The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Seamus Kilgannon made a presentation to U.S. Congressman Brendan Boyle at an event in his honour in Enniscrone. Congressman Boyle, who has west Sligo and Donegal roots, is Speaker in the Philadelphia House of Representatives.
Congressman Boyle
Cathaoirleach attends function for U.S. Congressman Brendan Boyle
Attending the function for Congressman Brendan Boyle ( right) were
Eamon Scanlon, TD and Cathaoirleach Councillor Seamus Kilgannon.
Economic development
In his address, the Cathaoirleach said it was a special occasion for the people of this area. ‘From Sligo County Council’s perspective, we fully appreciate
the strategic importance of our Irish-American association, which operate at a number of levels. The role of the Irish in America is well documented; it embraces every field of endeavour from business to politics to arts to community. The transformation in local government in Ireland in recent years has brought new responsibilities and challenges to local authorities, with economic development now one of our key areas of endeavour. It is an agenda we have embraced with great enthusiasm and ambition, and it provided the context to our recent engagement with friends in America.
Strategic partnership
In recent months Sligo County Council has attended meetings with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to discuss a partnership between Stewart Airport in New York and Ireland West Airport. Our Council has joined with other local Authorities in this region to support the Ireland West International Trade Centre in Providence, Rhode Island, which will provide opportunities for local Irish companies to expand their markets abroad.
Enterprise
These initiatives are indicative of our strategic ambitions and the enormous potential of these very significant connections Sligo is the centre for economic growth in the northwest, it has so much to offer as a prime location for new enterprise and cultural tourism, and in that context we look forward to discussing future plans and proposals with our special guest this evening.’
Support network
The Cathaoirleach concluded his address by paying tribute to Congressman Boyle and his colleagues ‘who work alongside the various Sligo Associations in America provide a valuable support network in helping new emigrants overcome the many challenges offered by a new country, a new culture and a new working environment, and this is greatly appreciated by their family and friends at home. The Cathaoirleach also thanked Easkey Community Council ‘for their tremendous work in hosting this special visit, which is greatly appreciated by the people of West Sligo.’