The inaugural Summit of the Cities conference took place in June 2026, bringing together civic leaders from all 12 cities across the island of Ireland for the first time. We are delighted to announce that our landmark event will be back in 2027 with a new location.

2026 Keynote Speakers

Bill de Blasio
Former Mayor of New York City

Bill de Blasio served as Mayor of New York City from 2014 to 2021, introducing universal free pre-school education, expanding paid sick leave and delivering a major affordable housing programme. At Summit of the Cities, he reflected on his time in office and the initiatives he implemented, exploring what cities can achieve when mayors have the powers, resources and authority to turn ambitious ideas into meaningful improvements in people’s lives.

Baroness Sue Gray
Former Chief of Staff to Kier Starmer

With decades of experience at the heart of government, Sue Gray brought a unique perspective on public service and decision-making. At Summit of the Cities, she drew on her career in Westminster and Stormont to discuss how effective government can support cities and deliver meaningful change for their communities.

David Skaith
Mayor of York & North Yorkshire

Leading a region spanning urban, rural and coastal communities, David Skaith brought practical insight into the opportunities offered by devolution. At Summit of the Cities, he discussed how greater local powers can help attract investment, respond to communities’ needs and give local leaders more influence over the future of their areas.

2026 Panellists

Discussing the importance of cross regional trade, we welcomed:

Colin McCabrey, Director of Trade, InterTradeIreland

Linzi Rooney, Founder, Born n Bred

Caroline Diamond, Founder, Diamond Consulting

Trade & Investment

For this star-studded panel, we welcomed:

Caroline Campbell, Director, National Gallery of Ireland

Mark O’Brien, Co-director, Abbey Theatre

Colin Davison, world-renowned portrait artist

Ariel Palitz, first & former Nighttime Mayor of New York

Art & Culture

Identifying opportunities for collaboration, we welcomed:

John Walsh, Chief Executive, Belfast City Council

Richard Shakespeare, Chief Executive, Dublin City Council

Bill de Blasio, former Mayor of New York

Marie Ward, Chief Executive, Newry, Mourne & Down Council

Policy & Governance