Irish Embassy hosts event showcasing Upper Shannon Erne Region as prime investment hub
Unlocking overseas opportunities for local investment
Press Release: Thursday 04 December 2025
The Irish Embassy in London was the venue for a recent unique inter-county promotional event highlighting the attractiveness of Longford and neighbouring counties as a viable business location.
This unique inter-county promotional event entitled ‘Unlocking Opportunities in the Upper Shannon Erne Region’ is a unique collaboration involving counties Longford, Leitrim, Cavan and Roscommon.
The event attracted stakeholders and business leaders both from the regional diaspora and local business communities in London to hear what each of the counties and the region has to offer as a viable and attractive location in attracting business investment.
The unique initiative also offered potential investors, entrepreneurs, or those who are passionate about regional development a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by the investment potential of Longford and its’ neighbouring counties.
Longford County Council was represented at the event by Cathaoirleach, Cllr Garry Murtagh; Chief Executive, Paddy Mahon; Directors of Services John Brannigan and Michael Nevin and Catherine Kane of the Longford LEO (Local Enterprise Office).
Keynote speaker at the event was CEO of IDA Ireland Michael Lohan which also featured a panel discussion of distinguished business leaders who are market leaders in driving innovation and success across the region. The event was compered by former RTE news journalist and broadcaster, Brian Dobson, who himself is a regular visitor to the region.
The panel discussion featured contributions from Raj Singh of Center Parcs, Longford; Ann-Marie Kelly, Managing Director of CWS Hygiene Ireland Ltd; Barry Regan, President of Freudberg Medical and Caroline Ashe Brady of KORE Insulation.
Mr Singh highlighted the positive support Center Parcs received when establishing operations in Longford, noting the availability of a well‑educated and loyal workforce, as well as strong backing from local government and the wider community.
Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Garry Murtagh noted that the new initiative had immense potential in drawing new and exciting business opportunities not just to the Upper Shannon region, but to County Longford. Cllr Murtagh said, “Longford’s central location and strong business and entrepreneurial roots, makes our county a most attractive place for further investment. Furthermore, there are already strong and enduring links between Longford and cities like London which can be enhanced by increased business collaboration”.
Chief Executive of Longford County Council Paddy Mahon remarked that the collaborative approach of County Longford being part of a wider entity which is modern, progressive and business friendly, will stimulate further investment for the mutual benefit of all the participating counties.
Mr Mahon said, “This event illustrates the wonderful opportunities that can be exploited by Longford for future inward investment. We have a highly skilled and qualified workforce, an innovative business approach and a determination to make our county an even better place for people to live, work, visit and invest in.”
Head of Enterprise Michael Nevin noted that the event was an ideal opportunity for prospective investors to see what Longford and the region has to offer. Mr Nevin said, “We are delighted to collaborate with our colleagues in our neighbouring counties to showcase our business potential.
It’s been another successful year for LEO in Longford with strong business and job creation growth. We are committed to supporting local businesses fulfil their potential but also supporting businesses and entrepreneurs who wish to invest in our county. This event allows us to showcase Longford and its many positive attributes as a place to do business”.
