As I reflect on this time last year when Ireland began welcoming live events again following the pandemic, many will agree that 2022 was an especially challenging year as the demand for cancelled & postponed events to be rescheduled at incredibly short notice was rampant. Although we were all delighted to reconnect in person, challenges ensued for those of us who organise these special gatherings.

AIPCO is at the forefront of development and strives to deliver excellence across the meetings industry. Our members are imperative to the advancement of knowledge to facilitate the high standards of service we are known for and I am so proud of our industry and of our country as we continue the road to recovery, rebuilding our companies and reimagining how we do business.

Our members have the unique and privileged opportunity to come together, sharing knowledge and connections to raise our standards across the business tourism sector enabling us to showcase Ireland to the world. Education is so important to our professional development and industry knowledge and we can all learn so much from each other. Engaging with our industry partners, sponsors and key stakeholders and reinstating those relationships is crucial in allowing us to offer the most innovative, inspiring and informative events.

As chairperson of AIPCO, I am delighted to support and collaborate amongst you all as you continue to grow professionally having been so dramatically challenged in the last few years.