Parker Green examining investment in Malta

Parker Green International, one of Ireland's leading property and investment companies will begin new investment discussions in Malta this month.

The discussions will also be a first test for Parker Green's new international advisory board, which will fit the talks on development opportunities in Malta alongside its own inaugural meetings.

Gerard O'Hare, chairman of Parker Green International, which he founded in 1996, said the new board will meet various Maltese state agencies in Valletta.

"These meetings are important for Parker Green in two ways. First, we want to continue to expand internationally, and we are looking at all opportunities, including in Malta.

"Second, we currently have a portfolio of investments and developments in western, central and eastern Europe, the US, the UK, and Ireland, and we felt we needed a new board to reflect this global approach more fully.

"As we go forward, beginning with discussions in Malta, we want to know we have the expertise to perform in these global markets.

The international advisory board, which is made up of top business and political leaders, lets us do that," Dr O'Hare said.

The new board comprises senior politicians, including two members of the UK House of Lords, and various property and investment executives.

Dr O'Hare also explained why Parker Green chose Malta for its new board's first meetings.

"We wanted to choose a host country that clearly represents 'internationalism'. Malta seemed the ideal location for that. And the country has such a strong business and trade reputation too - it really conveys all the messages we wanted.

"This of course is also why we feel that Malta could be an excellent location for us to commence a new wave of investment," he said.

Parker Green's two-day discussions in Valetta will include lunch with Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi on Tuesday, followed by a welcome reception for nearly 100 invited guests in the evening.

Parker Green is a multinational active in developing and investing in property across three key markets.