48th BIPA Plenary session considers the future of work
The British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly met in the historic surroundings of the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham over the course of Monday 31 March and Tuesday 1 April to consider how workplaces will evolve and develop into the future. 
Following an introduction by RHK historian Michael Wardrick (pictured), Minister of State at the Department of Finance Brian Hayes pointed to the economic value of the relationship between Ireland and the UK, noting that it amounts to one billion euros in trade every week.
A report by Committee A (Sovereign Matters) was presented to the wider Assembly. The report said that while the Good Friday/Belfast and St Andrew’s Agreements have transformed life on the island of Ireland, their full potential has yet to be reached.
Later in the day, representatives of Science Foundation Ireland, the IDA and the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce addressed the plenary on the common strategies that might be forged in equipping citizens with the necessary skill set required by the cutting edge enterprises of today and tomorrow. Following a visit to the Irish War Memorial Gardens in Islandbrige, Michael O'Leary addressed the plenary.
Tuesday's proceedings commenced with an address by Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin TD. Leading academics are Dr Eoin O'Malley of DCU and Dr Richard Boyce of the Institute of Public Administration wrapped up the plenary with a detailed discussion on the future of the public sector workplace.
View photos.
View presentations from Day One:
Gerry Kindlon (Londonderry Chamber)
View presentations from Day Two:
Video - Address by Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary:
Access Oireachtasfilm's YouTube page for more videos.