Key deals show Ireland means business in Mid-East – Martin

A number of key deals reached during the top level trade mission to the Middle East shows that Ireland means business in the Gulf region, according to Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin, TD.

"During the mission we have seen 25 significant agreements reached which will pave the way for major trade between Ireland and the entire region over the coming years."

"In Dubai we have seen Cork Firm Audit Diagnostics opening a sales office, and concluding a €5 million deal with customers in Iran. Outsourcing firm Abtran is in the closing stages of a deal to provide a base in the region which will serve number of clients, including European Governments."

"Architecture firm McNally Design has opened its office in the Emirate during the mission to serve the €30 million in contracts it has secured. While another Dublin based software firm CR2 has also concluded important deals with Dublin Banks."

"The mission has shown that there are opportunities for a wide range of Irish firms and organisations in the Middle East. The teaming up of Dublin Fire Brigade, the Royal College of Surgeons and Valentia Technologies to pioneer a high tech ambulance service in Dubai shows the opportunities that exist."

"While the opening of the first 100% Irish owned office in Saudi by telecoms firm Vilicom is a key landmark, which I hope will pave the way for other Irish firms."

"During the trip the Taoiseach and I met the Governments of both Saudi Arabia and the UAE at the highest level. They are keen to do business with Ireland and want us to play an important role in the development of their countries."

"Following from this mission, one of the largest to leave Ireland, I will be encouraging other firms to examine the possibility of doing business in the region", concluded Minister Martin.

ENDS/ETE 1690

18 Jan 2007