US State Senator Brian Kavanagh visits Tricel HQ

05/10/2023

Brian Kavanagh, US State Senator & Chair for Committee on Housing, Construction and Community Development, visits the Tricel headquarters in Killarney, Co. Kerry, strengthening International ties and exploring Economic Opportunities.

In October 2023, U.S State Senator Brian Kavanagh paid a visit to Tricel, headquartered in the picturesque town of Killarney,  County Kerry, as part of an effort to foster international relationships and explore potential economic partnerships between the USA and the vibrant Irish community. He was accompanied by Helen Barry from Kerry County Council as well as members of his staff from New York.

His first term in the Senate began in 2017 after serving six terms in the State Assembly, representing Manhattan’s 74th district on the East Side. In his work, he has concentrated on affordable housing, gun violence prevention, environmental sustainability, democracy and open government, and economic and social justice. As head of the Senate Committee on Housing, Construction, and Community Development, Senator Kavanagh has more than two decades of experience advocating for the right of every New Yorker to access high-quality, safe and affordable housing.

He has also been a leader in promoting environmental sustainability and a strong supporter of the Environmental Bond Act, increasing in 2022 by $4.2 billion for flood risk reduction, open space and land conservation, climate change mitigation, and water quality improvement. As part of the All-Electric Building Act, new buildings that use fossil fuels would be prohibited from construction after 2023 for buildings under six stories and after 2027 for all other facilities. He co-sponsored the Build Public Renewables Act, which authorised the New York Power Authority to build and own renewable energy projects, eliminate fossil fuel-fired generation, and deliver renewable energy to state, municipal, and residential customers.

During the visit, Tricel’s efforts to prioritise sustainability in the construction industry were on display to the visiting group. Aside from implementing the largest solar and heat pump system in Ireland, Tricel has also committed to eliminating single-cup usage through the Killarney Coffee Cup initiative and by creating biodiversity with its 140m wildflower garden.

The company’s CEO, Michael Stack, and Director, Con Stack, gave Senator Kavanagh a tour of its manufacturing facility, which includes a state-of-the-art SMC manufacturing facility.

During his time in Killarney, Senator Kavanagh admired the warm hospitality and the strong sense of community that characterises the town. He emphasised the importance of strengthening ties between New York and Killarney, highlighting the potential for mutually beneficial economic partnerships.  “I am deeply impressed by the beauty and vitality of Killarney and the warm welcome extended to me during my Tricel visit. There are ample opportunities for collaboration and growth between our communities. I look forward to exploring these potential partnerships and finding ways to strengthen our international ties,” said Senator Kavanagh.

The visit to Killarney is a testament to the dedication of Senator Kavanagh in fostering international relationships and seeking avenues for economic growth and collaboration. His engagement with the local community and business leaders demonstrate his commitment to identifying opportunities that benefit New York and Killarney.