Event 2 - Dialogue and Direction: Reflections from the Official Reception for the Dargan Forum 2025
Frank Curran (CEO, DLR CoCo), Deputy Head of Mission Ms Saara Heinola (Embassy of Finland) and Cathaoirleach Jim Gildea (DLR CoCo)
The Dargan Forum's third event concluded with an insightful and inspiring official reception, marked by warm addresses and a shared vision for collaboration across local government, European partners, and the wider community. The evening brought together dignitaries and guests at the heart of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, reaffirming the region's commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and international cooperation.
Cathaoirleach Jim Gildea: Honouring Legacy and Leading Locally
Cathaoirleach Jim Gildea opened the reception by reflecting on the Dargan Forum’s namesake, William Dargan—celebrating his legacy as a forward-thinking Irish engineer who brought vision and enterprise to public life. Cathaoirleach Gildea highlighted the relevance of Dargan's values in today's context, particularly as the county faces the challenges and opportunities of the green and digital transitions.
“The Dargan Forum reminds us that local government has a responsibility not just to manage change, but to shape it. That begins with dialogue.”
His remarks focused on the importance of forums like this in fostering critical conversations and cross-sector partnerships, emphasizing Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s commitment to being a proactive actor in Ireland’s transformation.
Ms. Saara Heinola: A Finnish Perspective on Collaboration and Resilience
Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Finland, Ms. Saara Heinola, brought a European dimension to the evening. She spoke about the longstanding cooperation between Finland and Ireland, and how shared democratic values and policy innovation are key to navigating the future.
She drew attention to Finland’s experience in education reform, sustainable infrastructure, and digital development—encouraging mutual learning and further collaboration.
“Ireland and Finland may be geographically distant, but we are close in values. Events like the Dargan Forum allow us to learn from each other and build trust through practical cooperation.”
Heinola’s address reinforced the role of local initiatives in achieving wider European goals, particularly in areas like climate action and future workforce planning.
Frank Curran: Driving the Transition at Local Level
Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, concluded the reception by highlighting the council’s dual focus on innovation and inclusion. He emphasized the importance of anchoring national and EU-level strategies within local implementation.
Curran pointed to specific initiatives already underway across the county, from Smart DLR to climate resilience planning, and praised the Dargan Forum as a valuable space for convening cross-disciplinary expertise.
“Local government is where the green and digital transitions become real. We are proud to host this dialogue and to work with our communities and international partners to make it count.”
The reception was a fitting close to a day of dynamic exchange, reminding all attendees that meaningful progress starts with open conversation—and that local voices are essential to shaping Ireland’s future.
