Seán Kenny
Question:135. Deputy Seán Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to have a trade mission to Canada; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19929/13]
View answerTuesday, 30 April 2013
Questions (135)
Written answers
Canada has been identified as a priority market under the Government’s strategy for promoting trade, tourism and investment Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy. Our merchandise exports to Canada increased by 11% in 2012 to over €780 million and early indications are that this positive trend has continued into 2013, with merchandise exports up by 12% in the first 2 months of this year. The Export Trade Council, which I chair, recognises the critical importance of Ministerial led trade missions in developing and creating new trade, tourism and investment opportunities for Ireland. Ultimately, the contracts won and contacts made during trade missions lead to job creation and long-term economic benefits for Ireland. As the Deputy will be aware, I visited Canada over the St. Patrick’s Day period last year. During this visit, I held meetings with political and business leaders and took part in a range of trade and investment promotion events organised in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland and the IDA.
My Colleague, Minister of State Costello will lead an Enterprise Ireland trade mission to Canada from 11 to 13 June this year. This trade mission will provide the opportunity to develop the excellent bilateral relations that exist between our two countries and support Irish companies to win business in the market. The programme for the visit is currently being developed by Enterprise Ireland in close consultation with my Department’s Trade and Promotion Division and our Embassy in Ottawa.