Taoiseach to open New York Stock Exchange

Taoiseach Brian Cowen will today ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange in the second leg of his trip to the United States.

The Fianna Fáil leader left for the US yesterday on his first official visit since taking office.

He will attend a series of high-level discussions with senior political and business figures, which will include the announcement of significant new export contracts won by Irish companies in the US.

After meeting New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg he will visit the World Trade Tribute Centre – set up in memory of the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

“The Taoiseach will also hold discussions with senior Irish and Irish-American business leaders, including members of the Taoiseach’s Economic Advisory Board,” a government spokesman said.

“The discussions are expected to focus on the current situation in the US and global economies and how Ireland can maintain its economic success during this difficult period internationally.”

The focus of events later in the day will switch to the Irish/American community when Mr Cowen attends a reception hosted by the Consul General in New York for the Irish community.

Discussions will also be held with groups campaigning for immigration reform.