Pat Cox MEP honoured at The Ireland Funds Wild Geese Gala Ball in Paris

Friday, 13th February 2004 - This evening in Paris, Pat Cox MEP, President of the European Parliament was presented with The Wild Geese Award at the Ireland Fund’s Gala Ball.

The award, which was presented by Sir Anthony O’Reilly, traditionally honours the achievements of the recipient who, through excellence in their field, has reflected enormous credit on Ireland abroad. Previous winners have included John Hume, Brendan Kenneally, John O’Conor, Dr Michael Smurfit, Neil Jordan, Michel Dèon and Seamus Heaney.

Pierre Joannon, President of The Ireland Fund of France, commended Mr Pat Cox on his outstanding political career saying: “ Never before has there been an Irish Presidency of the Council and An Irish President of the European Parliament at the same time. Very exciting and challenging times lie ahead for Ireland, which will lead the shaping of a new enlarged European Union. Pat’s vision, experience and determination, coupled with his good humour, will see him raise the Irish flag even higher in European society.

“For these reasons and many more Pat Cox exemplifies the activities and aspirations of The Ireland Fund of France, which is dedicated to the promotion of peace, culture, charity and education.”

On the eve of the opening of the Six Nations Rugby International championship, special guests include Irish Rugby heroes Brendan Mullin and Hugo MacNeill. The host for the evening, Lady Chryss O’Reilly, Patron of the Ireland Fund of France, was joined by some 300 guests at this well-established fund-raising event. Other guests attending include Minister Joe Walsh and Mrs. Walsh; French Minister for European Affairs Noelle Lenoir; Ambassador Yannick Gerard; Ambassador Padraig McKernan; Philip and Eileen Lynch; Redmond and Anthea O’Donoghue; Tony and Mary Hanahoe, Kingsley Aikens and Kieran McLoughlin.

Funds raised on the evening will support peace, education and cultural projects aimed at generating positive change in Ireland and enhancing the bonds between Ireland and France.

The Ireland Fund of France is a branch of The Ireland Funds, which is an international charitable organisation operating in 11 countries, that has raised over $300 million around the world for worthy causes in Ireland. Over 1,200 non-profit organisations in Ireland that promote peace and reconciliation, arts and culture, education and community development have benefited from The Fund’s grants over the last 27 years.

For further information contact:

Pauline McAlester, Murray Consultants 01 4980 300 / 087 2558300