Celebrating Newfoundland and Labrador Irish Connections

Today the City of St. John’s is hosting a civic reception for visitors from County Waterford, Ireland at Quidi Vidi Village Plantation.  The group are in the province participating in events and activities as part of the Newfoundland Labrador Irish Connections (NLIC) - 2015 Gathering.
 
“I am thrilled to be here today, meeting with our guests who have come all the way from Ireland,” said Dennis O’Keefe, Mayor of the City of St.John’s. “Our historical roots with Waterford City go back hundreds of years - many of the first settlers of our province came from Ireland. Since the signing of the St. John’s - Waterford Twinning agreement in 2002 we have worked with the NLIC to coordinate a number of activities and visits between the cities, with many more to come.”
 
Joining Mayor O'Keefe in welcoming the visitors from Ireland will be the Irish Ambassador to Canada, Doctor Ray Basset.
 
The historical connection between Waterford, Ireland and St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador dates back to the eighteenth century when mercantile firms from Waterford and St. John’s developed business opportunities from Newfoundland and Labrador’s fishing industry.  Many place names and markers throughout St. John’s reflect this historical connection.
 
“The twinning recognizes our shared cultural and ancestral ties,” said Councillor Bruce Tilley, Chair of the Economic Development, Tourism and Public Engagement Standing Committee. “This is a great opportunity for the City and the province to nurture our relationship with Ireland, and to showcase our culturally vibrant and beautiful City.”
 
The group, visiting for 10 days, is also being hosted by the communities of Trepassey and Torbay.  Their schedule includes a boat tour, dinner theatre, shed party, twinning ceremonies and bus tours to name a few.
 
Media Contact:
Kelly Maguire
Media Relations
City of St. John's
709-576-8491
kmaguire@stjohns.ca