A wealth of opportunities lie ahead for the business, tourism, education and culture sectors in Limerick following the creation of links between Limerick and one of the most innovative and entrepreneurial cities of the United States.
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by the Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr James Collins and Mayor of Austin Steve Adler, at a special ceremony in Austin, Texas.
The signing is part of a high-level delegation from Limerick to Austin, Texas led by the Mayor and includes the University of Limerick, Limerick Institute of Technology, Limerick Enterprise Development Partnership, Limerick Chamber, the Shannon Group, Bank of Ireland and the GAA, as well as the Chief Executive and officials from the Economic Development Directorate of Limerick City and County Council.
Austin is one of the high-tech powerhouses of the United States and is the home of some of the world's most recognisable corporations - Dell, WP Engine and Trusource - companies, which have also made Limerick their home. The city and region is also a creative hotbed for industry and the arts.
It is hoped that the signing of the Memorandum will establish long term, collaborative relationships in the areas of business, technology, manufacturing, professional services, education, the creative industries, culture, as well as any other area of interest and benefit to both communities.
The formal bilateral trade and investment relationship envisioned by the MoU will result in the creation of new employment opportunities, expansion of foreign direct investment, an increase in the hugely sought after STEM (Science, Technology Engineering and Maths) capabilities of workers and the enhancement of collaboration between third level institutions in Limerick and Austin.
Speaking at the signing ceremony Mayor of the City and County of Limerick Cllr James Collins said: “I’m delighted to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the citizens and businesses of Limerick. The agreement will allow partnerships to be formed to allow industry, education and cultural interests on both sides to capitalise and learn from each other.”
“Austin is one of the innovative high-tech powerhouses in the United States and it is important that Limerick links up with industry leaders to see how we can develop and become world class leaders in our own right. It shows that Limerick has a vision to be the best and by linking up with Austin we are setting our sights at the top. This link between Austin and Limerick will allow entrepreneurs and businesses to work closely for the benefit of both cities and regions.”
Adrian Farrell, Consul General of Ireland in Austin said: “The Consulate of Ireland in Austin has worked closely with both cities to develop this exciting new agreement which will strengthen relations and deliver benefits in trade and enterprise, innovation, education and culture for citizens and businesses in Limerick and Austin.”