Southwest Allegheny News

HARRISBURG – Legislation to establish an Ireland Trade Commission in Pennsylvania has successfully passed the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee today. The bill, sponsored by Sens. Devlin Robinson (R-37), Marty Flynn (D-22), and Tim Kearney (D-26), aims to strengthen educational, economic, governmental, and personal links between Pennsylvania and Ireland.

Senate Bill 1121 proposes the creation of the Ireland Trade Commission to honor the shared heritage and positive relationship between Pennsylvania and Ireland. With approximately 16% of Pennsylvanians of Irish descent, this initiative is seen as a significant step toward fostering mutual trade investment and collaboration.

"I am thrilled that the Senate’s Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee has approved legislation to establish an Ireland Trade Commission in Pennsylvania," said Robinson. "This commission will enhance the strong ties between Pennsylvania and Ireland, creating significant opportunities for educational, economic, and cultural exchanges. Ireland is a crucial launchpad for U.S. expansion into the European market."

"As a proud member of the Irish American Caucus, I am excited that the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee has approved Senate Bill 1121," said Kearney. "This legislation will significantly boost trade and ties between Pennsylvania and Ireland...help promote growth for our businesses and jobs while enhancing our cultural bonds with the ancestral homeland of so many Pennsylvanians."

"The Senate’s approval of the Ireland Trade Commission legislation marks a significant milestone," said Flynn. "This initiative will deepen our economic ties with Ireland...ultimately benefiting both Pennsylvania and Ireland through enhanced trade and cultural exchange."

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

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