The launch of Guaranteed Irish Limited a company that will promote products made in Ireland.
Nine years after it was launched by the Confederation of Irish Industry (CII) the Guaranteed Irish scheme is relaunched as Guaranteed Irish Limited (GIL). The venture encouraging the sale of Irish made products is now run by a private company under the aegis of the CII.
The relaunch follows a European Court decision that ruled the Guaranteed Irish campaign run by a state agency, was in breach of European Economic Community (EEC) rules on competition. GIL chairperson Norman Kilroy refutes the accusation that the new scheme also could be accused of protectionism.
The new company is launched by President Hillery who describes it as a great initiative.
In order to qualify, a product must be manufactured in Ireland and 40% of its selling price must be made up of Irish raw materials or Irish labour.
CII president Tom Hardiman believes that if Irish consumers opt to buy products made at home where all other things are equal, their choice can make a great impact. The new campaign carries a clear message that in times of recession,
Be aware of the very great degree of self-help which we can bring to bear on our national problems.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 28 March 1984. The reporter is Alan McCullough.
