Northern Ireland Bureau celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with political and business leaders on Capitol Hill

Washington, DC- The Northern Ireland Bureau hosted its annual St. Patrick’s event today with politicians and business leaders from Northern Ireland and the United States. Today’s reception showcased the best that Northern Ireland has to offer in the areas of economic development, post conflict reconstruction, science and technology and tourism.

This year’s theme, “Rediscover Northern Ireland,” has particular resonance given both the economic and political strides that have been made in recent years. This is a year for Americans to challenge any preconceived notions they may have about Northern Ireland, and find a region filled with a highly skilled workforce, innovative enterprises and first class tourist attractions.

This event, however, was about more than just what to expect when one visits Northern Ireland, it is also about what Northern Ireland has to offer to the United States, and indeed, the world. In remarks to the guests assembled in the Cannon Caucus Room, Tim Losty, Director of the Northern Ireland Bureau said, “This is an opportunity for Northern Ireland to recognize the tremendous contribution that the United States has made in building the success story that our region has become. Now it is time that we give something back.”

With issues such as the war in Iraq, global warming and economic stability dominating the national conscience, Northern Ireland seized this moment to demonstrate its ability to provide solutions to the world’s greatest challenges. With respect to creating stability in Iraq, Northern Ireland highlighted its work with the Iraqi government on police reform and building cross-community organizations. On global warming, speakers cited projects being perfected for solar panel tubes that are effective even with the less than plentiful sunshine of Northern Ireland. Finally, presenters proudly described the trend of Northern Irish companies investing and creating jobs in the United States.

Today’s event also served as the formal launch of the Rediscover Northern Ireland program, a four-month promotional program taking place at multiple sites throughout Washington, D.C. designed to raise U.S. awareness of Northern Ireland’s thriving economy, revitalized cities, and unique culture. More than 40 cultural and trade events are scheduled to take place between March and July 2007, culminating with Northern Ireland’s participation in the Smithsonian Institution’s Folklife Festival this summer. This morning’s presentation was emceed by Northern Ireland Bureau Director, Tim Losty, and was joined at the podium by keynote speaker, British Ambassador Sir David Manning; Ulster Bank Chairman Alan Gillespie; and Andor Technology Managing Director Hugh Cormican.

The Northern Ireland Bureau is the representative arm of the Northern Ireland Administration in Washington, DC. Its remit includes developing a positive profile of Northern Ireland among US policy-makers and opinion-formers by ensuring that the policies of the Northern Ireland Administration and its associated institution are known and understood; monitoring policy developments in the US, ensuring that Northern Ireland Ministers and Departments have up-to-date information, and are aware of opportunities for co-operation; and pursuing areas of collaboration and partnership identified by the above exchanges, and encourage their development in ways that maximize the mutual benefits.