Nebraska-Ireland Commission established

Lawmakers approved creation of a commission April 10 intended to foster trade relations between Nebraska and the Republic of Ireland.

LB1087, sponsored by La Vista Sen. John Arch, creates the 10-member Nebraska-Ireland Commission to be housed within the state Department of Economic Development for administrative purposes.

The commission is tasked with promoting and encouraging business and other mutually beneficial activities between Nebraska and Ireland, including:
• bilateral trade and investment;
• business and academic exchanges;
• mutual economic support;
• mutual investment in infrastructure; and
• joint action on policy issues.

Membership will consist of one member of the Legislature from each of the state’s three congressional districts, in addition to the heads of DED and the state Department of Agriculture or their designees.

The following members will be appointed by the governor to two-year terms: a representative of a postsecondary institution, two members from the business community, one nonprofit representative and a member of the general public.

Members will not be paid but may be reimbursed for expenses. The commission will report to the Legislature annually.

The bill also creates the Nebraska-Ireland Commission Fund, which may receive grants and federal or state funds to help defray administrative costs.

LB1087 passed on a 49-0 vote.