Costello to address UK Labour Party Irish Society

6 March 2012

by Cllr Joe Costello

Minister of State for Trade and Development, Joe Costello T.D., will address the Labour Party Irish Society (LPIS) at a St. Patrick's Day reception tomorrow evening in the House of Commons.

Ed Miliband, leader of the British Labour Party will also attend the event, along with Labour MPs and peers, members of the Irish community and representatives from the business, community and voluntary sectors.

"I am delighted to be invited to this event, not only in my capacity as a fellow Labour Party member, but also in my capacity as Minister for Trade and Development. Ireland exports 85% of its produce and Britain remains Ireland's biggest trading partner. This event represents a fantastic opportunity to meet with a variety of representatives, and reiterate the Government's message that Ireland is open for business.

"However we value our nearest neighbour not merely just in economical terms. There is scarcely a home in Ireland which does not have a relative living in the UK. Last year's visit by the Queen to Ireland, coupled with President Michael D Higgins imminent official visit to the UK represents historical firsts, and the building of a deeper friendship between our two nations. St. Patrick's Day offers a great opportunity to reach out to not just our Irish communities, but to all communities living in the UK."