Ireland has been selected as the European base for a new international arbitration hub designed to resolve commercial disputes between U.S. and European companies, with the initiative formally announced in New York on St Patrick’s Day.
The announcement was made at the Irish Consulate in New York by Peter Burke alongside Bridget McCormack, president and CEO of the American Arbitration Association and its global arm, the International Centre for Dispute Resolution.
The project will see the creation of ICDR-Ireland, a new Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) arbitration hub based in Dublin.
The centre will support international commercial arbitration and will include an advisory board and a panel of Irish arbitrators who can preside over global cases.
The Government said the move strengthens Ireland’s position as a location for international dispute resolution and reinforces its role as a gateway for U.S. companies operating across Europe and wider EMEA markets.
Mr Burke said the establishment of the hub reflects Ireland’s reputation as a trusted and rules-based business environment.
“Ireland has built its reputation as a trusted, rules-based and business-friendly location for international companies,” he said.
“The development of ICDR-Ireland further strengthens our position as a gateway for U.S. firms operating across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.”
He added that the Government sees international arbitration as an important component of Ireland’s broader strategy to attract and retain multinational investment, particularly from the United States.
Ms McCormack said the new centre would support businesses dealing with cross-border disputes and complex international transactions.
“We are pleased to establish ICDR-Ireland to support businesses navigating cross-border disputes across EMEA and around the world,” she said.
She added that the organisation’s expertise and technology platforms would help scale alternative dispute resolution services for global companies.
According to the organisations involved, more than 970 U.S. companies already operate in Ireland, underlining the country’s growing role in international commerce.
The announcement was made at the Irish Consulate in New York by Peter Burke (pictured) alongside Bridget McCormack, president and CEO of the American Arbitration Association. Photo: Sasko Lazarov/© RollingNews.ie
Separately, Irish barrister Cian P. Kelly has been appointed to the council of the American Arbitration Association’s international division, becoming one of only three European members.
He will also serve as chair of the ICDR-Ireland advisory board.