Burke promotes Irish business during US investment mission
Mullingar Minister meets leading business figures on five-day visit to Texas and Southern California
Westmeath Minister Peter Burke has returned from a five-day business mission to Texas and Southern California, where he promoted Ireland as a destination for international investment and helped Irish companies strengthen their links with the US market.
The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment joined a delegation led by IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland, which brought together Government representatives and business leaders to develop existing relationships with investors and identify new commercial opportunities.
During the visit, Minister Burke met prominent business figures, including technology entrepreneur Michael Dell, as well as Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
Enterprise Ireland also led a delegation of 30 Irish client companies, showcasing the expertise and innovation of Irish businesses across a range of high-growth sectors.
These included artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity, digital transformation and advanced manufacturing, with discussions highlighting opportunities for Irish firms to expand their international reach.
Speaking after the mission, Minister Burke described the visit as “hugely positive and productive”, emphasising the importance of the United States as one of Ireland’s key economic partners.
He said Irish companies were making a significant contribution to the American economy through job creation and investment in local communities.
At the same time, he highlighted Ireland’s continued appeal to US companies seeking a base from which to access European markets, pointing to the country’s skilled workforce, strong research base and supportive business environment.
The Minister said Texas and Southern California offered significant opportunities for Irish businesses, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence infrastructure, semiconductors, healthcare and engineering.
“These are sectors in which Irish companies have real expertise and in which we can continue to build our international reputation,” he said.
The visit also provided an opportunity for Minister Burke to meet a fellow Mullingar native, data scientist Aoife McDonagh, who has established a successful career in Austin, Texas.
The mission forms part of wider efforts to strengthen economic ties between Ireland and the United States, supporting Irish exporters while maintaining Ireland’s attractiveness to international investors.
For Irish companies seeking to grow overseas, the delegation provided opportunities to build relationships, explore new markets and demonstrate the capabilities of Ireland’s enterprise sector.
Minister Burke said engagement with business and political leaders across the United States remained important in developing commercial partnerships and creating further opportunities for Irish businesses internationally.