20th ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE & CELEBRATION SHOWCASE
"20 Years of taste. From local roots to global connections"
ABOUT the conference
Celebrating two decades of championing Ireland’s finest food and drink, the Good Food Ireland® 20th Anniversary Conference will bring together top voices in food, farming, hospitality and tourism. This milestone event will highlight how Ireland’s authentic local food experiences not only define our cultural identity but also enhance our reputation on the global stage.
The conference will explore the vital connection between Ireland’s agri-food and tourism sectors, showcasing how collaboration across these industries fuels innovation, sustainability and long-term economic growth. Farmers, food and drink producers, chefs, hoteliers, tourism operators, policymakers and industry leaders will come together to share insights, uncover emerging consumer trends and discuss how Ireland can continue to deliver world-class destination food and drink experiences that reflect the richness of our local roots.
Join us in celebrating 20 years of Good Food Ireland® a journey of taste, tradition and global impact.
Celebration Showcase
The Good Food Ireland® Showcase Dinner will form the culinary finale of the anniversary conference, demonstrating in practice the Good Food Ireland® ethos of linking agriculture, hospitality and tourism through authentic Irish food and drink experiences.
This unique dining experience is a live farm-to-fork celebration, where premium Irish ingredients are presented by the people who grow, harvest and produce them and transformed by leading chefs into seasonal dishes. The collaborative format highlights provenance, transparency and sustainability while allowing guests to meet the producers behind the ingredients and experience the direct connection between Ireland’s land, sea and table.
By bringing producers and chefs together in this way, the evening reflects the core mission of Good Food Ireland®, connecting Ireland’s food producers, hospitality sector and tourism offering under one trusted all-island standard. The Showcase Dinner highlights the strength of the Good Food Ireland® community, showcases the quality behind the Good Food Ireland® approval and creates a powerful storytelling moment celebrating 20 years of championing Ireland’s food culture at home and abroad.
wHy attend?
A must attend event for anyone in the food, farming, tourism and hospitality sectors, as well as policymakers and stakeholders invested in shaping the future of food and tourism, sustainable efforts and local food movements.
Restaurateurs, Hoteliers, Chefs, Tourism & Hospitality Professionals:
- Understand how to better resonate with guests who want to feel a part of the food journey. This isn’t just about what’s on the plate; it’s about offering an experience where guests feel they are contributing to something bigger, supporting sustainable practices, local farmers and the broader movement toward more responsible dining.
- Enhance your guest experience by discovering cutting-edge innovations in sustainable food production and regenerative farming, empowering you with the knowledge to incorporate sustainably sourced, local ingredients into your menus.
- Gain valuable insights into consumer trends and the growing demand for authentic, farm-to-table experiences.
- Learn how to craft dining experiences that meet this demand and foster more meaningful, transparent connections with food.
Food & Drink Producers, Farmers & Fishers:
- Gain valuable insights in aligning farming practices with sustainability and consumer demand.
- Hear cutting-edge innovative farming techniques that improve the quality of your produce while reducing environmental impact.
- Explore opportunities to partner with chefs, hoteliers and tourism providers, helping you build stronger connections with the food and hospitality sectors.
- Understand the demand from eco-conscious consumers and how to future proof and expand your business.
tickets now on sale
Monday, 20th April 2026, InterContinental Hotel Dublin
“The Good Food Ireland® 20th Anniversary Conference & Celebration Showcase Party 2026 is a must attend event for anyone in the food, farming, tourism and hospitality sectors”.
Don’t miss out on this conference and networking event!
Programme
The Good Food Ireland® 20th Anniversary Conference is taking place on Monday 20th April at the InterContinental Dublin.
Join us to celebrate 20 years of Irish food excellence and explore how local produce, culinary experiences and authentic storytelling can shape Ireland as a world-class food tourism destination. Across four insightful sessions, from the role of food in tourism, to sustainable seafood, chef-led provenance and scaling Ireland’s global food reputation, hear from industry leaders, producers and chefs on how Ireland’s local roots are connecting to the world.
Don’t miss the chance to connect with industry leaders and shape your future in Irish food tourism. For full Conference Programme and Individual Session Details.
09.00am – 10.00am
Registration
10.00am – 10.30am
“Welcome and Opening Remarks”
Moderator: Suzanne Campbell, Broadcaster & Author, Food & Farming, RTE
Margaret Jeffares, Founder & CEO, Good Food Ireland®
John Cahalan, CCO, FBD Insurance, Title Sponsor
&
Guest of Honour Address
10.30am – 11.30am
followed by 15 minutes of Q&A
“The Role of Food in Shaping Ireland’s Tourism Identity“
Food has become a defining part of how Ireland is experienced by visitors. Over the past 20 years, Good Food Ireland® has pioneered collaboration across farming, food production, hospitality and tourism, helping shape Ireland’s global food reputation. This session explores how the journey from farm → plate → experience → story → global visitor creates authentic, memorable tourism experiences.
.
Keynote Speaker:
Aidan Power, Director of Marketing, Tourism Ireland.
Panels Speakers :
Michael Londra, International Broadcaster and Executive Producer, “Ireland with Michael”
Ed Cooney, Executive Chef, The Merrion Hotel, Dublin
Eoghan Corry, Travel Journalist and Tourism Analyst
Laura Bradley, Co-Owner Indie Fude
11.45am – 12.45pm
followed by 15 minutes of Q&A
“Sea to Plate: Connecting Ireland’s Seafood with Tourism”
Discover how Ireland’s seafood sector and tourism industry can work together to bring more sustainable, local fish to menus across the country. Hear from fishermen, processors, chefs and industry experts as they share insights, success stories and practical ways to strengthen collaboration, enhance visitor experiences and showcase Ireland’s seafood on a global stage.
Keynote Speaker:
Paul Ward, Manager, Business Intelligence, BIM
Panel Speakers:
John Menarry, National Inshore Fishermen’s Association
John Lynch, CEO, Irish South and East Fish Producers Organisation
Conor Halpenny, Head Chef & Co-Owner, Square Restaurant
Stephen Jones, Key Account Manager, Kish Fish
1.00pm – 2.00pm
Lunch and Networking Opportunities
2.00pm – 3.00pm
followed by 15 minutes of Q&A
“Shaping Taste: The Power of Chefs to Drive Provenance and Change”
Chefs are not just responding to demand, they are shaping it. This session explores how chefs can influence what we eat, champion seasonality and turn local Irish produce into a premium, authentic experience. Hear from industry leaders across the supply chain on how collaboration, storytelling and sourcing decisions can reduce reliance on imports and redefine Ireland’s food offering for a global audience.
Keynote Speaker:
Michael Kelly, CEO, Grow it Yourself (GIY) Author & TV Presenter
Panel Speakers:
Liam Finnegan, Executive Chef, Ashford Caste
Barra Sweetnam, Owner, Allfresh
Stephen Holland, Executive Chef, Dunluce Lodge
Alex Nahke, Executive Chef, The Europe Hotel & Resort
3.15pm – 4.15pm
followed by 15 minutes of Q&A
“Ireland on the World Stage: Growing Our Global Food Tourism Reputation”
Ireland’s food story is gaining global attention, but how do we turn it into a world-class tourism experience? This session explores how local provenance, seasonal produce and authentic culinary experiences can attract international visitors. Hear from chefs, producers and tourism leaders about how collaboration, storytelling and the Good Food Ireland® trustmark can connect Ireland’s local roots to global opportunities.
Keynote Speaker:
Joe Gill, Director of Corporate Advisory, Goodbody Capital Markets
Panel Speakers:
Conal Stewart, Taste Ards and North Down
Peter Ward, Owner, Country Choice Nenagh
Alastair Bell, Irish Black Butter
Alison Johnston, Director of Sales & Marketing, Good Food Ireland®
4.30pm – 5.00m
Closing Remarks
&
Guest of Honour Conference Address
5.00pm – 7.00pm
The Good Food Ireland® Showcase Dinner
The culinary finale of the anniversary conference, celebrating 20 years of connecting Irish producers, chefs and tourism through authentic farm-to-fork experiences.
Guests will enjoy seasonal dishes crafted from premium Irish ingredients while meeting the producers and chefs behind them, highlighting provenance, sustainability and the Good Food Ireland® ethos in action.
Speakers
Moderator
Suzanne Campbell
Broadcaster & Journalist Food & Farming, RTE
Suzanne is an Irish journalist, broadcaster and food writer with a strong presence across RTÉ radio and television. A former television producer, she worked on RTÉ’s farming series Ear to the Ground and continues to report on food and agriculture for programmes including Countrywide and Drivetime. Suzanne is also an award-winning writer and co-author of Basket Case and is widely regarded as an influential voice in Irish food and farming.
Keynote Speaker
Paul Ward
Manager Business Intelligence, BIM
Paul manages the Business Intelligence Unit at BIM, leading a multidisciplinary team that delivers data-driven insights to seafood companies. His extensive background includes roles in fisheries control and seafood public health at the Department of Marine. Paul also served on secondment to the European Commission (DG Sanco and DG Trade), on assignments across Asia, the Americas, and Australia. He holds a Master’s in Business Practice from the Irish Management Institute.
Keynote Speaker
Aidan Power
Director of Marketing Tourism Ireland
Aidan is responsible for promoting the island of Ireland to international audiences. With extensive experience in global tourism marketing, he leads strategic campaigns that position Ireland as a compelling destination across key markets. Aidan plays a central role in shaping how Ireland is perceived abroad, with a strong focus on authentic experiences, including food and drink, as key drivers of visitor interest and engagement.
Keynote Speaker
Joe Gill
Director of Corporate Advisory
Goodbody Capital Markets
Joe is Director of Corporate Advisory with Goodbody Capital Markets and an Adjunct Professor of Business in the Cork University Business School. He was previously Chief Economist of the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS). Joe has advised a number of companies including Origin Enterprises, Tirlan, Dairygold, Applegreen and Total Produce. He was Head of Research at Goodbody between 2002 and 2008.
Keynote Speaker
Margaret Jeffares
Founder & CEO
Good Food Ireland®
Margaret comes from a lifelong farming background and a career rooted in tourism, giving her a deep appreciation for Ireland’s landscapes, communities and culinary heritage. She has championed artisan food and local producers, helping small-scale producers gain national and international recognition. Through events, awards and advocacy, she has helped shape Ireland’s artisan food scene promoting sustainable, high-quality, locally sourced food and fostering connections between producers, chefs and consumers.
Keynote Speaker
Michael Kelly
CEO, Grow it Yourself (GIY) Author & TV Presenter
Michael is CEO & Founder of GIY, a social entrepreneur, author and TV presenter. Based in Waterford, GROW HQ, part of the Good Food Ireland® Collection and winner of the Good Food Ireland® Collection Tourism Hospitality Sustainability Award 2024, includes an urban farm, café, retail and education centre and a small-scale regenerative farm. Michael presented “Grow Cook Eat” and “Food Matters” for RTE and produces the “Food Matters” podcast.
PANEL Speakers
Michael Londra
Irish singer, TV producer, "Ireland with Michael"
Michael Londra is an Emmy-nominated singer, TV host and theatrical producer from Wexford, based in the US. A former lead singer of Riverdance on Broadway, he built a successful concert career, his recordings featured on Univerdsal Records project Arias Ancora with Andrea Bocelli & Placido Domingo. He created and hosts Ireland with Michael, the longest running, most aired Irish show on PBS®. The series airs across the US and Canada with episodes broadcast over 75,000 times across 182 markets, bringing Ireland’s culture, history, food and visitor experiences to millions of viewers.
Conor Halpenny
Chef and Co-owner of Square Restaurant
Conor is Head Chef and Co-owner of Square Restaurant and serves as Commissioner General of Euro-Toques Ireland. A passionate advocate for Irish produce and culinary heritage, Conor trained at renowned kitchens. Winner of the Euro-Toques Young Chef of the Year 2017, he is celebrated for mentoring young chefs and championing sustainability, helping shape authentic Irish dining experiences that highlight local provenance and quality.
John Lynch, CEO
Irish South & East Fish Producers Organisation
John Lynch has over 40 years of fishing experience and is a seasoned leader in the Irish fishing industry. A vessel owner since 1997 he currently oversees the operations of the FV Eblana, a family-run vessel dedicated to delivering high-quality, sustainable wild-caught fish. A founding member of the Irish South and East Fish Producers Organisation (ISEFPO), he served as Chairman for five years before being appointed CEO in January 2021. In September 2025, he was appointed to the Board of BIM by the Minister of State, where he focuses on the strategic development of the catching sector and the broader seafood industry.
Eoghan Corry
Travel Journalist & Tourism Analyst
Eoghan is one of Ireland’s leading travel journalists, commentators, and tourism analysts. With decades of experience covering the aviation and tourism sectors, he is widely respected for his insight into industry trends and destination development. Eoghan has played a key role in shaping public understanding of Ireland’s tourism landscape and contributes regularly to national and international media. His work offers a valuable perspective on how Ireland can continue to strengthen its reputation as a leading global food and travel destination.
Barra Sweetnam
Owner
Allfresh Wholesale
Barra is the owner of Allfresh Wholesale, a leading supplier of fresh Irish produce. He champions import substitution, supporting local growers and promoting sustainable, homegrown fruit and vegetables. Barra will share his experience in building a resilient, local supply chain, demonstrating how collaboration between producers and industry can strengthen Ireland’s culinary offering and contribute to a sustainable, provenance-led food tourism sector.
Liam Finnegan
Executive Chef
Ashford Castle
Liam is the Executive Chef at Ashford Castle, renowned for his dedication to Irish produce and culinary excellence. With a passion for seasonality, provenance, and storytelling through food, Liam creates immersive dining experiences that highlight local ingredients and Irish heritage. He will share insights on how chefs can transform premium Irish produce into world-class culinary experiences, supporting both tourism and the island’s growing reputation for authentic food culture.
John Menarry
National Inshore Fishermen’s Association (NIFA)
John Menarry, owner and skipper of the inshore fishing vessel ‘Charlie Boy II’, fishing mainly for lobster and crab out of Killybegs. John is also a board member of the National Inshore Fishermen’s Association (NIFA) and is keen to see Inshore Fishermen work together, not only to market their catches but also with a purpose to make a measurable and sustainable impact on the revenue and livelihood of the inshore fishing folk.
Stephen Jones
Key Account Manager
Kish Fish
Stephen Jones, is Key Account Manager with Kish Fish and brings over 35 years of expertise as a fishmonger & seafood professional in both his own business Harvey's Seafood and Kish Fish. Renowned for his deep knowledge & hands-on skill, Stephen leads engaging demonstrations for customers, sharing his wealth of experience & passion for exceptional seafood.
Peter Ward
Country Choice
Peter Ward is a highly respected Irish artisan food champion and co-owner of Country Choice in Nenagh, an award-winning independent food shop and café he founded in 1982 with his wife, Mary. For over four decades, he has passionately promoted local, seasonal, and sustainably produced food, championing small artisan producers across Ireland. Recognised for his leadership in the Irish food community, Peter has received numerous awards and is a founding member of Good Food Ireland®.
Alastair Bell
Irish Black Butter
Alastair Bell is the founder of Irish Black Butter, Co Antrim, an award-winning artisan brand inspired by Ireland’s rich culinary heritage. Drawing on traditional preserving methods, he created a luxurious apple conserve using Armagh Bramley apples, crafted to suit both sweet and savoury dishes. Passionate about quality and innovation, he has brought Irish Black Butter to international audiences. His mission is to “spread a little happiness” by sharing a versatile, inclusive taste of Ireland with the world.
Laura Bradley
Co-Owner
Indie Fude
Laura Bradley is the co-owner of Indie Füde, an award-winning artisan deli renowned for championing Irish produce. She is deeply committed to supporting local farmers and producers, with Indie Füde sourcing exclusively from across the island of Ireland and collaborating with hundreds of small suppliers. A strong advocate for sustainable and ethical food practices, she promotes a “field-to-fork” approach, connecting consumers with the stories, provenance and people behind the food they enjoy.
Alison Johnston
Sales & Marketing Director
Good Food Ireland®
Alison is Sales & Marketing Director at Good Food Ireland®, where she leads the promotion of the brand and its mission across the island’s food, drink, tourism and hospitality sectors. Through marketing campaigns, awards programs and events, she showcases the work of artisan producers and hospitality businesses, connecting them with national and international audiences. Alison champions locally sourced, high-quality food and drink, strengthening the Good Food Ireland profile and supporting the sustainable growth of Ireland’s culinary and hospitality industry.
Alex Nahke
Executive Chef
The Europe Hotel & Resort
Alex has been an integral part of the Killarney Hotels Collection for over 23 years, with experience in leading Irish hotels including Ashford Castle, Adare Manor and The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens, as well as renowned international establishments. As Executive Head Chef at The Europe Hotel & Resort and Good Food Ireland® Supreme Award Winner, he is passionate about sourcing the finest local ingredients, including produce from the hotel’s farm and suppliers within a 20-mile radius. He combines classic techniques with modern cuisine, aiming to deliver refined, warm and memorable dining experiences.
Stephen Holland
Executive Chef
Dunluce Lodge
At Dunluce Lodge, food is central to the guest experience. Executive Head Chef Stephen Holland leads a team delivering refined cuisine that showcases Northern Ireland’s natural larder. At The Restaurant, menus are driven by seasonality, sustainability, and strong relationships with local producers. A Tyrone native, Holland’s passion began in childhood, inspired by family. His international career includes working with Rick Stein and cooking for Queen Elizabeth II, before returning home to champion outstanding local ingredients.
Thomas Murray
Agronomist
O'Shea Farms
Thomas is an agronomist with O’Shea Farms, one of Ireland’s leading fresh produce growers. Specialising in crop management and sustainable farming practices, he works closely with growers to optimise soil health, improve yields and ensure high-quality produce. Tom plays a key role in implementing innovative, environmentally responsible techniques across the farm. His expertise supports O’Shea Farms’ commitment to supplying premium Irish produce while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability, efficiency, and long-term agricultural resilience.
Ed Cooney
Executive Chef
The Merrion Hotel
Ed is the Executive Chef at The Merrion Hotel in Dublin, one of Ireland’s leading five-star luxury hotels and multiple Good Food Ireland® Award Winner. With extensive experience in top kitchens, he is known for his refined approach to modern Irish cuisine, combining classical techniques with the finest seasonal ingredients. Cooney leads the hotel’s culinary team across its acclaimed dining venues. His cooking reflects a strong focus on quality, precision and creativity, delivering elegant and memorable dining experiences for guests.
Conal Stewart
Food and Drink Development Officer
Taste Ards and North Down
Conal is the Food and Drink Development Officer at Ards and North Down Borough Council, where he plays a key role in supporting and promoting the region’s vibrant food and drink sector. He works closely with local producers, businesses and stakeholders to develop initiatives that showcase the area’s rich culinary offering. Conal is passionate about strengthening the local food network, enhancing visitor experiences, and positioning Ards and North Down as a leading destination for food tourism.
Sponsors
20th Anniversary Partners
Exclusive Session Sponsor
Bord Bia Sponsored Session: "From Farm to Table: Building a Resilient Food System"
"Bord Bia is delighted to be an exclusive sponsor to this "Farm to Table Session". It underscores Bord Bia's commitment to promoting sustainable food systems and supporting the growth of Ireland's agri-food sector. Through initiatives like Origin Green, Bord Bia collaborates with farmers, food producers and businesses to drive continuous sustainability improvements, contributing to Ireland's reputation as a leader in sustainable food production."
Visit Bord Bia Page
Host Sponsor
Anantara The Marker Hotel Dublin
A luxurious urban retreat that seamlessly blends contemporary
elegance with exceptional service. The hotel’s renowned restaurant, Forbes
Street by Gareth Mullins, is a culinary gem committed to showcasing the best of
local Irish produce. With a focus on sustainability and seasonality, the
restaurant crafts innovative dishes using the finest ingredients from Irish
farmers and food producers. Awarded the Good Food Ireland 2024 Hotel Restaurantof the Year, Forbes Street celebrates Ireland’s rich culinary heritage whileoffering a memorable dining experience that champions both local flavours and sustainable practices.
Visit Anantara The Marker Hotel Dublin Page
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