Kelly Resigns As US Economic Envoy In Northern Ireland

Business leaders in Northern Ireland are anxiously awaiting an indication from US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton of whether she intends appointing a replacement for Declan Kelly, who resigned as US economic envoy to Northern Ireland last week.

Tipperary-born Kelly, who advised Clinton during her presidential run in 2008, was appointed to the role of economic envoy in September 2009.

Since then he has helped spearhead campaigns to attract business and investment to Northern Ireland, and has helped create hundreds of jobs there.

Among the American companies currently operating in Northern Ireland are New York Stock Exchange, Euronext, Citi and Kana Software.

Mr Kelly is stepping down from the post to pursue his own business interests. Secretary Clinton paid tribute to the work he had done.

"Nearly two years ago when I asked Declan to serve, I challenged him to use his considerable talents and entrepreneurial drive to help Northern Ireland grow and sustain the benefits of peace," she said, "Within hours of his appointment, Declan was en route to Belfast. He found eager and able partners not only there, but throughout the region."

"A stronger economy in Northern Ireland will help secure a lasting peace; a bedrock foreign policy priority for the United States."

"The United States will continue to work with Northern Ireland to expand the opportunities Declan has fought so hard for, and I know he will remain a passionate advocate for the people of Northern Ireland."

Both First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness thanked Declan Kelly for his contribution.

Business leaders and politicians from across the political spectrum have expressed the hope that Mrs Clinton will appoint a successor in the role.