Minister Seán Canney welcomed the opportunity to connect with members of the Irish community in Seoul and Tokyo during engagements as part of his St Patrick’s Day programme in Asia.
During a visit to the Craic House in Seoul, Minister Canney met members of the Irish community living and working in the city and thanked the bar for providing a welcoming space that helps keep Irish culture and community alive so far from home.
As part of the visit, Minister Canney presented the owners of the Craic House - Soyeon Lee, Kevin Conlan and Neil Timmons - with two GAA jerseys from his home clubs in Galway.
The Sylane hurling jersey and the Corofin football jersey were presented to the Minister ahead of the trip by Liam Brady of Sylane and Tommy Greaney of Corofin, and were brought to Seoul to be displayed in the bar.
During his visit to Tokyo, Minister Canney also presented the same jerseys to representatives of Japan GAA, recognising the important role GAA clubs around the world play in bringing Irish communities together and promoting Irish culture internationally.
Speaking after the engagements, Minister Canney said: “It was great to spend time with members of the Irish community during my visit to Seoul and Tokyo. No matter where you travel in the world, you will always find Irish people creating a strong sense of community.
“The GAA in both cities provides an outlet for the Irish communities there and it was lovely to see that connection.
“I was particularly proud to present jerseys from my own home clubs in Galway - Sylane hurling and Corofin football. I want to thank Liam Brady and Tommy Greaney - Chairpersons of both clubs - who presented them to me at my office in Tuam prior to my departure.”
“The GAA reflects the strong connection Irish communities abroad continue to have with home.”
