Bill would create Nebraska Ireland Commission to foster trade, research and cultural ties

Sen. John Arch introduced LB10‑87 to create the Nebraska Ireland Commission, a 10‑member body intended to promote commercial, educational and cultural ties between Nebraskans and the people of Ireland.

"LB 10 87 calls for the creation of the Nebraska Ireland Commission," Arch told the committee, describing a commission that would include agency directors or designees, business and nonprofit representatives, a postsecondary representative, a public member and legislative nonvoting members. He said the bill establishes a Nebraska Ireland Fund to hold gifts and grants and added, "I have no intention of taxpayer dollars ever being appropriated to that fund." (speaker paraphrase corrected for sponsor's intent.)

Arch framed the commission as a long‑term, rolling mechanism that goes beyond single trade missions to Ireland, facilitating sustained introductions among government leaders, business groups and academic partners. He noted similar commissions exist in other states and argued Nebraska could expand research collaborations and export opportunities.

Supporters included representatives from the University of Nebraska, the Department of Economic Development, the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and cultural organizations. Matt Bloomsstedt, representing the University of Nebraska, said the commission would help coordinate campus exchange and research collaborations already underway with institutions such as University College Cork. "The University of Nebraska views Ireland as a strategic partner for advancing education, research, and economic development," Bloomsstedt said.

Colm Breathnach of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and Burke Hart of the Omaha Irish Cultural Center said the commission would strengthen cultural ties and student exchange opportunities. Hunter Trainor of the Nebraska Chamber emphasized the potential for sustained foreign investment and workforce pipelines. Maureen Larson, director of the Department of Economic Development, testified that LB10‑87 aligns with the department's mission to expand trade and recruit international investment and cited prior DED coordination of a 2022 trade mission to Ireland.

Committee members asked about the bill's geographic and political framing; a senator observed that Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have different political statuses. Arch acknowledged the complexity and said the commission is meant to work across the island's markets and institutions.

Online comments recorded two proponents and one opponent. No committee vote was taken during this hearing.

What happens next: The committee may accept amendments (sponsor filed AM2000) and will consider whether to advance LB10‑87 to the next stage.