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Provincial government increases support to Ireland Business Partnerships Premier Danny Williams and
Innovation, Trade and Rural Development Minister Kathy Dunderdale announced
actions to further strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador�s relationship
with Ireland through increased support to the Ireland Business Partnerships
(IBP).
The Government of Newfoundland
and Labrador will increase funding to the Ireland Business Partnerships to
$300,000 annually, an increase of $200,000.
"By re-signing the
Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Ireland in July, we
confirmed our commitment to strengthening our relationship with the Irish.
The increased funding for the Ireland Business Partnerships demonstrates
that we are serious about partnering with Ireland and encouraging greater
activity on projects that support the objectives of the MOU," said
Premier Williams.
The Premier said government will
also enhance the relationship between the IBP and the provincial government.
The provincial government will provide administrative support and office
space at the Confederation Building for the IBP. The new arrangement will
more closely mirror the one between the Ireland Newfoundland Partnership
(Ireland�s counterpart to the IBP) and the Irish government.
"The new arrangement
strengthens government�s involvement in and commitment to the IBP
initiative," said Minister Dunderdale. "There are many
opportunities in Ireland for Newfoundland and Labrador companies and
organizations, and this government wants to take a more active role with the
IBP in increasing linkages between our two jurisdictions."
"Today�s announcement is
one indication of the support and collaboration the Ireland Business
Partnerships has experienced with this government over the past year,"
said Dr. Marilyn Thompson, chair of the Ireland Business Partnerships.
"We look forward to a strong partnership with the Premier and the
Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. The additional
administrative and financial support will allow us to continue creating
linkages with our counterpart organization in Ireland by creating
opportunities for our local businesses and cultural industries."
The mandate of the IBP is to
assist provincial companies and organizations that are interested in
developing economic and cultural opportunities with Ireland by identifying
common interests and complementary skills; increasing cooperation and
awareness among business and cultural agencies; and exchanging up-to-date
information on the economy, legislation and regulations. The IBP also
identifies joint venture and technology transfer opportunities and
cooperative exchanges; promotes environmental industry initiatives; and
develops linkages between the public and private sectors in both
Newfoundland and Labrador and Ireland.
Media contact: 2004 11 01 2:25 p.m. |
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