There were several Laois emigrants present at a recent event in London, celebrating the Irish diaspora in the city.
Laois/Offaly TD Sean Fleming, Minister for the Diaspora and the Irish abroad, visited the Lewisham Irish Community Centre in South East London.
There, the Minister met Irish emigrants, including many people from Laois.
Among them was Anna Healy, who emigrated to London from Mountmellick many years ago and is a very active member of the Irish community there.
Deputy Fleming attended the 50th anniversary celebrations of the ‘Irish in Britain’ organisation.
This is an umbrella group that supports a wide network of Irish organisations in the UK.
At a reception in the Irish Embassy, the Minister announced an Irish Government grant to 107 Irish community organisations that help Irish people all across England, Scotland and Wales in their communities.
“I met a large group of Irish people during my visit,” Deputy Fleming said.
“It was great to speak with all of the Irish emigrants in the Centre.
“Many of the people told me they visit Ireland once or twice a year.
“Sadly, some others said that they rarely return home to Ireland.
“It was a great surprise to meet Lilly Kettle from The Swan/Wolfhill.
“Lilly is studying music in London. She performed some beautiful music for us at the function in the Embassy.
“It is so important for us here at home to keep up the connection with our emigrants abroad.”
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