#TonnageTaxTalk - Irish Ambassador to Germany, Michael Collins opened the Irish Maritime Development Office's latest event in Hamburg held last month.
Speakers included Rebecca Wardell, Business Development Manager (IMDO), Hugh Kennedy Kennedy's Law, Paul Packard Bank of Ireland and Dermot Lambe BMCI.
The Ambassador who welcomed guests to the event on 26 February, stressed the importance and scale of the bilateral relationship between Ireland and Germany. He also spoke about the large number of German companies established in Ireland employing over 10,000 people, names such as Lufthansa, Allianz, Liebherr, SAP and Deutsche Bank.
The Ambassador went on to say "When asked why they locate in Ireland, international companies mention many factors including Ireland's skilled workforce and our pro-business tax system – this includes the corporation tax rate, R&D tax credits, and an extensive tax treaty network."
Ms Wardell, who joined the Irish Maritime Development Office last year, spoke about the benefits of doing business in Ireland, with particular emphasis on Ireland's Tonnage Tax regime. The Irish Tonnage Tax regime makes Ireland an ideal location for ship-owners, ship operators or ship managers to base aspects of their operations.
She said, "Ireland has a tremendous track record for success in foreign direct investment and there is huge potential to grow the Maritime Sector".
"According to research by independent experts, PwC, Ireland has one of the best Tonnage Tax systems internationally. The companies who have set up to date, speak highly of their experience and continue to grow in terms of employment and volume of business. "
The IMDO is the Irish Government agency tasked with the growth and development of the Maritime sector in Ireland.
