Visit to Alaska by Ambassador Anderson, 22-27 June

The Ambassador’s recent visit to Alaska highlighted the connections that exist between Ireland and Alaska and confirmed areas of mutual interest.

The visit coincided with the 20th Anniversary of Ireland’s Partnership with Hope Community Resources. The Hope project is a state-wide non-profit organization supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Twenty years ago, a programme was established to bring Irish third level students to Alaska each summer as volunteers in the Hope programme. To date some 1400 Irish young people have participated in the programme.

During her visit, Ambassador Anderson addressed a meeting of the Board of Directors of Hope and spoke of the mutual enrichment this project brings praising the hard work of the Irish volunteers. The Ambassador also attended the 20th Anniversary Celebration and spoke with pride about our Irish young people.

There were two set-piece addresses made by the Ambassador during her visit. The first address was to the Alaska World Affairs Council on the topic of: “Ireland, U.S., the European Union-a 21st Century Perspective,” which gave a snap shot of current issues and explored the relationships between Ireland, the U.S., and the European Union. The second address took place at the Young Women’s Christian Association in Anchorage. Ambassador Anderson spoke on gender equality challenges and initiatives that exist in both Ireland and the EU.

Other highlights of the Ambassador’s visit included an address given at the opening ceremony of the Highland Games in Palmer, as well as meeting with a variety local community and political leaders.

The Ambassador would like to thank everyone who helped to ensure such a successful visit and to convey particular thanks to Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan and Irish Club President Sean McGrane for their kind hospitality during her visit.