Vermont lawmakers debate creating Vermont Irish Trade Commission to deepen ties with Ireland

Representative Connor Casey, sponsor of legislation to create a Vermont Irish Trade Commission, told the House Committee on Commerce & Economic Development on May 22 that the commission’s purpose is “to foster support, expand economic, educational, cultural ties between the state of Vermont and the island of Ireland.”

Supporters said the commission would pursue trade and economic development, cultural and educational exchanges, government policy collaboration, tourism and diaspora engagement. Representative Molly Burke of Brattleboro and Representative Kate Paton of South Burlington joined Casey for the presentation and described successful exchanges and delegations that have visited Vermont from Irish officials.

The proposal draws on an Irish government model that has been adopted in almost 30 U.S. states, Casey said, and he argued Vermont could benefit from Ireland’s role as an English-speaking…