Promoting Ireland Abroad.

Despite what some may think, in many countries there is a high value placed on a President, Prime minister or Minister from Ireland visiting that country. In addition to the courtesy of making such visits, we get prime media exposure in these countries. Such visits are great networking opportunities.

So, when you wondering why or why not, please ask yourself if there is a better day than St Patricks day to promote everything that is Irish. Think about the tremendous work done by Bord Bia in promoting the quality of Irish products. Think about what Enterprise Ireland is doing to grow Irish companies in that vast market place called the world.

The world is our oyster, our prime beef buyers, lovers of all things Irish ,, our business opportunities and by no means least - by putting Ireland in the media spotlight � it is a great opportunity to encourage visitors to our great Isle.


Whilst Dublin puts on the most extravagant St Patricks Day Parade and attracts major tourism and 100s of towns around the country do their bit e.g. Mullingar is putting their parade live on the internet ( www.mullingarparade.ie) there are 1000's of parades taking place all over the world and this is an opportunity not only to celebrate everything good about Ireland but using our National Day to literally parade out everything good about Ireland


Where will our ministers be working hard to promote Ireland Inc this St Patricks Day.....

Eight ministers and the Taoiseach will be visiting eight countries, compared to 24 countries visited by 22 Government representatives in previous years.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny said that the programme would be restricted to destinations that are 'top priorities for Irish trade, business and jobs' and would be shorter and more focused than in previous years.

The Taoiseach is to meet President Barack Obama in Washington.<
T�naiste Eamon Gilmore will be going to New York
Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney will be going to Paris
Education Minister Ruairi Quinn will be travelling to Rome and Milan.
Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald is travelling to Australia and Christchurch in New Zealand
Arts Minister Jimmy Deenihan and Social Protection Minister Joan Burton will both go to London.
Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton will be travelling to Germany

Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, will go to India.