US investment in Ireland up by 50%

A robust relationship built to last - that's the description of the business partnership between Ireland and America contained in a new report.

The report from The American Chamber of Commerce said some 600 US companies based here have attracted $190bn in inward investment to Ireland.

Total output of US firms based here last year is estimated in the report as $55bn.

Public affairs director with the chamber Brian Cotter said: "In the first half of 2011, investment is up by about $17bn...about 50% up on 2010. That's a very strong vote of confidence among the US business community that Ireland is open for business."