ABC Council Welcomes Joe Kennedy III And James Applegate

Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council has welcomed Mr. Joe Kennedy III, US Special Investment Envoy and James Applegate, US Consul General Belfast to The Palace in Armagh.

During the visit, which took place yesterday, 31 January highlighted the Borough’s growth potential, strength in innovation and creativity in advanced manufacturing to Mr. Joe Kennedy III and James Applegate.

The delegation were welcomed by the Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Margaret Tinsley, Roger Wilson, Chief Executive, ABC Council, elected members and civic leaders. The hosts delivered a comprehensive presentation that offered valuable insights and future prospects of the borough.

Following official proceedings, the delegation viewed paintings and artwork from internationally renowned JB Vallely and Palace Artist in Residence, showcasing the distinct cultural elements of life in the borough.

Local artisan food and drink producers from the borough’s renowned Food Heartland brand was also sampled.

They also had the opportunity to network with local businesses, representatives from the borough's urban centres, heritage organisations and young people from local schools and higher education.

Mr. Joe Kennedy III, US Special Investment Envoy to Northern Ireland said:

"I would like to express my gratitude for an amazing morning, the reception has been nothing but extraordinary. The warmth of everyone, the incredible local food producers and of course the Home of St Patrick.

"What you all have built in Armagh is something to be incredible proud of and I’m grateful to get a chance to meet you all and hear more about what makes Armagh unique. You take pride in your home, what your investing in, your rich heritage and I will help share your story with those in America and beyond."

The visit continued with an engagement event hosted by The Deluxe Group in Portadown, and the opportunity to meet business leaders from Thompson Aero Seating, Hyster-Yale, and Ulster Carpets.

Alderman Margaret Tinsley, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, said:

"It was a privilege to host Joe Kennedy III, US Special Investment Envoy and James Applegate US Consul General. Their borough-wide visit provided a unique opportunity to showcase our thriving entrepreneurial community, featuring dynamic and innovative local businesses. It also highlighted our borough’s cultural and historic importance and the wide array of international partnerships that exist. This event served as a platform to attract support and future investment from a prestigious international audience."

The visit concluded at the Game of Thrones Studio Tour the filming location of Linen Mill Studio in Banbridge, where the delegation had lunch with political representatives and took a tour of the only Game of Thrones Studio.