Irish Food Board Launches in US

Ireland's Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Brendan Smith officially opened the offices of the Irish Food Board in New York on Thursday, November 13 at an Irish food and drinks trade reception at the Irish Consulate.

Smith, who was visiting the U.S. on a trade mission with state agency Enterprise Ireland, said, "The Irish Food Board's presence in the North American market is vital for Irish food and drink companies when forging relationships with the U.S. food and drink trade.

Smith explained that the Irish Food Board, known as Bord Bia in Ireland, is present in the U.S. to "encourage and assist Irish companies to do business in the county" and that its presence will "ensure that the opportunities" are maximized.

In an interview with the Irish Voice on Thursday, Smith said his weeklong trip to the U.S. that included visits with many well-established Irish food companies was very productive. Although there is a recession facing both Ireland and the U.S., Smith said the feedback he received was all positive.

"The Irish companies in the United States are talking about further expansion, not contraction. These companies are very upbeat. They realize the particular challenges that face everyone today but they are talking about more research and development and investment in the next generation of products. These companies are not standing still," he said.

Smith met with U.S. food businesses which have companies already in Ireland, and with companies that expressed interest in setting up shop on Irish soil. "These companies like our pro business environment, the low taxation levels and the very highly qualified pool of skillful people we have available for employment," he said.

Although President-elect Barack Obama has promised when he takes office to keep American companies inside the U.S. by business incentives and tax breaks, Smith said he is confident that any such move won't affect the business relationship between Ireland and the U.S.

"American companies that invest in our country benefit from a base in Ireland which is a gateway to Europe. Our corporation tax is low and we also have the advantages of a highly skilled and flexible English speaking workforce and have a good labor relations environment in our country."

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Nster.com