New Zealand Ambassador visits Gorey
County Wexford Chamber was delighted to welcome His Excellency Trevor Mallard, New Zealand’s Ambassador to Ireland, to the Hatch Lab in Gorey this week. Ambassador Mallard’s visit provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen ties between Ireland and New Zealand, particularly in key areas such as climate change research, agricultural innovation, and digital technology.
During his visit, the Ambassador emphasised the important collaborative work being done between Ireland and New Zealand on climate change. Both countries have a strong focus on agricultural sustainability, and New Zealand is currently involved with an Irish university in pioneering research on reducing methane emissions from livestock.
New Zealand innovation
Ambassador Mallard highlighted the innovative work being carried out in New Zealand, particularly by companies focusing on the traceability of products like cotton, beef, and coffee. This innovation is critical in addressing the growing global issue of product mislabelling and ensuring consumers can trust the origins of the goods they purchase.
In addition to agriculture and product origin technology, New Zealand’s growing expertise in space technology was also noted. The Ambassador proudly mentioned that New Zealand is now fourth in the world for space launches, showcasing its expanding role in the global space industry. Alongside this, the country has developed significant capabilities in cyber security, as well as digital innovation in film-making, which has garnered international acclaim.
Collaboration with Wexford companies
Ambassador Mallard welcomed the opportunity to learn more about how businesses in Wexford are collaborating directly with New Zealand companies. Whether through accessing cutting-edge research from New Zealand or setting up office branches there, Wexford-based businesses are clearly forging strong connections that promise to yield mutually beneficial results in the future.
County Wexford Chamber was delighted to facilitate organisations such as Equi-Ed, Tetra Tech, Wexford FC, CSC, CustomsAgent.ie, Danone, and Braahmam International to meet the Ambassador. Wexford County Council and the Hatch Lab also attended, along with Senator Malcolm Byrne who facilitated the Ambassador’s visit to Gorey.
Lorcan Kinsella, President of County Wexford Chamber, presented the Ambassador with a framed print of Hook Head on behalf of artist Eoin O’Connor. In addition, the Chamber presented Eoin O’Connor’s unique tea set to the Ambassador.