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We’re delighted that John Mc Donagh, Waterways Ireland’s Chief Executive, is joining us at conference as a panellist.

Waterways Ireland is a North South Implementation Body accountable to the North South Ministerial Council under the 1998 Belfast/Good Friday Agreement.

John oversees the management, maintenance, development and promotion of over 1,100 km of inland navigable waterways comprising Grand Canal, Royal Canal, Barrow, Shannon, Shannon-Erne, Erne, Lower Bann and Ulster Canal – and 750 km of greenways.

With 375 staff, Waterways Ireland creates economic, social and environmental well-being value of €809 million annually.

John also made a significant contribution to the CCBC’s S2@25 project.

He joined Waterways Ireland after roles in Liberty Insurance and Shell Ireland. An English and History graduate from University College Dublin (UCD), John holds a master’s degree in Finance from National College of Ireland. He represented UCD Soccer Club in its first year in League of Ireland and is a Manchester United fan!

Conference tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/centre-for-cross-border-cooperations-conference-2026-tickets-1991543405938

John McDonagh, WI CEO