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U.S. Department of State
Ireland Country Commercial Guide for FY 95-96
Office of the Coordinator for Business Affairs 


                  Country Commercial Guide for FY 95-96
                          Ireland


                             TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER I.     EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CHAPTER II.    ECONOMIC TRENDS & OUTLOOK
CHAPTER III.   POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT
CHAPTER IV.    MARKETING U.S. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
CHAPTER V.     LEADING SECTORS FOR U.S. EXPORTS AND INVESTMENT
CHAPTER VI.    TRADE REGULATIONS & STANDARDS
CHAPTER VII.   INVESTMENT CLIMATE
CHAPTER VIII.  TRADE & PROJECT FINANCING
CHAPTER IX.    BUSINESS TRAVEL
CHAPTER X.     APPENDICES
     A. COUNTRY DATA
     B. DOMESTIC ECONOMY
     C. TRADE
     D. INVESTMENT STATISTICS
     E. U.S. & COUNTRY CONTACTS
     F. MARKET RESEARCH
     G. TRADE EVENT SCHEDULE


This Country Commercial Guide (CCG) presents a comprehensive look at 
Ireland's commercial environment through economic, political and market 
analyses.  

The CCGs were established by recommendation of the Trade Promotion 
Coordinating Committee (TPCC), a multi-agency task force, to consolidate 
various reporting documents prepared for the U.S. business community.  
Country Commercial Guides are prepared annually at U.S. Embassies 
through the combined efforts of several U.S. government agencies.  

AmEmbassy Dublin means Business!



                     CHAPTER I:  EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The United States and Ireland enjoy long-standing political, economic 
and commercial relations and a close cultural affinity.  The commercial 
environment in Ireland is thus highly conducive for U.S. companies 
interested in trade; investment and a myriad of joint ventures/strategic 
alliances. 

While the domestic Irish market is small, U.S. firms have been looking 
beyond Ireland as a gateway to the larger European market.  Many U.S. 
firms already utilize Ireland and its package of fiscal incentives and 
other advantages to access and develop market share in the lucrative 
Western and emerging Central and Eastern European marketplaces.

U.S. firms should explore the possibility of locating an Irish 
agent/distributor who possesses knowledge of EC regulations and European 
distribution networks in order to introduce their products and services.  
U.S. firms interested in developing an international marketing strategy 
which involves direct investment, agent/distributor relationships, 
licensing, franchising, or other joint venture/strategic alliance 
initiatives, should evaluate the suitability of establishing a base of 
operations in Ireland.

All U.S. firms interested in exporting to, and/or establishing 
operations in, Ireland are urged to contact the Commercial Service at 
the U.S. Embassy in Dublin for counseling and advice on doing business 
in Ireland.

The Irish economy is now growing strongly.  The past three years have 
witnessed real economic growth of 3-5 percent per annum.  In 1994, the 
Irish economy achieved real GDP growth of about 5.8 percent and the 
outlook for 1995 and future years is very positive with growth rates of 
5%-6% forecast.  

The FY'96 Country Commercial Guide (CCG) for Ireland highlights the 
market opportunities for U.S. firms in 15 non-agricultural goods and 
services sectors, and 3 agricultural products sectors.  In addition, 
major investment opportunities within Ireland, together with overviews 
of strategic sectors within the Presidential Economic Initiative for 
Ireland, are identified. 

The CCG is an invaluable guide for motivated U.S. firms seeking to 
achieve business objectives throughout the island of Ireland.  It 
contains overviews of the economic and political environments, together 
with important information on marketing U.S. products and services; 
guidance on trade regulations and standards; an assessment of the 
investment climate; an overview of trade and project financing, and 
invaluable information on business travel.  In summary, it is a key 
document for any U.S. business executive whose company is considering 
"Doing Business in Ireland."

Note:      Country Commercial Guides are available on the National Trade 
Data Bank on CD-ROM or through the Internet.  Please contact STAT-USA at 
1-800-STAT-USA for more information.  To locate Country Commercial 
Guides via the Internet, please use the following world wide web 
address: WWW.STAT-USA.gov.  CCGs can also be ordered in hard copy or on 
diskette from the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) at 1-
800-553-NTIS.



                     CHAPTER II

ECONOMIC TRENDS AND OUTLOOK

Major Trends and Outlook

Ireland posted real GDP growth of almost 5.8 percent and real GNP growth 
of 5.75 percent in 1994.  Because of the abolition of customs procedures 
within the EU at the start of 1993 there has been a disruption to the 
compilation and publication of trade data.  Thus, in the absence of 
comprehensive data on trade, one must rely on recent estimates.  Because 
of the country's size, economic indicators are aggregated at national 
level.  Only employment and unemployment data are available at the 
regional and local level.  Thus, there is a distinct lack of economic 
and commercial data specifically constructed for the six Border Counties 
of Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Louth, Monaghan, and Sligo.  However, 
because of the ongoing momentum of the Presidential Economic Initiative 
for Ireland which now focuses on those six counties as well as Northern 
Ireland, certain county officials and other institutions are endeavoring 
to fill this research gap.

Overall, merchandise export volume growth has been quite strong, 
increasing over 10 percent from 1993 to 1994, with the prospects for 
continued growth good.  High technology exports were particularly 
strong, representing the anticipated recovery of demand in continental 
European markets.  Merchandise import growth was strong as well at over 
9 percent, reflecting the growth in domestic demand  Ireland's positive 
trade balance has grown to IP5.45 billion, representing 17.75 percent of 
the GNP in 1994.  The current account surplus rose to £2.15 billion, 
about 7.0 percent of the GNP.  

Consumer confidence and spending strengthened significantly in 1994, 
reflecting the favorable general economic climate.  An improving 
international outlook, increasing employment, and low interest rates 
helped to increase consumer spending by over 5 percent.  The volume of 
fixed investment appears to have grown strongly last year at around 7.0 
percent.  A marked increase in building and construction investment of 
7.0 percent helped drive the growth.  Inflation was historically low 
averaging 2.4 percent during 1994.

The Economic Outlook for 1995

The Irish economy is expected to continue to grow in 1995.  GDP seems 
likely to expand by over 6 percent which would compare favorably with 
projected growth of around 3 percent for Ireland's main trading 
partners.  The rate of expansion of real GNP will probably also be over 
5 percent.  Export volume growth is likely to remain strong in 1995 at a 
projected 9.25 percent.  The agricultural sector is expected to generate 
growth of 0.75 percent, with most categories showing broadly stable or 
increased output.  High-technology exports are likely to continue to 
grow, much like 1994, reflecting buoyant domestic and international 
demand and continual substantial inward investment in that sector.  
Import volume growth is likely to be about 9 percent in response to 
faster growth in domestic demand as well as investment in machinery and 
increased new car sales.

Overall, a healthy trade surplus of around £6.0 billion, 17.75 percent 
of GNP, is expected in 1995.  The international transfers balance, which 
fell slightly last year due to delays in the receipt of EU Structural 
Funds, is projected to rise in 1995. A current account balance in the 
region of IP 2.5 billion, 7.5 percent of GNP, is projected for 1995 as a 
result.  Consumer prices are forecast to rise by about 2.5 percent in 
1995.

Principal Growth Sectors

(A) Manufacturing

Gross output in manufacturing industry increased by 12.85 percent in 
1994 compared to the previous year.  Electrical engineering, 
pharmaceuticals, foods, and office and data processing machinery sectors 
led the rapid growth.  Although high-technology, foreign-owned 
multinational corporations were the source of around half of this 
expansion, indigenous sectors experienced broadly-based expansion as 
well.  The strong performance of indigenous sectors during 1994 
contrasts with the previous few years where these sectors were largely 
static.  Manufacturing output is expected to grow by over 10 percent in 
1995, reflecting an improvement in international demand, especially in 
the U.K. market.  Manufacturing output growth is expected to continue 
its broadly based expansion.

(B) Services

Building and construction sector output is estimated to have grown by 
approximately 7 percent in 1994 with the prospects for 1995 being an 
increase of 8.5 percent.  In the services sector, private market 
services output is expected to rise in 1995 due to the strength of 
domestic demand.  The public sector output is expected to grow in 
conjunction with 2 percent rise in the numbers employed.  As in recent 
years, the growth of economic activity should result in a substantial 
acceleration in the growth of the services sector.  An increase in total 
service output of about 4 percent is projected, with almost all types of 
services sharing in the growth.

(C) Agriculture

Preliminary estimates indicate that the volume of gross agricultural 
output fell by 1.25 percent in 1994.  This reflects lower cattle, sheep, 
and cereals output partly offset by increased pig, milk, and root crop 
production.  Weather conditions were partly responsible for a 5.75 
increase in the inputs of materials and services.  Stable output prices 
and a small increase in input prices led to a slight deterioration in 
the agricultural terms of trade.  Allowing for, among other things, 
higher subsidies, nominal agricultural incomes are estimated to have 
increased by about 6.5 percent (4 percent in real terms) in 1994.  The 
outlook for 1995 projects broadly stable or increased output with a 
growth rate of 0.75 percent.  Lower feed use should lead to a decline in 
input usage.  Due to an expected rise in output prices of 0.5 percent, 
the agricultural terms of trade should improve slightly.  As a result of 
the ongoing process of CAP reform, net subsidies will continue to aid 
income growth.  Benefiting from the contribution, nominal agricultural 
income is projected to grow at 4.75 percent(2.25 percent in real terms) 
in 1995.

Government Role in the Economy

(A) National Economic Program

In recent years, most collective bargaining in Ireland has taken place 
in the context of a national economic program.  A new co-operative 
program, the Program for Competitiveness and Work (PCW) was effected by 
representatives of government, unions, employers and farmers in February 
1994 and was a major element of the Government's success in fostering 
economic growth.  The PCW is Ireland's third centralized pay agreement 
in recent years and replaces the Program for Economic and Social 
Progress (PESP) which expired in 1993.  These programs are credited with 
providing a favorable economic climate for the strong growth in Irish 
GNP since 1987.  The declared aim of the new program, which provides for 
pay raises amounting to eight percent over three years to employees in 
the public and private sectors, is to help create a substantial number 
of new jobs.  The Government also expects the plan to help increase 
employment by 60,000 over the next three years, and to create 100,000 
jobs for the unemployed in community work schemes.  Of critical 
importance to unions and employers are the moderate pay elements of the 
PCW and the promise of industrial peace.


(B) Industrial Policy Strategy

In 1993 the Government announced plans for a new industrial policy 
strategy, based primarily on the recommendations of a policy review 
group.  The government released a report entitled "Employment through 
Enterprise" and outlined its new strategy.  The key aims of the plan are 
to strengthen Ireland's indigenous industrial sector and spur the 
creation of jobs by injecting more competition into a sector dominated 
by state-owned enterprises.  A new emphasis would be placed on the 
development of indigenous industry; inward investment would be promoted 
in a more cost-effective and specialized manner; and, EU funds and 
advisory services would be sought for development of the industrial 
sector.  Key aspects of the announced strategy cover many areas, 
including taxation, energy, ports, communications, transportation, 
infrastructure and the environment, commercial state enterprises, 
education and training, competition policy, foreign trade and 
representation, the food industry, and industrial development and 
promotion agencies.


(C) National Development Plan

The Irish Government submitted its National Development Plan to the EU 
Commission in October 1993.  From 1993-1999 investment from all sources 
-- public, private and EU funding -- would total IP 20 billion, with the 
EU contributing IP 8 billion from its structural and cohesion funds.  
The projected level of EU funding for the period, was subsequently 
revised downward to IP 7.2 billion ($10.1 billion) by the European 
Commission.  In June 1994, it was confirmed that EU funding will now 
amount to IP 6.2 billion (USDOLS 8.7 billion) for the period 1994-1999 
as IP one billion had already been allocated for 1993.  The aim of the 
plan is to convert the investment and the ensuing growth which emanates 
from it, into jobs within industry, services, natural resources, tourism 
and construction.  The plan hopes to bring IP 1 billion a year for the 
next six years into the Irish economy, with the potential to create 
90,000 new jobs.


(D) Balance of Payments Situation

The current account surplus is expected to rise from IP 2,150 million or 
7 percent of the GNP in 1994 to IP 2,500 million or 7.5 percent of the 
GNP in 1995.  Higher profit repatriation by the multinational sector as 
well as an increase in government debt service payments will contribute 
to an increase in factor income outflows.  However, increased 
international transfers, along with the higher merchandise trade 
balance, should more than compensate for the decrease in the services 
and factor income balances, thereby leading to the increased current 
account surplus.  The Exchequer Borrowing Requirement in the 1995 Budget 
is expected to rise to 2.4 percent of the GNP, but remains well within 
the Maastricht criteria of 3 percent of GDP and is consistent with a 
continuing fall of government debt to GDP.


Infrastructure Situation

Ireland has close connections to international markets.  No part of the 
country is more than 70 miles from a harbor or airport from which 
frequent shipping and air services connect with the U.K., Continental 
Europe, and other international destinations.  An extensive road and 
rail network  provides internal transportation, supplemented by domestic 
air services between Dublin and Ireland's three other international 
airports (Shannon, Cork, and Knock) and its six regional airports

Ireland has 58,000 miles of paved roads, of which 9,875 are classified 
as main roads.  While the country has more paved roads on a per capita 
basis than any other country in the EU, it lacks an efficient network of 
highways, especially multilane highways to the major ports.  Road 
transportation is the preferred means of travel and goods distribution, 
with 96 percent of all inland passenger transport and over 90 percent of 
inland freight transport conveyed by road.  The balance is carried by 
rail.  The 1,330 mile rail system provides passenger and freight 
services to most cities and main towns, including those in Northern 
Ireland.  It primarily links Dublin with the other major urban centers.  
The national network of buses is far more extensive than the rail 
system.

Dublin, Cork, and Limerick are the three principal ports, with Dublin 
being the principal one.  There are numerous smaller harbors around the 
coastline.  Ferry and freight services connect Ireland to the U.K. and 
Continental Europe.


Major Infrastructure Projects Underway

To implement the Ireland National Development Plan for 1994-1999, the 
Irish government has published a series of "Operational Programs" in the 
Industrial, Transportation, Environmental Services, and Tourism sectors.  
These programs provide overviews and details of the projects receiving 
funding within each sector.  As the National Development Plan contained 
proposals to invest in transportation infrastructure, a national 
convention center, and environmental projects, opportunities may exist 
for U.S. firms in these areas.



                     CHAPTER III:  POLITICAL ENVIRONMENT

Ireland's Bilateral Relationship with the United States.

Ireland and the United States enjoy uniformly good bilateral relations.  
The same language, similar values, frequent visits back and forth and 
the presence of some 44 million Americans of at least partial Irish 
descent guarantee that they will continue to do so indefinitely.

There are no outstanding bilateral disputes.  A few minor disagreements 
on specific trade issues, e.g., corn-gluten feed and malt-sprout 
pellets, occurred in the recent past but have been resolved.  That is 
not to say that others could not arise, given Ireland's membership in 
the European Union (EU) and its support of the EU consensus on most 
issues.  However, if any disagreement should arise, approval of the 
Uruguay Round of the GATT negotiations and the reservoir of goodwill 
built up on both sides should temper them.

Ireland, which has traditionally followed a policy of neutrality, has 
pledged to support the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) 
provided under the Maastricht Treaty on European Union.  This commitment 
implies an eventual change in Irish neutrality.  In any case, the end of 
the Cold War and the collapse of communism render the concept of 
neutrality largely perfunctory.

Ireland has on occasion been critical of some aspects of U.S. Foreign 
Policy, e.g., Central America in the 1980s and support for Israel, but 
recent world developments have practically eliminated any negative 
rhetoric.  The only U.S. foreign policy stance that continues to draw 
Irish criticism is the maintenance of the U.S. embargo against Cuba.  If 
anything, the Irish want the U.S. to play an even greater role in the 
resolution of critical international problems.

Although not an ally in technical terms, Ireland remains one of the 
United States' oldest and closest friends.  Recent developments such as 
the White House Conference for Trade and Investment in Ireland convened 
in Washington in May 1995, together with President Clinton's planned 
visit to Ireland in late 1995, and other events anticipated under the 
aegis of the Presidential Economic Initiative for Ireland, have helped 
to reinforce these strong historical ties.  Further enhancement of this 
relationship has been effected by the active role the U.S. has taken in 
promoting the peace process and the economic confidence and stability 
which the cease-fire has brought.


Major Political Issues Affecting the Business Climate:

Few major political issues significantly affect the business climate.  
The Irish economy is "on a roll," performing better than any other in 
Europe.  The outlook is for continued strong growth of at least 5 
percent per year, low inflation and interest rates, declining 
unemployment and, thanks in part to European Union assistance, 
significant renovation and extension of the country's transportation and 
communications infrastructures.  If the government continues the 
appropriate policies, the country will keep making steady progress in 
paying off the national debt, which now stands at 90 percent of GNP.  
The Fianna Fail/Labor coalition government, which assumed office 
following the November 1992 general election, collapsed in November 1993 
after Prime Minister Reynolds  forced through a court appointment over 
the strong opposition of his junior coalition partner.  In December 
1994, a new three-party "rainbow" coalition was formed, consisting of 
Fine Gael, Labor, and  the Democratic Left.  Fine Gael leader John 
Bruton became Prime Minister, while Labor leader Dick Spring remained 
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister.

One of the major issues in the political arena which is sure to 
influence the business climate is the current coalition government's 
program, "A Government for Renewal."  This program outlines the path 
which the "rainbow" coalition has chosen for the  three years remaining 
in the parliamentary term.  The program attempts to fuse the differing 
economic philosophies and priorities  held by the coalition partners 
into a single agenda.  It attempts  to combine the Fine Gael priority of 
tax reduction with the Labor/Democratic Left priority of increased 
government spending into one general fiscal policy.  Although these 
objectives may in most cases seem contradictory, the government believes  
that the robust growth of the Irish economy can provide for the 
simultaneous, albeit moderate, pursuit of these goals.  Such a program 
would work to remove disincentives for hiring while still providing for 
the strong social welfare system.  In implementing the program, the 
coalition pledges to maintain the fiscal discipline of the preceding 
government, and given Ireland's desire to be an early participant in the 
forthcoming European Monetary Union, ensure that all commitments will 
adhere to Maastricht guidelines.

Despite continued high levels of taxation, consumer confidence and 
spending have shown strong growth in recent years.  The strong 
performance of the Irish economy and the generally favorable economic 
climate in Europe have reinforced this growth.  Although taxation is 
high, international companies enjoy significant tax breaks under 
government incentive programs.

Given Ireland's extensive social welfare system, employers often find 
the marginal cost of employing another worker excessively high.  Strikes 
in the private sector are relatively rare, but unions strenuously oppose 
proposals to lay off or dismiss workers.


The Irish Political System

Ireland is a parliamentary democracy.  Its president or head of state is 
a largely ceremonial figure elected to a 7-year term.  According to the 
Irish Constitution, the president needs advance cabinet approval of 
speeches and travel.  The incumbent is Mary Robinson, elected in 
November, 1990.

The Bicameral Legislature is comprised of the "Seanad" or Senate with 60 
members and the "Dail" or House of Representatives with 166 members.  
The 166 Dail representatives are elected by universal suffrage for a 
maximum of a 5-year term.  Members of the Senate also hold office for a 
similar 5-year term; however, 11 Senate members are nominated by the 
Prime Minister and the remaining 49 are elected by local universities 
and from panels of candidates in the following five areas: Cultural and 
Educational, Agricultural, Labor, Industrial and Commercial, and 
Administrative.  The Dail is the more powerful body.  The electoral 
system features proportional representation in multi-candidate 
constituencies.  The last election was in November, 1992; the current 
government assumed office on December 15, 1994.  The next election must 
be held by November 1997.

The present line-up among parties in the Dail is:

Fianna Fail               67 seats
Fine Gael                 47 seats
Labor                     32 seats
Progressive Democrats      8 seats
Democratic Left            6 seats
Greens                     1 seat
Independents               5 seats

The major parties' orientation is as follows:

Fianna Fail ("Soldiers of Destiny") -- Founded by Eamon de Valera, it is 
the successor to the Anti-free State Treaty rump of the old Sinn Fein.  
It has been the largest party in the Dail since 1932 and has 
participated in government in 48 of the 62 years since.  Until 1989, it 
had refused to enter into coalition government with another party.  
Drawing support from all sectors of Irish society, it is populist in 
policy.  Its leader is Bertie Ahern.


Fine Gael ("Tribes of Ireland") -- The second largest party, it is the 
successor to the Pro-free State Treaty Party which formed the first 
Irish government in 1923.  It headed all post-1932 non-Fianna Fail 
governments until 1993.  Traditionally more conservative than Fianna 
Fail, it assumed a more social democratic orientation under Garret 
FitzGerald, Prime Minister in 1981-1982 and in 1982-1987.  Since 1987, 
it has dropped in the polls, in the recent past experiencing its lowest-
ever ratings, circa 22-24 percent.  However, these have since increased.  
Fine Gael is basically conservative in policy, but has liberal and 
social democratic wings.  Its leader is Prime Minister John Bruton, who 
leads the current coalition government.


Labor -- It is the oldest Irish party, going back to 1912 or the pre-
independence era.  From its previous all-time high of 17 percent in 
1969, it dropped to 7 percent in 1987 and to 9.5 percent in 1989. It 
staged a dramatic comeback in 1992, when it won 19 percent of the vote 
and 33 seats in the Dail.  Most observers attribute Labor's resurgence 
to the charisma and opposition record of present party leader/Deputy 
Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Dick Spring.  As a result of this 
electoral success, Labor holds the balance of power between the two main 
parties, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, neither of which was able to win an 
outright majority in 1992.  Labor is social democratic in policy.


Progressive Democrats -- Formed in 1985 by dissident Fianna Fail 
deputies under the leadership of Dessie O'Malley owing to their 
dissatisfaction with the party's direction under former Prime Minister 
Charles Haughey, the PDs won seats from Fine Gael in 1987 by appealing 
to middle class concerns about high taxes and inflation.  Their approach 
eroded the Irish consensus in favor of the welfare state and elevated 
the issue of control of public expenditures to the top of the political 
agenda.  The PDs entered into coalition government with Fianna Fail in 
1989.  They won four more seats in 1992 but were not included in the 
next coalition government.  Subsequently, PDs' leader Dessie O'Malley 
resigned in late 1993, and was succeeded by Mary Harney, the first woman 
to head a major party in Ireland.  The PDs are liberal in policy.


Democratic Left (DL) -- An offshoot of the Worker's Party, it lost 2 
seats in 1992, possibly owing to the disruption caused by the split and 
allegations that its leader, Proinsias de Rossa, had been excessively 
close to Moscow in past years.  Democratic Left has since rebounded, 
however, winning two of the last five Dail by-elections.  Initially 
called "New Agenda" under de Rossa, it subsequently adopted the name 
"Democratic Left."  Despite its communist provenance and leftist 
rhetoric, DL appeals mainly to middle class voters. DL is basically 
socialist in policy.  Its participation in the current "rainbow" 
government is a major breakthrough for the party, although the 
compromises it will inevitably have to make may alienate many of its 
hard-core supporters.


Workers' Party -- It was formed by radical Marxists who remained in 
official Sinn Fein after terrorists seceded in 1969-1970 to form 
Provisional Sinn Fein and the Provisional IRA.  The Workers' Party then 
steadily espoused more moderate policies; this tendency created tension 
in the party, leading to its split in 1992.  Its sole remaining member 
of parliament following the split failed to win re-election in 1992.  
The Workers' Party is still Marxist in orientation and radically left in 
policy.  Its leader is Tomas MacGiolla.


Green Party -- The Green Party "exploded" in the European Parliament 
election of June 9, 1994, winning seats in Dublin and in Leinster, 
respectively.  The Greens themselves and most observers attribute their 
startling performance to their issue-oriented campaign in a policy area, 
the environment, of growing importance to the Irish electorate.  Since 
public opinion holds, however, that "Europe" is the appropriate venue 
for the resolution of environmental questions, it remains to be seen 
whether the Greens will advance domestically as well.  The Party is 
"ecological" in policy and is currently led by Trevor Sargent.



          CHAPTER IV:  MARKETING U.S. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Introduction

As a small open economy which is heavily dependent on trade, the 
introduction of products into the Irish market is uncomplicated.  
Standard international marketing and distribution practices are widely 
utilized in the Irish market.  Motivated U.S. firms with quality 
products will encounter positive assistance from their local 
representatives in achieving their goals and objectives for the Irish 
market.

The opportunities for the establishment of trade arrangements are unique 
in that Irish firms are very interested in representing U.S. companies 
both within the Irish market and in the larger, very proximate European 
market.  Indeed, several hundred U.S. firms are already represented by 
agents and distributors, or have direct sales, in Ireland.


Distribution Methods

Product representation throughout the country is facilitated by the 
compact market and may be achieved with any of the following 
distribution methods to cover the entire area, depending on the expected 
sales volume and marketing techniques:

(a)     Establishing a local sales office to serve Ireland and provide a 
distribution point for Western Europe.

(b)     Selling through an agent or distributor whose activity may cover 
specified areas, the entire country, or include European sales

(c)     Selling through established wholesalers or dealers

(d)     Selling directly to department stores, chains, retailer 
cooperatives, consumer cooperatives, or other purchasing organizations.

Distribution methods differ with the product and with the individual 
situation, and they must be tailored to fit the particular market 
conditions in each instance.  U.S. companies can utilize their 
experience in successful distribution techniques in the United States as 
a threshold for approaching the Irish market.  Generally, consumer goods 
are best sold through a distributor carrying stocks for immediate 
delivery and sale, whereas capital goods and industrial equipment are 
more effectively handled through a commission agent.  In the case of 
certain raw materials with low mark-ups and for capital goods and 
supplies for which there are limited numbers of potential users or 
buyers, direct selling probably will be more effective.

The U.S. exporter would be ill-advised, after having appointed a 
representative firm, to provide only product literature and samples and 
then expect to achieve good sales results.  Regular communications and 
visits to the representative, particularly when newly appointed, by 
seasoned sales personnel or company technicians can provide information 
on market developments and assist in the solution of any problems.  
Regular submission of sales reports can be a vital link to analyzing 
sales results and identifying potential problems before serious ones 
occur.  Irish business people purchase from international sources and 
expect well-designed, high-quality products, with efficient after-sales 
service.  Thus, an effective servicing system also should be 
incorporated into distribution plans.

Appointing an Agent or Distributor

As Ireland presents a compact market, international firms customarily 
have one exclusive representative for the entire country, but it is 
common for the representative to appoint subagents to cover certain 
sectors of the market if sales and profit margins warrant.  In addition, 
a sales representative located in Ireland is in an ideal position to 
market a product throughout the European marketplace.  Frequently, U.S. 
firms will also rely on the Irish distributor to handle the details of 
labeling and packaging for European preferences regarding the product.  
The familiarity and fluency of certain Irish business firms with the 
varied languages of Europe also underline Ireland's capacity as a 
labeling and packaging point.

The careful selection of a dynamic representative is important for 
successful sales over the long term.  The selection of a good sales 
representative is also essential because EU legislation is restrictive 
regarding the termination of agents and distributors.  The Council 
Directive EEC 86/653 sets forth conditions on termination of a 
commercial agent and provides for appropriate compensation.  In 
addition, Irish legislation protects the interest of distributors.  
Before entering into any agreement with a partner, the American 
principal should first review the provisions of Irish and EU law with a 
qualified attorney.  The legislation regarding unilateral termination of 
distribution agreements is designed to provide the local distributor 
with some degree of protection and monetary compensation when an 
agreement is terminated by the grantor, for reasons other than cause.  
The legislation will apply regardless of any clause in the agreement 
itself, and the parties may not deviate from the legislation as long as 
the distribution agreement is in force.

Three kinds of distribution agreement are covered by Irish legislation:

(a)     Exclusive distributorships, where the distributor has the sole 
right to sell specified goods within a defined area.

(b)     Quasi-exclusive distributorships, where the distributor sells 
almost all the specified products within a defined area.

(c)     Informal distributor arrangements under which the grantor 
imposes heavy obligations on the distributor and which would cause 
damage to the distributorship if the grantor terminated the agreement.

In the absence of a mutual agreement, or the failure to meet contract 
obligations, a distribution agreement of indefinite term cannot be 
terminated by the grantor without reasonable notice or fair 
compensation.  In general, grantors should consider protecting 
themselves by entering into agreements for definite periods rather than 
an indefinite period.  In addition, specific minimum performance clauses 
should be considered, such as percent of distributor's sales, minimum 
annual sales, number of business contacts to be made, etc., and, 
awareness that a foreign legal regime and other foreign regulatory and 
adjudicative fora have jurisdiction.


EU Legislation on Agents

Under EU legislation, a commercial agent is a self-employed intermediary 
who has continuing authority to negotiate the sale or the purchase of 
goods on behalf of another person, or to negotiate and conclude such 
transactions on behalf of the principal.

Each party is entitled to a written document setting out the terms of 
their contract.  The minimum termination notice is one month for the 
first year of service, two months for the second year, and three months 
for the third year and subsequent years.  Agents must be compensated if 
they brought the principal new customers or increased the volume of 
existing business.

The amount of indemnity may not exceed a figure equivalent to an agent's 
annual remuneration over the preceding five years or the average of the 
period in question.  The indemnity is not payable if the principal has 
terminated the contract because of default by the agent or if the 
contract is terminated on grounds of age, infirmity, or illness of the 
agent.

Finding a Partner
 
The local district offices of the International Trade Administration of 
the U.S. Department of Commerce offer an Agent/Distributor Service (ADS) 
to help U.S. firms find agents or distributors in Ireland and other 
countries.  U.S. firms interested in achieving representation in Ireland 
are urged to contact their local U.S. Department of Commerce district 
office for information on the ADS service.

Manufacturers seeking an Irish agent to service the domestic and 
European market ideally should visit Ireland to make an appraisal of the 
relative merits of prospective agents.  Besides acquainting the U.S. 
exporter directly with local market conditions and special sales 
characteristics, a visit also provides an opportunity to discuss policy 
and sales campaigns with the agent, review responsibility for customs 
fees, taxes, labeling, business procedures, and payments.  These 
responsibilities should always be clearly defined before undertaking a 
long-term relationship.

A continued close working contact between the American firm and the 
agent or distributor is very desirable and should be developed early in 
the relationship.  Certain products and equipment require servicing to 
maintain their useful life.  The U.S. exporter should determine if this 
is needed and develop a distribution network to include such servicing 
by qualified personnel.  To build trust, loyalty, and marketing skills, 
U.S. producers frequently bring their agents or distributors to the 
United States for training and marketing assistance.


Wholesale and Retail Channels

According to the latest retail census, there are some 34,000 retail and 
2,500 wholesale outlets in Ireland.  The distribution system, especially 
at retail level, still consists of small outlets by American standards.  
Nevertheless, the Irish distribution system is moving toward larger, 
more economically viable units to meet changing market needs.  The 
increasing tempo of commercial and industrial development, as well as 
suburban development, is bringing about changes in the distribution 
system.  Wholesalers supply a variety of services to associated small 
retailers, including sales promotion, advertising, and retail training.  
In some cases, they combine as a group to purchase from manufacturers 
and then distribute the goods to their customers.

Retail outlets in Ireland range from the large department stores to the 
small shop owned and operated by an individual.  Although most retail 
outlets are small, such enterprises are decreasing in number as 
efficiencies of scale and purchasing power become the major competitive 
factors bearing on profit margins.  A trend toward larger outlets has 
been underway, with the formation of chains, expansion of department 
stores, establishment of medium-sized department stores, and the 
development of chain stores under single management.

Discount firms, especially those handling consumer electronics and 
domestic appliances, are still increasing, and the number of self-
service stores is rising steadily.  Self-service is not confined to 
small merchandising units as department stores and gas stations also 
have incorporated this sales technique in their operations.

The Irish retail trade is very receptive to new food ideas and is 
constantly monitoring developments in new products in the international 
marketplace.  When souring new products, the major retail chains often 
use specialized importers to handle the logistics of importation and 
distribution as few chains import directly.  As a result, there is a 
large number of food importers, many of whom are quite small, serving 
the retail trade.  Some of these importers are also distributors of 
Irish produce and indeed some also are local manufacturers.  Most 
importers/distributors have adequate distribution facilities to most 
parts of Ireland.

There are over 10,000 food outlets of varying sizes in Ireland.  Two 
distinct segments exist within the sector; the supermarket multiples, 
and independent retailers.  The food retail sector is dominated by three 
multiple chains, while another two smaller chains also operate.  These 
multiples dominate the grocery trade in the Greater Dublin Area 
accounting for about three quarters of retail sales.  Outside of the 
main urban areas, many of the independent retailers are affiliated to 
"symbol groups" which facilitates the achievement of purchasing 
economies of scale through buying from a central purchaser.

Mail-order sales account for a very small part of total Irish retail 
sales.  Certain firms have used this technique successfully in 
combination with their usual retail outlet operation.  Promotion is 
carried out by catalog, or by newspaper advertisements with no personal 
contact.  Hobby centers, Do-It-Yourself, auto supply centers, and 
discount stores also are enjoying great success.


Franchising

There is increased acceptance of the retail franchising concept by the 
Irish business community and consumers.  This form of marketing now 
represents some 7 percent of retail sales and is growing rapidly.  
Franchising has been on the increase due to changes in consumer buying 
patterns, the spread of suburban living, greater affluence, and the 
increase in the number of working women.  There are few regulations 
concerning franchising and none that limit market access to U.S. firms.  
The EU has issued Regulation 4087/88 EEC regarding franchising which 
provides a unified code for the 12 member states.  Its main thrust 
concerns price fixing, transfer pricing, non-competition clauses, and 
exclusive dealing.  It also exempts certain franchise agreements from 
the EU anti-trust regulations.

While the Irish market is limited in terms of the size of its population 
(3.5 million), it still is attractive from a franchising viewpoint 
because of the overall health and pattern of growth in the Irish economy 
and the acquaintance of the Irish with U.S. products and services 
through their 44 million Irish-American relatives and the associated 
two-way travel.  The Irish franchising industry experienced net growth 
of 39 percent between 1989 and 1992.  At present, there are 
approximately 59 franchising systems operating about 390 units, 
employing 3,346 people and generating annual sales of approximately $175 
million in Ireland.  

International systems dominate the local market with most systems 
operating as franchisee units controlled by UK-based master license 
holders.  International franchisors utilize this approach to the Irish 
market because they consider the UK and Irish markets as an integral 
area and their appointed master license holder usually obtains the 
territorial rights to the entire area.

Among the 45 international franchise systems operating in Ireland, 13 
are of U.S. origin, 28 are European firms (mostly UK), and three are 
from other nations.  While U.S systems only constitute a small portion 
of the Irish market, U.S. franchises, in particular fast food 
operations, actually have a significant market presence and are among 
the most successful enterprises.

Franchising opportunities exist in a wide range of market sectors where 
the extent of franchising has not been fully tapped.  A related area of 
opportunity also exists in the establishment of manufacturing operations 
to supply European markets.  Specifically, opportunities exist for U.S. 
franchisors to take advantage of current government incentives for 
basing operations in Ireland to supply their European franchise 
networks.  This would not only accommodate requirements to have a 
European base but also presents other inducements such as lower costs, 
better skilled work force availability, attractive tax benefits, 
subsidized training programs, and ideal air/seaport and multi-modal 
transportation.


Joint Ventures/Licensing

Numerous international firms have joint venture and licensing 
arrangements with manufacturers based in Ireland.  There are no formal 
regulations relating to joint ventures in Ireland.  In each case, the 
terms of the joint venture are the subject of an agreement between the 
parties concerned.  Generally, the agreement sets out the basis on which 
the parties are to cooperate on a particular joint venture.

Government approval is not necessary for licensing agreements, and no 
statutory restrictions are imposed on the amounts of royalties or other 
details of licensing arrangements.  An international firm intending to 
license the use of its trademark to a company based in Ireland must 
designate the licensee as a registered user, and an appropriate 
application must be lodged in order to prevent any future legal 
problems.

As with all business investment decisions, U.S. firms considering joint 
venture and/or licensing agreements in Ireland should seek professional 
advice regarding the legal, financial, and taxation implications of the 
agreements being negotiated. 

Forbairt, the state agency responsible for the development of indigenous 
Irish industry, is seeking to develop joint ventures, licensing, and 
technology transfer arrangements between Irish and international firms.  
The objective is to bring successful Irish companies with available 
resources of capital, management, technical knowledge, and skilled 
workers together with international firms that have comparable 
strengths, particularly in areas of product development and marketing.  
The added benefit of a joint venture/licensing strategy for U.S. firms 
is the provision of facile access to the European marketplace.

Steps in Setting Up an Office

U.S. firms considering establishing an office in Ireland are recommended 
to contact the Commercial Service at the U.S. Embassy in Dublin for 
information and advice on establishing an office in Ireland.  CS-Dublin 
will be compiling a report on "Locating a Business in Ireland" in 
September 1995 as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Showcase 
Europe strategy.

Advertising

A full range of advertising media is available in Ireland.  The two 
national radio stations and two national television stations 
broadcasting in Ireland are the monopoly of Radio-Telefis Eireann (RTE), 
a state-owned corporation.  There are also a large number of private 
radio stations operating in local areas.  The Irish cable television 
system is available in urban areas with about one-third of the 
population having cable service, another third having multi-channel 
service, which includes British TV transmissions, and the remaining one-
third receiving only RTE television programming.

RTE has a code of standards, established by the Advertising Standards 
Authority of Ireland, with which all advertisers must comply.  
Advertising films must be approved before showing.  Detailed advertising 
rates can be obtained from RTE, Advertising Sales Division, Donnybrook, 
Dublin 4 and most local advertising agencies.

Ireland has approximately 60 newspapers and 150 periodicals or trade 
magazines.  The Dublin dailies are the only newspapers having national 
distribution.  There are two daily morning and one daily evening papers 
published in Dublin.  The Irish Independent (morning) has the largest 
circulation, followed by the Evening Herald.  The Irish Times (morning) 
has the smallest circulation in Dublin, but reaches the important 
business and finance market.  There are five national Sunday newspapers.  
British broadsheets and tabloids are widely available in Ireland.  A 
listing of the major newspapers and business journals is contained in 
Appendix E (U.S. and Country Contacts) of Chapter X.

The principal advertising media are the press (35%), television (41%), 
radio (16%), and outdoor (8%).  Cinema is primarily a support medium 
with a strong reach among the 15-24 year olds.

There are numerous advertising agencies with a wide range of services.  
The large ones provide a full range of advertising services and are 
members of the Institute of Advertising Practitioners, which is closely 
associated with the American Association of Advertising Agencies (AAAA).

Advertising agencies utilize every medium available to advertisers: 
direct mailings, press, radio, television, point-of-sale advertising, 
posters, and public transportation placards.  Other promotional 
techniques, such as coupons, samples, premiums, and prizes, are also 
used.  Laws covering gaming and lotteries as well as restrictive trade 
practices are strictly enforced by the government.  Firms advertising 
and selling goods should obtain local advice regarding provisions of the 
laws and consumer acceptance of the promotional or marketing approach.

The names of Irish advertising agencies, market research organizations, 
and management and public relations counseling firms may be found in 
such publications as the "International Directory of Market Research 
Houses and Services", American Marketing Association, 420 Lexington 
Avenue, New York, NY 10017, phone: (212) 687-3280, and the "Directory of 
Marketing Research Agencies and Management Consultants in the United 
States and the World", Bradford, P.O. Box 276, Fairfax, VA 22030, phone: 
(703) 560-7484.

The major firms engaged in market research in Ireland are all 
headquartered in Dublin.  These firms provide the usual range of 
services, including store audits, consumer surveys, product field 
testing, and attitude and motivation research.  In general, if the 
advertising technique works well for a product line in the United States 
and elsewhere in Europe, the Irish market also should be receptive to 
the theme.  There are differences, however, and local opinion should be 
obtained first for a specific strategy that calls for a major commitment 
of resources.

Trade Fairs

Ireland does not have any major international trade fairs, except in the 
tourism sector.  In general, Irish trade fairs are small scale events 
and attract a more local trade and consumer buying audience.  Thus, they 
principally offer sales and promotional opportunities for Irish agents 
and distributors.  In general, the international element of these events 
is limited to local representatives promoting international brands.

Due to the proximity of Ireland to major trade fairs in European cities, 
most Irish manufacturers, agents, distributors, and end users attend the 
major European exhibitions in their industry sector.  As part of the 
U.S. Department of Commerce's Showcase Europe strategy, the Commercial 
Service (CS-Dublin) at the U.S. Embassy promotes U.S. pavilions at the 
major European tradeshows to the local business community to ensure U.S. 
exhibitors receive Irish visitors.

Irish business people also attend the major trade shows in the United 
States.  CS-Dublin actively promotes the major U.S. trade shows which 
are part of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Foreign Buyer Program.

The Irish government and certain private sector entities have recognized 
that job creation in Ireland must be satisfied by trade and the fullest 
range of joint ventures and strategic alliances.  In order to implement 
these ancillary modes of economic development, proposals are now 
underway to construct larger conference facilities to stage the trade 
events necessary to enhance commercial expansion through the widest 
aperture of strategies.

Pricing Product

Sales quotations are usually given on a c.i.f. basis.  This is the sales 
price plus costs, insurance, and freight to point of importation.  The 
c.i.f. quote is generally preferred by Irish importers as they are 
familiar with the customs charges and taxes on the product that are 
levied at the time of importation, but may not be acquainted with U.S. 
trucking and ocean or air charges.  Large firms and department stores, 
however, sometimes buy on f.o.b. terms when they prefer to arrange for 
shipping and insuring the goods themselves.  Quotations and invoicing 
are usually in terms of the currency of the country of origin.

Selling to the Irish Government

As a member of the EU, Ireland had adopted the Community's public 
procurement Directives.  All Irish works, supply, services, and utility 
procurement projects which fall within the guidelines of the EU public 
procurement Directives are published in the Official Journal of the 
European Community "S" series.  CS-Dublin actively monitors and reports 
on major procurement projects offering opportunities for U.S. firms.  
Meanwhile, U.S. firms with operations in Ireland report no problems in 
their efforts to sell to the Irish government.

 
Registration of Patents, Trademarks, and Designs

Ireland has legislation for the protection of patents, trademarks, and 
industrial designs.  It is a member of the Paris Union, which adheres to 
the International Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.  
Applications for patents, registration of trademarks, and design 
protection should be filed with the Irish Patent Office, Department of 
Enterprise and Employment, 45 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.  Inventions may 
be patented for a 20-year period.  Trademark registrations are valid for 
7 years and are renewable for 14-year periods.

European Patent Convention

Ireland is a signatory to the European Patent Convention, which provides 
for a centralized European-wide patent protection system.  The European 
Patents Act of 1992 and Patent Cooperation Treaty updated national law 
in a number of respects and the substantive law is in accordance with 
that of other European countries who have harmonized their laws on the 
basis of the European Patent Convention.

The European Patent Convention has simplified the process for obtaining 
patent protection in the EU member states.  Under the European 
Convention, an applicant for a patent is granted a preexamined 20-year, 
non-renewable European patent that has the effect of a national patent 
in all 16 countries that are signatories of the convention, based on a 
single application to the European Patent Office.  It also contains a 
provision for the granting of short term patents (half the duration of 
the normal patent) in the interest of small/medium innovators.  This 
procedure should expedite the granting of patents.  However, 
infringement proceedings remain within the jurisdiction of the national 
courts, which could result in some divergent interpretations.  For 
information, write to the European Patent Office, Motorama-Haus, 
Rosenheimer Strasse 30, Munich, Germany.

Copyrights

Both Ireland and the United States are signatories of the Universal 
Copyright Convention, which provides for mutual copyright protection.  
In Ireland, protection is provided by the Copyright Act of 1963.  
Ireland is a member of the Berne Convention, which forms the 
International Union for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works.

Copyright protection in Ireland is generally considered to be good.  
However, there are some industry concerns that the penalties for 
infringement of copyrights on video tapes and computer software are not 
sufficiently severe to curb pirating.  A review of Irish copyright 
legislation is pending as a result of, inter alia, developments in the 
EU.  In that context, the government may consider stronger penalties for 
copyright infringement.


Need for Professional Advice

When contemplating doing business in Ireland, U.S. firms should seek 
professional advice regarding the legal, financial, and taxation aspects 
of doing business in Ireland.  All the major international accounting 
firms have established offices in Ireland, while local legal firms are 
well-versed in both Irish and EU legislation.  Given both the 400+ U.S. 
firms with operations in Ireland, and the several hundred other U.S. 
firms with business relationships in Ireland, the Irish professional 
services sector is well-positioned to meet the specific needs of U.S. 
firms. 



   CHAPTER V:  LEADING SECTORS FOR U.S. EXPORTS AND INVESTMENT

AT A GLANCE...

A.  BEST PROSPECT NON-AGRICULTURAL GOODS AND SERVICES - IRELAND  FY 1996

Best Prospects represent industry sectors where U.S. exporters can enter 
the market or increase their market share over the next couple of years.

Ranking     Title                 Est. Total      Est. Imports
                                  Market Size     from U.S.
                                  ($ millions)    ($ millions)

1.     Computers and Peripherals     1,155.0       649.0
2.     Electronic Components         2,668.0       555.0
3.     Travel and Tourism Services   2,709.0       345.0
4.     Industrial Chemicals          1,917.0       168.0
5     Computer Software                678.0       162.0
6.     Electrical Power Systems      1,668.0       150.0
7.     Medical Equipment               171.0        72.0
8.     Drugs and Pharmaceuticals     1,900.0        64.0
9.     Building Products             2,085.0        52.0
10.     Air Conditioning &
     Refrigeration Equipment           285.0        35.0
11.     Telecommunications Equipment   319.0        20.0
12.     Process Controls-Industrial    206.0        20.0
13.     Pumps, Valves and Compressors  166.0        18.0
14.     Household Consumer Goods       509.0        16.0
15.     Construction Equipment         244.0         4.8

Notes:

(1)   Market statistics refer to 1996 and are unofficial estimates.

(2)  Exchange rate used: IP1.00 equals $1.5 (IP 0.67 equals $1.0).
(This rate is the weighted recent historical average to allow
meaningful comparisons).

(3)  For FY'96, USFCS-Dublin has identified 15 Best Prospects which 
offer excellent potential for U.S. firms.  Market opportunities are not 
limited to these 15 sectors.  Many other areas offer opportunities for 
U.S. business, e.g., a good laboratory instruments industry, an emerging 
biotechnology industry.

(4)  Best Prospects are ranked by estimated size of imports from the 
U.S.


B.  BEST PROSPECT AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS - IRELAND  FY 1996

Best Prospects represent agricultural sectors where U.S. exporters can 
enter the market or increase their market share over the next couple of 
years.

Ranking     Title       Est. Total      Est. Imports
                        Consumption     from U.S.
                     (Metric Tonnes)    (Metric Tonnes)

1.     Corn gluten feed     486,000     442,000
2.     Pears                  8,500         600
3.     Wine (kiloliters)     29,700         950

Notes:

(1)  Market statistics refer to 1996 and are unofficial estimates.

C.  SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES - IRELAND FY 1996

Investment opportunities for Ireland are outlined in two sub-sections; 
(1) Major Project Opportunities within Ireland, and (2) Opportunities 
within the Border Counties in conjunction with the Presidential Economic 
Initiative for Ireland.

(1) Major Projects in Ireland

The following is a listing of the major project sectors in Ireland, 
three of which are also germane for the U.S. Department of Commerce' 
Showcase Europe strategy.

     Sector                         Project Name

     Energy Technologies     Peat-fired Electric Power Station
     Telecommunications      Second Digital Cellular (GSM)

     Telecommunications Network
     Telecommunications      Telecom Eireann Strategic Alliance
     Telecommunications      Defense Radios

     Information Technologies
     Strategic Information   Technology System
     Tourism                 National Convention Center


(2) Opportunities within the Border Counties

The U.S. Department of Commerce has compiled a Strategic Overview of 
Northern Ireland and the Border Counties of the Republic of Ireland 
which contains information on trade and investment opportunities in the 
region.  A Business Development Trade Mission planned for October 1995 
will focus on the four targeted industry sectors of Environmental 
Technologies, Food Industries, Information Technologies, and Tourism 
Services (products, services, and systems).

Within these four sectors, there are opportunities for U.S. firms to 
enter a variety of business relationships, including direct investment, 
franchising, licensing, contract manufacturing and other sales 
representation agreements, transfer of technology agreements, and a 
myriad of joint venture and strategic alliances. Many of these 
partnerships can be directed at accessing the growing Western, Central, 
and Eastern European marketplaces.

A. BEST PROSPECTS FOR NON-AGRICULTURAL GOODS AND SERVICES - 
   IRELAND FY 1996


1. Computers and Peripherals (CPT):

Ireland has a strong computer manufacturing base comprised principally 
of U.S. manufacturers such as Apple, AST, Amdahl, Dell, Gateway 2000, 
and Stratus.  In addition, Hewlett Packard and AT&T are to commence 
manufacturing operations in the next couple of years.  This strong U.S. 
manufacturing presence has seen these subsidiaries utilize favorable 
Irish tax treatment to supply the entire European computers and 
peripherals marketplace.

Despite being very mature with all the major international brands having 
a market presence, the Irish computers and peripherals market continues 
to enjoy average annual growth rates of 2%-4%.  Like most international 
markets, local computer hardware prices have fallen dramatically in 
recent years in response to competitive pressures and the drive to 
achieve market share.  The substantial end user base in the industry and 
commercial sectors provides a large future market for computers and 
peripherals.  At the same time, demand is growing in the small office, 
home owner (SOHO) segment as more and more people have a PC in the home.

Market opportunities exist for U.S. companies with innovative 
information technology products.  Irish agents and distributors are 
always seeking new and innovative products.  These business 
representatives attend all the major international high technology trade 
fairs in Europe and the U.S.  Most promising sub-sectors include 
peripherals, accessories and parts, complete systems, personal computers 
(PC's) and printers for PCs, and internetworking products and services.  
Motivated U.S. firms seeking to establish distribution, licensing, 
and/or joint venture relationships in Ireland are encouraged to contact 
their local U.S. Department of Commerce district office for further 
information on market opportunities in the Irish computer and 
peripherals market.  

                          Data Table
                              1994        1995        1996
                                    (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:        1,104.0     1,130.0    1,155.0
B. Total Local Production:   3,204.0     3,333.0    3,466.0
C. Total Exports:            4,059.0     4,221.0    4,390.0
D. Total Imports:            1,959.0     2,018.0    2,079.0
E. Imports from U.S.:          612.0       630.0      649.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP)      0.67        0.67       0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates

2. Electronic Components (ELC):

Electronics is the largest manufacturing industry in Ireland with about 
300 firms employing over 30,000 people in a wide range of sub-sectors 
including computer systems and sub-systems, peripherals & media, 
electronic components, datacomms equipment, control & test systems, and 
consumer electronics.  The sector accounts for one-third of all 
industrial exports from Ireland and has posted an annual average of 
1,000 new jobs since 1987.

The driving force behind sector growth is international investment.  
This, in turn, has created the emergence of a strong technology base 
within the indigenous electronics sector as local firms provide 
essential sub-supply services to international manufacturers.  As these 
manufacturers utilize world class manufacturing techniques, indigenous 
suppliers have had to adopt these principles in order to achieve sub-
supplier status.  Additionally, the ready availability of well-educated 
and skilled personnel to staff new international investment projects is 
a distinct feature of the sector in Ireland.

The presence of major international computer manufacturers such as 
Apple, AST, Amdahl, Dell, and Stratus has created a lucrative electronic 
components market locally.  Annual growth is forecast to be 4 percent.  
As only 40% of electronic components are sourced from local suppliers, 
there are substantial market opportunities for U.S. electronic 
components suppliers.  Ireland also represents a suitable base for 
penetrating the lucrative European electronics industry.  U.S. component 
manufacturers such as Analog Devices, Intel, SCI and Tellabs have 
established local manufacturing subsidiaries to penetrate the Irish and 
European markets.  Most promising sub-sectors include; integrated 
circuits, disk drives, printed circuits, semi-conductors (not I.C.s), 
resistors, and capacitors.

Indigenous electronics firms are continually seeking corporate 
relationships which will enable them to expand their business 
operations.  Strategic alliances, licensing, and/or technology transfer 
agreements with U.S. firms seeking a European market presence are 
actively sought by indigenous electronics firms.  Forbairt, the agency 
responsible for the development of the indigenous sector, is available 
to assist interested U.S. firms in matching-up with appropriate Irish 
firms.

                           Data Table
                               1994         1995         1996
                                    (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:         2,461.0     2,559.0     2,668.0
B. Total Local Production     1,943.0     2,034.0     2,136.0
C. Total Exports:               814.0       847.0       881.0
D. Total Imports:             1,332.0     1,372.0     1,413.0
E. Imports from U.S.:           523.0       539.0       555.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):      0.67        0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


3. Travel and Tourism Services (TRA):

About 50% of Irish people take a holiday outside Ireland.  In 1993, the 
number of overseas trips by Irish residents increased by about 3%.  With 
the estimated 44 million Irish-American community and other attractions, 
the U.S. is the most popular long-haul holiday destination among Irish 
tourists.  USTTA statistics reveal that Irish visitors to the U.S. 
increased by over 14% to almost 140,000 in 1994.  Ireland's 
participation in the 1994 Soccer World Cup was a major reason for this 
growth as over 15,000 Irish supporters traveled to the U.S. for the 
event.

Tourists represent 85% of all Irish visitors to the U.S., while business 
visitors account for 14%, with the remaining one percent being student 
travel.  The most popular destinations for Irish visitors are Florida, 
New York, Boston, and California.  American vacations account for over 
one third of all Irish tourists foreign holiday expenditure.  The very 
active local Visit-USA committee is organizing the fourth successive 
U.S.A. pavilion at the Irish Holiday World Trade Fair in January 1996 
(see Trade Event Plan).

Investment opportunities also exist, within Ireland, in tourism 
products, infrastructure, and services for U.S. investors as the Irish 
government endeavors to achieve the full potential of the tourism sector 
by investing in new facilities and services.  Tourism in Ireland is a 
$3,500 million industry, supporting 97,000 jobs in the Irish economy and 
accounting for 8% of employment and a similar proportion of GNP growth.  
The performance of the sector has been impressive in recent years as the 
number of tourists visiting Ireland has grown 7% annually between 1985 
and 1993.

The tourism sector is forecast to achieve increased annual growth 
through the year 2000.  The anticipated growth in visitors to the entire 
island of Ireland will generate a demand for more facilities and 
services.  This will require investment in both physical assets and 
training and offers opportunities for U.S. firms servicing the tourism 
sector. 

                                Data Table
                                         1994       1995       1996
                                               (US$ millions)
A. Total Holiday Expenditure:           2,457.0     2,580.0     2,709.0
B. Expenditure on Home Holidays:        1,011.0     1,062.0     1,115.0
C. Expenditure by Visitors to Ireland:  2,152.0     2,260.0     2,373.0
D. Expenditure by Irish Tourists Abroad 1,446.0     1,518.0     1,594.0
E. Expenditure by Irish Visitors
      to the U.S.:                        314.0       329.0       345.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):                0.67        0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates

Note: Total Holiday Expenditure is the sum of expenditure on home 
holidays and expenditure by Irish tourists abroad.

4. Industrial Chemicals (ICH):

The Irish chemical industry has experienced excellent growth in recent 
years.  The industry is very export-oriented with exports exceeding 
imports by 300 percent.  This export orientation is due to the large 
presence of international manufacturers, including U.S. companies.  In 
addition to a strong manufacturing presence, the United States also has 
a 21% share of the Irish import market.  The strong reputation of U.S. 
chemical producers in both the Irish and European markets could assist 
other U.S. manufacturers in achieving similar market penetration.  U.S. 
industrial chemical manufacturers should actively consider utilizing 
Ireland as a base for penetrating European markets.  The availability of 
highly qualified labor is an influencing factor in selecting Ireland as 
an investment location.  Most promising sub-sectors include; organic 
chemicals, and inorganic chemicals.

                           Data Table
                              1994       1995       1996
                                 (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:        1,609.0     1,770.0     1,917.0
B. Total Local Production    3,291.0     3,535.0     3,782.0
C. Total Exports:            2,406.0     2,536.0     2,663.0
D. Total Imports:              724.0       760.0       798.0
E. Imports from U.S.:          152.0       160.0       168.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):     0.67        0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates

5. Computer Software (CSF):

Software is one of Ireland's fastest growing business sectors with 
growth being about 15% every two years.  The Irish software industry is 
comprised of over 350 firms employing almost 9,000 people in a broad 
range of activities including development and customization, 
localization and translation, production and distribution, and technical 
support.  It is an exported-oriented industry with almost 94% of 
domestic production sold abroad.  Indeed, some industry observers rank 
Ireland behind only the United States as a software exporter.

The industry is comprised of three categories of companies: 
multinational corporations (MNCs) exporting to the EU and beyond, 
indigenous companies engaged in exporting, and indigenous firms 
servicing the local Irish market.  The MNC sector is comprised of over 
80 international software producers, including; 5 of the top 10 
independent software companies in the world, 7 of the top 10 package 
software vendors in Europe, and 6 of the top computer services groups in 
Europe.  U.S. firms account for much of this investment with over 30 
companies, including Microsoft, Lotus, Motorola, Claris, Digital, 
Symantec, Informix, Sun Microsystems, Platinum, Novell and EDS having 
operations in Ireland.

MNCs account for almost 90% of industry output and are using Ireland as 
a European localization and translation base.   These companies not only 
republish and distribute software from their base in Ireland but also 
are involved in software localization, translating applications into the 
major European languages and packaging those products for sale.  As a 
result, some 40% of all PC package software sold in Europe each year is 
manufactured in Ireland.  There are over 1,000 personnel employed in 
localization, translation, and customization activities in Ireland.  
Software localization is considered to have strong growth potential 
within Ireland as the country has a significant competitive advantage in 
this area.

     Ireland has become a significant world center for software 
development because of its skilled, highly-educated workforce, excellent 
supply infrastructure, cost competitive environment, and sophisticated 
telecommunications network.  The country produces over 400 computer 
science graduates annually and these individuals are being employed in 
the local software development laboratories of major international 
software firms.  

     There is a comprehensive and well-trained local sub-supply 
infrastructure as Irish suppliers to MNC's have quickly adopted WCM 
techniques and provide products and services to the required quality 
levels utilizing modern technology within the required lead times at the 
right price.  At the same time, this supply infrastructure is 
continually innovating, as suppliers are preparing their operations to 
service the software sector into the future.

     U.S. software firms seeking to penetrate the lucrative European 
software market (forecast to be $155 billion in 1996) should consider 
entering into joint venture/licensing agreements with Irish firms who 
have the experience of exporting to EU markets.  Local software firms 
engaging in exporting are interested in matching up with U.S. software 
firms and Forbairt, the state agency responsible for the development of 
indigenous industry, is available to assist in this matching process.


                                Data Table
                               1994        1995         1996
                                    (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:          540.0       605.0       678.0
B. Total Local Production    3,429.0     3,944.0     4,536.0
C. Total Exports:            3,224.0     3,707.0     4,263.0
D. Total Imports:              335.0       368.0       405.0
E. Imports from U.S.:          134.0       147.0       162.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):     0.67        0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


6. Electrical Power Systems (ELP):

     Ireland is the only EU country whose electricity system is not 
connected to another member state.  While an interconnector exists with 
the Northern Ireland Electricity company, it has been inoperable for 
many years and there are no proposals for its upgrade at present.  While 
there are no restrictions on the generation of electricity within the 
State, only the Electricity Supply Board (ESB), the Irish electrical 
utility, has permission to sell electricity on the local market.

     As proposed EU deregulation and liberalization proposals for the 
power generation and transmission sector are implemented by the Irish 
government, the Irish power generation sector will experience a major 
re-organization over the next four years.  The Irish government recently 
announced preliminary proposals to establish an independent regulatory 
authority, and power procurer for the power generation sector.  In 
addition, the ESB will lose its monopoly on the supply of electricity to 
larger customers after 1997.  The government is also proposing to hold a 
public tender competition to construct a peat-fired electric power 
station in the Midlands region of Ireland which will be undertaken with 
the assistance of EU funding.  Finally, private sector proposals on the 
development and operation of a number of alternative energy power 
generation schemes are being evaluated.  CS-Dublin monitors and reports 
all major project opportunities in the power generation and transmission 
sector.

     More immediate opportunities for U.S. firms exist in the ESB's 
plans to invest over $2.0 billion on production facilities, networks, 
and new systems and services by the end of 1997.  This is the largest 
capital investment program ever undertaken by the ESB.  To ensure that 
U.S. firms can compete for a substantial portion of this investment, CS-
Dublin is actively monitoring and reporting on public procurement 
opportunities in the ESB.  In support of the U.S. Department of 
Commerce's Showcase Europe strategy, CS-Dublin will compile a report on 
"Selling to the ESB" in September 1995.


                            Data Table
                                  1994        1995       1996
                                         (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:            1,262.0    1,451.0     1,668.0
B. Total Local Production          878.0    1,009.0     1,160.0
C. Total Exports:                  324.0      373.0       429.0
D. Total Imports:                  709.0      815.0       937.0
E. Imports from U.S.:              113.0      130.0       150.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):         0.67       0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


7. Medical Equipment (MED):

     Ireland has a strong medical devices manufacturing sector comprised 
principally of international firms that produce surgical instruments and 
disposable medical products.  Indigenous manufacturers are primarily 
small-scale companies producing disposable products.  The estimated 100 
firms in the sector employ about 10,000 people generating an output of 
$550-600 million.  Most local output is exported to European and 
worldwide markets as most international manufacturers are using Ireland 
as a manufacturing and sales base.

     Annual growth of 4% in the medical equipment market reflects 
projected increases in government health spending.  In recent years, the 
healthcare sector has engaged in tight operating cost control as the 
Irish government introduced strict budgetary guidelines for sector.  
While these budgetary controls have slowed market growth, demand 
continues to exist in the consumable products sector for items such as 
medical instruments and disposable medical products.  Market 
opportunities also exist because Irish distributors are continually 
seeking new and innovative products.  Most promising sub-sectors include 
medical instruments, disposable medical products, and electro-medical 
apparatus.

     Imports, which constitute almost all of market demand, actually 
exceed demand as Ireland is used as a distribution point by 
international suppliers, with local assembly operations, for EC 
countries.  The U.S. dominates the import market with a 36 percent share 
as U.S. medical devices and equipment enjoy a strong reputation among 
Irish medical personnel.  The large number of Irish medical personnel 
who study and train in the U.S., combined with the attendance of Irish 
medical distributors and end users at U.S. medical trade fairs, have 
contributed to this strong receptivity to U.S. medical equipment.

                            Data Table
                              1994       1995       1996
                                    (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:         158.0      165.0       171.0
B. Total Local Production     555.0      610.0       671.0
C. Total Exports:             579.0      636.0       700.0
D. Total Imports:             182.0      191.0       200.0
E. Imports from U.S.:          65.0       69.0        72.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):    0.67       0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


8. Drugs and Pharmaceuticals (DRG):

     The Irish pharmaceuticals industry primarily consists of 
manufacturing firms producing branded drugs.  There are also a number of 
firms producing only generics.  There is a strong international 
manufacturing presence which is dominated by 12 U.S. manufacturing 
subsidiaries such as SmithKline Beecham, Pfizer, Bristol Myers Squibb, 
and Eli Lily.  Most international firms use Ireland as a base to 
penetrate the lucrative European marketplace.  The success of U.S. firms 
highlights the opportunities for penetrating European markets from 
Ireland.

     Within the local market, where growth is about 4%, opportunities 
exist for U.S. suppliers to capitalize on the strong level of 
receptivity for U.S. drugs and pharmaceuticals.  Future market potential 
remains strong as the age profile of the Irish population edges upwards 
over the next decade.  Most promising sub-sectors include bulk 
pharmaceuticals, prescribed drugs, medicines and medicinal preparations, 
and non-prescribed OTC products.


                           Data Table
                              1994       1995       1996
                                    (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:         1,784.0   1,846.0   1,900.0
B. Total Local Production     3,054.0   3,359.0   3,695.0
C. Total Exports:             1,783.0   2,051.0   2,359.0
D. Total Imports:               513.0     538.0     564.0
E. Imports from U.S.:            48.0      56.0      64.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):      0.67      0.67      0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


9.  Building Products (BLD):

     Building and construction investment increased by 8.5% in 1994 due 
to large increases in private (22%) and local authority (56%) house 
completions.  The outlook for 1995 is very positive as building and 
construction investment is forecast to increase by 8.75 percent as the 
resurgence in residential construction continues apace.  In the medium 
term, the outlook for the construction sector is positive as public 
sector spending will continue to be underpinned by the receipt of EU 
funding, while the non-residential sector should benefit from the 
improving economic environment.

     The Irish building materials market is very open towards imports 
(50% of total market demand) because about half of the import categories 
are not manufactured in Ireland.  U.S products have consistently held 
the position of fifth largest supplier to this market in recent years.  
Most promising sub-sectors include; electrical products, wood and 
lumber, boards and panels, paints and varnishes, floor and wall 
coverings, carpentry and joinery, heating products, and timber framed 
housing.

                            Data Table
                               1994       1995        1996
                                    (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:        1,890.0     1,985.0     2,085.0
B. Total Local Production    1,542.0     1,618.0     1,699.0
C. Total Exports:              578.0       606.0       636.0
D. Total Imports:              926.0       973.0     1,022.0
E. Imports from U.S.:           46.0        49.0        52.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):     0.67        0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


10. Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Equipment (ACR):

     The Irish air conditioning and refrigeration market has a 
substantial number of end user groups including food processing 
companies, retail supermarket outlets, electronics manufacturers, and 
the general business environment.

     The air-conditioning market sub-sector offers sales opportunities 
as growth is projected to be 10-15 percent through 1995.  U.S. 
manufacturers are perceived to be very strong in the large air-
conditioning equipment market.

     Ireland also represents an attractive manufacturing and 
distribution location for U.S. producers seeking to penetrate the 
European air-conditioning and refrigeration market.  The local Thermo 
King transport refrigeration subsidiary, for example, is achieving 
excellent success in the European marketplace.

     Most promising sub-sectors include; refrigerators, and freezers, 
air conditioning equipment, and compressors.


                              Data Table
                               1994     1995      1996
                                    (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:          235.0    259.0    285.0
B. Total Local Production      415.0    456.0    502.0
C. Total Exports:              316.0    347.0    382.0
D. Total Imports:              136.0    150.0    165.0
E. Imports from U.S.:           29.0     32.0     35.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):     0.67     0.67     0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


11. Telecommunications Equipment (TEL):

     The telecommunications network is controlled by the State 
telecommunications body, Telecom Eireann.  After France, Ireland has the 
most modern telephone system in Europe.  There are over one million 
telephone lines on the public network.  The current level of 
digitalization is 70%.  Continued modernization of the Irish 
telecommunications system requires annual investment of about $225 
million.  In addition to modernizing the public network, Telecom Eireann 
is also seeking to provide more advanced telecommunications services to 
the Irish business community.  CS-Dublin actively monitors and reports 
on procurement opportunities within Telecom Eireann which may be of 
interest to U.S. firms.

     The mobile telephony sector has experienced excellent growth in 
recent years with Eircell, the public mobile telephone network, 
currently having over 80,000 subscribers.  The granting of a license for 
the second digital cellular network in Ireland in early 1996 will offer 
excellent opportunities to U.S. cellular telephony infrastructure and 
equipment providers.

     While the supply of all terminal equipment is deregulated, all 
products being connected to the public network must have approval from 
the Irish Department of Transport, Energy & Communications.  Most 
promising sub-sectors include; telephonic, telegraphic equipment, data 
communications, cellular telecommunications equipment, and fiber optics.


                            Data Table
                                 1994      1995      1996
                                      (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:           263.0      290.0     319.0
B. Total Local Production       314.0      345.0     380.0
C. Total Exports:               252.0      277.0     305.0
D. Total Imports:               201.0      222.0     244.0
E. Imports from U.S.:            16.0       18.0      20.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):      0.67       0.67      0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


12. Process Controls - Industrial (PCI):

     Process control instruments comprise an integral element of Irish 
manufacturing processes.  The principal end-user segments are the 
chemical, pharmaceutical, food processing, gas and power generation 
industries.  Within the food processing industry, 83% of installations 
use computer technology.  Among these companies, process control is the 
most common application with 87% of companies stating this usage.  The 
pharmaceutical sector has 40 international manufacturing subsidiaries.  
There is an estimated replacement cost of $3.3 billion on capital 
investment in this sector.  More significantly, upwards of $125 million 
is reinvested annually by local pharmaceutical firms.  Most promising 
sub-sectors include; programmable logic controllers, control valve 
systems, pressure gauges, and thermostats.


                            Data Table
                            1994      1995      1996
                                  (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:       194.0     200.0     206.0
B. Total Local Production   165.0     170.0     175.0
C. Total Exports:            54.0      56.0      58.0
D. Total Imports:            83.0      86.0      89.0
E. Imports from U.S.:        18.5      19.0      20.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):  0.67      0.67      0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


13. Pumps, Valves, and Compressors (PVC):

     Within Ireland, there is an extensive end user base for pumps and 
valves encompassing the chemical, pharmaceutical, agriculture, food 
processing, and electronics industries.  Most of these end users have a 
need for modern pump and valve technology as they operate highly 
automated production processes.  There is strong interest in modern pump 
technology from the United States.  Most promising sub-sectors include; 
valves, and pumps.


                           Data Table
                             1994       1995       1996
                                  (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:       146.0       156.0       166.0
B. Total Local Production   140.0       147.0       154.0
C. Total Exports:           115.0       120.0       126.0
D. Total Imports:           121.0       129.0       138.0
E. Imports from U.S.:        16.0        17.0        18.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP)   0.67        0.67        0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


14. Household Consumer Goods (HCG):

     Growth in the household consumer products market closely 
corresponds with trends in consumer spending.  In 1994, consumer 
confidence strengthened significantly leading to a large rise (5%) in 
consumer spending.  This substantial growth was due to a positive 
economic environment which enabled interest rates remain low and stable; 
and, employment to grow.

     In 1995, consumer spending is forecast to remain strong at about 5 
percent on account of a significant rise in disposable incomes following 
the taxation reductions initiated by the Irish government in its 1995 
fiscal Budget.  The positive future economic outlook for Ireland should 
lead to positive consumer spending growth in the period through the year 
2000.

     Imports hold a 44% share of the Irish household consumer goods 
market.  In recent years U.S. products have achieved a 5% share of the 
import market.  With a young growing population and 80% of homes 
privately owned, this market represents long term growth potential.  
Local agents and distributors attend the major international trade fairs 
in the sector.  These firms are continually seeking new and innovative 
products to launch on the Irish market.  Most promising sub-sectors 
include; domestic electrical appliances, ceramic products, hand tools, 
metallic cookware, plastic housewares, and lawn mowers.

     In July 1995, the Irish Trade board published a new 15-product 
sector directory of identified market opportunities which not only 
present opportunities for indigenous Irish entrepreneurs, but equally 
introduce a range of researched sectors in which U.S. firms can discuss 
potential joint ventures with various Irish partners.  These sectors 
include: furniture, soft furnishings, housewares, DIY/hardware, 
giftware, jewelry, toiletries and cosmetics, non food groceries, 
clothing, footwear, toys, stationery, music/books, sports goods, and 
leisure products.  Copies of these reports may be obtained from the 
Ireland Market Department, Irish Trade Board, Merrion Hall, Strand Road, 
Sandymount, Dublin 4. 

                           Data Table
                           1994       1995       1996
                                (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:      462.0      485.0      509.0
B. Total Local Production  387.0      407.0      427.0
C. Total Exports:          201.0      212.0      223.0
D. Total Imports:          276.0      290.0      305.0
E. Imports from U.S.:       14.0       15.0       16.0
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP): 0.67       0.67       0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


15. Construction Equipment (CON):

     The Irish construction industry continued its strong recovery in 
1994 with significant growth of 8.5% in building and construction 
investment.  The outlook for 1995 remains positive with early forecasts 
projecting growth of 8.75% in investment. Long term growth will be 
underpinned by EU Structural Funding for the Ireland National 
Development Plan, 1994-1999.  This plan contains proposals to further 
develop Ireland's transportation and environmental infrastructure.

     Within the Irish construction equipment, imports equate to total 
market demand because there is no domestic production.  Trade 
statistics, meanwhile, misrepresent the prominence of U.S. branded 
products as Caterpillar's Irish distributor, for example, which sources 
90% of its equipment in Belgium, with only 10% imported direct from the 
United States.  Most promising sub-sectors include: excavating 
machinery, and construction vehicles.

                               Data Table
                              1994      1995     1996
                                   (US$ millions)
A. Total Market Size:         202.0     222.0    244.0
B. Total Local Production      Nil        Nil      Nil
C. Total Exports:              Nil        Nil      Nil
D. Total Imports:             202.0     222.0    244.0
E. Imports from U.S.:           4.0       4.4      4.8
F. Exchange Rate (USD/IEP):    0.67      0.67     0.67

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


B. BEST PROSPECTS AGRICULTURAL GOODS - IRELAND FY 1996


1. Corn Gluten Feed:

     Ireland imports significant amounts of U.S. feed ingredients to 
supplement native grown grain and grass-based feeds.  Ireland continues 
to be one of the EU's largest importers of corn gluten feed (CGF).  Bad 
weather conditions in the Spring of 1994 and 1995 created a much 
stronger demand for animal feed and, in particular for ingredients such 
as CGF.  Competition for the market is intense with Canadian and South 
American supplies available.  Importers are also prepared to substitute 
with Asian-sourced ingredients if the price structure is advantageous.


                              Data Table
                             1994      1995       1996
                                 (metric tonnes)
A. Total Consumption:       473,000    485,000   486,000
B. Total Local Production     Nil        Nil       Nil
C. Total Exports:             4,000      4,000     4,000
D. Total Imports:           477,000    489,000   490,000
E. Imports from U.S.:       432,000    440,000   442,000

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


2. Pears:

     Given its temperate climate, Ireland must import all of its 
tropical, citrus, and other out-of-season fruit.  Opportunities exist 
for all fruit imports, particularly oranges, grapefruit, and grapes (for 
the Christmas market).  Strong marketing has made Irish consumers aware 
of the availability and quality of U.S. pears.  Similar marketing could 
increase exports of other fruits to Ireland.  However, many exporters 
such as those in southern EU member states, North African countries, and 
South Africa are extremely active and price competitive in the 
marketplace.


                              Data Table
                              1994       1995     1996
                                   (metric tonnes)
A. Total Consumption:         8,200       8,350   8,500
B. Total Local Production      Nil         Nil      Nil
C. Total Exports:              Nil         Nil      Nil
D. Total Imports:             8,200       8,350   8,500
E. Imports from U.S.:           316         500     600

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


3. Wine:

     Shipments of U.S. wines to Ireland increased by almost one quarter 
in 1994.  The total wine market increased in 1994 to 17.9 million liters 
and U.S. wines now hold a 4.6% market share.  The majority of U.S. 
labels available are from Californian wineries.  Irish importers 
continue to seek quality and value and opportunities exist for exports 
from other U.S. wine exporting states.  The market is very competitive 
with Chile and South Africa extremely active and successful in 
increasing their shipments by 40 percent in 1994.

                             Data Table
                             1994       1995      1996
                                    (kiloliters)
A. Total Consumption:       17,900      18,800   19,700
B. Total Local Production      Nil         Nil      Nil
C. Total Exports:              Nil         Nil      Nil
D. Total Imports:           17,900      18,800   19,700
E. Imports from U.S.:          825         900      950

Note: The above statistics are unofficial estimates


C.     SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES - IRELAND FY 1996


Investment opportunities for Ireland are outlined in two sub-sections; 
(1) Major Project Opportunities within Ireland, and (2) Opportunities 
within the Border Counties in conjunction with the Presidential Economic 
Initiative for Ireland.


(1) Major Project Opportunities Within Ireland

The following is a listing of major projects in Ireland as of June 30, 
1995.


Sector:  Energy Technologies
Project Name:  Peat-fired Electric Power Station
Estimated Value:  NA
Expected Award Date:  1996
Project Description:  Construction and operation of a peat-fired 
electric power station in the Midlands region of Ireland.
Contracting Authority:  Department of Transport, Energy, and 
Communications
Project Status:  Requests for tenders will be issued in late 1995.


Sector:  Telecommunications
Project Name:  Second Digital Cellular (GSM) Telecommunications Network
Estimated Value:  NA
Expected Award Date:  November 1995
Project Description:  Nationwide digital cellular telecommunications 
network
Contracting Authority:  Department of Transport, Energy, and 
Communications
Project Status:  Bid deadline was recently deferred from June 23, 1995 
to August 4, 1995


Sector:  Telecommunications
Project Name:  Telecom Eireann Strategic Alliance
Estimated Value:  $600-$700 million
Expected Award Date:  Late 1995/Early 1996
Project Description:  Appointment of a strategic alliance partner(s) for 
Telecom Eireann.
Contracting Authorities:  (1) Department of Transport, Energy, and 
Communications
                          (2) Department of Finance
                          (3) Telecom Eireann
Project Status:  Telecom Eireann is awaiting a mandate from the Irish 
Government to enter detailed negotiations with 7/8 international 
telecommunications firms.

Sector:  Information Technologies
Project Name:  Strategic Information Technology System
Estimated Value:  NA
Expected Award Date:  Late 1995
Project Description:  Detailed design, development, and pilot 
implementation of a strategic information technology system for the 
Irish police force. 
Contracting Authorities:  (1) Department of Justice
  (2) An Garda Siochana (The Irish Police Force)
Project status:  Bids closed June 19, 1995. Awaiting decision.

Sector:  Telecommunications
Project Name:  Defense Radios
Estimated value:  $10 million
Expected Award Date:  Late 1995
Project Description:  Supply of VHF tactical radio equipment to the 
Irish Defense Forces.
Contracting Authority:  Department of Defense
Project Status:  Bids are to be submitted by Friday, August 25, 1995

Sector:  Tourism
Project Name:  National Convention Center
Estimated value:  $50+ million
Expected Award Date:  1996
Project Description:  Construction and operation of a National 
Convention Center.
Contracting Authority:  Department of Tourism and Trade
Project Status:  Proposals to be placed before the Irish Government 
shortly by the Minister for Tourism and Trade, Mr. Enda Kenny.


(2) Opportunities within the Border Counties

Introduction

The end of violence in Northern Ireland presents the opportunity for 
lasting peace and with it, vastly improved social and economic stability 
and quality of life.  An essential element in stability is the return of 
prosperity, with better jobs and lives for all the people of Northern 
Ireland and the Border Counties of the Republic.  The improvement in the 
climate for investment now indicates a broad range of timely and 
promising opportunities for American business.

American companies are already the largest international investors in 
Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.  With the momentum of the 
peace process, additional expansion can play a major role in bringing 
economic growth to the region and create vitally needed jobs.  U.S. 
firms, by availing of a venue in Ireland for inward investment, can 
concurrently enhance their competitiveness in the entire $7 trillion 
plus European market by utilizing one of the best untapped skilled labor 
pools in the European Union.

President Clinton has emphasized his personal commitment to help bring 
about a peaceful end to a generation of conflict.  The President is 
convinced that jobs and growing prosperity will help to prevent further 
violence and that economic opportunity provides both enfranchisement and 
hope for a better future.  Economic growth will build upon the 
foundation of peace constructed by the leaders and people of Northern 
Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.  To reinforce his commitment, 
President Clinton appointed former Senate Majority Leader George 
Mitchell to serve as Special Advisor to the President and the Secretary 
of State for Economic Initiatives in Ireland.

The Presidential Economic Initiatives for Ireland include the White 
House Conference for Trade and Investment in Ireland convened in 
Washington in May 1995; increased funding for the International Fund for 
Ireland; an enhanced cooperative program in science and technology; a 
business information center at the U.S. Department of Commerce; a 
business intern training program to enable Irish managers and business 
technical experts to train with U.S. companies; and, a series of post-
White House Conference trade and investment activities in the region. 

The White House Conference represented a first step in facilitating 
private sector business relationships, including direct investment, 
franchising, licensing, contract manufacturing, agent/distributor and 
other sales representation agreements, and a myriad of joint venture and 
strategic alliances.  In preparation for the Conference, the U.S. 
Department of Commerce compiled a Strategic Overview of the region which 
contained information on trade and investment opportunities in Northern 
Ireland and the Border Counties of the Republic of Ireland.  

Proposed follow-up activities include a Business Development Trade 
Mission in October 1995 (see Trade Event Plan - Appendix G in Chapter X) 
focusing on the following four industry sectors; Environmental 
Technologies, Food Industries, Information Technologies, and Tourism 
Services.

1. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES

I.    Market Overview

Environmental protection has a high priority on the Irish Government's 
public policy agenda.  As outlined in its "Ireland National Development 
Plan, 1994-1999", the Irish Government intends to support, with the 
assistance of EU Structural Funds, investments totaling about $1 billion 
in environmental projects.  The Department of the Environment launched a 
national strategy for recycling domestic and commercial waste in 1994 
and new Waste Management legislation is currently before parliament.

The Irish Environmental Protection Agency commenced operations in 1993.  
It administers the integrated licensing system (Integrated Pollution 
Control) of large or complex processes with significant pollution 
potential.  The IPC licensing system involves the issuance of one 
license for all aspects of water, air, waste, and noise and replaces the 
previous system where licensing of emissions was handled by the 
respective local authorities and individual licenses were issued for 
each medium.

Ireland has strong and substantial Water and Air Pollution legislation, 
however Waste Disposal legislation is currently very weak.  The issue of 
pollution control has emerged and intensified as more high-tech, 
chemical and pharmaceutical companies establish operations in Ireland.  
Accidents at three local chemical plants in 1993 heightened interest in 
the issue.  Despite widespread reports of a growing market for 
environmental technology equipment and services, there is no data 
available on the industry sector.  While confirming the lack of 
statistics, industry contacts indicate a potential expanding market.  
The major end user segments are chemical and pharmaceutical producers, 
food and drink companies, electronics manufacturers, and public 
authorities who have responsibility for sewage and waste disposal.

II.   Competitive Factors

The principal driving force behind demand for environmental technology 
equipment and services is the ever increasing level of environmental 
legislation.  Today, firms are having to give increased attention to 
closer monitoring of emissions that affect the environment.  Certain 
public policy international trends are beginning to emerge in Ireland; 
i.e. consumers demanding "greener" more environmentally-friendly 
products; banks being more willing to lend to firms that prevent or 
mitigate pollution; insurance companies more willing to underwrite clean 
companies; and employees who prefer to work for environmentally 
responsible firms. 


III.  Market Opportunities

As EU regulations on pollution control are implemented, demand for 
environmental technology equipment and services is expected to grow.  
Consequently, there is an excellent opportunity for motivated U.S. 
suppliers with quality products to penetrate and develop this market.

Under the "Ireland National Development Plan, 1994-1999", about $1 
billion will be invested in the environmental sector.  Projects will 
include water treatment, sewage and waste disposal.  In 1994, the 
Department of the Environment published the "Operational Program for 
Environmental Services" which outlines the basis of this $1 billion 
investment.  Specifically, the program relates to the support of 
environmental infrastructure such as drinking water supplies, waste 
water treatment facilities, solid waste disposal facilities, coastal 
protection works, and environmental research and development.  However, 
details of specific projects covered by this plan have not been 
published.  To ensure that U.S. firms can compete on these projects, the 
Commercial Service at the Embassy in Dublin actively monitors and 
reports on public procurement opportunities in the environmental sector, 
in particular where there are opportunities for the supply of U.S. 
environmental technology and services.

2. FOOD INDUSTRIES

I.    Market Overview

Agriculture and food processing is of vital importance to the Irish 
economy.  Primary agriculture generates nine percent of GDP and, when 
combined with the food processing sector, employs over 15 percent of the 
Irish workforce.  Ireland's mild temperate climate ensures good grass 
growth.  Grass forms the basis of the Irish beef and dairy industry 
which accounts for 70 percent of agricultural output.  Other 
agricultural enterprises of importance include hog, poultry, sheep, 
grain (mainly barley), potatoes and sugar beet production.  Since 
joining the European Union in the early 1970's, Irish agriculture and 
food processing has developed into a sophisticated, often state of the 
art, vibrant sector.

With a population of 402,600, the six border counties (Cavan, Donegal, 
Leitrim, Louth, Monaghan, and Sligo) represent about 11 percent of the 
total population of the Republic of Ireland.  Employment in agriculture 
in the region is double the national average at 18 percent.  When 
employment in the food processing sector is taken into account, the 
importance of the sector to the local economy is obvious.

The agricultural situation in the border counties varies considerably 
based on land quality.  Farms in Louth are larger with mixed 
enterprises; in Monaghan and Cavan they provide adequate incomes, 
especially in dairying; and, farms in Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal are 
small and depend on cattle and sheep.

One sixth of Irish milk production comes from the border county region 
where dairy farms are small (almost 70 percent of producers have a milk 
quotas of less than 90,000 liters).  Most of the milk production is sold 
to the 14 dairy cooperatives operating in the region.  Only five of the 
cooperatives are engaged in manufacturing, and these produce a range of 
dairy products including casein (a milk protein extract which forms the 
basis for making cheese) for export to the United States.

A substantial proportion of the Irish poultry and egg industry,  both at 
grower and processing levels, is concentrated in the border region.  Hog 
production is also important to the region where just more than one 
quarter of the national herd is situated.  Animal feed mills, producing 
feedstuffs for the poultry and hog industries, are also prominent.  The 
potato industry has been historically, and continues to be, important, 
especially in Donegal.  Two-thirds of Ireland's mushroom growers are 
located in the border region and account for over 53 percent of Irish 
mushroom production.  The fishing industry is important to Donegal and a 
number of processing facilities are already situated there.

Overall farm profitability throughout the region is much lower than the 
national average except in Louth where the better land helps bring 
profitability to just above the national average.  The age profile of 
the landowners shows that more than half of the farmers in Leitrim and 
Donegal are over 55 years old.  Off-farm income is especially important 
in Donegal, where 57 percent have another form of occupation (compared 
to the national average of 26 percent).

II.   Competitive Factors

With its potential to create national wealth and employment, the 
development of a strong indigenous food industry has been a consistent 
Irish government objective for many years.  The first national 
development strategy for the Irish food industry was launched in early 
1995 and set the framework for the development of the food industry 
through the year 2000.  Grant-aid and supports will be provided to 
address current weaknesses in the industry.

Government funds are available for a variety of projects, including 
dairy, meat, cereals, and produce.  The thrust of the program is to 
increase the value-added component of Irish food products, expand 
exports, and create new jobs in the industry.  In the past, funds have 
supported projects that use domestic raw materials to produce high-
margin packaged food products capable of exploiting significant export 
opportunities.  These types of projects will continue to be important.  
A number of food processing sectors in the border counties should 
benefit from these grants.

As a member of the European Union, Irish food products have relatively 
easy access to a market of 360 million consumers in the EU.  No 
restrictions exist on shipping to markets within the EU and worldwide on 
animal and plant health grounds.

The Irish Food Board, whose mission is to expand the export potential of 
the food industry, recently outlined a number of grant aids that it will 
make available for market research and development in the food industry.       

III.  Market Opportunities

A considerable amount of quality raw material exists in the border 
region.  The concentration of the poultry, hog and mushroom industries 
in the region ensures that food processors are eager to develop more 
value added products.  Many could benefit from U.S. involvement in 
technology transfer, joint venture or franchise agreements.  U.S. firms 
with a quality product to offer to the EU market could, for example, 
source the meat components of the product in Ireland.  This could 
overcome difficulties, such as strict veterinary requirements, in 
shipping U.S. product directly to the EU.

3. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES

I.  Market Overview

Ireland has a very strong industrial base in information technologies 
comprised of both international and indigenous electronics, 
telecommunications, software, and telemarketing firms.  The information 
technologies sector in Ireland consists of about 650 firms employing 
almost 40,000 people.  Gross annual output is about $15 billion, 90 
percent of which is exported.  Exports from the electronics and software 
sectors alone are valued at $12-13 billion per annum.

The electronics sector consists of about 300 firms employing over 30,000 
people in a wide range of sub-sectors including computer systems and 
sub-systems, peripherals and media, electronic components, datacomms 
equipment, control and test systems, and consumer electronics.  The 
software sector is comprised of over 350  firms employing almost 9,000 
people in a broad range of activities including development and 
customization, localization and translation, production and 
distribution, and technical support.  Within the telemarketing sector. 
there are about 20 operations employing 1,400 people and 12 back-office 
data-processing operations employing 1,500.  The majority of these 
operations are of international origin.

Ireland is striving to be at the forefront of the information 
technologies revolution as it endeavors to utilize telecommunications 
and information technologies to offset its peripheral island status and 
create employment.  Telecom Eireann has invested substantially in 
modernizing the telecommunications network and is now seeking to 
increase the intelligent features of its network, provide a large range 
of advanced telecommunications services, and participate in the 
developing area of multimedia services.

The high level of exports from the sector is attributable to the strong 
presence of multinational computer manufacturers such as Apple, Dell, 
Gateway 2000, Intel, Microsoft, and Motorola which utilize Ireland's 
investment advantages and incentives to access and develop a market 
presence within the lucrative European marketplace.  The presence of 
these international firms and their utilization of world class 
manufacturing techniques has created a quality high technology sector in 
Ireland.  

II.  Competitive Factors

The driving forces behind the growth of the sector in Ireland are 
international investment and the ongoing development of information 
technology.  The presence of multinational manufacturers has created a 
lucrative sub-supply sector comprised of both international 
manufacturers and indigenous Irish firms.  Indigenous electronics firms 
are a critical feature of the Irish electronics industry as they provide 
essential sub-supply services to the international manufacturing base.  
As these manufacturers utilize world class manufacturing techniques, 
indigenous suppliers have had to adopt these principles in order to 
achieve sub-supplier status.  Since the start of the 1990's, the level 
of technology within the Irish indigenous sector has risen considerably 
and local firms have become more integrated with both Irish and 
European-based international manufacturers.  Additionally, the ready 
availability of well-educated and skilled personnel to staff new 
international investment projects is a distinct feature of the sector in 
Ireland.

III.  Market Opportunities

Ireland is well-positioned to take advantage of the international 
information technology revolution.  With its well-educated and computer 
literate labor force, strong base in computer software and electronics, 
and modern telecommunications infrastructure, the country can utilize 
information technologies to develop new forms of employment which make 
its island location irrelevant.  These opportunities could be pursued in 
any part of the country, including the Border Counties.  Indeed, the 
U.S. subsidiary of Bose Limited, a loudspeaker manufacturer in County 
Monaghan and centered in the middle of the Border region, has seen 
growth rates between 20-25% during the last three years and an increase 
to about 20% of the loudspeaker market in Europe despite the large 
number of other brand manufacturers in Germany and the U.K.

U.S. firms, with their reputation for technology leadership in the 
telecommunications, electronics,and informatics sector, can engage this 
development through strategies of inward investment, licensing, or 
technology transfer initiatives in Ireland.   Domestic software firms 
have a good reputation for quality products and services.  In addition, 
Ireland possesses a pool of skilled software graduates, many already 
having international experience.  Telecommunications, multimedia, and 
environmental software are the areas expected to show the strongest 
growth.

Indigenous electronics, telecommunications, and software firms are 
continually seeking corporate relationships which will enable them to 
expand their business operations.  Strategic alliances, licensing, 
and/or technology transfer agreements with U.S. firms seeking a European 
market presence are actively sought by indigenous Irish firms.  
Forbairt, the agency responsible for the development of the indigenous 
industry in Ireland, is available to assist interested U.S. firms in 
matching-up with appropriate Irish firms.

4.  TOURISM SERVICES

I.  Market Overview  

Tourism is Ireland's fourth largest source of foreign earnings and is 
the State's highest-earning internationally traded service.  It is 
particularly important to the economy of areas which, for geographical 
reasons, are relatively unsuited to agriculture or industrial 
development.  In this context, tourism supports Government policy to 
achieve balanced economic growth throughout the country.  3.6 million 
overseas visitors came to Ireland in 1994.  The most significant 
increase in business in recent years has been from Continental Europe  -  
the 1994 total of 990,000 visitors was more than twice that achieved in 
1988.

Peace in Northern Ireland offers the potential for the greatest 
enhancement in tourism on the island in recent decades.  This has been 
recognized by the Irish Government with the launching of "Tourism 2000" 
in September 1994.  This program will bring almost 592 million US 
dollars of EU money into the Irish economy over the next six years.  
Cross-border tourism co-operation between the Irish Tourist Board and 
the Northern Ireland Tourist Board has been evolving over the past 
several years.  The primary areas of co-operation have focused on the 
joint marketing of Ireland as a tourist destination abroad.

II.  Competitive Factors

The main attractions of Ireland for visitors lie in its scenery, people, 
and way of life.  The country abounds in rich unspoiled scenery and 
fresh, unpolluted waters, offering variety and excitement to both the 
passive viewer and the more active holiday-maker.  There are excellent 
facilities for golfing, walking, horse riding, cycling, fishing and 
shooting together with a wide range of other leisure activities.  There 
is plenty to see and do for those interested in the country's colorful 
and distinctive cultural heritage as well as the more formal museums, 
art galleries, theaters and folk parks.
  

III.  Market Opportunities

Tourism in Ireland has considerable potential for further development.  
The Irish Government has embarked upon a new Operational Program for 
Tourism 1994-1999 which involves the investment of 1,060 million U.S. 
dollars, funded by the Irish public and private sectors and by the 
European Union.  The program's priorities are to achieve continued 
improvement in the quality and range of existing products; to enhance 
standards and service through training; to extend the length of the 
tourist season; and, to this end, to allocate increased resources for 
marketing.

Major projects planned include a National Conference Center in Dublin.  
There will also be substantial investment in improving special interest 
activities.  The fundamental themes of Ireland as a land of unspoiled 
scenery, wholesome environment and friendly people will underlie a 
greatly increased marketing campaign for these and other holiday 
choices.

Investment opportunities exist within Ireland in tourism products, 
infrastructure and services for U.S. investors as the Irish Government 
endeavors to achieve the full potential of the tourism sector by 
investing in new facilities and services.  Tourism in Ireland is a 3,500 
U.S. dollar million industry, supporting 97,000 jobs in the Irish 
economy and accounting for 8% of employment and a similar proportion of 
GNP growth.  The performance of the sector has been impressive in recent 
years as the number of tourists visiting Ireland has grown 7% annually 
between 1985 and 1993.

With continuing peace in Ireland, the tourism sector is forecast to 
achieve increased annual growth through the year 2000.  The anticipated 
growth in visitors to the entire island of Ireland will generate a 
demand for more facilities and services.  This will require investment 
in both physical assets and training and offers opportunities for U.S. 
firms servicing the tourism sector.  Targets set by the Irish government 
for the period up to 1999 include foreign exchange earnings of 3,666 
U.S. dollars per annum in 1993 real terms, and the creation of an 
additional 35,000 full-time jobs.



            CHAPTER VI:    TRADE REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS

Ireland has been of member of the European Union (EU) since January 1, 
1973.  The EU is a customs union having free trade among the 15 Member 
States, while levying a common tariff on imports coming from non-EU 
countries such as the United States.  The EU also has a common 
agricultural policy, joint transportation policy, and free movement of 
goods and capital within Member States.  Other aspects of commercial 
activity are being harmonized.

Under agreements reached between the 15 EU member states and the 
remaining three members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), 
duty-free trade for industrial products has been achieved between the 15 
EU and 3 EFTA countries.  Taxes, such as the value-added tax (VAT) and 
excise taxes, are levied in the country of final destination.  There has 
been some degree of harmonization of VAT rates between Member States.

In addition to the EFTA countries, Ireland and the other EU nations 
extend preferential tariff treatment to certain other countries and 
territories with historical ties to the EU and to less developed 
countries in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific regions.  The 
granting of reduced tariffs to developing countries is under the 
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

Trade Barriers

As a member of the EU, Ireland administers tariff and non-tariff 
barriers in accordance with applicable EU policies.  With regard to 
services trade, Ireland maintains a limited number of barriers in the 
aviation and financial services industries.  In the aviation industry, 
airlines serving Ireland may provide their own ground handling services, 
but are prohibited from providing similar services to other airlines.  
Meanwhile, the banking and insurance sectors of the financial services 
industry are slowly being deregulated, although full deregulation within 
the insurance sector will not occur until 1998.

Import Duties

Ireland applies the EU tariffs (customs duties), which are based on the 
international Harmonized System (HS) of product classification.  Duty 
rates on manufactured goods from the United States generally range from 
5 to 8 percent and are usually based on the c.i.f. value of the goods at 
the port of entry.  The c.i.f. value is the price of the goods (usually 
the sales price) plus packing costs, insurance, and freight charges to 
the port of entry.  Most raw materials enter duty free or at low rates.  
For information on EU duty rates of manufactured and industrial 
products, contact the U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade 
Administration's Office of European Union and Regional Affairs, phone: 
(202) 482-5276.

Exporters should be aware that, in accordance with EU regulations, 
agricultural and food items are often subject to import levies which 
vary depending on world market prices.  The rates are based on the 
composition of foods and in particular some packaged foodstuffs can be 
affected.  Irish importers are familiar with the operation of these 
levies and will be able to provide U.S. exporters with the current 
rates.  More information on import levies may be obtained from the 
Office of Agricultural Affairs, U.S. Embassy, Dublin.

The Harmonized System (HS) is a system designed to classify goods in 
international trade for customs purposes and for developing trade 
statistics.  It is arranged into 99 chapters according to categories 
such as agriculture, chemicals, chief material of the product, or type 
of manufacturing industry.  The HS classification number consists of a 
minimum of six digits, which are common to all countries using the 
system.  Additional digits can be used to meet each nation's individual 
statistical requirements and give greater detail as needed.  If a HS 
number is requested by an Irish importer, this information may be 
obtained from an ITA district office or the Office of European Union and 
Regional Affairs, phone (202) 482-5276.

Quotations

Sales quotations are usually given on a c.i.f. basis.  This is the sales 
price plus costs, insurance, and freight (c.i.f.) to point of 
importation.  The c.i.f. quote is generally preferred by Irish importers 
as they are familiar with the customs charges and taxes on the product 
that are levied at the time of importation, but may not be acquainted 
with U.S. trucking and ocean or air charges.  Large firms and department 
stores, however, sometimes buy on f.o.b. terms when they prefer to 
arrange for shipping and insuring the goods themselves.  Quotations and 
invoicing are usually in terms of the currency of the country of origin.

Merchandise may be examined by the importer before customs clearance for 
the purpose of making an inventory.  Goods cannot clear customs without 
shipping documents and payment of any customs duty, applicable value-
added taxes, and any excise taxes.  These formalities must be undertaken 
by the importer at the time of clearing customs.  Import licenses, if 
required, should be presented by the importer within the valid period 
for which they were issued.

Goods in Transit

Goods may clear customs with an EU transit procedure that provides for 
the issuance of a single transit document under which the goods may be 
easily shipped across frontiers of the EU member states.  These transit 
documents are completed by the importer.  The transit document provides 
the basis for a single, comprehensive procedure covering the goods 
within the Community.  Since this is an EU procedure, the European 
importer, customshouse broker, freight forwarder, or shipper must 
prepare these documents at point of entry into the Community.

Free Trade Zones

The Shannon Free Trade Zone, located at the Shannon International 
Airport, is the world's oldest free zone and was established in 1947.  
This facility is attractive as an international distribution and 
warehouse center serving the Western Europe because it provides the 
unique combination of a custom-free industrial zone and direct access to 
air and surface transport to the United Kingdom and other European 
markets.  Raw materials and partly or completely manufactured products 
may be imported into the free zone in any quantity and held there 
without payment of duties or taxes.  Processing, sorting, grading, or 
repacking of the goods may take place within the zone, and buildings may 
be leased or built.  As sales require, the goods held in the free zone 
may then be withdrawn from inventory and reexported to other countries 
or imported into Ireland for consumption after payment of appropriate 
duties, value-added taxes, and excise duties.  If the goods are 
reexported to another country, duties and taxes, as appropriate, will be 
payable in that country.

The principal advantages of the free zone to American firms are; the 
existence of a European base of supply to assure customers prompt 
delivery and service, the ability to maintain inventory at low cost, and 
eligibility for the reduced 10 percent corporate tax rate in Ireland.

Warehousing

Adequate warehousing facilities are available in major Irish cities.  
Bonded warehouses are operated in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, and 
Galway.  The Dublin Port and Docks Board maintains the largest 
warehousing organization in the country.  In addition to storage 
facilities, the Board provides services needed by distributors such as 
packing, sorting, bottling, and transport service.  Imported goods 
liable to a duty may be stored in a bonded warehouse in the port area or 
other locations without payment of duties or taxes.  The goods may 
remain there until needed, at which time they are cleared for Irish 
consumption by payment of duties and taxes, or sent to the country of 
destination.  Certain types of processing are allowed in the bonded 
warehouses under official supervision.

Inwards and Outwards Processing

Inwards processing is the temporary importation of raw materials or 
products for additional manufacture or processing.  Merchandise imported 
for additional processing and eventual reexport out of the EU is 
eligible for customs-free treatment.  The reexported goods may be partly 
or totally processed.  The import duty and taxes are levied only on 
those goods that are not reexported and finally sold in the EU.

To qualify for inwards processing, the Irish, or EU firm must satisfy 
customs that it is necessary to use imported goods instead of EU goods; 
state the intention to export products manufactured from the imported 
goods (or equivalent goods available in the EU); and assure that, upon 
reexportation, the conditions set forth in the authorization are 
satisfied, the exported goods are accounted for, and the entered goods 
are identifiable and relate to specific importations.

In outwards processing, an Irish firm may export goods for further 
manufacture or processing from the EU customs area and then re-import 
the final product.  Duties and taxes are levied on the increased value 
added by the expatriate manufacturing or processing when the goods are 
returned to Ireland, not upon the total value of the product.  Only 
firms located in Ireland or another EU country are eligible to take 
advantage of this option and should first gain approval by the Irish 
customs authorities.

Samples and Advertising Materials

Ireland participates in the International Convention to Facilitate the 
Importation of Commercial Samples and Advertising Materials.  Samples of 
negligible value imported to promote sales are accorded duty-free and 
tax-free treatment.  Prior authorization is not required.  To determine 
whether the samples are of negligible value, their value is compared 
with that of a commercial shipment of the same product.  Granting of 
duty-free status may require that the samples be rendered useless for 
future sale by marking, perforating, cutting, or other means.

Imported samples of commercial value may be granted a temporary entry 
and exemption from customs charges.  Security is required in the amount 
of duty and tax chargeable increased by 10 percent.  Samples may remain 
in the country for up to one year.  They are not permitted to be sold, 
put to their normal use (except for demonstration purposes), or utilized 
in any manner of remuneration.  Goods imported as samples may be 
imported only in quantities constituting a sample according to normal 
commercial usage.

Carnets

As a result of various customs conventions, simplified procedures are 
available to U.S. business and professional people for the temporary 
importation of commercial samples and professional equipment for display 
or demonstration.  A carnet is a customs document that facilitates 
customs clearance for temporary imports.  With the carnet, goods may be 
imported without the payment of duty, tax, or additional security.  It 
also may save time since formalities are all arranged before leaving for 
the international business trip.  A carnet is usually valid for one year 
from the date of issuance.  The cost ranges from $120 to $250.  A bond 
or cash deposit of 40 percent of the value of the goods covered by the 
carnet is also required.  This will be forfeited in the event the 
products are not reexported and duties and taxes are not paid.

Carnets are issued in the United States by the U.S. Council for 
International Business at the following locations: 1212 Avenue of the 
Americas, New York, NY 10036, phone: (212) 354-4480, 3345 Wilshire 
Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90010, Phone (213) 386-0767, and 1930 Thoreau 
Drive, #101, Schaumburg, IL 60173.

Advance rulings from Irish Customs

Prior to signing a long term contract or sending a shipment of 
considerable value, it may be prudent for a U.S. exporter to first 
obtain an official ruling on the customs classification, duty, and 
taxes.  Such requests should be sent to: The Office of the Revenue 
Commissioners, Division IV, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2.  The request should 
describe the product, the material it is made from, and other details 
needed by customs authorities to classify the product correctly.  While 
customs will not provide a binding decision, the advance ruling usually 
will be accepted if the goods are found to correspond exactly to the 
sample or description provided.

Value-Added Tax

The valued-added tax, most frequently called by its acronym VAT, is 
charged on the sale of goods and services within the country.  Unlike 
the customs duty, which is the same for all EU member countries, the VAT 
is established by the tax authorities of each country and differs from 
country to country.  At each stage of the manufacturing and distribution 
chain, the seller adds the appropriate amount of VAT (tax on the amount 
of value that the seller added to the product, plus the amount of VAT 
passed on to the seller by the supplier) to the sales price.  The tax is 
always quoted separately on the invoice.  The firm periodically 
subtracts the VAT paid on its purchases of goods and services from the 
VAT collected on its sales and remits the balance to the government.  
This process repeats itself at each stage until the product is sold to 
the final consumer, who bears the full burden of the tax.  In Ireland, 
the standard VAT rate is 21 percent.

For imports into Ireland, the VAT is levied at the same rate as for 
domestic products or transactions.  The basis on which the VAT is 
charged on imports is the c.i.f. value at the port of entry, plus any 
duty, excise taxes, levies, or other charges (excluding the VAT) 
collected by customs at the time of importation.  This total represents 
the value of the import when it clears customs.  The importer is liable 
for payment of customs duties, VAT, and any other charges at the time of 
clearing the goods through customs.  Exports from Ireland are exempt 
from VAT since they are not consumed in the country and will be subject 
to any tax in the country of destination.  Temporary imports that will 
be reexported are not subject to the VAT.  The importer may have to post 
a temporary bond for the amount of the customs duty and taxes as 
security which will be canceled when the goods are taken out of the 
country.

Excise Taxes

Excise taxes are levied on a limited number of products such as gasoline 
and diesel fuel, spirits, beer, wine, bottled water, cider and perry, 
tobacco, motor vehicles, and liquid petroleum gas.  The excise rates 
vary, depending on the products.  The tax is imposed whether the goods 
are manufactured in Ireland or imported from EU or non-EU countries.  
Duties on excise goods imported from non-EU countries may be collected 
at the point of importation or when the goods are subsequently removed 
from a bonded warehouse.  The excise tax is in addition to any customs 
duty or VAT.  For trade within the EU, the duties are collected in the 
Member State of consumption.  Special arrangements operate to allow 
excise goods to move duty free between the Member States and to collect 
the duty in the country of consumption.  Firms wishing to manufacture 
goods subject to excise tax in Ireland must first obtain a license from 
the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.  Premises may be approved to 
receive and store certain excise goods without payment of duty.  This 
approval allows the deferral of duty on goods while they are being 
worked on or stored.  Authorization may be obtained to import goods 
without the payment of tax to undergo processing and re-exportation.

Shipping Documents

Shipments to Ireland require one copy each of the bill of lading (or air 
waybill) and the commercial invoice for customs clearance.  There are no 
consular requirements, but certificates of origin may be required as set 
out below.

U.S. customs also requires two copies of the U.S. Shipper's Export 
Declaration (U.S. Department of Commerce Form 7525V) for goods valued at 
$1,500 or more.  A declaration form must be completed for all shipments 
by regular mail or parcel post valued at $500 or more.  The form must 
include the harmonized commodity number of the exported product as well 
as the weight stated in metric units.  When sending goods through the 
mail, the exporter should inquire at the post office as to the proper 
documentation needed for mail shipments.  For additional information or 
assistance on export documentation, exporters should contact their local 
U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration district 
office.

Although no special format is prescribed for the commercial invoice, it 
is advisable to include the following: date and place of shipment; name 
(firm's name) and address of the seller and the buyer; method of 
shipping; number, kind, and markings of the packages and their numerical 
order; description of the goods using the usual commercial description 
according to kind, quality, grade, and the weight (gross and net, in 
metric units) along with any factors increasing or decreasing the value; 
agreed price of goods; unit cost; total cost f.o.b. factory plus 
shipping; insurance charges; delivery and payment terms; and the 
signature of a responsible official of the shipper's firm.  Bills of 
lading should bear the name of the party to be notified.  The consignee 
needs the original bill of lading to take possession of the goods.

Certificates of origin are required for a small number of goods of U.S. 
origin, including port and Madeira wines, seafood for industrial 
processing, and certain textile products.  The need for a certificate of 
origin should be ascertained directly from the importer or from the 
appropriate customs authority.  Letter-of-credit terms may stipulate 
that a certificate of origin be provided.  Customs authorities accept 
certificates of origin issued by authorized local U.S. chambers of 
commerce or boards of trade.

Marketing and Labeling

With only minor exceptions, there are no general requirements for 
marking imported goods with the country of origin.  Certain food 
products must show particulars of place of origin, where its absence 
might mislead the consumer to a material degree.  Requirements for 
specific products should be obtained from the importer.  The import, 
export, or transit of non-Irish goods having markings which would lead 
one to believe that the goods are of Irish manufacture or origin is 
prohibited.  The Merchandise Marks Act of 1887, as amended by the 
Consumer Information Act of 1978, prohibits false or misleading trade 
marks and product descriptions and other deceptive indications.  Goods 
may not be imported with marks suggestive of Irish origin unless they 
bear an indication of their true origin.

There are no regulations for the marking of shipping packages.  Good 
shipping practice dictates that packages should bear the consignee's 
mark and be numbered unless the shipment is such that the content of the 
packages can be readily identified without numbers.

Hallmarking of gold and silver articles is required before they can be 
offered for sale.  Only small tolerances are allowable for manufacturing 
errors.  The hallmarking is done by the Goldsmiths of Dublin, Assay 
House, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2.

Packaged foods must carry labels which conform to Irish labeling 
requirements.  The information shown on the label is designed to provide 
the consumer with adequate details about the products including details 
on ingredients, net weight, "best before" date, "use by" date, and 
general usage instructions.  The labeling requirements are similar to 
those employed elsewhere in the EU except that the Irish authorities 
require that the name and the EU address of the manufacturer, 
distributor, or packer appear on the label.  This can often cause 
difficulties for U.S. exporters who should refer any questions on 
labeling of food products to the Office of Agricultural Affairs, U.S. 
Embassy, Dublin.

Import Licensing

Only a small number of goods of U.S. origin require import licenses, 
mostly agricultural and food items.  Other items subject to import 
licensing requirements include coal and lignite fuel, a few products 
from the chemical and related industries, specified iron and steel 
products, various textiles and textile products, natural and synthetic 
precious and semi-precious stones and dust, zinc (plate, sheet, strip, 
and foil), and controlled items such as arms and munitions.  Licenses 
are generally rapidly granted for goods of U.S. origin.

Licenses are not transferable.  They may be used to cover several 
shipments within the total quantity authorized.  In general, the goods 
involved are indicated on the license by the HS classification number 
and the corresponding wording of the tariff position.  Small tolerances, 
up to one percent for most goods and up to five percent in certain 
instances, are permitted in excess of the total specified on the 
license.

Technical Standards

The metric system is the key measurement system in international trade 
and the United States is the only major nation where it is not in full 
use.  The U.S. 1988 Trade Act states that the metric system is the 
preferred system for weights and measures.  American firms can be at a 
serious disadvantage in world markets since overseas buyers are 
reluctant to accept non-standard (non-metric) products; and, since the 
replacement parts and tools are less available and serious safety risks 
could result by mixing metric and non-metric parts.

As a member of the EU, Ireland applies the product standards and 
certification approval process developed by the Community.  Ireland is 
required by the 1957 Treaty of Rome to incorporate the EU Directives in 
its national laws.  With the development of a single product standard, 
U.S. exporters may find it easier to comply with one EU-wide standard 
rather than having to meet several individual national standards when 
exporting to Europe.

The international quality standard, ISO 9000, is widely used in Ireland.  
Its adoption has been aided by the presence of over 1,000 international 
firms and their utilization of world class manufacturing (WCM) 
techniques.  These manufacturers place a responsibility on their 
suppliers to adopt these WCM principles in order to achieve and maintain 
sub-supplier status.  This development has led to the widespread 
adoption of ISO 9000 as one major element of the marketing mix for firms 
seeking to supply international manufacturers based in Ireland.  
Information on attaining ISO 9000 status is available from Forbairt, the 
Irish state agency responsible for developing indigenous industry in 
Ireland.  Forbairt is also providing information and assistance on 
achieving ISO 9000 status to U.S. firms through its offices in the 
United States.

EU Standards

As part of the Single Market program, key product areas have been 
regulated at the Community level for conformance to mandatory 
requirements to protect the health and safety of consumers, as well as 
the environment.  To indicate this conformance to the mandatory 
requirements, a CE mark must be placed on all regulated products by the 
manufacturer or a representative before they can be sold on the EU 
market.  The applicable product testing and certification requirements 
for individual product categories are specified in the various EU 
Directives.  The CE mark relates only to the mandatory health, safety, 
and environmental legal requirements established by the EU; it does not 
indicate conformity to European product standards.  Thus, national marks 
of conformity with product standards remain compatible with the CE mark 
and both may be applied to the product.  It should be noted, however, 
that the CE mark does replace all national safety marks for the 
regulated products.

All imports of agricultural and food items are subject to the sanitary 
and phytosanitary regulations of the EU as well as strict certification 
requirements laid down by the Irish veterinary and plant health 
authorities.  As these regulations are complex and often are subject to 
change, exporters are advised to contact the Office of Agricultural 
Affairs, U.S. Embassy, Dublin for the current requirements for specific 
products.

The European Commission has released "The Global Approach to 
Certification and Testing", a document that recommended harmonized 
testing and certification procedures within the Community.  These 
proposals include establishing a "modular" system for demonstrating 
product compliance.  Under this system, methods of demonstrating product 
conformity range from having the manufacturer self-certify the product; 
having a private testing company type-approve the product; and, 
providing market surveillance, depending on the probability and type of 
product risk.  As the standards and certification requirements evolve, 
it is expected that qualified U.S. testing laboratories will be able to 
fully certify that products conform to EU requirements.

Assistance on Standards

U.S. firms exporting to Ireland are confronted with both Irish and EU 
product standards.  Additionally, these regulations occasionally change 
to meet new technology and more stringent demands.  Exporters can stay 
fully informed on the latest EU technical standards activities by 
contacting the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).  A 
part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, NIST offers industry an in-
depth reference system on EU standards information gathered from the two 
European standards bodies tasked to write the EU norms - the European 
Committee for Standards (CEN) and the European Committee for 
Electrotechnical Standardization (CENELEC).

NIST also can provide updated information from the EU which will 
elaborate on directives and provide assistance in identifying EU and 
member state standards and regulations.  For more information, contact 
NIST at (301) 975-4038.

The Office of European Union and Regional Affairs, International Trade 
Administration, Room 3036, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, D.C. 
20230 publishes regular updates on the status of EU directives.  To 
obtain copies of directives, amendments, and published updates, or to 
obtain a complete list of directives that could affect product sales to 
Ireland or any other EU country, phone (202) 482-5276.  Copies are 
available at a nominal fee.

Other valuable sources of information with regard to international 
standards include the American National Standards Institute, 1430 
Broadway, New York, NY 10018, phone: (212) 354-3300, the Department of 
Commerce's National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 
22161, phone: (703) 557-4733, as well as various international trade 
associations that monitor international activities for their membership.

The European Electrical Standards Committee (CENELEC), a private 
organization, administers an agreement on harmonized standards and 
testing for electronic components.  CENELEC sets technical 
specifications for components and provides that a certification of 
quality issued by an authorized institution in any member country will 
be recognized in the other participating nations with no additional 
testing required.

Electrical current is provided at an alternating current of 50 cycles, 1 
and 3 phase.  The voltage is 220/380 with 2 and 4 wires.  Service 
interruptions are rare and the frequency of the current is stable.  The 
electrical plug is the British type with three flat prongs.  Adapters 
are available to change from one type plug to another.

Weights and Measures

Both imperial units and the International System of Units (SI) are in 
use.  There has been a substantial shift to the metric system.  Under 
the Merchandise Marks Order of 1973, certain types of packaged goods 
must be marked with the quantity in either rounded metric units or with 
metric/imperial units.  The Packaged Goods (Quality Control) Regulations 
of 1981 require metric marking for standard size, closed prepackages 
which are within the limits of 5g/ml to 55kg/l.  Imperial units may be 
stated in addition to, but not instead of, the metric indication.

The Packaged Goods Regulations require the Irish importer of packaged 
goods to ensure that the statement of quantity is in the prescribed 
metric units.  The nominal quantity must be shown in kilograms, grams, 
liters, centiliters, or milliliters either using the name of the unit of 
measurement or its internationally accepted symbol.  The quantity 
expressed in imperial units may be used in conjunction with the quantity 
expressed in metric units.  However, the imperial units shall not be 
more prominent than the metric units in size, color, or position.  In 
practice, this means that the quantity expressed in metric units should 
be given first with the figures at least as large as the imperial units, 
if used.

Special foodstuffs for retail sale and certain other consumer products 
may be offered for sale in Ireland only when packaged in an approved 
size.  The U.S. exporter would be well advised to first check with the 
Irish importer to ensure that the package size complies with all 
requirements prior to shipment.  Authorized packaging sizes for 
designated products are stated below:

                          Solids

        Metric                  Imperial
        Grams     Kilograms     Ounces    Pounds

         62.5        1            2        1
         125         1.5          4      1.5
         250         2            8        2
         375         3           12        3
         500         4            -        4
         750         -            -  5, 6, 7

                        Liquids

    Metric                      Imperial
    Milliters   Liters          Pints    Gallons

     62.5         1             1          1/8
     125        1.5             2          1/4
     250          2             4          1/3
     500        2.5             8          1/2
      -     3, 4, 5             -          1

Detailed information on metric and packaging requirements and usage in 
Ireland may be obtained from: Metrication Section, Department of 
Enterprise and Employment, Dublin 2.

A few Irish measurements continue to be used such as the Irish 
plantation acre equal to 7,840 square yards and the Irish mile equal to 
6,720 feet.  The traveler should become acquainted with another common 
unit of measure in Irish pubs -- the pint.

U.S. Export Controls

For the purpose of national security, foreign policy, or short supply 
considerations, the United States controls the export of goods and 
technology with two broad categories of export licenses -general and 
validated.  The vast majority of U.S. exports are shipped abroad under 
general licenses with no formal application required.  To determine what 
kind of export license is required, exporters should consult the Export 
Administration's regulations for complete details or obtain assistance 
from the local U.S. Department of Commerce district office.

As an overview, the sequential steps in the export licensing process are 
(1) to determine whether a product requires a general or validated 
license; (2) to determine what is being exported, the destination of the 
product, its use, and the organization that will be using the product; 
(3) to check the schedule of "Country Groups" listed in the Export 
Administration regulations to determine the destination category; (4) to 
check the "Commodity Control List" to determine if the product requires 
a validated license for shipment to that particular country; and, (5) to 
determine if any special restrictions are in effect.

If the product is not on the control list, it can then be exported under 
a general license.  The U.S. exporter simply completes the U.S. Shippers 
Export Declaration, Form 7525-V, providing details of the shipment, 
including a commercial invoice, and then simply exports the goods.  If 
the product is on the control list, a validated license is needed.  An 
application must be made and an export license granted.  As a general 
rule, an exporter will need a validated license (1) if the products are 
controlled or in short supply regardless of the country of destination; 
(2) for any commodity to a destination with foreign policy concerns; or 
(3) for unpublished technical data to certain destinations.  Certain 
special licenses are also issued to cover large projects or repeated 
sales through a foreign distributor.

For assistance in determining what type of license is needed and to 
initiate the processing of an application, contact your local U.S. 
Department of Commerce district office or the Bureau of Export 
Administration, Office of Export Services, Room H-1099D, U.S. Department 
of Commerce, Washington, D.C. 20230, phone: (202) 482-5811.



                   CHAPTER VII:  INVESTMENT CLIMATE

A. Irish Policies and Practices for Foreign Investment

A1. Openness to Foreign Investment

(A) Irish Government Attitude toward Foreign Investment

Successive Irish governments for the last thirty years have actively 
sought to attract foreign private investment to Ireland.  The primary 
goal of this policy is employment creation, especially in high 
technology and high skill industries.  In recent years, Ireland's 
membership in the European Union, its reservoir of well-trained workers, 
its close access to the European market-place and significant investment 
incentives have been the primary attractions to foreign investors.

Three state organizations actively promote inward investment by foreign 
companies, the Industrial Development Authority (IDA Ireland), Shannon 
Free Airport Development Company (SFADCO), and Udaras na Gaeltachta 
(Udaras).  IDA-Ireland has full responsibility for promoting and 
facilitating foreign investment in all areas of the country, except the 
Shannon Free Zone.  SFADCO has the remit for investment in this Free 
Zone and is responsible for the development of the Shannon Region.  
Udaras has responsibility for investment in those areas of Ireland where 
Irish is the predominant language.  Both SFADCO and Udaras work with the 
IDA-Ireland to attract foreign investment into their areas.  IDA-Ireland 
maintains offices in New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Jose, 
and Atlanta, as well as in several locations in Europe and Asia.  SFADCO 
has representatives in a number of these offices.

(B) Major Laws/Rules

The major laws affecting incoming foreign investment are the Industrial 
Development Act of 1986, which outlines the functions of the IDA, and a 
similar act (1959) which established SFADCO.  Foreign exchange controls 
are governed by the Exchange Control Act of 1954 as amended.  However, 
exchange controls are being phased out by the government as part of the 
European Union's effort to create a Single European Market.  The 
Mergers, Takeovers and Monopolies Control Act of 1978 applies to mergers 
and takeovers by foreign and domestic companies, while the Companies Act 
of 1963 contains the basic requirements for incorporation in Ireland.  
In addition, there are numerous laws and regulations pertaining to 
employment, social security, environmental protection and taxation.

(C) Screening

Central Bank of Ireland approval is required for investments by foreign 
companies in new projects and existing entities in Ireland.  In 
addition, remittance of dividends and profits and repatriation of 
capital in connection with such authorized investments must have prior 
Central Bank approval.  Royalty agreements between resident and non-
resident companies also must be approved by the Central Bank.  All of 
the foregoing approvals, however, are routine and serve more of a 
monitoring than a screening function.

(D) Investment Incentives

The Irish Government offers a number of investment incentives to firms 
wishing to establish in Ireland.  Manufacturing companies, firms engaged 
in international financial services, data processing, research and 
development and other priority industries are eligible for a corporate 
tax rate of 10 percent compared to the standard 38 percent rate (reduced 
from 40 percent in the 1995 budget).  Also eligible are distribution and 
financial services companies located in the Shannon duty-free zone at 
Shannon Airport.  The 10 percent rate has been guaranteed by the 
government through the year 2010 for manufacturing companies and 2005 
for financial services companies and is specified in Finance Acts.  In 
addition to this attractive corporate tax rate, the three state 
organizations administer grants to investors for capital equipment, 
land, buildings, training, research and development, etc.  The three 
organizations have regulatory authority for administering grant-aid.

(E) Anticipated Changes in Investment Policies

There may be some modest changes in investment incentives in accordance 
with the proposals of the Report of the Industrial Policy Review Group 
(known locally as the Culliton Report).  The Irish Government has 
already implemented this Group's proposal on splitting the Industrial 
Development Authority into two organizations, one responsible for 
foreign investment (IDA Ireland) and one for indigenous industry 
(Forbairt).  No decision has been made on the Group's proposal to reduce 
grant aid to foreign investors.

(F) Trade Policies

Ireland administers tariff and non-tariff barriers in accordance with 
applicable EU policies, and has no discriminatory or preferential export 
policies or import policies of its own.

(G) Foreign Ownership

One hundred percent foreign ownership is permitted in sectors open to 
private investment, except where restricted for national security 
purposes.  However, foreign ownership of agricultural land is 
prohibited, except for stud farms and agricultural land associated with 
horses and horse racing.

A2. Transfer Policies

No restrictions are imposed on the repatriation of profits, provided 
initial exchange control approval is obtained from the Central Bank of 
Ireland.  This approval is readily given on production of a certificate 
from the Irish entity's auditors stating that there are sufficient 
distributable profits or proceeds available for the transfer.

A3. Expropriation and Compensation

Private property is only expropriated for public purposes, in a non-
discriminatory manner, and in accordance with established principals of 
international law.  There is due process and transparency of purpose.

A4. Dispute Settlement

Ireland has no specific domestic laws governing investment disputes with 
foreign firms.  The government has not been involved in any 
expropriation or nationalization of foreign assets and has no 
significant investment disputes pending.  Ireland is a member of the 
International Center for the Settlement of Investment Disputes.

A5. Performance Requirements/Incentives

Performance requirements are limited to employment creation targets 
established between the state investment agencies and foreign investors.  
Government grants are conditioned on adherence to those employment 
targets.  There are no requirements that foreign investors must purchase 
from local sources or allow nationals to own shares

A6. Right to Private Ownership and Establishment

The most common form of business organization in Ireland is the 
incorporated company limited by shares registered under the Companies 
Act, 1963 or previous legislation.  Irish law does not prevent foreign 
corporations from carrying on business in Ireland.  Any company 
incorporated abroad which establishes a branch must, however, file 
certain papers with the Registrar of Companies.  A foreign corporation 
with a branch in Ireland will generally have the same standing in Irish 
law for purposes of contracts, etc. as a company incorporated in Ireland

There are no constraints preventing foreign individuals or entities from 
participating in privatization firms.  It should be stressed, however, 
that there is no active privatization program in Ireland at present, 
though one state company, Telecom Eireann, is evaluating an equity-based 
strategic alliance with international telecommunications firms.

A7. Protection of Property Rights

The registration of Irish patents and trademarks is administered by the 
Patents Office of the Department of Enterprise and Employment.  Irish 
patent legislation is contained in the Patents Act 1992 as well as 
statutory rules under that Act.  The normal maximum life of an Irish 
patent is 20 years.  Trademark laws are embodied by the Trademark Law of 
1963 and rules promulgated thereunder.  Ireland is a member of the World 
Intellectual Property Organization and a party to the International 
Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.  Ireland has no 
restrictions on technology transfer or royalty payments.

The Maastricht Treaty came into effect throughout the EU on November 1, 
1993.  The granting of EU patents under the Agreement will be carried 
out by the European Patent Office, supervised by a special committee of 
representatives of member states of the Union.  National patents granted 
by the member states prior to the coming into force of the Agreement on 
EU patents will not be affected by that Agreement.

The modern law of copyright in Ireland is contained in the Copyright Act 
1963.  Irish copyright law is similar, but not identical, to that of the 
United Kingdom.

A8. Regulatory System: Laws and Regulations

The Irish Government operates a transparent policy and effective laws to 
foster competition.  Most tax, labor, health and safety, and other laws 
are compatible with European Union regulations.

A9. Efficient Capital Markets and Portfolio Investment

Capital markets and portfolio investment operate freely, subject to 
common Central Bank of Ireland exchange control regulations.  Foreign 
investors are afforded full access to Irish credit markets.  In some 
instances, development authorities and banks are able to facilitate loan 
packages to foreign firms with favorable credit terms.  Irish legal, 
regulatory, and accounting systems are transparent and consistent with 
international norms.

A10. Political Violence

There have been no recent incidents involving politically motivated 
damage to projects and/or installations.

B. Bilateral Investment Agreements

Ireland has been a party to an investment protection agreement with the 
United States since 1955.  It has no significant bilateral investment 
protection agreement or treaty with other countries.

C. OPIC and other Investment Insurance Programs

Since 1986 the US Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) has 
been authorized to operate in Ireland as part of the US effort to 
support the process of peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.  
There is some potential in Ireland for OPIC's credit guarantee programs.  
No other countries have any investment insurance program in Ireland.

D. Labor

Ireland has a young well educated work force.  About half of the 
country's population is under 28 years old.  Consequently, there is an 
ample supply of young people entering the labor pool.  Employment 
increased, on average by about 21,000 in 1994, as a result of the 
improved state of economic activity both domestically and 
internationally, bringing seasonally adjusted Irish unemployment down to 
14.75 percent with an expected decrease to 14 percent in 1995.  Generous 
unemployment benefits keep the cost of labor high.  Technical training 
is considered to be excellent, and there are no shortages in any major 
skill categories.  Labor-management relations in the private sector are 
generally good.  The Irish Government, the Irish Congress of Trade 
Unions (ICTU) and the Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC) 
participate in the activities of the International Labor Organization 
(ILO).

Following more than a decade of rationalization, there are 66 trade 
unions affiliated to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) in 1995, 
compared with 83 in 1985.  There are now 49 unions in the Republic of 
Ireland and 33 in the North compared with 61 and 40 respectively in 
1985.  Overall union membership has remained stable with an increase in 
the number of women members.

There is no national minimum wage legislation.  However, minimum wages 
have been set in specific industrial sectors, mainly those in which 
wages tend to be below the national average.  A recent Government 
submission to an EU Commission white paper on "Growth, Competitiveness 
and Employment" suggested that a minimum wage policy could hinder job 
creation and recommended that the EU assess the potential effects on 
employment, of any such proposal to regulate the labor market.  Labor 
costs in Ireland compare favorably with those of other countries in the 
EU, being about two-thirds of the EU average.  However, labor costs are 
considerably higher than those in the U.S., due in part to high personal 
income tax rates and social security contributions.

In recent years, most collective bargaining in Ireland has taken place 
in the context of a national economic program.  The most recent, the 
Program for Competitiveness and Work (PCW), is Ireland's third 
centralized pay agreement and replaces the Program for Economic and 
Social Progress (PESP) which expired in 1993.  These programs are 
credited with providing a favorable economic climate for the strong 
growth in Irish GNP since 1987.  The PCW was agreed to by 
representatives of government, unions, employers and farmers in February 
1994 and was a major element of the Government's success in fostering 
economic growth.  The PCW, which provides for pay raises amounting to 
eight percent over three years to employees in the public and private 
sectors, is to help create a substantial number of new jobs.  Employer 
interests in labor matters are generally represented by the Irish 
Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC).

E. Foreign Trade Zones/Free Ports

The Shannon Airport Duty-Free Processing Zone administered by Shannon 
Free Airport Development Company (SFADCO), is situated adjacent to 
Shannon International Airport.  Manufacturing and services operations 
conducted within the zone are exempt from value-added tax (VAT) and 
duties on goods destined for non-EU countries.  They are also eligible 
for various forms of financial assistance offered by SFADCO.  In 
addition, those manufacturing and trading operations licensed by SFADCO, 
which apply the criteria of using local labor and Irish sourced inputs, 
are accorded a 10 percent corporate tax rate through the year 2010.  
Licenses to operate at Shannon are granted to foreign and domestic 
concerns alike, provided their operations contribute to the use or 
development of Shannon Airport.

Ringaskiddy is a duty-free import zone near Ireland's second largest 
city, Cork, in the South of Ireland into which foreign and domestic 
firms can import goods.  The area, however, does not offer the tax 
advantages or financial assistance available at Shannon.

F. Capital Outflow Policy

The Irish Exchange Controls Act of 1954-1990 expired on December 31, 
1992, ending all remaining exchange controls on capital investments 
between EU member states.

Ireland is a signatory to Article VIII of the International Monetary 
Fund Agreement, regarding freedom of currency payments (including 
payments for goods and services imported) between residents and non-
residents.  In addition, Ireland subscribes to the Code of 
Liberalization of Capital Movements and the Code of Liberalization of 
Current Invisible Operations of the OECD.

G. Foreign Direct Investment Statistics

In 1994, 52 international investment projects were announced by IDA 
Ireland, 36 of which were from the United States with a value in excess 
of $620 million.  Of these 36 U.S. projects, 13 were new manufacturing 
and 12 were manufacturing expansions; 5 were new service operations and 
four were service expansions with the remaining two being International 
Financial Services Center (IFSC) investments.  Data for the period 1993-
1994 relating to eligible fixed asset investment made by companies 
against which IDA Ireland grants are paid (i.e., incl. modifications, 
machinery, etc.) is not available as IDA Ireland's first annual report 
has not yet been published.

H. MAJOR FOREIGN INVESTORS

(1) U.S. FIRMS

The following are the major U.S. investors in Ireland.  No concise 
information is available on the size of individual investments.

Contel                Motorola
Apple                 AST Research
Vistakon              Microsoft
Medite                Sherwood Medical
Gateway 2000 General  Instrument
Coca Cola             Mallinckrodt Medical
Fruit of the Loom     Oral B Laboratories
Wyeth                 Boston Scientific Corporation
Sensormatic Ireland   Dell Computer Corporation
Analog Devices        AT&T
Merrill Lynch         Seagate Technology
General Electric      (GE Capital Aviation)

(2) Third Country Investors

NEC Semiconductors
Alcan Alumna
Creative Technology
Boehringer Mannheim



                  CHAPTER VIII:  TRADE AND PROJECT FINANCING

Introduction

The Irish financial system has experienced a series of changes over the 
past decade.  New legislation has been introduced to allow more 
competition between different types of financial services organizations.  
Consequently, there exists a very sophisticated banking environment, 
which offers many sources of financing to organizations doing business 
in Ireland.

The banking system operates on a basis similar to that in the U.K., on 
account of the physical proximity of the two countries and the high 
volume of mutual trade.  In broad terms, the sources of finance may be 
classified into two groups:

A)  Finance and financial services available directly from banks, 
building societies, and other financial institutions.

B)  Finance available through financial markets, such as the Stock 
Exchange.

The Irish Banking System

(A) The Central Bank of Ireland

The role of the Central Bank of Ireland is broadly similar to that of 
central banks in other developed countries.  Established under the 
Central Bank Act of 1942, the Central Bank is charged with the 
responsibility of managing the country's banking/monetary system and 
exchange rates, and controlling credit.  In addition, it acts as adviser 
and banker to the Irish government.  It supports government economic 
policies, but has independence in the exercise of its statutory powers.  
The Central Bank Act of 1989 extended its regulatory role to entities 
other than banks.  Thus, it now has responsibility for the licensing and 
supervision of banks and other financial institutions, including money 
brokers, the Irish Futures and Options Exchange, and institutions 
establishing in Dublin's International Financial Services Center (IFSC).


(B) Commercial Banks

In Ireland, commercial banks are classified as "associated" or "non-
associated" licensed banks.  Associated banks are the traditional retail 
banks in Ireland.  They provide a full range of banking services to 
business and consumers and they administer the Irish check-clearing 
system.  There are four associated banks in Ireland, AIB plc, Bank of 
Ireland, National Irish Bank, and Ulster Bank.  They operate some 664 
full-time branches throughout the State and account for about 61 percent 
of total licensed bank resources in the form of current and deposit 
accounts and about 55 percent of total licensed bank credit.

Non-associated banks engage in commercial banking and consumer finance.  
There are about 38 non-associated banks operating in Ireland, a number 
of which are subsidiaries and affiliates of associated banks.  They are 
classified into two principal categories, merchant and commercial banks 
(32), and industrial banks (6).

Merchant banks dominate the wholesale market as they seek to attract 
substantial deposits in the same way as they target the larger loan 
market.  They provide term lending (in Irish Pounds and foreign 
currencies), manage large investment funds, participate in the money and 
foreign exchange markets, and provide a wide range of corporate 
financial expertise on matters such as takeover bids, acquisitions, 
reconstructions, and the raising of new capital.  There is a strong 
international presence in the merchant banking sector in Ireland.

Industrial banks are primarily engaged in the extension of installment 
credit and similar types of lending under hire-purchase agreements or by 
way of personal loans.  These banks provide some 55 percent of total 
installment credit.

Building societies are mutual organizations with ownership vested in 
shareholders that have deposits in investment and savings share 
accounts.  They are the main providers of mortgage finance to personal 
customers in Ireland.  With the Central Bank Act of 1989, Ireland's 
building societies have been undergoing rapid change as this Act granted 
them the power to extend their range of services.  Today, many building 
societies offer general banking services, including checking accounts 
and Automated Transaction Machine (ATM), insurance brokering and 
investment advisory services.  They also engage in treasury activities, 
unsecured lending, and more diversified mortgage lending.  They also 
have access to new sources of funding through the wholesale money 
markets or issuing a range of bonds or securities.  Finally, they are 
also permitted to amend their mutual status to become limited companies.  
In 1994, one building society successfully made the transition from 
mutual status to a public limited company (plc) quoted on the Irish 
Stock Exchange.  At least one other institution is currently evaluating 
this option.  In return for the increased access of building societies 
to these areas of activity, retail banks have been granted access to the 
personal mortgage market.

Foreign Exchange Regulations

On January 1, 1993, all exchange control regulations were completely 
abolished.  Thus, there are no restrictions on the repatriation of 
capital and profits of American firms based in Ireland.

General Financing Availability

Ireland is a member of the European Union (EU) and the European Monetary 
System (EMS).  Therefore, commercial transactions and payment terms 
reflect common western practices.  Primary import payment considerations 
are determined by the financial reputation of an individual customer 
combined with competitive considerations.  There are no commercial 
foreign-exchange limitations or unusual regulations.  Countertrade is 
not required, but some international firms, on rare occasions, may offer 
offsets as part of a marketing and financial package, especially to sell 
large ticket items to government.

The Irish Punt is a freely convertible currency that is tied to the 
German Mark through the European Monetary System.  There are no 
restrictions on the repatriation of capital and profits.  Ireland has no 
difficulty in servicing its foreign debt and has adequate foreign 
exchange reserves.  As the Irish Punt is tied to the German Mark, there 
has been a devaluation of the dollar relative to the Irish Punt over the 
last five to six years.  While the German Mark is the primary link for 
the Irish currency, the government also endeavors to maintain a stable 
exchange rate with the British Pound as the U.K. is Ireland's largest 
trading partner.  Having being accustomed to a below-parity link with 
the British Pound, Irish exporters normally became nervous when the 
Irish Punt approached parity with the British currency.  Since late 
1994, however, they have had to learn to cope with an above-parity link.

Ireland continues to face challenges arising from the Treaty on Economic 
and Monetary Union signed at Maastricht in early 1992.  The Government 
is committed to Ireland being among the initial group of countries to 
proceed to full EMU.  With its current low levels of inflation and 
interest rates, and stable exchange rates, Ireland currently meets most 
of the criteria for proceeding to full EMU, though government borrowing 
and the debt-to-GDP ratio will require continuous monitoring and 
planning.  Overall, the Irish Punt is perceived to be a strong candidate 
for inclusion within the proposed full EMU at present.

Relationship with U.S. Banking System

Three U.S. banks have subsidiaries in Ireland; Bank of America, Chase 
Manhattan Bank, and Citicorp-Citibank.  The two major Irish banks have 
subsidiaries in the United States.  Allied Irish Banks owns the First 
National Bank of Maryland while the Bank of Ireland owns the First New 
Hampshire Merchants National Bank.  There are numerous correspondent 
relationships among banks of both countries.  Correspondent 
relationships have become more fluid in recent years as American banks 
increase or decrease charges to Irish banks.  Other U.S. financial 
institutions have set up "Back Office" operations in Ireland, largely 
located in the International Financial Services Center (IFSC).

Export Financing and Insurance

U.S. firms requiring information on export financing should contact 
their local U.S. Department of Commerce District Office or call 1-800-
USA-TRADE.  The major Irish banks operate the Eximbank's programs in 
Ireland.

The average Irish importer arranges import financing through his/her 
local branch bank manager.  Experienced importers respect overseas 
vendors' payment terms.  The domestic market operates quite differently 
with trade customers taking cash discounts and paying up to 90 or even 
180 days after delivery.  Occasionally, new importers attempt to apply 
domestic practices to the international market place.

All the normal methods of payment are available for export sales to 
Ireland through a well-developed banking sector.  Competition, to a 
large degree, has required the use of liberal financing, as opposed to 
requiring payment on a letter of credit or cash basis.  Letters of 
credit can be used initially for new accounts with more liberal terms 
granted if justified by volume and customer reliability.  Knowledge of 
industry practice and the customer is generally the prime consideration 
in deciding whether to use sight drafts, time drafts, or open accounts.  
Usual terms of sale are payment within 30 to 90 days after delivery, 
varying with the commodity and the credit standing of the purchaser.


Investment in Ireland

Approval by the Central Bank of Ireland is required for investments by 
foreign companies in new projects and existing entities in Ireland.  
Takeovers exceeding certain size limits must be approved by the Minister 
for Enterprise and Employment.  No restrictions are imposed on the 
repatriation of profits, provided initial exchange control approval is 
obtained from the Central Bank of Ireland.  This approval is readily 
given on production of a certificate from the Irish entity's auditors 
stating that there are sufficient distributable profits or proceeds 
available for the transfer.  Royalty agreements between resident and 
non-resident companies also must be approved by the Central Bank.  All 
of the foregoing approvals, however, are routine and serve more as a 
monitoring function than as a method of capital control.

International firms investing in Ireland may take advantage of the 
generous investment incentives provided by the Irish government through 
IDA Ireland, the state organization responsible for attracting 
international investment into Ireland.  These incentives include an 
attractive 10 percent corporate tax rate for qualifying industries 
guaranteed through the year 2010 (2005 in the case of IFSC companies), 
capital investment, R & D, and training grants; rent subsidy for 
industries in certain regions; and assistance in site location.  The 
range of incentives is available to manufacturing companies and 
providers of international tradable services such as computer software, 
telemarketing, and financial services.



                    CHAPTER IX:  BUSINESS TRAVEL

Introduction

There is a significant sales potential for U.S. goods and services in 
Ireland.  However, it is a highly competitive and developed market, and 
the U.S. exporter must keep certain factors in mind to achieve maximum 
success.


Business Courtesy

Given the close business, political and cultural relations between 
Ireland and the United States, there are substantial opportunities for 
U.S. firms in Ireland.  However, the principles of customary business 
courtesy, especially replying promptly to requests for price quotations 
and to orders, are a prerequisite for exporting success.  In general, 
Irish business executives are less formal than their European 
counterparts and the use of first names at an early stage of a business 
relationship is acceptable.  Friendship and mutual trust are highly 
valued and once an American has earned this trust a productive working 
relationship can usually be expected.

Given Ireland's high level of international trade, Irish firms have a 
strong and increasing expertise in international business.  Being a 
developed economy, Irish buyers appreciate quality and service and are 
willing to pay extra if they are convinced of a product's overall 
superiority.  Care must be taken to ensure that delivery dates will be 
closely maintained and that after-sales service will be promptly 
honored.  Irish buyers are concerned that after placing an order with an 
American supplier, the delivery date will not be honored.  While there 
are numerous factors that may interfere with prompt shipment, the U.S. 
exporter must allow for additional shipping time and keep in close 
contact with the buyer.  Meeting delivery schedules is of prime 
importance.  It is much better to quote a later delivery date that can 
be guaranteed than an earlier one that is not completely certain.  Since 
Irish wholesalers and retailers generally do a lower volume of business 
than their American counterparts, the U.S. exporter should be prepared 
to sell smaller lots than is the custom in the United States.

U.S. distributors should maintain close liaison with distributors and 
customers to exchange information and ideas.  In most instances, mail, 
fax, or telephone communications is sufficient, but the understanding 
developed through periodic personal visits is the best way to keep 
distributors appraised of new developments and to resolve problems 
quickly.  Prompt acknowledgment of correspondence by air mail or fax is 
recommended.

Furthermore, U.S. exporters should seriously consider warehousing in 
Ireland for speedy supply and service of customers.  A vigorous and 
sustained promotion is often needed to launch products because of buying 
habits.  Products must be adapted to both technical requirements and to 
consumer preferences.  It is not sufficient to merely label a product in 
conformity to national requirements for the development of the full 
market potential.  Consumers must also be attracted to the product by 
the label and packaging as well as ease of use.

Travel Information

(A) Passport and Visas

Every U.S. traveler must have a valid passport.  No visa is required of 
U.S. citizens visiting Ireland for less than 3 months, but one is 
required for longer periods.  An American citizen entering Ireland for 
permanent residence must register with the Aliens Office of the 
Department of Justice as soon as possible after entering the country.  
U.S. citizens planning to work in the country must first obtain a work 
permit from the Department of Enterprise and Employment.  The permit is 
presented to immigration upon arrival.  Such permits must be obtained by 
the employer and are usually granted only for specialized work.  
Management and skilled workers have no difficulty in obtaining the 
required work permits, which are renewable every 12 months.

(B) Currency

The basic monetary unit is the Irish Pound (IR£) also known as the Punt.  
The pound comes in paper currency of £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100 notes.  
The pound is subdivided into units of 100 pence.  Coins are issued in 1, 
2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pence and 1 pound units.

The Irish Pound operates as a floating currency within the European 
Monetary System.  Its value changes with respect to the U.S. dollar.  
Check the financial section of the daily newspaper for the current 
exchange rate.  The following are average IR£/$ exchange rates for 
recent years; (IR£1.00 equals); 1989: $1.42, 1990: $1.66,  1991: $1.61, 
1992: $1.71, 1993: $1.47, 1994: $1.50.

U.S. credit cards are usually accepted with proper identification such 
as a passport.  Travelers checks are usually accepted but visitors 
should inquire on the policy of the bank, hotel, or store before seeking 
to cash a personal check.  Irish banks may not accept $100 bills.  
Business travelers should bring travelers checks, or cash in 
denominations of $20 or less.  

(C) European Dates and Numbers

In Ireland, as in the rest of Europe, dates are usually written in the 
sequence of day, month, and year.  As an example, the date March 17, 
1994 is usually found in written correspondence as 17 March 1994 or 
17.3.1994.  For currency or other numerical quantities, use commas to 
mark off the thousands position and a decimal point (period) to denote 
decimal amounts -- the same practice as followed in the United States; 
for example IR£1,234,456.78.

(D) Other Useful Information

Through the ease of telecommunications, international calls are 
frequently the best method of arranging appointments and maintaining 
solid commercial relations.  The time zone for Ireland is Greenwich Mean 
Time (GMT) or 5 hours ahead of the U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST + 5 
hours).  Fax machines have increased the speed and ease of international 
communications and should be used to maintain strong business ties.

Medical services are excellent at major hospitals and compare with those 
in the United States.  Common medical needs are readily obtained, and 
special supplies are normally available on short notice.  An 
international certificate of vaccination is not required for travelers 
from the United States.  Drinking water is excellent, most 
pharmaceuticals are available, and sanitation is at American standards.

Rental automobiles are available at numerous locations, but rates are 
usually more expensive than in the U.S.  Less expensive rates may often 
be secured by booking reservations in the U.S. through one of the U.S. 
car rental agencies with fleets in Ireland.  An international or state 
driving license is acceptable.  Traffic moves on the left-hand side of 
the road and it may take the American visitor some time to adjust to 
this.

Ireland has a wide and excellent range of restaurants.  All the major 
international forms of cuisine are available in addition to local Irish 
recipes and there is a wide price range to cater for all wallets.  The 
food service sector is well regulated and standards of hygiene in food 
preparation are high. 
 
Tipping is as appropriate in Ireland as it is in the United States.  
Generally, for cabdrivers and waiters, 15 percent is the norm.  Porters 
and bellhops receive 50 pence per piece of luggage.

The electric current in Ireland is alternating current, 50 cycle, 220 
volts.  American appliances, such as electric shavers or hair dryers, do 
not work and will be damaged if used without a converter and adapter 
plug.

Because of the moderating influence of the Gulf Stream, medium to 
heavyweight clothes may be worn most of the year.  Wool jackets and hats 
are ideal.  Rainwear and sturdy walking shoes should also be included in 
the wardrobe since there is occasional light rain ("liquid sunshine") 
and many "soft" days.

Business Hours and Holidays

A 39-hour, 5-day workweek is the norm for offices and factories.  For 
offices, the customary working hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with 
lunch from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.; banking hours are from 10:00 to 4:00 
p.m. with banks having various evening hours posted.  Most retail stores 
are open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday, although 
some have later hours to permit evening shopping.  Because of vacations 
in July and August, many Irish business executives may not be available 
except by appointment.  Most businesses also close from December 24 
through January 2 during the Christmas festive period.  Conservative 
business attire is recommended at all times.  Suits, rather than blazers 
and slacks, are the norm.  Business appointments are also required and 
visitors are expected to be punctual.

The following are the official statutory holidays when most commercial 
offices are closed.  Certain other days are celebrated as holidays 
within local jurisdictions.  American holidays are observed by the U.S. 
Embassy and should be considered when telephoning the Commercial Service 
staff (CS-Dublin) there.

     New Year's Day:          January 1
     Saint Patrick's Day:     March 17
     Easter Monday:           Variable     (April 8, 1996)
     May Holiday:             First Monday (May 6, 1996)
     June Holiday:            First Monday (June 3, 1996)
     August Holiday:          First Monday (August 5, 1996)
     October Holiday:         Last Monday (October 30, 1995)
     Christmas Day:           December 25
     Saint Stephen's Day:     December 26

If New Year's Day, Saint Patrick's Day, Christmas Day, or Saint 
Stephen's Day fall on a weekend, the following Monday is a public 
holiday.

Business Infrastructure

(A) Telecommunications

An investment of over £1.5 billion in the early 1980's has provided 
Ireland with a sophisticated digital telecommunications system (the 
second most modern in Europe) which includes a direct dialing telephone 
service connecting every part of Ireland with over 90 percent of the 
rest of the world.  There are over one million telephone lines on the 
public network and the current level of digitalization is 70 percent.  
Telecom Eireann (TE), Ireland's telecommunications utility, offers a 
wide range of business services including point-to-multipoint data 
transmission, computer-to-computer file transfer networking, fax, telex, 
and video communications.  U.S. calling cards such as MCI, AT&T, and 
Sprint may be used locally for making international calls.  Both MCI and 
AT&T have local offices which can assist the U.S. visitor.

(B) Transportation

Ireland has four international airports (Dublin, Shannon, Cork, and 
Knock). In October 1993, the bilateral Air Transport Agreement between 
the U.S. and Ireland was amended to effectively end the mandatory 
transatlantic stopover at Shannon Airport.  Both Irish and U.S. carriers 
can now operate both scheduled and charter air services directly to and 
from Dublin and to and from the U.S., provided they match these services 
on a one-for-one basis with direct Shannon flights on a yearly average 
basis.  At present, Delta Air Lines is the sole U.S. carrier operating 
scheduled air services between Ireland and the United States.  Ireland 
also has six regional airports served by small aircraft and helicopters.  
These airports play an important role in meeting the tourism and 
transport needs of the regions.

While Ireland has more paved road on a per capita basis than any other 
country in the EU, it lacks an efficient network of highways.  Ninety 
six percent of all inland passenger transport and over 90 percent of 
inland freight transport is conveyed by road.  The balance is carried by 
rail.  A 3,000 kilometer rail system provides passenger and freight 
services to most cities and main towns, including those in Northern 
Ireland.  EU structural funds will focus on developing a modern motorway 
network.

(C) Accommodation

Ireland has a wide range of accommodations from world class hotels to 
the more individualized and economical bed and breakfast (B&B) guest-
houses.  In view of the large number of visitors going to Ireland, 
business travelers are advised to make their hotel reservations well in 
advance, especially during the summer months in order to assure the 
needed accommodations.

(D) Commercial Language

There are two official languages in Ireland -- Irish and English.  While 
English is used predominantly, the Irish language (Gaelic) is also used 
in the western part of the country.  Language barriers pose no problems.  
While English is normally used in business contracts and correspondence, 
some expressions and terms may have different meanings from those in the 
United States.  To assure complete understanding, it is well to define 
unfamiliar terms.  Reference to INCOTERMS, the international set of 
rules for commercial terms, helps to reduce possible misunderstandings.



                    CHAPTER X:  APPENDICES

APPENDIX

    A.  COUNTRY DATA
    B.  DOMESTIC ECONOMY
    C.  TRADE
    D.  INVESTMENT STATISTICS
    E   U.S. AND COUNTRY CONTACTS
    F   MARKET RESEARCH
    G.  TRADE EVENT SCHEDULE


APPENDIX A

                  COUNTRY DATA
- Population:                 3.5 million
- Population Growth Rate:     (0.7 percent)
- Religion:                   Roman Catholic (97 percent)
- Government System:          Constitutional Republic
- President:                  Mary Robinson
- Prime Minister:             John Bruton
- Ambassador to the U.S:      Dermot Gallagher
- Most recent election:       November 26, 1992.
- Languages:                  English and Irish (Gaelic)
- Work Week:                  39 hours


     APPENDIX B

                            DOMESTIC ECONOMY
                                   1993    1994    1995 (E)   Source
-GDP (Current) ($Bn)               47.5     52.8     61.8       (a)
-GDP growth rate (%)                2.5     5.75     6.25       (a)
     GDP Projected Average Growth
     Rate through 1996:            6.0%                         (a)
-GDP per capita ($)              13,486   15,086   17,657       (a)
-Government spending as % of GDP   32.7     31.8     30.7       (a)
-Inflation (CPI) (%)                1.5      2.4      2.5       (a)
-Unemployment (%)                  15.5     14.75    14.0       (a)
-Foreign Exchange Reserves ($Bn)    5.3      5.1      5.7       (a)
-Average Exchange Rate
-- ($1.00=punt)                     0.68     0.67     0.62      (a)
-- (1 punt=$)                       1.47     1.5      1.6       (a)
-Foreign Debt ($Bn)                18.0      NA       NA        (a)
-Debt Service Ratio (ratio of
 principal and interest payments on
 foreign debt to foreign income)    3.3     3.2      2.3        (a)
-U.S. Economic Assistance ($mn)    19.7    19.7     19.7        (b)
-U.S. Military Assistance ($mn)    none     none     none          

Sources:

(a) Central Bank of Ireland

(b) International Fund for Ireland, Annual Report 1994


     APPENDIX C

                             TRADE
                                1993    1994     1995 (E) Source
-Total exports (F.O.B. $Bn)     28.6     33.0     39.2     (a)
-Total imports (C.I.F. $Bn)     21.5     24.4     28.9     (a)
-Exports to U.S. (C.I.F. $Bn)    2.6      3.0      NA      (b)
-Imports from U.S. (F.A.S. $Bn)  2.7      3.4      NA      (b)
-U.S. share of Irish imports (%)12.6     13.9      NA

NOTE: Because of the abolition of customs procedures within the EU at 
the beginning of 1993, there has been a serious disruption to trade data 
within the Community.  Detailed Irish trade data for 1993 and 1994 has 
not yet been published.

Sources:  (a) Central Bank of Ireland
          (b) U.S. Department of Commerce


     APPENDIX D

                           INVESTMENT STATISTICS
                                       1993   1994    1995    Source
Total Foreign Direct Investment ($Bn)  16.0   19.2     NA      (a)
Total U.S. Direct Investment    ($Bn)   8.0    9.6     NA      (a)
                          Share (%)    50.0   50.0     NA

Principal Foreign Investors:     United States, United Kingdom and 
Germany

Source:(a) U.S. Department of Commerce


     APPENDIX E

     U.S. AND COUNTRY CONTACTS

Irish Government Departments

Organization:  Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry
Contact Name:  Mr. Michael Dowling, Secretary
Address:       Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-678-9011
Fax:           011-353-1-661-6263

Organization:  Department of Defense
Contact Name:  Mr. Sean Brosnan, Secretary
Address:       Colaiste Caoimhim, Mobhi Road, Glasnevin, Dublin 9
Phone:         011-353-1-837-9911
Fax:           011-353-1-837-7993

Organization:  Department of Enterprise and Employment
Contact Name:  Mr. Kevin Bonner, Secretary
Address:       Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-661-4444
Fax:           011-353-1-676-2654

Organization:  Department of the Environment
Contact Name:  Mr. Brendan O'Donoghue, Secretary
Address:       Custom House, Dublin 1
Phone:         011-353-1-679-3377
Fax:           011-353-1-874-2710

Organization:  Department of Finance
Contact Name:  Mr. Paddy Mullarkey, Secretary
Address:       Government Buildings, Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-676-7571
Fax:           011-353-1-661-6570

Organization:  Department of Health
Contact Name:  Mr. Jerry O'Dwyer, Secretary
Address:       Hawkins House, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-671-4711
Fax:           011-353-1-671-1947

Organization:  Department of the Marine
Contact Name:  Mr. Thomas Carroll, Secretary
Address:       Leeson Lane, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-678-5444
Fax:           011-353-1-661-8214

Organization:  Department of Tourism and Trade
Contact Name:  Mr. Sean Dorgan, Secretary
Address:       Kildare Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-662-1444
Fax:           011-353-1-676-6154

Organization:  Department of Transport, Energy, & Communications
Contact Name:  Mr. John Loughrey, Secretary
Address:       Clare Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-671-5233
Fax:           011-353-1-677-3169

Organization:  Irish Patents Office
Contact Name:  Mr. Sean Fitzpatrick, Controller
Address:       45 Merrion Square, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-661-4144
Fax:           NA

Organization:  Office of the Revenue Commissioners
Contact Name:  Mr. Cathal Mac Domhnaill, Chairman
Address:       Dublin Castle, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-679-2777
Fax:           011-353-1-671-1826


State-Sponsored Organizations

Organization:  Aer Lingus plc
Contact Name:  Mr. Gary McGann, Group Chief Executive
Address:       Dublin Airport, Dublin
Phone:         011-353-1-705-2222
Fax:           011-353-1-705-3832

Organization:  An Bord Bia (The Irish Food Board)
Contact Name:  Mr. Michael Duffy, Chief Executive
Address:       Clanwilliam Court, Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-668-5155
Fax:           011-353-1-668-7521

Organization:  Bord Gais Eireann (The Irish Gas Board)
Contact Name:  Mr. Philip Cronin, Chief Executive
Address:       P.O. Box 51, Inchera, Little Island, Co. Cork
Phone:         011-353-21-353621
Fax:           011-353-21-353487

Organization:  Bord Iascaigh Mhara (The Irish Sea Fisheries Board)
Contact Name:  Mr. Tony Gannon, Chief Executive
Address:       Crofton Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin
Phone:         011-353-1-284-1544
Fax:           011-353-1-284-1123

Organization:  Bord na Mona (The Irish Peat Board)
Contact Name:  Mr. Eddie O'Connor, Managing Director
Address:       Main Street, Newbridge, Co. Kildare
Phone:         011-353-45-39000
Fax:           011-353-45-39001

Organization:  An Bord Trachtala (Irish Trade Board)
Contact Name:  Mr. Alan McCarthy, Chief Executive
Address:       Merrion Hall, Strand Road, Sandymount, Dublin 4
Phone:         011-353-1-269-5011
Fax:           011-353-1-269-5820

Organization:  Coillte Teoranta (Irish Forestry Board)
Contact Name:  Mr. Martin D. Lowery, Chief Executive
Address:       Leeson Lane, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-661-5666
Fax:           011-353-1-678-9527

Organization:  Coras Iompair Eireann (Irish Transport Authority)
Contact Name:  Mr. Michael McDonnell, Chief Executive
Address:       Heuston Station, Dublin 8
Phone:         011-353-1-677-1871
Fax:           011-353-1-677-1350

Organization:  Custom House Docks Development Authority
Contact Name:  Mr. Gus Mac Amhlaigh, General Manager
Address:       Custom House Quay, Dublin 1
Phone:         011-353-1-836-3122
Fax:           011-353-1-836-3353

Organization:  Electricity Supply Board (ESB)
Contact Name:  Mr. Joe Moran, Chief Executive
Address:       Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-676-5831
Fax:           011-353-1-661-5376

Organization:  Environmental Protection Agency
Contact Name:  Mr. Liam McCumiskey, Director General
Address:       Ardcavan, Wexford
Phone:         011-353-53-47120
Fax:           011-353-53-47119

Organization:  FAS (The Irish Training & Employment Authority)
Contact Name:  Mr. John Lynch, Director General
Address:       27-33 Upper Baggot Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-668-5777
Fax:           011-353-1-668-2691

Organization:  Forbairt
Contact Name:  Mr. Dan Flinter, Chief Executive
Address:       Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-668-2244
Fax:           011-353-1-660-5019

Organization:  Forfas (The Policy and Advisory Board for Industrial 
Development in Ireland)
Contact Name:  Mr. John Travers, Chief Executive
Address:       Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-668-8444
Fax:           011-353-1-660-5107

Organization:  IDA Ireland
Contact Name:  Mr. Kieran McGowan, Chief Executive
Address:       Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-668-6633
Fax:           011-353-1-660-3703

Organization:  Irish Aviation Authority
Contact Name:  Mr. B.D. McDonnell, Chief Executive
Address:       Scotch House, Hawkins Street, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-671-8655
Fax:           011-353-1-679-2934

Organization:  Irish National Petroleum Corporation Limited
Contact Name:  Mr. F.B. Cahill, Chief Executive
Address:       Warrington House, Mount Street Crescent, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-660-7966
Fax:           011-353-1-660-7952

Organization:  The National Roads Authority
Contact Name:  Mr. Michael Tobin, Chief Executive
Address:       St. Martin's House, Waterloo Road, Dublin 4
Phone:         011-353-1-660-2511
Fax:           011-353-1-668-3339

Organization:  An Post (The Irish Postal Service)
Contact Name:  Mr. John Hynes, Chief Executive
Address:       General Post Office, Dublin 1
Phone:         011-353-1-872-8888
Fax:           011-353-1-872-3553

Organization:  Radio Telefis Eireann (Irish Broadcasting Organization)
Contact Name:  Mr. Joe Barry, Director General
Address:       Donnybrook, Dublin 4
Phone:         011-353-1-208-3111
Fax:           011-353-1-208-3080

Organization:  Shannon Free Airport Development Company (SFADCO)
Contact Name:  Mr. Paul Sheane, Chief Executive
Address:       Town Centre, Shannon, Co. Clare
Phone:         011-353-61-361555
Fax:           011-353-61-361903

Organization:  Telecom Eireann (Irish Telecommunications Organization)
Contact Name:  Mr. Alfie Kane, Chief Executive
Address:       St. Stephens Green, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-671-4444
Fax:           011-353-1-671-6916

Organization:  Udaras na Gaeltachta (Gaeltacht Regional Development 
Authority)
Contact Name:  Mr. Ruan O'Bric, Chief Executive
Address:       Na Forbacha, Galway
Phone:         011-353-91-592011
Fax:           011-353-91-592037


Major Irish Banks

Organization:   A.I.B. Group
Contact Name:   Mr. Tom Mulcahy, Group Chief Executive
Address:        Bankcentre, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.
Phone:          011-353-1-660-0311
Fax:            011-353-1-668-2508

Organization:   Bank of Ireland Group
Contact Name:   Mr. Pat Molloy, Group Chief Executive
Address:        Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-661-5933
Fax:            011-353-1-661-5675

Organization:   Ulster Bank Limited
Contact Name:   Mr. Ronnie Kells, Chief Executive
Address:        33 College Green, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-677-7623
Fax:            011-353-1-679-9468


Trade Associations

Organization:    Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland
Contact Name:    Ms. Anne Potter, Executive Director
Address:         51 Northumberland Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
Phone:           011-353-1-660-0374
Fax:             011-353-1-668-2959

Organization:   The Building Information Centre
Contact Name:   Mr. Eamonn Buckley, Centre Manager
Address:        Dublin Institute of Technology, Bolton Street, Dublin 1
Phone:          011-353-1-873-2329
Fax:            011-353-1-873-2329

Organization:   The Construction Industry Federation
Contact Name:   Mr. Liam Kelleher, Director General
Address:        Federation House, Canal Road, Dublin 6
Phone:          011-353-1-497-7487
Fax:            011-353-1-496-6953

Organization:   Electro-Technical Council of Ireland (ETCI)
Contact Name:   Mr. J.P. Sheehan, Administrator
Address:        Parnell Avenue, Harolds Cross, Dublin 12
Phone:          011-353-1-454-5819
Fax:            011-353-1-454-5821

Organization:   Goldsmiths of Dublin
Contact Name:   Mr. Ronald Le Bas, Assay Master
Address:        Assay Office, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-475-1286
Fax:            011-353-1-478-3838

Organization:   The Institution of Engineers of Ireland
Contact Name:   Mr. P.F. Callanan, Director General
Address:        22 Clyde Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
Phone:          011-353-1-668-4341
Fax:            011-353-1-668-5508

Organization:   Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC)
Contact Name:   Mr. John Dunne, Director General
Address:        84-86 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-660-1011
Fax:            011-353-1-660-1717

Organization:  Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA)
Contact Name:  Mr. Donal Murphy, General Secretary
Address:       John Feely House, 15 Upper Mallow Street, Limerick
Phone:         011-353-61-314677
Fax:           011-353-61-315737

Organization:  Irish Direct Marketing Association
Contact Name:  Mr. Bill Moss, Secretary
Address:       The Powerhouse, Pigeon House Harbour, Dublin 4
Phone:         011-353-1-668-7155
Fax:           011-353-1-668-7945

Organization:  Irish Farmers' Association (IFA)
Contact Name:  Mr. Michael Berkery, General Secretary
Address:       Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12
Phone:         011-353-1-450-0266
Fax:           011-353-1-455-1043

Organization:  Irish Franchise Association
Contact Name:  Mr. John Neenan, Secretary
Address:       13 Frankfield Terrace, Summerhill South, Cork
Phone:         011-353-21-316059
Fax:           011-353-21-316080

Organization:  Irish Hardware Association
Contact Name:  Mr. James Goulding, Secretary
Address:       Elmville, Upper Kilmacud Road, Dundrum, Dublin 14
Phone:         011-353-1-298-0969
Fax:           011-353-1-298-6103

Organization:  Irish Medical Organization
Contact Name:  Dr. George McNeice, Chief Executive
Address:       10 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-676-7273
Fax:           011-353-1-668-2168

Organization:  Irish Timber Council
Contact Name:  Mr. John Kerrigan, Director
Address:       7 Mount Street Crescent, Dublin 2
Phone:         011-353-1-678-5733
Fax:           011-353-1-678-5976

Organization:  Irish Travel Agents Association
Contact Name:  Mr. Brendan Moran, Chief Executive
Address:      3rd Floor, Heaton House, 32 South William Street, Dublin 2
Phone:        011-353-1-679-4089
Fax:          011-353-1-671-9897

Organization:   National Dairy Council
Contact Name:   Mr. Aidan McCarthy, Chief Executive
Address:        Grattan House, Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-661-9599
Fax:            011-353-1-662-0379

Organization:   Retail, Grocery, Dairy & Allied Trades Association 
(RGDATA)
Contact Name:   Mr. M.G. Campbell, Director General
Address:        Rock House, Main Street, Blackrock, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-288-8313
Fax:            011-353-1-283-2206

Organization:   The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI)
Contact Name:   Mr. Robert D. Prole, Secretary
Address:        5 Upper Pembroke Street, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-676-1690
Fax:            011-353-1-661-9213


Market Research Firms

Organization:    AGB International
Contact Name:    Mr. John Campbell, Managing Director
Address:         Temple House, Blackrock, Co. Dublin
Phone:           011-353-1-278-1011
Fax:             011-353-1-278-1022

Organization:    Behavior and Attitudes Ltd.
Contact Name:    Mr. Des Byrne, Director
Address:         26 Burlington Road, Dublin 4
Phone:           011-353-1-668-2299
Fax:             011-353-1-668-2820

Organization:    Irish Marketing Surveys (IMS)
Contact Name:    Mr. Eamonn F. Williams, Managing Director
Address:         20-21 Upper Pembroke Street, Dublin 2
Phone:           011-353-1-676-1196
Fax:             011-353-1-676-0877

Organization:   Lansdowne Market Research Ltd
Contact Name:   Mr. Roger Jupp, Managing Director
Address:        12 Lower Hatch Street, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-661-3483
Fax:            011-353-1-661-3479

Organization:   Market Research Bureau of Ireland Ltd. (MRBI)
Contact Name:   Mr. Jack Jones, Chairman
Address:        43 Northumberland Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin
Phone:          011-353-1-280-4661
Fax:            011-353-1-280-9848

Organization:    Quaestus Ltd.
Contact Name:    Mr. Darach McEvoy, Joint Managing Director
Address:         11 Clanwilliam Square, Dublin 2
Phone:           011-353-1-676-0922
Fax:             011-353-1-676-0840


Other Organizations

Organization:    The Chambers of Commerce of Ireland
Contact Name:    Mr. Paul Skehan, Director
Address:         22 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.
Phone:           011-353-1-661-2888
Fax        :     011-353-1-661-2811

Organization:    Chamberlink
Contact Name:    Mr. Frank Toal, President
Address          c/o Chambers of Commerce of Ireland,
                 22 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.
Phone:           011-353-1-661-2888
Fax:             011-353-1-661-2811

Organization:    Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU)
Contact Name:     Mr. Peter Cassells, General Secretary
Address:         19 Raglan Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
Phone:           011-353-1-668-0641
Fax:             011-353-1-660-9027

Organization:    Irish Management Institute (IMI)
Contact Name:    Mr. Barry Kenny, Chief Executive
Address:         Sandyford Road, Dublin 16.
Phone:           011-353-1-295-6911
Fax:             011-353-1-295-5150

Organization:    Irish Productivity Centre (IPC)
Contact Name:     Mr. Eamonn Cahill, Chief Executive
Address:         IPC House, 35-39 Shelbourne Road, Dublin 4
Phone:           011-353-1-668-6244
Fax:             011-353-1-668-6525

Organization:    The Marketing Institute
Contact Name:    Mr. John Casey, Chief Executive
Address:         South County Business Park, Leopardstown, Dublin 18.
Phone:           011-353-1-295-2355
Fax:             011-353-1-295-2453

Organization:    U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Ireland
Contact Name:    Mr. Douglas Bonnar, President
Address:        20 College Green, Dublin 2
Phone:          011-353-1-679-3733
Fax:            011-353-1-679-3402


U.S. Embassy Trade Personnel

Organization:    The Commercial Service (CS-DUBLIN)
Contact Name:    Mr. Edward W. Cannon, Commercial Attache
Address:         U.S. Embassy, 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.
Phone:           011-353-1-668-7122
Fax:             011-353-1-668-2840

Organization:    Policy Management Office
Contact Name:    Ms. Madeleine Spirnak , Economic Officer
Address:         U.S. Embassy, 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.
Phone:           011-353-1-668-7122
Fax:             011-353-1-668-9946

Organization:    U.S. Foreign Agricultural Service
Contact Name:    Mr. Michael Hanley, Agricultural Specialist
Address:         U.S. Embassy, 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.
Phone:           011-353-1-668-7122
Fax:             011-353-1-668-7423


Washington-based USG Country Contacts

Organization:    International Economic Policy (IEP), Ireland Desk
Contact Name:    Mr. Robert McLaughlin, Ireland Desk Officer
Address:         U.S. Department of Commerce, Room H-3039, 14th Street & 
Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20230
Phone:          (202) 482-3478
Fax:            (202) 482-2897

Organization:    EUR/UBI
Contact Name:    Mr. Paul van Son, Irish Desk Officer
Address:         U.S. Department of State, Room H-4513, 2201 C Street, 
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20520-4513
Phone:          (202) 647-5669
Fax:            (202) 647-3463


U.S.-based Multipliers relevant for Ireland

Organization:   Ireland Chamber of Commerce in the United States 
(ICCUSA)
Contact Name:   Mr. Patrick J. Keogh, President and CEO
Address:        1305 Post Road, Suite 205, Fairfield, CT 06430.
Phone:          (203) 255-4774
Fax:            (203) 255-6752

Organization:   Ireland-U.S. Council for Commerce & Industry, Inc.
Contact Name:   Mr. David O'Sullivan, Executive Director
Address:        Suite 640, 1156 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 
10036
Phone:         (212) 921-1414
Fax:           (212) 730-2232

Trade Directories

Publication:    American Business Directory
Contact Name:   Mr. Douglas Bonnar, President
Address:        US Chamber of Commerce in Ireland, 20 College Green, 
Dublin 2.
Phone:          011-353-1-679-3733
Fax:            011-353-1-679-3402

Publication:    Kompass (Register of Industry & Commerce)
Contact Name:   Mr. Patrick Cody, Director
Address:        Kompass Ireland, Kompass House, Parnell Court, Granby 
Row, Dublin 1.
Phone:          011-353-1-872-8800
Fax:            011-353-1-873-3711

Publication:    Million Dollar Directory (Marketing Guide to Ireland)
Contact Name:   Mr. Gareth McWilliams, Sales & Marketing Director
Address:        Dun & Bradstreet Ltd., P.O. Box 455A, Holbrook House, 
Holles Street, Dublin 2.
Phone:         011-353-1-676-4239
Fax:           011-353-1-678-9301

Major Irish Newspapers

Publication:   Irish Independent
Contact Name:  Mr. Liam Healy, Chief Executive
Address:       Independent Newspapers (Ireland) Ltd., Middle Abbey 
Street, Dublin 1.
Phone:         011-353-1-873-1333
Fax:           011-353-1-873-1787

Publication:   Irish Times
Contact Name:   Mr. L. O'Neill, Group Managing Director
Address:       10-16 D'Olier Street, Dublin 2.
Phone:         011-353-1-679-2022
Fax:           011-353-1-679-3910

Publication:   Evening Herald
Contact Name:  Mr. Liam Healy, Chairman
Address:       Independent Newspapers (Ireland) Ltd., Middle Abbey 
Street, Dublin 1.
Phone:         011-353-1-873-1666
Fax:           011-353-1-873-1787

Publication:   Sunday Independent
Contact Name:  Mr. Aengus Fanning, Editor
Address:       Independent Newspapers (Ireland) Ltd., Middle Abbey 
Street, Dublin 1.
Phone:         011-353-1-873-1666
Fax:           011-353-1-873-1787

Publication:   Sunday Tribune
Contact Name:  Mr. Peter Murtagh, Editor
Address:       15 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2.
Phone:         011-353-1-661-5555
Fax:           011-353-1-661-4656

Publication:   Sunday Business Post
Contact Name:  Mr. Damien Kiberd, Editor
Address:       27-30 Merchants Quay, Dublin 8.
Phone:         011-353-1-679-9777
Fax:           011-353-1-679-6496

Major Business Journals

Publication:    Business and Finance
Contact Name:   Mr. Dan White, Editor
Address:        Belenos Publications, 50 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2.
Phone:          011-353-1-676-4587
Fax:            011-353-1-661-9781

Publication:    Checkout
Contact Name:   Ms. Mary Brophy, Editor
Address:        Checkout Publications Ltd., 22 Crofton Road, Dun 
Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
Phone:          011-353-1-280-8415
Fax:            NA

Publication:    Communications Today
Contact Name:   Mr. Donald McDonald, Managing Editor
Address:        Computer Publications of Ireland Ltd., 66 Patrick 
Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
Phone:         011-353-1-280-0424
Fax:           011-353-1-280-8468

Publication:   Irish Computer
Contact Name:  Mr. Donald McDonald, Managing Editor
Address:       Computer Publications of Ireland Ltd., 66 Patrick Street, 
Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.
Phone:        011-353-1-280-0424
Fax:          011-353-1-280-8468

Publication:  Irish Farmers Journal
Contact Name: Mr. Matt Dempsey, Editor
Address:      The Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12.
Phone:        011-353-1-450-1166
Fax:          011-353-1-452-0876

Publication:  Irish Hardware
Contact Name:  Ms. S. O'Connell, Editor
Address:       Jemma Publications, Marino House, 52 Glasthule Road, 
Sandycove, Co. Dublin.
Phone:         011-353-1-280-0000
Fax:           011-353-1-280-1818

Publication:   Irish Medical Times
Contact Name:   Ms. Maureen Browne, Editor
Address:        Medical Publications (Ireland) Ltd., 15 Harcourt Street, 
Dublin 2.
Phone:         011-353-1-475-7461
Fax:           011-353-1-475-7467

Publication:   Irish Travel Trade News
Contact Name:  Mr. Michael Flood, Editor
Address:       9 Western Parkway Business Centre, Ballymount Road, 
Dublin 12.
Phone:         011-353-1-450-2422
Fax:           011-353-1-450-2954

Publication:   Technology Ireland
Contact Name:  Mr. Tom Kennedy, Joint Editor
Address:       c/o Forbairt, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.
Phone:         011-353-1-837-0101
Fax:           011-353-1-836-7122



APPENDIX F

MARKET RESEARCH - IRELAND

1. CS-Dublin Industry Sub-Sector Analyses (ISAs)

FY'95

Report Title:  Cellular Telephony Infrastructure
Report Title:  Internetworking Products and Services
Report Title:  Disposable Medical Products
Report Title:  Equipment & Services for Upgrading/ Refurbishing of Power 
Generation Facilities
Report Title:  Airport Construction
Report Title:  Recycling Equipment
Report Title:  Water Pollution Controls

FY'96

The following is a provisional listing of proposed Industry Sub-sector 
Analyses (ISAs) for FY'96.  The finalized listing of these reports will 
be contained in the FY'96 Strategic Commercial Plan for Ireland to be 
submitted in September 1995:

Report Title:  Personal Computers
Report Title:  Multimedia Software & Services
Report Title:  Waste Management Technologies
Report Title:  Aircraft Maintenance Equipment
Report Title:  Surgical Instruments
Report Title:  Drugs, Medicines, and Medicinal Preparations
Report Title:  Telemarketing

USFCS-Dublin's Industry Sub-Sector Analysis (ISA) reports are available 
on the National Trade Data Bank (NTDB) and through your local U.S. 
Department of Commerce District Office.  For information and phone 
orders for the NTDB, call the NTDB help line: (202) 482-1986.

2. FAS-Dublin Agricultural Reports

FY'95

Report Title:  Dairy Products Annual Report
Report Title:  Grain and Feed Annual Report
Report Title:  Sugar
Report Title:  Foreign Buyer List - Update
Report Title:  Country Profile, Ireland
Report Title:  Dairy Products Semi-Annual Report
Report Title:  Poultry Annual Report
Report Title:  Annual Marketing Plan, Ireland
Report Title:  Livestock and Meat Annual Report
Report Title:  Agricultural Situation, Ireland
Report Title:  Importers of U.S. Agricultural and Food Products - Update

FY'96

The following is a provisional listing of proposed Agricultural reports 
for FY'96.  The finalized listing of these reports will be contained in 
the FY'96 Strategic Commercial Plan for Ireland to be submitted in 
September 1995:

Report Title:  Dairy Products Annual Report
Report Title:  Grain and Feed Annual Report
Report Title:  Sugar
Report Title:  Foreign Buyer List - Update
Report Title:  Country Profile, Ireland
Report Title:  Dairy Products Semi-Annual Report
Report Title:  Poultry Annual Report
Report Title:  Annual Marketing Plan, Ireland
Report Title:  Livestock and Meat Annual Report
Report Title:  Agricultural Situation, Ireland
Report Title:  Market Brief: The Irish Retail System
Report Title:  Importers of U.S. Agricultural and Food Products - Update

FAS-Dublin's Agricultural reports are available on the National Trade 
Data Bank (NTDB).  For information and phone orders for the NTDB, call 
the NTDB help line: (202) 482-1986.


APPENDIX G

     TRADE EVENT SCHEDULE - IRELAND


A.  Trade Event Schedule

(1)  Event Name:     Northern Ireland/Border Counties Business 
Development Mission
(2)  Event ID No.:     NA
(3)  Event Location:     Border Counties, Ireland.
(4)  Industry Theme:     Environmental Technologies, Food Industries, 
Information Technologies, and Tourism Services
(5)  Event Dates:     October 15-20, 1995
(6)  Type of Event:     Trade Mission
(7)  Recruiter:     USDOC, Wash, D.C., EPS, Costa
(8)  Estimated Post Permanent Employee Work Days (U.S. & FSN) necessary 
to handle all aspects of this event:  30 days approx.
(9)  Est. Target No. of U.S. Participants:  20
(10)  Est. Dollar Collections for this Event to be reported to the Trust 
Fund: *
(11)  Est. Dollar Cost of Event that will be requested to be authorized 
from USDOC:  *

*  Budget currently being prepared


(1)  Event Name:  Holiday World
(2)  Event ID No.:  NA
(3)  Event Location:  Ballsbridge, Dublin, Ireland
(4)  Industry Theme:  Promotion of Travel to the U.S.
(5)  Event Dates:  January 24-28, 1996
(6)  Type of Event:  U.S. Pavilion
(7)  Recruiter:  Irish Visit USA Committee
(8)  Estimated Post Permanent Employee Work Days (U.S. & FSN) necessary 
to handle all aspects of this event:  40 days approx.
(9)  Est. Target No. of U.S. Participants:  35
(10)  Est. Dollar Collections for this Event to be reported to the Trust 
Fund: **
(11)  Est. Dollar Cost of Event that will be requested to be authorized 
from USDOC:  To be determined

** Costs to be covered directly by the Irish Visit USA Committee, except 
for those incurred by CS-Dublin on a cost reimbursement basis.

(1)  Event Name:  U.S./Ireland Business Partnership Conference
(2)  Event ID No.:  NA
(3)  Event Location:  Dublin, Ireland.
(4)  Industry Theme:  Horizontal Industries
(5)  Event Dates:  June 1996
(6)  Type of Event:  Certified Trade Mission
(7)  Recruiter:  Ireland Chamber of Commerce in the U.S. (ICCUSA)
(8)  Estimated Post Permanent Employee Work Days (U.S. & FSN) necessary 
to handle all aspects of this event:  40 days approx.
(9)  Est. Target No. of U.S. Participants:  25
(10)  Est. Dollar Collections for this Event to be reported to the
Trust Fund:  ***
(11)  Est. Dollar Cost of Event that will be requested to be authorized 
from USDOC:   ***

***  Budget to be prepared in late 1995

(1)  Event Name:  High Tech USA
(2)  Event ID No.:  96000442
(3)  Event Location:  Dublin, Ireland.
(4)  Industry Theme:  CPT, ELC
(5)  Event Dates:  February 1996
(6)  Type of Event:  Regional Catalog Show
(7)  Recruiter:  USDOC Wash, D.C. EPS, Coleman
(8)  Estimated Post Permanent Employee Work Days (U.S. & FSN) necessary 
to handle all aspects of this event:  30 days approx.
(9)  Est. Target No. of U.S. Participants:  100
(10)  Est. Dollar Collections for this Event to be reported to the 
Trust Fund:  NA (No collections at post)
(11)  Est. Dollar Cost of Event that will be requested to be 
authorized from USDOC:  $900.00

(1)  Event Name:  Consumer Goods USA
(2)  Event ID No.:  96000440
(3)  Event Location:  Dublin, Ireland
(4)  Industry Theme:  GCG, COS
(5)  Event Dates:  March 1996
(6)  Type of Event:  Regional Catalog Show
(7)  Recruiter:  USDOC Wash, D.C., EPS, Coleman
(8)  Estimated Post Permanent Employee Work Days (U.S. & FSN) 
necessary to handle all aspects of this event:  30 days approx.
(9)  Est. Target No. of U.S. Participants:  23****
(10)  Est. Dollar Collections for this Event to be reported to the
Trust Fund:  (No collections at post)
(11)  Est. Dollar Cost of Event that will be requested to be authorized 
from USDOC:  $900.00


In addition to the above, CS-Dublin will provide ongoing support to the 
Presidential Economic Initiative for Ireland by assisting in the design 
and implementation of both U.S. Department of Commerce and local entity-
initiated trade missions and conferences convening within, or for the 
interest of, the six border counties during FY'96.

Post will also continue to host PIP events at the Rotunda in the 
Chancery.  In FY '94 Post hosted 5 PIP events.

USFCS-Dublin will review USFCS-London's Trade Event Plan for potential 
spin-off events.

Foreign Buyer Program events within and beyond the 15 Best Prospect and 
the 6 Priority Sectors of the Showcase Europe strategy will continue to 
be supported and promoted during FY'96.  CS-Dublin will also support and 
promote U.S. Pavilions at major European trade fairs as part of the 
Showcase Europe strategy.

The Irish Visit USA Committee, of which the SCO is Executive Director, 
would like to take its outreach activities to areas outside of Dublin.  
For FY 96, the Committee plans to hold seminars/workshops in Cork and 
Galway.

In implementing its active and aggressive commercial program, including 
its trade event plan, CS-Dublin will continue to work with, and seek the 
support of, the Irish Industrial Development Authority (IDA), Irish 
Trade Board, Shannon Development, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 
Ireland (The SCO is the Patron's Representative Executive Director on 
the AmCham Board), the Chambers of Commerce in Ireland, Chamberlink, 
Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC) and other industry and 
academic organizations, including the AIB, Bank of Ireland, law firms 
with U.S. interests, and U.S. accounting firms with operations in 
Ireland.

CS-Dublin will provide support, where possible, for any visits by 
officials from individual U.S. states.  In addition, CS-Dublin expects 
to be involved in supporting other industry and Irish government 
organized trade delegations/missions to Ireland which are not certified 
by the U.S. Department of Commerce.  This will mainly entail 
presentations by the SCO and some coordination with sponsors.

CS-Dublin, if possible, plans on recruiting and using the services of 
quality business student interns to assist in the implementation of its 
FY'96 CCG.

In order to accomplish the foregoing, CS-Dublin anticipates having 
redesigned and restructured prior to December 1, 1995 the former Embassy 
library as a new 'Commercial and Educational Reference Center'.  This 
new facility will greatly assist the implementation of both initiated 
and delegated trade research and promotion functions.
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