The Ireland Funds Monaco gathering was held the weekend of October 7th 2022.
A highlight of the weekend was a private tour of The Princess Grace Irish Library given by its Director, Paula Farquharson. The visitors heard how support from The Ireland Funds, through its Writers in Residence Bursary, has impacted the library. and learned about the library’s history and strong ties to Ireland.
The Gala Dinner was held with His Serene Highness, Prince Albert II of Monaco, in attendance. Denis O’Brien, philanthropist and Founder & Chairman of Digicel Group, was the 2022 recipient of the Princess Grace Humanitarian Award in recognition of his business and philanthropic contributions to Ireland and beyond. John Fitzpatrick, Honorary Chair of The Ireland Funds Monaco. and Guadalupe Smurfit, President of The Ireland Funds Monaco introduced H.S.H Prince Albert II who spoke warmly about his strong ties to Ireland through his mother, Grace Kelly. H.S.H. as well as the evening’s honoree, thanking Denis for all he had contributed through his philanthropic work around the globe.
Sir Michael Smurfit presented Denis O’Brien with a signed copy of one of Seamus Heaney’s greatest works, District & Circle. Guests were entertained with a very special performance from Music Generation. Music Generation is one of the hundreds of organizations funded annually by The Ireland Funds. The initiative promotes access to music education among young people across Ireland. Representatives from the County Waterford branch of Music Generation gave a magnificent performance of traditional Irish music for the 250 guests.
Funds raised from the weekend’s events will support The Ireland Funds Writers in Residence Bursary at the Princess Grace Irish Library.
Photos: Ed Wright Images
