Chief Minister of the Isle of Man, Hon Alfred Cannan MHK, and Sean Fleming, minister of state in the Department of Foreign Affairs, spoke at the “Ireland-Isle of Man, Strengthening the Celtic Partnership” event at DLA Piper’s Dublin office yesterday, with the aim of creating connections and exploring opportunities for collaboration between the Isle of Man and Irish businesses.

There is a long and significant partnership between Ireland and the Isle of Man, in part owing to their geographic proximity. At the event the Isle of Man Government shared valuable insights and context and highlighted the significance of the shared history and potential for collaboration, particularly in the financial services and tourism sectors.

Mr Fleming said: “Ireland and the Isle of Man have historical, cultural and economic ties and this event seeks to further strengthen relationships between Irish businesses and the Isle of Man, with the ultimate aim of broadening the economic and trading relationship.”

Mr Cannan said: “I am delighted to bring businesses from the Isle of Man and Ireland together to explore the obvious opportunities that exist between our two countries. I am grateful for the support of the Irish Government and also to DLA Piper for hosting his event which I am confident will play its part in developing and strengthening this “Celtic partnership.”

Matt Cole, partner, and head of DLA Piper’s corporate practice in Ireland, commented: “As a proud Manxman I am delighted that we at DLA Piper hosted this networking reception between Ireland and the Isle of Man. There is a long history of relations and commercial cooperation between Irish businesses and the Isle of Man. This event sought to further build on that history, strengthening connections and forging new relationships.”