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Minister Fleming addresses US National Conference of State Legislators

Minister for International Development and Diaspora, Seán Fleming, TD, this week delivered the opening address to the National Conference of State Legislators in Indianapolis, United States of America.

Speaking at the conference to 2,000 state legislators from across the United States, Minister Fleming said:

“I am honoured to be the first Irish Government Minister to speak at this summit. There is a deep and long-standing friendship which binds our two countries and our two peoples.

"State legislators have a vital role in promoting trade. The Irish Government has been delighted to welcome delegations of legislators from a number of States in recent years. Ireland has also long provided US companies with a competitive and business-friendly base for their operations.”

As part of the conference, Minister Fleming attended the AGM of the American Irish State Legislators Caucus. This is a bi-partisan group of current and former state public representatives who are friends of Ireland. The Caucus is represented in all 50 States of the United States.

Minister Fleming also met with the Governor of the State of Indiana, Eric Holcomb, during the visit. The Minister and the Governor discussed the strong two-way trading relationship and possibilities of further engagement on trade with Ireland.

Minister Fleming issued a welcome to those present who are travelling to Dublin for the College Football Classic game featuring Notre Dame (from Indiana) and Navy on 26 August in the Aviva Stadium.

“The Irish Government is working with the game organisers to ensure that those travelling will get the warmest of welcomes,” he said. “The large number of US legislators travelling to Ireland will also provide an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the US and Ireland that is so mutually beneficial.” 

Minister Fleming’s visit to Indianapolis took place on 13 and 14 August. He also met with representatives of the Indiana Irish community, including the local GAA and Ancient Order of Hibernian organisations.

ENDS