01 October, 2024

On Monday, September 23rd, MTU’s Kerry Campus had the honour of welcoming His Excellency Maruyama Norio, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, for a special discussion on the growing connections between Japan and Ireland.

Moderated by Professor Muiris Ó Laoire, a Senior Lecturer at the School of Health and Social Sciences at MTU; the discussion focused on the cultural, economic and educational ties between Ireland and Japan.

  Pictured: Jimmy Deenihan; Chairman MTU Governing Body, His Excellency Ambassador of Japan to Ireland; Maruyama Norio, Prof. Maggie Cusack; President of MTU

Guests included students and staff of MTU, Mayor Kerry, Chair of the MTU Governing Body, local schools, TDs and local government representatives as well as representatives from Japanese companies based in the region, including JRI American, Astellas and ALPS in addition to Dingle based food company Dingle Sushi.

In her welcome address Professor Maggie Cusack commented on the impact of the Japanese companies in the region saying, “these companies provide a significant contribution to our region and local economies by providing consistent employment and career development. These and other Japanese companies based in Ireland are excellent examples of how Japanese companies can successfully operate, develop and scale operations in a regional location. The benefit of the companies longevity in the region is significant”.

Pictured:Tim Daly; Head of Strategic Development., Prof. Maggie Cusack; President of MTU, His Excellency Ambassador of Japan to Ireland; Maruyama Norio, Jimmy Deenihan Chairman; MTU Governing Body,  Anne Looney; External Services Manager

The event also featured a special address by Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School student Jack Given, who spoke to Ambassador Maruyama in Japanese and shared excerpts from the works of Patrick Lafcadio Hearn. Hearn, an Irish-born writer, was instrumental in introducing Japanese culture to the Western world in the 19th century.