Tag Archive for: Embassy of Japan in Ireland

IJA Chairperson Attends the 2026 JET Programme Pre-departure Orientation and Farewell Reception

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At the end of June, Raymond Hegarty, Chairperson of the Ireland Japan Association, was delighted to attend the 2026 JET Programme Ireland Pre-departure Orientation and Farewell Reception, kindly hosted by Ambassador Manabu Miyagawa and the Embassy of Japan in Ireland.
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Raymond Hegarty met with this year’s JET participants and wished them well as they prepare to embark on an exciting new chapter in Japan.
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The Ireland Japan Association extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to all 38 JET Programme participants. We hope your time in Japan will be a rewarding and unforgettable experience, offering opportunities to grow personally and professionally while discovering the richness of Japanese culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
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We look forward to welcoming you to the IJA community when you return to Ireland!
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Photos: Embassy of Japan in Ireland
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Isabelle Emily Bates Honoured at the 2026 Ushioda Scholarship Award Ceremony

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On 25th June, the Ireland Japan Association was delighted to celebrate Isabelle Emily Bates and her outstanding achievements at the 2026 Ushioda Scholarship Award Ceremony in Dublin.
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Isabelle Emily Bates, Award Winner of the 2026 Ushioda Scholarship, and Raymond Hegarty, IJA Chairperson

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The ceremony opened with welcome words from Peter Vambeck, Director of Investment at Fitzwilliam Capital, and Raymond Hegarty, Chairperson of the Ireland Japan Association.
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Welcome words by Peter Vambeck, Director of Investment, Fitzwilliam Capital

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We were honoured to welcome H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, and Mrs Miyagawa, together with members of the Ushioda family and other guests, who joined us in celebrating this special occasion.
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Speech by H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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We wish Isabelle every success as she prepares to begin the next chapter of her journey at Rikkyo University, Tokyo, and hope that her time in Japan will be an inspiring and unforgettable experience.
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Our sincere thanks go to Paula Kelly, Ushioda Scholarship Coordinator, for all of her dedication and support in coordinating this year’s scholarship programme and to our Corporate Member, Fitzwilliam Capital, for kindly hosting the award ceremony.
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From L-R: Sean Bates, Cian Ushioda, Isabelle Emily Bates, Award Winner of the 2026 Ushioda Scholarship, H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, and Georgina Gaul

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Isabelle Emily Bates, Award Winner of the 2026 Ushioda Scholarship, with her parents, Sean Bates and Georgina Gaul

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Front: Paula Kelly, Coordinator of the Ushioda Scholarship and Mrs Miyagawa at the event with other guests

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Isabelle Emily Bates, Award Winner of the 2026 Ushioda Scholarship, and H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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L-R: Raymond Hegarty, IJA Chairperson, Helen Ryan, Richard Ryan, Mrs. Miyagawa and H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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Photos: IJA and Embassy of Japan in Ireland
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IJA Conversation Groups Kick-Off Meetup in Dublin

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A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the IJA Conversation Groups Kick-Off Meetup on Sunday, 23rd May in Dublin! It was wonderful to see such strong support and to meet so many of you in person.
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We would also like to thank Richard Neville, JET Programme Ireland Coordinator at the Embassy of Japan in Ireland, and Raymond Hegarty, IJA Vice Chairperson, who joined us on the day.
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We were impressed by the enthusiasm and interest in practising Japanese and English, and we very much look forward to continuing these conversations online with you all at our IJA Conversation Groups.
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Special thanks go to our Council members, Azumi Uchitani and Yuka Nagano, for organising this event, as well as to the wonderful hosts at the Chester Beatty Library and The Silk Road Cafe for their warm hospitality.
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IJA Annual Dinner 2026 | Photo Gallery

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A huge thank you to everyone who joined us on Friday, 16th June, for the IJA Annual Dinner 2026 at the beautiful College Green Hotel, Dublin.
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It was a special evening celebrating friendship and the strong ties between Ireland and Japan, and we appreciate the friendship and support of our members, friends, corporate partners, and the wider community. Event guests were welcomed by Rie Mishima, Master of Ceremonies, followed by a beautifully presented Kagura dance ‘Toyosaka’ by Kaai Onozaki, Embassy of Japan in Ireland, and opening remarks by Neil Cowhey, IJA Chairperson.
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Neil Cowhey, IJA Chairperson

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It is an immense privilege to stand before you tonight as the Chairperson of the IJA.Looking out across this room, I see a vibrant reflection of the enduring friendshipbetween Ireland and Japan. We are joined tonight by a unique blend of industryleaders, educators, artists, and students. It is this specific mix that makes the IrelandJapan Association so special. – Neil Cowhey, IJA Chairperson.
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Rie Mishima, Master of Ceremonies and the IJA Council Member

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Kaai Onozaki, Embassy of Japan in Ireland

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We were honoured to welcome H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, and Mrs. Noriko Miyagawa to the celebrations, and we thank the Ambassador for sharing such warm and inspirational remarks with our guests. Read the full speech here!
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The IJA has always played a vital role in making our bilateral relations rich and resilient. I would like to once again extend my heartfelt congratulations on the Association’s receipt of the Foreign Minister’s Commendation last year. – H.E. Mr. Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland
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H.E. Mr Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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A very special thank you goes to our Guest Speaker, Peter Barrett, CEO of SMBC Aviation Capital, for addressing our guests and sharing his valuable insights and experiences.
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Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital

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We would also like to highlight and thank all of our generous prize sponsors for their support of the evening: SuMi TRUST Global Asset Services, Fitzwilliam Capital, Dillon Eustace LLP, GenZen, and Azumi Uchitani.
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Finally, a huge thank you to the entire IJA Council team and volunteers whose hard work and support helped make the evening such a success! Thank you all again for celebrating with us!
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IJA Annual Dinner 2026 – Photo Gallery 1 and Photo Gallery 2 on Facebook!
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Logo Contest for 70th Anniversary of Establishment of Japan-Ireland Diplomatic Relations

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We are pleased to share an exciting opportunity in the lead-up to a significant milestone in Japan- Ireland relations. The year 2027 will mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ireland. A series of events is being planned to commemorate this milestone, as well as to deepen the existing positive relationship between the two countries.
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As part of these celebrations, the Embassy of Japan is inviting submissions for a public logo design contest. The selected logo will represent the official commemorative events throughout the anniversary year.
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Applicants are asked to create a design that reflects:
  • Appreciation for 70 years of friendly relations between Japan and Ireland,
  • The spirit of continued partnership and future collaboration between the two nations.
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The competition is open to all applicants, and the submission deadline is Tuesday, 30 June 2026.
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All submitted designs will be carefully evaluated, with one final design selected as the official anniversary logo. The winning entry will be announced via the websites of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade of Ireland, and the Embassies in both countries.
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As an added incentive, the creator of the winning design will receive an economy-class return air ticket between Europe (Helsinki, Paris, London, or Frankfurt) and Tokyo, generously provided by Japan Airlines (JAL).
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Further details on submission guidelines and requirements:
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We encourage anyone with an interest in design, culture, or Japan-Ireland relations to consider participating.
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For more information:
Embassy of Japan in Ireland
Tel: +353-1-202-8350
E-mail address: culture@ir.mofa.go.jp
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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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