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ERNACT's 35TH Anniversary Event
ERNACT celebrated 35 years of European cooperation, digital innovation and positive impact across the North West and beyond.
Held at the Mount Errigal Hotel, the anniversary event reflected on ERNACT's journey from a pioneering cross-border initiative established in 1991 to a network connecting regions, organisations and communities across Europe. It also explored how these partnerships can continue to support regional development and innovation in the years ahead.
ERNACT Communications Manager Leona McGee served as MC for the event, which opened with a welcome from Cllr Fionán Bradley, Vice Chair of the ERNACT Board, and Cllr Grace Uí Niallais, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council. A recorded address from Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister of State at the Department of Arts, Media, Communications, Culture and Sport, also formed part of the celebrations.
John McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, and John Kelpie, Chief Executive of Derry City and Strabane District Council, addressed the gathering on behalf of ERNACT's founding councils. ERNACT General Manager Dr Caitriona Strain reflected on the organisation's 35-year journey, paying tribute to the people whose vision, commitment and collaboration helped shape ERNACT's development.
The event also marked the launch of ERNACT's anniversary film, ERNACT: The Story So Far, and its 35th anniversary booklet. Together, they capture the organisation's history through the people, projects and partnerships that have defined its work. Both will be made available to the public later this month.
The panel discussion, A European Perspective on ERNACT's Work, explored the value of European cooperation, ERNACT's impact and future opportunities. Moderated by ERNACT Programme Manager José Manuel San Emeterio, the panel featured Ulf Hedestig (Umeå University), Toni Ryynänen (University of Helsinki), Christopher Parker (Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme) and Travis O'Doherty (Northern and Western Regional Assembly).
Closing remarks were delivered by Cllr Martin Reilly, Chairperson of ERNACT, before guests continued discussions and renewed connections at a networking reception.
With attendees travelling from across Europe to join local partners, stakeholders and friends, the celebration highlighted the lasting relationships built through ERNACT's work over the past three and a half decades. It also provided an opportunity to recognise and thank the many organisations and individuals whose contribution has helped shape the netw\ork's success.
As ERNACT looks to the future, its focus remains on helping regions harness digital innovation, build international partnerships and secure European opportunities that benefit communities, public services and regional development.
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ERNACT Staff 2026