11 June 2004 : The Midsummer Ball

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I am so thrilled to receive The Bird and Bell Award and I would like to thank Stephen and his committee for this prestigious honour. To follow in the footsteps of such eminent Irishmen and Women makes tonight a very special occasion for me. I am especially delighted to have this award in common with last year's recipient Niall Quinn, as Niall also has his roots in Tipperary.

Over the past 10 years many changes have occured in the business landscape in Ireland. These have been well documented and celebrated around the world. Thankfully for me awareness of Irish design has blossomed in a way few would have thought possible.

In this respect, I must acknowledge the pioneering work of my fellow Irish Designers Paul Costelloe, John Rocha and Philip Treacy who all paved a very smooth introductory path into this important market place.

Since the early 90's when I fIrst joined London fashion week, I have continued to receive tremendous support from the British retail community and the British Press as a whole. London is one of the most exciting fashion capitals in which to trade, and provides a global platform to showcase my work. Since opening the West Halkin Street store this has been proved to me time and time again.

Fashion and design is my passion, and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to move between frocks to crystal. This diversification opened my eyes to the importance of brand development and the dynamic relationship between industry and design. I hope the next decade will allow me to continue my dream, and diversify into many more exciting areas.

For many years I have been in awe of the phenomenal work of the Ireland Fund of Great Britain and the American Ireland Fund. Their commitment and support reaches out to less fortunate Irish communities and Irish individuals and I applaud their many achievements. May all of us here tonight continue to playa part of their important endeavours.

Looking around the room I am delighted to see that some of my greatest supporters are with me tonight -my sister and soulmate Caroline, Paddy Bollard who over the years has inspired and motivated me, Albert and Cathleen Reynolds, Edna 0' Brien and Louis Walsh. All friends that I hold in great esteem. I am particularly delighted to welcome the British Consul General to New York, Andy Pike, who entered the spirit of the occasion and has flown to London for 24 hours, purely to share this evening with us.

I would like to acknowledge one friend in particular tonight. Over the years Angela Phelan has shared her phenomenal energy and passion for life with me, and I am indebted to her in so many ways. Not only is she one of Irelands leading journalists with her work for The Irish Independent, but she also recently published 'So New York', a bible for those in pursuit of Stateside discount retail therapy.

Angela, as friend, confidante, cohort and retailer -I beg you -please, never EVER release such a book for this side of the Atlantic! !

Finally, please join me in raising your glasses to toast the Ireland Fund of Great Britain and their tremendous achievements.

You've made a girl from Tipperary very happy this evening!