Mayo-Ohio relationship could deliver new business, education and tourism opportunities
Fine Gael TD Keira Keogh has welcomed a delegation of almost thirty mayors and city managers from northeast Ohio to Leinster House during their recent trade mission to Ireland, describing the visit as an important step in strengthening economic, educational, cultural and community links between Mayo and Ohio.
Deputy Keogh facilitated discussions on future collaboration between Ireland and northeast Ohio. The visit builds on her own trip to Columbus, Ohio, in March, where she met political, business and community leaders and addressed the Ohio-Ireland Trade Commission.
Speaking following the visit, Deputy Keogh said: “When I travelled to Ohio in March, what struck me was not only the strength of the Irish connection there, but also the scale of the opportunities for collaboration between our communities. There are deep historical and cultural ties between Mayo and Ohio, and we can build on them in practical ways that benefit businesses, educational institutions, tourism operators and young people on both sides of the Atlantic.
“I was particularly pleased to welcome mayors and city managers from across northeast Ohio to Leinster House. These leaders are shaping economic development, investment and community growth in their regions, and it was valuable to exchange ideas and discuss opportunities for future partnership."
In Ohio, Deputy Keogh met Mark Owens, Honorary Consul of Ireland to Ohio, Chair of the Ohio-Ireland Trade Commission and Vice President of Marketing and Communications with Team NEO, northeast Ohio's regional economic development organisation. Mr. Owens returned to Mayo during the summer, where Deputy Keogh facilitated meetings with local business and community leaders to explore potential collaboration.
Deputy Keogh said: “Mark has been a tremendous advocate for strengthening the relationship between Ireland and Ohio, and we have remained in close contact since my visit to Columbus. I was delighted to welcome him to Mayo as we discussed how to translate these connections into practical opportunities in business, education, tourism and sport.
“These relationships must not end when a delegation gets on a plane. The direct Dublin-Cleveland air service has made Ohio more accessible than ever, and around 12% of Ohio residents claim Irish heritage, which is a strong foundation for lasting partnerships. For Mayo, I see real potential in business links and inward investment, but also in educational exchanges, internships and opportunities for students and young people.”
Deputy Keogh also highlighted the value of learning from international best practice. “One of the most valuable aspects of my visit in March was seeing first-hand how Ohio is addressing challenges relevant here at home, whether that is supporting young people, improving literacy, strengthening communities or promoting economic development. International relationships should be about more than trade. They should be about collaboration, innovation and building lasting partnerships that benefit both sides.”
Deputy Keogh added: “Mayo has outstanding businesses, a strong education sector, a world-class tourism offering and a proud history of international engagement, along with longstanding connections such as the 23-year-old Achill-Cleveland twinning relationship. I am determined to ensure that Mayo is part of this opportunity. By building relationships, opening doors and creating new opportunities, we can deliver real benefits for communities in both Mayo and Ohio.
"I look forward to continuing to work with Mark Owens, and our partners in northeast Ohio, to see where this relationship can grow in the years ahead.”