Leadership Forum with George J. Mitchell : 10.17.06

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The Philadelphia chapter of The American Ireland Fund hosted its first Leadership Forum at the historic Union League with former U.S. Senator George J. Mitchell. Senator Mitchell, who chaired the all-party peace negotiations which led to the landmark Belfast Peace Agreement in 1998, captivated his audience with his trademark eloquence and statesmanship. As he drew on his first-hand knowledge of Northern Ireland's ongoing peace process, he provided fascinating insight into the recent developments in St. Andrew's and its potential impact on the establishment of a permanent peace in this historically troubled area of the world.

In addressing the Philadelphia supporters, which included the newly formed Regional Advisory Board, Senator Mitchell stressed the historic contributions and importance of The American Ireland Fund to the island of Ireland. His focus on the critical need to continue our support for Integrated Education was illustrated by drawing on the success of public education here in the U.S. as it brought people from varied backgrounds together in the classroom and at a young age. He congratulated the Philadelphia supporters and encouraged all to continue to support the mission of The AIF particularly its Integrating and Educating focus in Northern Ireland.

The American Ireland Fund would like to express special thanks to Mark Sweeney and Spike McClure of Bushmills for their sponsorship of the Irish Whiskey tasting.

Photos

1. Ward Fitzgerald, Sen. George Mitchell, Kingsley Aikins
2. Ward Fitzgerald, Sen. Mitchell, Dennis Durkin
3. Jim Lynch greets Sen. Mitchell
4. Sen. Mitchell, Joe McLaughlin
5. Sen. Mitchell address Philadelphia AIF
6. Rev. Bill Shaw, Dennis Durkin, Ward Fitzgerald listen to Sen. Mitchell
7. Kingsley Aikins speaks about “Integrated Education” in Northern Ireland
8. Jim Kane, Mike O’Rourke, Michael McCabe, Jim Lynch
9. John Kent, Patrick Scullin
10. Spike McClure of Diageo, expert on Bushmill’s
11. Kingsley Aikins, Richard O’Brien, Sen. Mitchell