Mind the (economic) gap? The Future of Ireland-Wales relations post-Brexit

As close neighbours, with a shared and common history, Ireland-Wales relations are based not only on strong cultural understanding, but on economic and trading ties, with significant export, investment and tourism between them.

It is also a thoroughly modern relationship. Two nations with shared values and goals across a diverse range of policy areas. Nations looking out to the world.

Post-Brexit, Wales and Ireland are looking to develop the ‘closest and deepest possible relationship’. But what does this look like and what will it mean for Welsh politics and economy?

The Shared Statement and Joint Action Plan to 2025 points to many areas for cooperation. Policy and engagement, climate and sustainability, trade and tourism, education and research, amongst others. But what should cooperation on these areas look like from both sides of the Irish Sea? How can cooperation contribute to sustainable development, a concept both governments have spearheaded on the world stage through the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act and promoting Sustainable Development Goals?

Further to this, how will the Joint Action Plan be practically imagined, are its areas of focus the right ones and how will enhanced relations improve outcomes? In this there is a discussion around funding allocated to the relationship and what projects will be developed to achieve the Plan, particularly in relation to North Wales?

Join us for an exciting panel discussion, delivered in partnership with Bangor University, as we explore the state of Ireland-Wales relations and where they go from here.

Agenda:

• 5.30pm Arrival and refreshments
• 6.00pm Welcome
• 6.10pm Presentation by Prof John Parkinson, Bangor University
• 6.20pm Panel Discussion
• 7.00pm Q&A with the Audience
• 7.30pm Drinks Reception
• 8.30pm Close