On 23 April 2008, the Network welcomed Gary McGann to the Institute to address the Young Professionals' Network. Mr McGann holds the positions of CEO of Smurfit Kappa Group and Chairman of Dublin Airport Authority plc among many other both present and past high-profile roles in the public and private sector.
Mr.McGann reflected on Ireland's historical experience of unemployment and emigration and contrasted this with the last decade of prosperity. He underlined in particular the role that education has played and will continue to play in making Ireland and the Irish a success. He also recognised the importance of innovation alongside education, and the talent and ability of young Irish people in recognising and capitalising on the resultant opportunities.
Mr.McGann also emphasised the importance of the European Union and the European market for Ireland,and in doing so reiterated his support for the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty in the upcoming Irish referendum in June.
