Palmetto State News

Governor Henry McMaster, alongside Lieutenant Governor Pamela S. Evette and Ireland's Consul General Frank Groome, participated in a ceremonial signing of the South Carolina-Ireland Trade Commission Act (S. 621) in Columbia, South Carolina. The newly formed 15-member commission aims to enhance trade and investment ties between South Carolina and Ireland.

"The creation of the South Carolina-Ireland Trade Commission opens new opportunities to strengthen South Carolina's economy by building lasting relationships with a global partner," stated Governor McMaster. He emphasized that the commission will attract investment and create jobs for the state.

The commission is tasked with initiating joint actions on policy issues, promoting business exchanges, encouraging infrastructure investments, and addressing other matters as determined by its members.

Ireland's Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Sean Flemming noted the potential benefits from leveraging diaspora links: "A significant number of South Carolinians claim Irish ancestry. There is tremendous potential to build on our diaspora links to create investment and educational opportunities that benefit both Ireland and South Carolina."

The commission comprises seven members appointed by the Governor, four by the Speaker of the House, and four by the President of the Senate.

Consul General Frank Groome remarked on existing strong relations: “Ireland-South Carolina relations are very strong and the establishment of this commission is going to make them even stronger.”

Irish companies currently employ over 5,900 individuals in South Carolina. Since 2010, these companies have announced more than 1,433 new jobs and $239 million in capital investments within the state.

Senator Reichenbach expressed optimism about future prospects: “The establishment of this commission is an opportunity for more trade, foreign direct investment, and commerce opportunities with a fantastic, hospitable, growing, ambitious nation like Ireland.”