Earlier this afternoon, over 250 directors and senior business leaders gathered for a special “In-Conversation” event with EU Commissioner Michael McGrath at the InterContinental Dublin Hotel.

(Caroline Spillane CDir, Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Directors Ireland, Commissioner Michael McGrath, and Helen Nolan, President, Institute of Directors Ireland, at the IoD Ireland member event, held earlier today at the InterContinental Hotel, Dublin 4. Photography by Shane @ Coalesce)
Over 250 directors and senior business leaders convened at the InterContinental Dublin Hotel for an exclusive “In-Conversation” event with EU Commissioner Michael McGrath.
IoD Ireland President Helen Nolan opened the event, welcoming Commissioner Michael McGrath—who assumed his role as EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection in December 2024. Helen reflected on this occasion as her first event as President, acknowledging the Commissioner's dedication and thanking the members for their continued engagement.
Caroline Spillane CDir, Chief Executive of IoD Ireland, led the insightful conversation with Commissioner McGrath. Topics ranged from the EU Competitiveness Compass—highlighting IoD Ireland’s latest research featured on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland—to discussions on regulatory balance, innovation, and ongoing EU-US trade talks.
The Commissioner also addressed matters of justice, consumer protection, and geopolitical developments, emphasising Ireland’s strong position within the EU. He noted Ireland's readiness to take on the upcoming EU Council Presidency, underscoring the nation’s reputation for competence and leadership.
This distinguished gathering reaffirmed IoD Ireland’s commitment to providing members with direct access to influential voices and strategic insights shaping the business and regulatory landscape.
The Lunch Bites @ IoD Ireland series continues to offer members valuable thought leadership on governance, strategy, and leadership. IoD Ireland extends its thanks to Diligent for partnering on this important event series.
Event Highlights Video
Watch some highlights of the event below.
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