Speech #1000084223

The centerthe first phase of its development is projected at more than $350 million. and it will eventually include over two million square feet of floor spacewill make Ireland a major center for international financial services. and will physically incorporate a magnificent technical capacity to provide the telecommunications services that are essential to the functioning and growth of international trading activity. The Dublin Center will also give a much needed stimulus to the Irish economy. where. despite a serious and sustained national effort at economic development. the unemployment rate is still tragically high. at 19 percent. The center will facilitate the export of goods made in Ireland. and ease the grinding economic pressure that has. over the past several decades. forced thousands of the Nations most talented men and women to emigrate to other countries. including our own. In light of the long and close relationship between the United States and Ireland. in light of the enormous contributions that IrishAmericans have made to the life of our country. and in light of our history of providing economic development assistance to nations that are striving to help themselves. the Dublin World Trade Center gives the United States a perfect opportunity to share its own capability for fostering economic development by assisting the Irish Government in the development of the project. Congress in particular should be looking for ways to support the center.