Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

I refer to Senator Bradford's question on President Obama and the issue about investment abroad. This issue arises in the United States at election time - it is raised by President Obama and other candidates - just as the issue of Ireland's corporate tax rate also arises during elections in some European countries. There is a very high level of investment from the United States in Ireland, which is very welcome. However, what is not often appreciated is the level of Irish investment in the United States. Almost as many people are employed in the United States in Irish companies as are Irish people in American companies. It is a two-way street and we make this point at every opportunity when we talk with the US Administration, including when the Taoiseach and I met President Obama formally at Farmleigh during his visit here. He understood and appreciated it. When in the United States next week, I again will take the opportunity to make this point to the people I meet.