By David Rankin
Held in the city centre on July 1, the event was a celebration of Canadian culture, with attendees enjoying Canadian street food. Guests included Ken Brundle, Honorary Canadian Consul for Northern Ireland, Pete Wilson and Derbhile Kennedy, directors, CGI; Kyla Dittmar, Oui Poutine; Adam Keefe, head coach of the Belfast Giants, Belfast councillor Michael Long and other members of Northern Ireland鈥檚 Canadian community, which now numbers over 12,000. Chris Shorthouse, vice president, client engagement for Northern Ireland at CGI said: 鈥淎s a company with deep Canadian roots and a strong local presence, we were delighted to support this community celebration. CGI is committed to being an active and positive presence in Northern Ireland, and events like this reflect the value of cultural connection, civic pride, and strong local partnerships.鈥 CGI, founded in Montr茅al in 1976, has long believed in strengthening ties with the communities it serves. With established operations in Northern Ireland, the company delivers technology and business consulting services across both the public and private sectors. Ken Brundle, Honorary Canadian Consul for Northern Ireland, said: 鈥淭he Canada Day celebration was an opportunity to reflect on enduring links between Canada and Northern Ireland. It was great to come together to share and enjoy Canadian food and culture in Belfast and we are grateful for the support of organisations like CGI that help make these community celebrations possible.鈥 The event highlighted the growing visibility of the Canadian community in Northern Ireland and its contribution to local life and culture.