Keynote Arena
The conversations shaping public procurement in Ireland
At the heart of Procurex Ireland 2026, the Keynote Arena sets the stage for insight, inspiration, and strategic discussion.
This flagship feature brings together Ireland’s leading public procurement experts, policymakers, and industry figures to explore the key developments shaping the future of procurement across both the Republic and Northern Ireland.
Opening with addresses from the Health Service Executive and Business Services Organisation, followed by a ministerial keynote from Frank Feighan TD, Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, the morning program provides direct insight into government strategy and health sector transformation.
Two major panel discussions will examine critical themes at the forefront of Ireland’s infrastructure ambitions. The first explores procurement’s essential role in delivering the updated National Development Plan – the largest capital investment plan in the State’s history – with €275.4 billion committed to 2035.
As Ireland scales up water, energy, and transport systems to unlock 300,000 new homes and drive sustainable growth, procurement leaders from Irish Rail, NI Water, Coillte, and major infrastructure projects including Metrolink will share practical insights on delivering transformational projects that connect communities and support economic competitiveness.
The second panel examines the shared benefits of digital transformation in achieving value for money and efficiency across the public sector.
With the Office of Government Procurement’s newly published Roadmap for Digital Development (2025-2031) setting the vision for user-focused digital solutions across the entire procurement journey, this discussion brings together senior leaders from An Garda Síochána, Dublin City Council, and the Irish Prison Service, to explore how digital tools can reduce administrative burden, improve data-driven decision-making, and create a more intuitive experience for buyers and suppliers alike. The panel will also feature strategic perspectives on SME competitiveness from Ibec and cross-border collaboration from Intertrade.
With the €20 billion public procurement landscape playing a pivotal role in realising Ireland’s infrastructure vision, the Keynote Arena delivers expert advice and strategic insight on the latest government priorities, policy reforms, and market trends – from sustainability and social value to digital transformation and cross-border collaboration – helping buyers and suppliers alike deliver better outcomes for government, industry, and communities across Ireland.
