Waterford strengthens US ties with Boston visit

Waterford’s connections in the United States have been cemented further by a high-profile St. Patrick's Day visit by the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, and Waterford City and County Council Chief Executive, Sean McKeown. Over four packed days, the Déise delegation engaged with political, business, and academic leaders to showcase Waterford’s strengths and explore new opportunities for collaboration.

"We are living in a globally tumultuous political landscape. However, we can never underestimate the power of collaboration, cooperation and dialogue,” said Mayor Murphy.

“Waterford, by having an on-the-ground presence in Boston over St. Patrick’s weekend, [had] a great opportunity to meet with elected officials, academics and Bostonians. But more importantly, it was invaluable to get front and centre with the Minister of Enterprise and the IDA’s Boston Office to underline what Waterford, as Ireland’s Oldest City, has to offer to US companies in terms of world-class talent, infrastructure, quality of life and support networks.”

The delegation began the Boston visit with a St. Patrick's Day reception hosted by the Consul General of Ireland in Boston, Síghle Fitzgerald, to celebrate the pan-Atlantic links between the two countries. The council highlighted the opportunity the event afforded the Déise's representatives to connect those spearheading the Irish business, enterprise and academic communities in Boston.

The Waterford City and County Council duo met with Peter Burke TD, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment at both the South Boston Political Breakfast hosted by US Senator Nick Collins, and while leading out the Boston parade with the Mayor Michelle Wu.

The Déise duo were also afforded the chance to visit the Boston office of the IDA, meeting with Shane Lawlor, Vice President of Life Sciences and Keith Newton, Vice President for International Financial Services the IDA Boston Office.

Mayor Murphy and the Council CEO also attended a private with the Provost of Boston College before meeting with one Professor Mary Murphy. Originally from Waterford, the Professor left for the US just six months ago to take up a role at the college.