The Association of Irish Regions (AIR) Annual Training Seminar 2026, held on 25–26 February at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, brought together regional leaders, policymakers and experts under the theme “Regions Looking Forward to the Coming Decade.” The two‑day conference explored how Ireland’s regions can strengthen governance, enhance infrastructure, and leverage European opportunities to support balanced regional development.

This year marks the fourth consecutive year of IPB Insurance’s sponsorship, reflecting our continued commitment to supporting local and regional governance and fostering collaboration across the local authority sector. The event has grown significantly in scale and influence, providing an important platform for shared learning among Regional Assembly Members, key drivers of joined‑up thinking for economic, social, and infrastructural development nationwide.

A special highlight of this year’s seminar was the presentation of the newly commissioned Chain of Office for the Chair of the Association of Irish Regions, proudly sponsored by IPB to mark our centenary year. The Chain was formally presented by IPB Board Chair John Hogan to Councillor Niall O’Callaghan, Chair of AIR, at a sponsor’s dinner on the evening before the conference. The event was also attended by Graham Orr, Director of Member and Client Relations, and Tom Keane, Head of Stakeholder Engagement & CSE, reflecting strong organisational support for the Association and its mission.

The conference programme featured robust discussion across five core sessions, including regional governance structures, the National Development Plan, future EU and cohesion policy, and preparations for the review of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies (RSES). Contributions from national and international speakers including representatives from the OECD, the Irish Regions Office in Brussels, EirGrid, IDA Ireland, and regional assemblies provided deep insight into policy shifts, infrastructure priorities, and strategic planning for the decade ahead.

Delegates also enjoyed an engaging keynote address from Jim McGuinness, Manager of the Donegal senior football team, who spoke at the conference dinner on Wednesday evening.

Speaking at the event, John Hogan emphasised the importance of regional collaboration: “While councillors do prioritise their focus on their local areas within their council areas, they also understand the importance of looking at the bigger picture and the role of collaboration across local authority areas to promote and foster regional balance. The Association provides a platform for councillors to work together to develop plans and access resources such as securing European funding for infrastructural development and social and economic cohesion.”

IPB is proud to continue supporting this important forum and to play a role in strengthening regional cooperation for the benefit of communities across Ireland.