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Taoiseach addresses inaugural US Ireland legal symposium

Taoiseach Enda Kenny spoke today at the inaugural US/Ireland legal symposium, held in Knockranny Hotel, Mayo.

The Taoiseach applauded the efforts made by the participants to strengthen the bond between the US and Ireland...

I applaud your joint initiative and foresight. Events such as this strengthen the links that bind our two countries together and are a testament to the goodwill and enthusiasm that exists between the U.S. and Ireland. This event, however, is about more than strengthening long established ties of kit and kin – it is a practical expression of focussed engagement on legal and commercial issues that can enhance trade, foster development and be mutually beneficial to our countries.

The Taoiseach then spoke about political reform...

As I have said this is day 64 of this Government. By day 100 I expect this Government to have made significant progress on the issue of political reform. We have to make the structures of the State more accountable, more efficient and better able to chart Ireland’s course to lasting economic recovery.

I intend to make progress on:

Publishing the terms of reference for the constitutional convention to examine wide ranging electoral and constitutional reform;

Finalising legislation on corporate donations, introducing a six month rule for bye elections and reducing Presidential election spending limits;

Establishing a Fiscal Council to introduce additional scrutiny on the budget process, and;

Beginning the process of reforming the way Dáil Éireann works so that it can better serve the national interests of the citizens of Ireland

Mr. Kenny then went on to speak of economic recovery and the role US business plays in the Irish economy. The Taoiseach also highlighted the role Irish business plays in the US economy…

U

.S companies when making a location decision take into account a multitude of factors. They look for a location with talent and technology backed up by a strong track record and a competitive tax environment. Ireland has proven to be such a location. New and already established multinationals continue to invest and expand their operations making Ireland the destination of choice for mobile investment projects from the world’s best companies - Nearly 90,000 people are employed by the 491 U.S. companies in Ireland.

For Ireland, as a gateway to Europe, our 12.5% rate of corporation tax is, and will remain, a cornerstone of our economic policy. It’s an integral part of what attracts and keeps investment in Ireland. It cannot be changed without our consent and it to put it simply – is not up for negotiation.

Incidentally, it is worth noting that Ireland is the 10th largest supplier to the United States and an employer of a similar number - nearly 82,000 - of people across the USA.

The Taoiseach also spoke of Ireland as a destination for arbitration…

As a trade dependent country, we fully understand the importance of arbitration to the international trading community. We also understand that arbitration business is extremely mobile and, against that background, we see no reason why Ireland should not develop as an arbitration centre of note on the international stage.

In support of that aim, we now have a modern and rigorous arbitration code which is fully in tune with best international practice. We also provide a single legislative reference point for all arbitrations thereby offering a significant measure of transparency for those who wish to have their dispute arbitrated in this jurisdiction.

The Taoiseach concluded by saying…

With our hard work and creativity, and the continued support of our international friends, Ireland will get there.

The full speech can be read here.