Kilkenny hosts major European gathering on intellectual property rights

Kilkenny welcomed a major European gathering on intellectual property rights last week as The Marble City hosted the European Union Intellectual Property Office’s (EUIPO) annual meeting.

The conference was jointly hosted by the EUIPO and the Intellectual Property Office of Ireland (IPOI), which is based in Government Buildings, Kilkenny.

Delegates from 27 countries across the European Union gathered to discuss the EUIPO’s strategic plan to 2030 and the future direction of the European Union Intellectual Property Network (EUIPN). 

The meeting was officially opened by the Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Emer Higgins.

The Minister outlined the importance of Intellectual Property (IP) for business and the economy during her visit.

"I recognise the important role that a progressive intellectual property ecosystem plays in encouraging innovation and creativity and in fostering the EU’s ability to compete in the global economy," she said.

"We must ensure that the EU IP ecosystem continues to evolve so that European investors, creators, and businesses are assured of an effective and efficient IP protection system that will be an incentive to invest in research and development, leading to the creation of high-quality innovative goods and services. 

"Therefore, the role and contributions of the EUIPO and the EU Intellectual Property Network in further developing these ecosystems is vital."

The Executive Director of the EUIPO, João Negrão, commented that it was a pleasure to host the European Union Intellectual Property Network (EUIPN) annual meeting in Kilkenny.

"During the two days, we discussed the future of IP at EU level, and how best to continue our cooperation going forward in the context of the next strategic plan 2025-2030 of the EUIPO," he said.

Over the two days the conference included visits by delegates to some of Kilkenny’s best known landmarks, including Kilkenny Castle, Smithwicks Brewery, Butler House and the National Design and Craft Gallery - culminating with a very special musical event in St Canice’s Cathedral. 

IPOI has been based in Kilkenny for over 25 years with 47 staff working in the Hebron Road offices. 

The Office is responsible for administrating and registering intellectual property rights, such as patents, trade marks, industrial designs and copyright. 

The Office also represents Ireland at international meetings which ensures Irelands position on intellectual property is represented at EU level.