Strengthening Institutions for Sustainable Competitiveness
A Business Perspective on SDG 16 and the 2030 Agenda during Ireland's EU Presidency
The Sustainable Cork Programme (SCP) is designed to set a vision for a more sustainable and resilient Cork, empowered by a thriving business community.
Join us for our in-person Sustainable Cork Programme 2026 event where we will explore how strong institutions form the foundation of a competitive, sustainable economy. As Ireland has taken on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union under the core themes of competitiveness, values and security, this event places those priorities in a business context, by examining Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) and its direct relevance for Irish businesses.
The event will open with a keynote address from Commissioner Michael McGrath, followed by a panel discussion bringing a business perspective on SDG 16, exploring European values, strong institutions, economic security and sustainable governance.
This event has been recognised as an official Associated Event of Ireland's EU Presidency 2026.
Why you should attend:
Speakers:
Keynote address by Commissioner Michael McGrath, European CommissionThe Sustainable Cork Programme (SCP) is designed to set a vision for a more sustainable and resilient Cork, empowered by a thriving business community.
Join us for our in-person Sustainable Cork Programme 2026 event where we will explore how strong institutions form the foundation of a competitive, sustainable economy. As Ireland has taken on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union under the core themes of competitiveness, values and security, this event places those priorities in a business context, by examining Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) and its direct relevance for Irish businesses.
The event will open with a keynote address from Commissioner Michael McGrath, followed by a panel discussion bringing a business perspective on SDG 16, exploring European values, strong institutions, economic security and sustainable governance.
This event has been recognised as an official Associated Event of Ireland's EU Presidency 2026.
Why you should attend:
- Hear directly from European Commissioner Michael McGrath on the priorities shaping Ireland's EU Presidency and what they mean for Irish businesses.
- Gain practical perspective on how strong institutions, good leadership and sustainability intersect with today's geopolitical landscape to shape competitiveness, resilience and long-term enterprise growth.
- Connect with like-minded professionals at the heart of sustainability in Cork's business community.
- Gain practical perspective on how strong institutions, good leadership and sustainability intersect with today's geopolitical landscape to shape competitiveness, resilience and long-term enterprise growth.
- Connect with like-minded professionals at the heart of sustainability in Cork's business community.
Speakers:
Michael McGrath assumed the role of European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection on 1 December 2024, as a member of the European Commission led by President Ursula von der Leyen. Commissioner McGrath has specific responsibility for upholding the rule of law, protecting democracy and fundamental rights, strengthening consumer protection, improving criminal justice cooperation, and contributing to the EU’s broader competitiveness.
Commissioner McGrath previously served as Ireland's Minister for Finance from 2022 to 2024, as Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform from 2020 to 2022, and was an elected member of the Irish Parliament from 2007 to 2024. Commissioner McGrath holds a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and is a qualified Chartered Accountant.
Full panel line-up to be announced.
As proud SDG Ambassadors, designated by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, Cork Chamber continues to embed the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across all our activities and initiatives.
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The Sustainable Cork Programme is in association with Cork Chamber Skillnet, ESB Generation & Trading and SE Systems.
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The Sustainable Cork Programme is rooted in the Chamber's commitment to the UN SDGs and the vision for Cork and is designed to set a vision for a more sustainable and resilient Cork, empowered by a thriving business community.
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Date and Time
Friday Sep 18, 2026
10:30 PM - 12:30 PM IST
Location
The Metropole
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