It is a reminder of an extraordinary resource that can be accessed in times of hardship as well as plenty.
The event is also timely because delegates, those using scheduled airlines at any rate, were still able to fly into Ireland without too much difficulty.
But the decision by Delta airlines to pull out of its Shannon to New York service, the fact that Aer Lingus is considering an identical move – even as it moves to trim other winter services across the Atlantic – is an equally timely reminder of the importance of reliable, year-round air services from as many parts of the U.S. to as many parts of the island of Ireland as possible.
Simply put, investing in Ireland is a far more attractive proposition when you don’t have to think twice about how you are going to get there.