by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
A relationship that Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce members have been developing the past couple of years became official Wednesday when business leaders from Ireland signed a memorandum of understanding with the City of Jacksonville.
“It has been a wonderful relationship, a wonderful opportunity to grow and I think we all have high expectations where we can move this relationship,” said Jerry Mallot, president of the chamber’s Cornerstone Regional Development Partnership.
“Jerry said our meeting was by chance. I don’t believe that,” said Mayor John Peyton. “Chance and luck are what happen when opportunity and preparation come together. What we have found here are two communities that share very similar goals.”
The Atlantic Way is an organization of more than 500 professionals from throughout Western Ireland. The organization has goals common with the vision for Jacksonville, which include the development of its airports and seaports.
“I think we have a relationship that is truly special and we want to see how we can develop that through all areas of business,” said Brian O’Connell, chair of the Atlantic Way. “The relationship allows people to come and network with your community.”
O’Connell also referred to the economic challenges in Ireland.
“Today is a time when we are challenged in our country,” said O’Connell. “Our financial resources are problematic, but our economy is very, very strong. We are well supported by a number of foreign direct investments.”
The Atlantic Way was given use of an office in the Jacksonville Economic Development Commission headquarters on Adams Street and the City of Jacksonville will have an office at the Atlantic Way offices in Ireland.
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