Supporters of The American Ireland Fund gave a warm welcome to Ireland’s Texas Consul General, Adrian Farrell. The breakfast, followed upon an AIF luncheon for Consul General Farrell in Houston in October, both were sponsored by AIF National Board Member and Texas Regional Advisory Board Chairman, Hon. John B. Kane. Fellow AIF National Board member, Mike Corboy was present to welcome the new Consul General, as were Texas Regional Advisory Board members Davey Devlin and Kevin Hanrahan.
Liza O’Connor of The American Ireland Fund greeted the guests and after a hearty Texan breakfast she invited John Kane to the podium from which he welcomed everyone and introduced Consul General Farrell.
After giving a brief overview of the important roles which Irish and Irish Americans have played in Texas dating back to the 1700s, Consul General Farrell spoke of Ireland’s reasons for investing in Texas and for opening a Consulate here. He cited the regions’ shared concentration on high tech industries and a creative, can-do attitude evident in both areas. He also conveyed insights into Ireland’s improving economic condition and international reputation. The Consul General announced the date of the AIF’s Texas Emerald Ball on February 28, 2015, he said that he would not miss it for the world and strongly encouraged all guests to join him at the event. Consul General Farrell closed with an expression of sincere thanks to The American Ireland Fund for being a true friend to Ireland for the past 40 years, particularly for the Fund’s steadfast support during Ireland’s recent economic crisis.
Many guests stayed on long after the breakfast finished for the opportunity to meet Consul General Farrell and speak with him one on one. It was a terrific opportunity for key supporters of The American Ireland Fund to have constructive conversation and time with Ireland’s Texas Consul General.
