HARRISBURG, PA – June 11, 2024 – Legislation to establish an Ireland Trade Commission in Pennsylvania has successfully passed the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee today, according to co-chairs of the American Irish State Legislators Caucus and sponsors of the bill, Sens. Devlin Robinson (R-37), Marty Flynn (D-22) and Tim Kearney (D-26).

Senate Bill 1121 would create the Ireland Trade Commission to focus on strengthening educational, economic, governmental and personal links between Pennsylvania and Ireland. With approximately 16% of Pennsylvanians of Irish descent, the commission aims to honor the shared heritage and positive relationship.

“I am thrilled that the Senate’s Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee has approved legislation to establish an Ireland Trade Commission in Pennsylvania,” said Robinson. “This commission will enhance the strong ties between Pennsylvania and Ireland, creating significant opportunities for educational, economic and cultural exchanges. Ireland is a crucial launchpad for U.S. expansion into the European market, and this initiative will foster mutual trade investment and collaboration, benefiting both regions immensely.”

“As a proud member of the Irish American Caucus, I am excited that the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee has approved Senate Bill 1121,” said Kearney. “This legislation will significantly boost trade and ties between Pennsylvania and Ireland, the only English-speaking country in the European Union, and help promote growth for our businesses and jobs while enhancing our cultural bonds with the ancestral homeland of so many Pennsylvanians.”

“The Senate’s approval of the Ireland Trade Commission legislation marks a significant milestone,” said Flynn. “This initiative will deepen our economic ties with Ireland, offering a stronger partnership that reflects our shared heritage. The commission will serve as a bridge for increased collaboration and investment, ultimately benefiting both Pennsylvania and Ireland through enhanced trade and cultural exchange.”

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

###