Edinburgh Business School collaborates with Irish Consulate to celebrate Ireland's rich history
Earlier this week, Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh Business School and Panmure House partnered with the Irish Consulate to foster a vibrant discussion on the evolution of Irish industry and policy.
Trinity Business School's Professor Frank Barry spoke about the major themes, principles, and lessons from history derived from his recent book, Industry and Policy in Independent Ireland, 1922 and 1970. Professor Graeme Roy, a professor in Economics at University of Glasgow's Adam Smith Business School and Dean of External Engagement/Deputy Head of College for Glasgow's Social Sciences, also led Professor Barry through an engaging fireside chat with the audience.
The event, which highlighted the strong historical and economic ties between Ireland and Scotland, began with an introduction by Professor Eoin McLaughlin, a professor of economics at Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh Business School and one of Panmure House's inaugural Fellows. He set the tone by noting the rich intellectual history of Panmure House, Adam Smith’s final home, where key Enlightenment thinkers once debated pivotal issues—issues still relevant today.
Next, Professor Barry, who is a member of the Royal Irish Academy in addition to holding professor (emeritus) status at Trinity Business School, presented his recent work, which explores the development of Ireland’s foreign direct investment (FDI) boom and industrial policy. He began by sharing the intensive process behind the development and publication of his book.
"It took me 20 years to write this text because I wanted to produce lists of the largest manufacturing employers during this time," explained Professor Barry. "Each item has to be carefully hand-crafted and all data taken into account."
He also emphasised the critical importance of globalisation in Ireland’s modern economy. "The modern Irish economy is determined to be one of the most globalised economies in the world. We wouldn't be attracting multinationals without access to the European market," noted Professor Barry.
Following his presentation, Professor Barry sat down with Professor Roy for an enlightened discussion around modern implications of his historical review. Audience members engaged with the speakers on topics ranging from treasury orthodoxy and currency to foreign direct investment, and Professor Roy provided opportunities to connect and compare Ireland’s experiences with Scotland’s.
"Through your work, you aim to understand the Ireland of today through historical perspectives," remarked Professor Roy during his introduction of their discussion.
“Data are just an embodiment of history,” replied Professor Barry, underscoring the depth of research required to trace the impact of industrial policies over time.
The event concluded with a speech from Irish Consul General Jerry O'Donovan, who expressed his gratitude to both Professors Barry and Roy for sharing their expertise. He also thanked Panmure House and Professor McLaughlin for facilitating this meaningful cultural and intellectual exchange. The significance of hosting a discussion on modern economics in the last remaining residence of Adam Smith, the 'Father of Economics,' was a point of reflection for O'Donovan.
"There is a historic resonance in this room," remarked O'Donovan, as he addressed the audience while standing next to a portrait of Adam Smith in the historic lecture room. "I could think of no better place to hold this discussion," he said.
Edinburgh Business School and the Panmure House team were proud to host this insightful discussion and to welcome Professor Barry, Professor Roy, the Irish Consul General, and our esteemed guests for this event. With a commitment to translating knowledge into practice, both entities look forward to continuing to provide a platform for economic and historical conversations that resonate across borders.