Significant partnerships formed as Trade Mission moves to Johannesburg

Statement by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment - 15 January 2008

Following the signing of a number of significant deals and the forming of new partnerships in Cape Town, Ireland's largest ever Trade Mission to South Africa this morning moves on to Johannesburg, according to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheal Martin, TD.

The Minister said the Cape Town leg of the visit had been very successful.

"We have seen more than 50 companies participate in Cape Town. Monaghan based Harte Peat concluded a major distribution deal which will see its produce being used by 35% of the South African mushroom market in 18 months."

"In addition I was honored to meet the Mayors of Townships in the Cape region who are anxious to conclude a deal which would see Irish manufactured water and sewage schemes installed in their areas. Butlers Manufacturing are hoping to begin work soon in two of the townships."

"Other partnerships will see Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Enterprise Board forming a close relationship with the Small Enterprise Development Agency in Cape Town, so as both can learn from their experiences."

"There is a strong social link between Ireland and Cape Town, with many Irish people traveling to work voluntarily in local communities here. I was delighted to meet representatives of Irish project, Blastbeat, which has introduced music to many talented young South Africans and to be briefed on its work."

"With the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern I was also privileged to visit a school twinning project which links South African schools with Irish young people and to see how the Irish Womens Hockey Team is actively working to promote sport among women in South Africa."

The Minister said that while much has been achieved he is hopeful that there will be significant deals agreed between Ireland and South Africa in the next two days.

"As we visit Johannesburg and Pretoria the Government and Enterprise Ireland will be working to support the efforts of Irish firms to form partnerships in the areas of Information Technology, Power Supply and Mobile Technology."

"In addition I will be supporting a trade promotion by the Irish Dairy Board. Since 1995 when Kerrygold butter was first introduced into South Africa Ireland has become a major supplier of food. I look forward to supporting the efforts to further promote Irish produce at a shopping centre in Johannesburg."

The Minister concluded by congratulating Enterprise Ireland and the more than 50 companies involved for the success of the mission so far.

ENDS/ETE1835

For Further Information Contact:

Jerry O’Connor, Media Advisor, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment – 01 631 2200