It is an outpost of Ireland in the heart of Manhattan.
And Tánaiste Micheál Martin officially opened Ireland House New York at a packed gathering Tuesday evening.
Ireland House, the new one, follows the version at 345 Park Avenue which flew the Irish flag for thirty years.
The new one is at 200 Park Avenue in the iconic MetLife and onetime Pan Am building.
As with 345, the newly minted 200 version is on the 17th floor.
Ireland House New York will house the Consulate General of Ireland, Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Tourism Ireland, CIE Tours and The Ireland Funds under one roof and, according to a release, "providing a cutting-edge platform to advance Ireland’s interests and values in the North-Eastern U.S."
The Tánaiste, in his remarks said in part: “Global Ireland 2025, the government’s strategy to increase Ireland’s global impact, contains a commitment to launch a new flagship Ireland House in New York.
"I am truly delighted to open Ireland House New York, and fulfill that commitment, collocating Ireland’s diplomatic missions, our State Agencies, and other key partners, in one premises. This wonderful facility will contribute significantly to Team Ireland’s ability to work together effectively as we engage with key partner countries, Irish, diaspora and other communities, and key markets.
“I have no doubt that Ireland House New York will serve us well in the years ahead as a hub for diplomacy, trade, business, tourism, promoting Irish food and culture and ensure we can maximise our collective impact in New York. I know this location, and its outstanding Team Ireland staff and agencies, will deepen the close and dynamic relationship Ireland has with the city of New York, the region and the United States as a whole.”
During his remarks, the Tánaiste also announced €4.5 million funding to over 140 organizations in the United States who will receive grants this year from the government’s Emigrant Support Programme.
Speaking after meeting a number of New York based diaspora organizations the Tánaiste said: “I value the partnership we have with our diaspora organisations and the role they play in strengthening the ties between Ireland and their local communities.
“I am delighted to announce that we have allocated €4.5 million (US$4.8m) in grant funding to support the work of over 140 organisations throughout the United States. The funding will allow them to continue to supply vital services to our most vulnerable emigrants and to promoting Irish heritage.
"I also know that many of these organisations rely on committed staff and volunteers to deliver these important programmes. I have met many of the teams over the years and their dedication and resolve is always inspiring.”
During his remarks in the Ireland House main reception room Mr. Martin paid tribute to two giants of the Irish American community who recently passed away, Adrian Flannelly and Malachy McCourt.
