Ireland’s Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Enda Kenny is visiting the United States this weekend to promote investment in Ireland and The Gathering 2013 initiative.

He travels to  Philadelphia and Cleveland over the weekend to “drive economic recovery and employment, by delivering the message to international business people and investors, and to the Diaspora, that Ireland is open for business” according to a government statement.

Kenny arrived in Philadelphia on Friday where he addressed the Brehon Law Society Symposium on “Doing Business in the US and Ireland”. Addressing those gathered he apologized for not bring “one of Ireland’s most loved sons – one Sam Maguire”.

He added “unfortunately the Donegal GAA team had other ideas in Croke Park recently.” referring to his native county Mayo's defeat in the All Ireland football final.

The Taoiseach spoke about the challenged Irleand faces in recovering from the economic collapse. He spoke of the progress the Fine Gael / Labour Party coalition government had made since taking power, noting the improvement in tourism, agri-foods and exports.

He said “We are trading our way to recovery, the only sustainable way in the long run.”

Kenny spoke about the intense bond between Ireland and the United States, one that is more like family than friendship commenting on the business, love of sport, dancing and singing that connect the countries.

While visiting Philadelphia Kenny also launched the US headquarters of Zenith Technologies, an Enterprise Ireland-supported company.

At the launch he said “I am delighted to officially open Zenith Technologies US Headquarters.Zenith is a leading Irish high-technology company that is achieving strong growth in the US market. Zenith’s success in this highly competitive market is a clear demonstration of how an ambitious company, with an innovative, specialist offering, can compete at the highest levels internationally.

“It is companies like Zenith that will drive the export growth that will underpin Ireland’s economic prosperity and support valuable Irish jobs. I congratulate Zenith on their operation here in Pennsylvania that will allow them to grow their business in the US market and indeed worldwide.”

On Saturday Kenny will travel to Cleveland, Ohio, to continue his drive of investment and job creation. He will address at the City Club of Cleveland where he will again spell out the attractions of Ireland for business and investment.

The Taoiseach will also participate in a range of meetings with Enterprise Ireland client companies expanding into the US, including a number at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic involving Irish companies in the healthcare and technology sectors.

The Taoiseach will also meet with representatives of the Irish communities in both cities and will use his visit to promote The Gathering 2013 in the region.

Source: MerrionStreet.ie.