World Trade Center Dublin (WTCD) Opens in Ireland; New Gateway to Global Trade and International Commerce

DUBLIN, Nov. 18, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The World Trade Center Association (WTCA), a global organization that brings together businesses and government agencies involved in foreign trade, has announced that it is to open an Irish center. The World Trade Centre Dublin (WTCD) is a global trading platform that will provide business and trade organizations across Ireland with a new gateway to international trade opportunities, collaboration and education. It will also serve as a resource for companies around the world seeking trade opportunities in Ireland.

Commenting on the launch, David Pierce, Director of WTCD, said: "In the current economic climate every business needs to examine all its options and seek new business opportunities. Through our network of world trade centers, we will be in a position to offer networking and trading opportunities with over one million companies throughout the world. In order to ensure that companies and individuals are prepared for this global platform, we will support them through developing education programs and by providing access to our professional trade services team. This is a unique opportunity for Irish businesses and we are delighted to be in a position to launch WTC in Ireland."

Speaking at the launch Mr. Simon Coveney TD, said: "This is an exciting new initiative for businesses particularly in the export sector. Any new initiative that opens gateways for Irish business should be strongly supported. Ireland is a small open economy that relies on contacts and business connections to expand and grow its economy. The launch of WTCD is a positive development and a good news story which is much needed in the current climate."

A breakfast briefing was held yesterday by WTCD where it provided details of its first Irish venture – a joint professional education initiative with Independent Colleges.  This initiative will offer a curriculum of Professional Diploma Courses, specifically designed to enhance the international trade competency of individuals and businesses in Ireland.

Commenting on the education initiative, Garret Doyle, Chief Executive of Independent Colleges, said: "These challenging times are compelling Irish businesses to learn about new markets and different ways of trading. This trend has allowed Independent Colleges and World Trade Centre Dublin an opportunity to partner for a common cause – Incisive international trade education programs for Irish business presented by experienced global business practitioners. Independent College Dublin will be providing programs that are truly relevant to a changed domestic business landscape and our courses are unique to the Irish market in content, delivery and practical learning outcome."

A World Trade Center is a forum for businesses, services, organizations and individuals that are involved in world trade. It aims to facilitate international trade to offer exporters, importers and service providers a resource and commerce base. Through its representative association, the World Trade Center Association (WTCA), members of WTCD will have immediate access to over one million companies. WTCD complements and supports the existing services of private and government agencies.

WTCD was established as an endeavour of the Drew Company and John E. Drew, founder and President of the Drew Company, and Chairman of WTCD. Mr. Drew is Vice Chairman of the WTCA, Chairman of the Seaport World Trade Center in Boston, and Chairman of Trade Center Management Associates, which manages the Ronald Reagan Building and the International Trade Center in Washington D.C. Mr. Drew has gained national and international recognition for innovation, excellence and civic leadership, and is a recognized authority on public-private partnerships and development.

Independent Colleges

Independent Colleges is a goal focused, career orientated college, supported by Independent News & Media PLC. The objective of the College is to develop successful and prestigious third level, lifelong and further education learning programmes which are reverent in today's challenging workplace and real currency for graduates seeking employment. By focusing on specific disciplines - business, law, accountancy, journalism, psychotherapy, and arts, Independent Colleges has created a centre of real educational focus within an intimate learning environment.

SOURCE The Drew Company