News

Shannon Chamber warmly welcomes the announcement of the new direct Toronto-Shannon service announced today by Air Canada.

Chief executive Helen Downes, a board member of the Canada Ireland Foundation and the Ireland Canada Chamber of Commerce said: “This new route represents a significant milestone for Shannon and the wider region. Not only does it enhance international connectivity and provide direct access to an important and growing market; it is a route that will be most welcomed by our member companies.

“We have seen increasing interest among our members in exploring opportunities in Canada and have hosted seminars and events focused on doing business in the Canadian market and strengthening commercial links between the two countries.

As recent as last February, we hosted a visit to Shannon by H.E. Mr. Dennis King, Ambassador of Canada to Ireland. Discussion during this visit pointed to an interest in re-establishing and expanding direct air connectivity between Canada and Ireland as a critical enabler of business growth, tourism, and education links. Today’s news brings this discussion full circle.

“Now that the route has been delivered, thanks to the trojan work of Ray O’Driscoll and the Shannon Airport team, we will do everything in our power to strengthen business and economic ties between Canada and Ireland, with a particular focus on collaboration, trade and investment opportunities within the Shannon region.

“My representation on the boards of two prestigious Canadian organisations reflects the Chamber’s commitment to developing stronger economic and business links between Ireland and Canada.

“Having direct access from to Toronto will give companies in the Mid-West a much stronger platform from which to develop relationships with Canadian customers, partners and investors. It will also enhance the region’s attractiveness to Canadian companies considering Ireland as a location for investment and as a gateway to European markets.

“The benefits extend beyond business. Canada is an important long-haul tourism market for Ireland, and the new service will make the Mid-West and Wild Atlantic Way more accessible to Canadian visitors, while providing greater choice and convenience for people travelling between the two countries for business, leisure and to visit family and friends.

“International connectivity has always been central to Shannon’s economic success. This new service strengthens that connectivity and will provide a valuable platform for deepening economic, tourism and cultural links between the Mid-West and Canada in the years ahead,” added Ms Downes.

Chamber members Ei Electronics also welcomed this new direct route to Toronto which provides connectivity and greater access to a key international market.

CEO Leo Clancy said: “As a global export-led business based in Shannon, we really welcome this great news for the Mid-West Region. The opportunity to connect more readily with customers and partners in Canada will be a huge positive for our future growth.”