Launch of the Global Irish Famine Way: May 9th & 10th 2024
In collaboration with the Marine Institute of Ireland, fifteen Bronze Shoes were taken on board the RV Celtic Explorer in Galway on 1 May. The ship arrived at Pier 12, St John’s Newfoundland and Labrador on 8 May and was welcomed by Ambassador McKee, National Famine Museum Director Caroilin Callery, and Professor Mark McGowan of St Michael’s College. Following this, the Ambassador with accompanying delegation walked the Bronze Shoes to The Rooms were they were displayed to Irish community members, academics, and VIPs including Federal Minister Seamus O’Regan and Provincial Minister John Abbot.
On the morning of 10 May, The Bronze Shoes were carried to St John’s Basilica where a service of commemoration was held, 300 people were in attendance including Ministers O’Regan and Minister Abbot.