Reframing Governance in 2026 and Beyond (Half-Day Conference) Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
28 January 2026
09:30–13:00
Clayton Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
Our flagship opening event for the 2026 programme is a half-day conference, which will explore the context for governance in the year ahead and beyond and invites members to reflect on the focus of governance and its role in enhancing public value.
The event, with the benefit of expert panels, will discuss key big picture themes which will shape and form the backdrop to governance, including the economic and budgetary outlook alongside societal development and well-being. It will consider the priorities for the Irish presidency in the second half of 2026 as well as EU reforms, opportunities and challenges, and the growing attention to matters of security and defence.
In line with the Forum theme for 2026, Reframing Governance – Enhancing Public Value, the event will invite members to reflect on the role and focus of governance as an enabler in delivering and enhancing public service delivery and value.
The event will be an important opportunity for members to meet and network in-person with peers and to examine common opportunities and navigate challenges.
Audience participation will be central to the event. We will use Slido throughout to capture your views, questions and reflections, and participants will also be invited to contribute via a short pre-event survey.
The conference event programme includes:
Opening Remarks
- Helen Brophy, Director General, Institute of Public Administration
Panel 1 - Economy, Society and Well-Being
Our first panel will consider the economic and fiscal outlook for Ireland in 2026 and beyond, and what this means for the public service and achieving wider societal priorities. Dr. Bergin will deliver a short presentation, followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A.
- Dr. Adele Bergin, Associate Professor, Economic and Social Research Institute
- Dan O'Brien, Chief Economist, Institute of International and European Affairs
- Dr. Larry O'Connell, Director, National Economic and Social Council
Panel 2 - Europe, Global and Security
This panel will consider Ireland’s unique place in Europe, and globally, in an era of increasing uncertainty and volatility. In light of Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union from July to December 2026, we’ll discuss priorities and opportunities for Ireland. The panel will also consider issues of EU reform, defence and security.
- Mark Hanniffy, Director, EU Presidency Policy, Department of Foreign Affairs
- Dr. Margaret Malone, Lecturer in European Studies, Institute of Public Administration
- Declan Power, Security and Defence Analyst
Closing
The event close-out with some reflections based on audience and member feedback on governance priorities for 2026 and beyond, with a view to reframing governance and enhancing public value. These will be weaved through the Forum event programme for the year.
- Dr. Tom Ward, Senior Governance Specialist, Institute of Public Administration