labour Party

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Koji Hirohata, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Japan

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The event was attended by IJA Council members, corporate and individual members, and a number of the Association’s former Chairs and Vice Chairs, who have each played an important role in shaping the organisation’s journey over the years.

It was a memorable afternoon celebrating the friendship between Ireland and Japan, the achievements of the IJA community, and the shared commitment to building an even stronger partnership for the future.

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IJA Chairpersons – from L-R: Catherine Grennell-Whyte, Darina Slattery, Richard Ryan, Paula Kelly, Donagh Morris and Raymond Hegarty

From L-R: Koji Hirohata, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Japan, Teresa Weafer, Google Ireland, Ivana Bacik TD, Leader of Labour Party, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, Raymond Hegarty, IJA Council

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Bank of Ireland Team Wins the IJA Ishikawa Golf Cup 2025

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The Ireland Japan Association’s Annual Golf Outing 2025 took place on Thursday, 25th September at the beautiful Foxrock Golf Club, Dublin, bringing together IJA members and friends for a fantastic day of golf, networking and celebration.

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We are delighted to congratulate the Bank of Ireland team, winners of the IJA Ishikawa Cup 2025! The Ishikawa Cup and first prize were presented to the winning team by Neil Cowhey, IJA Vice Chairperson, and Mr. Hirohata, Head of Mission, Embassy of Japan.

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IJA Ishikawa Cup 2025 winners from Bank of Ireland Team – Casey Steele and Philip Healy together with Mr. Hirohata, Head of Mission, Embassy of Japan

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Winners – Bank of Ireland Team
Philip Healy
Casey Steele
Patrick O’Connor
Devon Burns

2nd Place – NTT Data Team
3rd Place – SuMi TRUST (SMT Fund) Team

Spot Prizes
Nearest the Pin – Louise Mernagh, Mitsubishi Electric
Longest Drive – Adrian Gubbins, Mitsubishi Electric

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IJA Ishikawa Cup 2025 – 2nd place – NTT Data Team

IJA Ishikawa Cup 2025 – Nearest The Pin Spot Prize – Winner Louise Mernagh, Mitsubishi Electric with Neil Cowhey, IJA Vice Chairperson

IJA Ishikawa Cup 2025 – Longest Drive Spot Prize – Winner Adrian Gubbins, Mitsubishi Electric with Neil Cowhey, IJA Vice Chairperson

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A big thank you to all the teams – Bank of Ireland, Dillon Eustace, ElectroRoute, Mitsubishi Electric, NTT Data, and SuMi TRUST – for taking part and making this year’s tournament such a success.

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We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our wonderful hosts at Foxrock Golf Club for their warm hospitality, and to the IJA Council members and event team, especially Neil Cowhey and Raymond Hegarty, for their commitment and support in organising this event.

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We look forward to seeing everyone again at next year’s tournament!

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A very special thank you to our tournament prize sponsors for their generous support! 

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Foxrock Golf Club

IJA Ishikawa Cup 2025 – Foxrock Golf Club

IJA Ishikawa Cup 2025

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An Evening of Friendship and Culture: IJA Council Visits Ambassador Shimada’s Residence

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The Ireland Japan Association would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to H.E. Mr. Junji Shimada, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland and his wife, Mrs. Kaoru Shimada, for their kind and generous invitation to host a dinner at their residence in Dublin on 17th June.

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, was joined by Council and Patron Member Peter Vambeck (Fitzwilliam Capital) and Council Member Maria Mardiki for a memorable evening filled with warm hospitality, engaging conversation, and cultural exchange.

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The evening offered a special opportunity to experience Japanese traditions and enjoy a beautifully prepared meal in the company of our hosts. Our Council members were deeply honoured by the warm welcome and truly appreciated the chance to strengthen the bond between the IJA and the Embassy of Japan.

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We are sincerely grateful for this gesture of friendship and look forward to continuing to nurture and grow our relationship with Ambassador Shimada, Mrs. Shimada, and the Embassy in the future.

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Japanese Film Festival Returns To Screens Across Ireland This April

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The Japanese Film Festival Ireland returns for its 16th edition this April, bringing a selection of new and classic Japanese films to screens across Ireland.

Ireland’s only truly national film festival will showcase 16 films this year, from festival favourites to the latest anime features. The festival will run from April 1 – 26, with screenings in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Sligo, Waterford, Dundalk, Wexford, Bray and – for the first time – Ballina.

“It brings me great joy to see Ireland’s keen interest in Japanese cinema. The 2025 Japanese Film Festival boasts an impressive 16 films at 9 locations across Ireland. From the classic horror ‘The Snow Woman,’ which comes from the writings of Ireland’s very own Lafcadio Hearn, to the time travel comedy ‘A Samurai in Time,’ this year’s festival surely has something for everyone in Ireland.” – H.E. Mr. Junji Shimada, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

This year’s selection includes the delightful fish-out-of-water time travel comedy A Samurai in Time, which last month took home Best Film at the Japan Academy Film Awards. The darkly comic character study Teki Cometh, meanwhile, won three of the top prizes at last year’s Tokyo International Film Festival, including Best Film.

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A Samurai In Time

Other acclaimed films and international festival favourites screening during the festival include Cloud, the new thriller from Kiyoshi Kurosawa; the profound All the Long Nights from director Sho Miyake (Small, Slow but Steady); and Living in Two Worlds, a sensitive and heartfelt portrait of a young man’s experiences growing up with Deaf parents.

Cloud

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Cottontail, meanwhile, brings together actor Lily Franky (Shoplifters) and Ireland’s own Ciarán Hinds for a moving drama about one Japanese widower’s trip to England to fulfil his late wife’s final wish. Those looking for a unique insight into Japanese society & culture should check out the documentary The Making of a Japanese, which follows a group of Tokyo elementary school students over the course of a year, and the charming comedy-drama Takano Tofu.

Cottontail

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Anime fans won’t want to miss this year’s selection of new anime films: Ghost Cat Anzu, Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the Window, City Hunter: Angel Dust and Kaiju No. 8: Mission Recon. We’re also excited to present two classic anime titles: Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved debut feature Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro, and the vibrant and playful Tekkonkinkreet.

Ghost Cat Anzu

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In Dublin, we’re also excited to present 1968’s The Snow Woman, based on a famous ghost story recounted by Dublin-raised Lafcadio Hearn in his classic Kwaidan collection. This screening will tie in with the 175th anniversary of Hearn’s birth, along with the ongoing exhibition celebrating his work which has been taking place nationally (currently in Dublin’s Farmleigh Gallery). The screening will be preceded by a short introduction introducing the audience to Hearn’s life and work.

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“This year marks the 16th year of the festival and our collaboration with the Embassy of Japan. JFF 25 will bring the latest Japanese films to audiences across Ireland, alongside a selection of classic titles. Whether you’re a JFF regular or have never been before, we look forward to welcoming you to this year’s screenings. As ever, the festival has an exciting range of titles to choose from. Whether you’re looking for the latest anime, festival favourites or an insight into Japanese culture & society, this year’s programme has something for everyone.” – Maeve Cooke, director of access>CINEMA

JFF 2025 Screening Schedule

Wexford | Wexford Arts Centre: April 1 and 8

Galway | Eye Cinema: April 9-12

Dublin | Light House Cinema: April 10-17

Cork | The GATE Screen @ Arc Cinema: April 11-17 and  Triskel Christchurch: April 21-23

Sligo | Sligo Film Society @ The Model Arts Centre: April 10

Wicklow | Mermaid Arts Centre Bray: April 14

Mayo | Ballina Arts Centre: April 15

Louth | An Táin Arts Centre, Dundalk: April 18

Waterford | Garter Lane Arts Centre: April 22, 25 and 26

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All The Long Nights

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Ticketing links and full listings are now available at www.jff.ie.

Ticket sales information for screenings are available from each participating venue.

The Embassy of Japan and access>CINEMA are the co-organisers of the Festival with the support by The Arts Council of Ireland.

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IJA Bounenkai End of Year Party 2024 | PHOTO GALLERY

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The IJA Council would like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended the annual IJA Bounenkai End of Year Party on 28th November at Yamamori Izakaya Japas & Sake in Dublin. Your presence truly made the evening special, and we hope you enjoyed celebrating the culmination of this year’s hard work.

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, warmly welcomed event guests and initiated the festivities with a traditional Japanese Kanpai toast.

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We would like to express our deepest appreciation to H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland and IJA Patron, for honouring us with his presence and delivering a heartfelt farewell message as he concludes his service in Ireland and prepares to return to Japan.

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Our sincere thanks also go to the IJA event team and our exceptional hosts at Yamamori Izakaya Japas & Sake for their warm hospitality and for ensuring the event was a resounding success.

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Here’s to creating more wonderful memories together in the future!

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Photos: Eddie Hughes & Miyu Ishikawa

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IJA Council members and corporate representatives visit Japan House in Dublin

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On 10th and 12th of July, H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, welcomed the IJA Council members and representatives of the IJA Corporate members to Japan House in Dublin to discuss the IJA work and activities in Ireland as well as look at cooperation options in the future.

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L-R: Neil Cowhey (Dillon Eustace/IJA Council), Raymond Hegarty (IJA Council), Azumi Uchitani (IJA Council), Catherine Grennell-Whyte (IJA Chairperson), Norio Maruyama (Ambassador of Japan to Ireland), Teresa Weafer (Google Ireland) and Hiro Ino (IJA Council).

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, Tsugumi Yamamoto, IJA Vice Chairperson, IJA Council members – Hiro Ino, Neil Cowhey (Dillon Eustace), Raymond Hegarty, Azumi Uchitani, Eddie Hughes, Hirofumi Noda (ElectroRoute), and the IJA corporate representatives – Darina Slattery (Oomi Travel), Mary Honohan (PwC Ireland), Jun Watanabe (ALPS Electric) and Teresa Weafer (Google) attended.

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The IJA Council thanks the Ambassador Maruyama and his team for the warm welcome and hospitality during the visit.

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L-R: Jun Watanabe (ALPS Electric), Hirofumi Noda (ElectroRoute/IJA Council), Darina Slattery (Oomi Travel), Norio Maruyama (Ambassador of Japan to Ireland), Tsugumi Yamamoto (IJA Vice Chairperson), Mary Honohan (PwC Ireland) and Eddie Hughes (IJA Council).

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Photos: Embassy of Japan

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IJA Annual Dinner 2024: Celebrating the Irish-Japanese Community

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Ireland Japan Association’s Annual Dinner 2024, a significant event for the Irish-Japanese community, was held on May 17th at the Conrad Dublin hotel. Esteemed members of the Ireland Japan Association and distinguished guests, including key figures from government, business, academia, and the arts, gathered to celebrate the strong ties between Ireland and Japan.
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The evening began with a Sake & Prosecco reception, creating an atmosphere of elegance and camaraderie. Master of Ceremonies Raymond Hegarty warmly welcomed attendees. Guests then enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal in the beautiful Ballroom, followed by a Prize Giving ceremony.
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IJA Council Members with special guests: H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland, H.E. Ms. Leena Gardemeister, Ambassador of Finland to Ireland, and Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.

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H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland and IJA Patron, honoured the event with his presence and delivered an inspiring address.
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Special guest Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, gave a memorable speech, sharing insights from his recent visit to Japan.

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H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland.

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Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.

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IJA Chairperson Catherine Grennell-Whyte highlighted the association’s mission and recent achievements. She noted the rapid growth and expansion of the association, marked by a variety of events and activities throughout the year and an increasing number of individual and corporate members.
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“We are committed to fostering education, cultural exchange, and business opportunities between Ireland and Japan,” said Catherine Grennell-Whyte. “Our goal is to build a vibrant community offering real benefits and opportunities through close collaborations, cultural appreciation, innovative business discussions, and invaluable networking.”
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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

 
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The IJA Annual Dinner 2024 was a memorable night, celebrating the enduring bond between Ireland and Japan.
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IJA Annual Dinner 2024 Prosecco & Sake Reception at The Conrad, Dublin.

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The IJA Council expresses its gratitude to the Dublin School for Japanese Children for crafting and presenting exquisite Japanese origami decorations to our dinner guests. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the event team at Conrad Dublin for their exceptional hospitality and service during our event. We also want to extend our thanks to Raymond Hegarty, Master of Ceremonies, and our dedicated event team for their invaluable time, support, and contributions in making this year’s event a resounding success.

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The IJA Council extends gratitude to the prize sponsors for their ongoing support and generous contributions: Dillon Eustace, Finnair, Japan Rugby and Football Union, KWE Ireland, Oomi Travel, Mitsubishi Electric, NTT Data, PwC Ireland, and SuMi TRUST.
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Photo Gallery | IJA Annual Dinner 2024

Photos: Stephen Cullen, K9 Studio

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(If you were a guest at the IJA Annual Dinner 2024 and would like to receive an access to full photo gallery from the night, please email your request to: info@ija.ie)

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