Cathaoirleach heads to Argentina for Paddy's Day

The cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council and a senior council official are off to Argentina for St Patrick’s Day.

Cllr Paul Daly, director of services Martin Murray, and their respective partners - who are paying their own way - depart for Buenos Aires this evening on a five day trip.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, Cllr Daly revealed that he was invited over by the Westmeath diaspora living in Argentina. This year is particularly significant, he said, as not only is it the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising, it’s also the bicentenary of Argentina’s declaration of independence from Spain.

“There are seriously strong links between the midlands and Argentina. The invitation came some time ago for people on our side to participate in the celebrations,” Cllr Daly said.

“It’s a great honour to represent the county in Buenos Aires. There are such unbelievable links between Argentina and the counties of Westmeath, Offaly and Longford.”

Cllr Daly said that he will be attending functions on each day of his visit. In addition to meeting to Argentinian vice president during the St Patrick’s Day festivities, he will also visit the home of Hurling Club in Buenos Aires, which was founded by Irish emigrants in 1887.

“I’m very conscious that I will representing everyone over there. There are so many people with roots that go back generations that I think it’s important to be seen that we are keeping the channels of communication with the diaspora alive. Each and everyone that comes back to trace their roots is a tourist.”