Ravi Khalon, British Columbia’s Minister for Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation met GI and iCRAG in Dublin on 28th May. Among the topics covered were  opportunities for collaboration in  applied research on climate adaption , including  green Hydrogen, offshore wind  and geothermal energy. The importance of critical raw materials needed for renewable energy and electrification was noted, as were building standards, skill shortages and training needs.

iCRAG has developed strong links with Canadian companies and Universities ( e.g.  Teck and Simon Fraser University). GI member Mincon plc has well established businesses in Canada for drilling products. GI co-sponsors an Apprenticeship in drilling in South East Technical University and hopes to establish links with Canadian providers in this area.

Minister Khalon had earlier met with Ireland’s Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research and Innovation Simon Harris TD who is expected to visit Canada later this year.

Photo shows l to r; Murray Hitzman (iCRAG), Deputy Minister Bobbi Plecas, Minister Ravi Khlaon MLA, Sean Finlay (GI), Aoife Brady and Jennifer Craig (iCRAG)