The Maine Irish Heritage Center in Portland opened its doors recently to welcome a delegation from Ireland led by Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Seán Fleming.
The event, according to a release, was a unique chance to bring together local community members and Irish leaders.
Minister Fleming reflected on the ties connecting Ireland and Maine, and the importance of the Government of Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy.
The minister continued on to Bath, where he served as principal speaker for the christening of the USS Patrick Gallagher.
The Heritage Center provided Irish flags for the ceremony and the Claddagh Mhor Pipe Band, which played during the christening, was led by MIHC Board member Tom Ryan.
“We were thrilled to welcome Minister Fleming and our friends from the New England Irish community.” said MIHC Board Chair James McClay.
“It was an honor to gather in our historic building and appreciate Maine’s rich Irish heritage. The visit is truly a testament to the Irish community across Maine and across New England.”
The center is based in the former St. Dominic’s church. Eric Brown, the center's executive director, said the visit was a testament to the legacy of connection between Maine and Ireland, "and also to the present vibrancy of Maine’s own increasingly diverse communities.”
