Meet the Minister at the YPN! March 10, 2009 7 p.m.

On March 10, 2009, at 7p.m. Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheal Martin T.D. will address the Young Professionals' Network (YPN) at the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA.)

This event will be a great opportunity for members to meet the Minister, exchange views and put questions to him on matters of international and European importance. The Minister will also launch a series of new Institute publications on various aspects of EU policy on the night.

We welcome all members and new members to the event. Attendance at all YPN events is free of charge and each event is preceded by a drinks reception. To attend, or to get more information, email iieayoungprofessionals@gmail.com

YPN meeting February 9, 2009

Author and commentator,
Philippe Legrain discusses immigration in the recession

To listen to the podcast of this event, click here www.iiea.com/audio/YPN/Philippe Legrain.mp3

Most Irish people are concerned about the impact of immigration on the Irish job market in the current economic climate, many of whom face the prospect of job losses and emigration. Recent figures have predicted that 30,000 Irish people are expected to emigrate to Australia alone in 2009.

Philippe discussed these issues in detail, examining migration into the European Union, the impact of this on economic growth, the possibilities for increased intercultural dialogue and the impact that declining economic growth would have on all of these trends. He drew on his vast experience as a journalist with The Economist, an advisor in the World Trade Organization and a contributor to the Financial Times, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal and New Statesman. He is also the author of two books, Open World: The Truth about Globalisation and Immigrants: Your Country Needs Them. Philippe's visit was part of the Europe 2.0 project which is sponsored by the European Commission.