Tag Archive for: Japan

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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2026 Ushioda Scholarship Award Winner: Isabelle Bates, DCU

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The Ireland Japan Association is delighted to announce that in 2026 the Ushioda Scholarship is awarded to Isabelle Emily Bates, studying Applied Languages and Translation Studies at DCU. Isabelle will be travelling to Japan for an exchange year at Rikkyo University, Tokyo.

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Isabelle is originally from Wexford and has spent the last three years studying Japanese and German in DCU.

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I first fell in love with languages while studying for my Junior Cert, and this is around the time when I began to learn Japanese. I chose to self-study Japanese due to my love of Japanese games and anime at the time, and I was lucky enough to have a very inspirational teacher and be able to study it for my Leaving Certificate.

Since the beginning of my Japanese studies, it has always been my dream to visit Japan and experience all of the wonderful things that the country, culture and people have to offer. If you had told me at 15 that I would now have the opportunity to study for a year in Japan, I would have never believed you, it felt so far away!

It feels incredibly surreal and exciting that I now have this fantastic opportunity and can make my dream come true. I hope that I can make the most of my year, work hard and make lots of lasting connections during my year abroad. – Isabelle Bates

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We would like to thank Paula Kelly, IJA Council Member and the IJA Education, Language and Ushioda Scholarship Subcommittee for support and assistance with the scholarship management and administration process this year.

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Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship was established in 2019 in honour of Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda’s major contribution to the development of the Ireland Japan Association and Ireland-Japan relations, and to underpin the association’s strong commitment to supporting Japanese studies in Ireland.

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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

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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Ireland Hosts the 11th International Symposium on Dialogue for Global Innovation

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The Ireland Japan Association was proud to sponsor and co-organise the 11th International Symposium on Dialogue for Global Innovation (DFGI-11), which took place in Dublin on 16 – 17 September 2025 at Trinity College Dublin.

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This year’s theme, Technologies for Human Flourishing: Advancing AI & Quantum Computing with Responsibility,’ could not have been more timely. Over the course of two days, inspiring speakers and leaders from Europe and Japan came together to share insights on global technology and innovation, explore future opportunities, and discuss the responsibilities that come with advancing cutting-edge fields such as AI and quantum computing.

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We were especially honoured that IJA Chairperson, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, addressed the symposium participants on the opening day. In her remarks, Catherine introduced the work of the IJA and emphasised its mission as a bridge between Ireland and Japan, fostering collaboration in business, culture, and education. “It is a privilege for the IJA to contribute to this important dialogue,” she said, “and to see Ireland host such an influential gathering of minds, dedicated to innovation with responsibility.”

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

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Traditionally held in London, DFGI has long been a platform for leading voices from Europe and Japan to exchange expertise and strengthen cooperation across business, academia, and technology. Hosting the symposium in Ireland for the first time highlighted Ireland’s growing role in this global dialogue and provided a unique opportunity to build new connections and partnerships.

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The IJA would like to thank the organisers, partners, and supporters of this prestigious event for making it such a success. Events like DFGI-11 play an important role in today’s rapidly evolving world, reminding us of the need to combine innovation with responsibility, and dialogue with collaboration.

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson during her speech at the DFGI-11 in Dublin, Ireland

 

Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson during her speech at the DFGI-11 in Dublin, Ireland

 

From L-R: Raymond Hegarty, IJA Council, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson and David Doran, IDA Ireland

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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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2025 Ushioda Scholarship Award Winner: Holly Deegan, University of Limerick

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The Ireland Japan Association is delighted to announce that the 2025 Ushioda Scholarship has been awarded to Holly Deegan, a second-year Japanese student at the University of Limerick.

Holly will travel to Japan to participate in the Nihongo for Exchange Students (NEST) Program at Toyo University, continuing her studies and deepening her connection with Japanese language and culture.

IJA Council is wishing Holly every success in her studies and adventures in Japan!

 

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‘Growing up I always had a passion for learning languages. When I had the opportunity to study Japanese in secondary school, I was instantly fascinated by both the language and culture. Having the option to continue my studies in university allowed not only for my language skills to develop, but for my appreciation for Japan to grow also. It will be a privilege to study in Japan and experience a different way of life. Whilst there, I hope to further improve my language skills and explore more of the culture first-hand. ’ – Holly Deegan

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We extend our sincere thanks to Paula Kelly, the IJA Council, and the IJA Education, Language and Ushioda Scholarship Subcommittee for their continued support and dedication in managing the scholarship process.

The Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship was established in 2019 to honour their remarkable contributions to the Ireland Japan Association and to Ireland-Japan relations. It continues to support and encourage the growth of Japanese studies in Ireland.

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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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Tag Archive for: Japan

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