Irish Minister visits Korea aiming to build collaboration in innovation through research, business and alumni networks.

Minister of State for Training, Skills, and Innovation, John Halligan T.D. will visit Korea from 5-8 October.

During his visit Minister of State (Vice Minister) Halligan will:

• Be guest of honour at the "Connecting with graduates of Ireland" alumni event a reception in the Residence of the Ambassador of Ireland, H.E. Aingeal O'Donoghue. This will be the first alumni networking reception for Korean and Korea-based alumni of all Irish Universities and Higher Education Institutions
• Visit the Gyeonggi Center for Creative Economy and Innovation to exchange views on approaches to innovation in high-tech, export-led economies.
• Address the Irish Korea Business Network breakfast at the Seoul Millennium Hilton Hotel on the Irish economy and Korean-Irish economic links;
• Meet with Irish companies and their Korean partners to discuss the increasing trade between Ireland and Korea, particularly in technology sectors;
• Meet with partners of Irish higher level education institutions including researchers at Seoul National University (nanoscience sector), and Kyungpook National university (global mobility programmes)

Ireland currently has the fastest-growing economy in the OECD, with growth led by exporting sectors. Irish government policies are focused on driving innovation and supporting entrepreneurship and high-potential startups. Minister Halligan is looking forward to exchanging ideas and experiences on these priorities with Korean partners.

Note for Editors:

Minister Halligan was appointed Minister for Training, Skills and Innovation on the 19th May 2016.

He was first selected to the Dáil in 2011.

Prior to his election to the Dáil, John sat on Waterford City Council from 1999. He was Mayor of Waterford City in 2009/2010.