Corkmeet 2010 reaches out to the world

Minister Martin said the organisers deserve to be congratulated for expanding the international aspect of the biggest business networking event in Munster.

“My Department is always anxious to support companies from Cork, Munster and throughout Ireland which are securing jobs at home by targeting international markets. Whether it is China, Africa or the United States I have seen at first-hand how Irish firms are turning export opportunities into jobs.”

“In Cork we have companies which offer highly specialised goods and services and it is important, as we meet the current economic challenges, that they are given every possible support to identify and operate in new markets.”

“Earlier this year The Department of Foreign Affairs together with Cork Chamber organised a very successful event in City Hall, which was attended by my senior officials as well as Ambassadors from a large number of embassies. The aim of the evening was to strengthen Cork’s business links across the Globe.”

“The inclusion of embassies at Corkmeet at Little Island in October is an opportunity to build on the contacts that have already been made – and to allow other firms to establish links.”

“I will be using the event to underline to business people the supports available from the Department of Foreign Affairs and our network of embassies. Our officials have a unique inside knowledge in many countries, they have valuable contacts and networks which firms can and should tap in to.”

“I have seen during a recent visit to Africa the opportunities for Irish firms and have asked my Department to draw up a new strategy for the continent as a result. The forthcoming World Cup and Olympics in Brazil offer a unique opportunity for Cork firms to secure major contracts, as they have done for London 2012.”

“I was honoured to have been asked to take part in the first ever Corkmeet last year and look forward to the 2010 event, I would encourage all firms in the region to avail of this important networking opportunity if at all possible”, concluded Minister Martin.