Introduction
A chairde, is mór an onóir dom beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig a ghuí ar gach duine agaibh anseo inniú.
I’m delighted to be here with you on Park Avenue within the sound of the bells of St Patrick’s Cathedral.
It’s the eve of the parade and the atmosphere is already electric.
As I walked up here I thought as I do on every visit of the Irishmen and Irishwomen who came here in previous generations.
For every one who was successful there was another who faded away into eternal exile and anonymity.
And today as we meet in our annual celebration of Ireland and the Irish it is important that we honour both experiences both histories.
And indeed that we honour the space between which is where most of our emigrants reared their families started their businesses built their communities and through that bought and claimed their share of the America dream.
Today that dream is alive and well in all of you here in your families your businesses your ambition
You have taken care to share that dream in the magnificent work you do to promote business links and opportunities between Ireland and America.
Go raibh maith agaibh. Thank you not just for your work but for the generosity of heart and spirit that guides it.
For example last year was an excellent year for US investment in Ireland.
Similarly exports to the US by Irish-owned companies went up by an impressive 16 per cent.
This investment this growth illustrate a deepening of the already-strong business relationship across the Atlantic.
It’s clear that what works for Irish business works for American business.
Irish Economy
They say that in life we build reserves.
Not just of economic resources but of kikindness and affection.
It is certainly true in the case of Ireland and America.
Your support has been invaluable in our drive for economic recovery. I’m pleased to say we have made really significant progress since this time last year.
Our economy is entering its third consecutive year of growth.
Competitiveness is up. Prices and costs have fallen back to 2003 levels.
We are continuing our phased and successful return to the bond markets.
International confidence in Ireland has been restored.
During second-half 2012 the numbers at work in the economy rose over a six month period for the first time since 2008.
Right now, we hold the Presidency of the European Union leading the drive for competitiveness and job creation across our country and our Union.
The Gathering
Finally as many of you will be aware, 2013 is also the year of The Gathering.
A year of celebration in which we are inviting the world to come ‘home to Ireland and experience everything that is unique about Ireland.
Wherever you live, if you have an interest in or an affection for Ireland, whether you are Irish-born, Irish-American or Irish in spirit, this is the year to visit us.
We can guarantee that there will be a warm welcome awaiting you when you arrive.
Thank you very much.
Go raibh mile maith agaibh .
Happy St Patrick’s Day!
See you in Ireland!