St. Brigid's Day 2023
Caoimhe de Barra, CEO of Trócaire gives the 2023 St. Brigid's Day Address
The Embassy kicked off the Department of Foreign Affairs’ week of celebrations of St. Brigid’s Day with an event in the beautiful Aula of St. Isidore’s College in Rome on Monday 30 January. The keynote address was given by Caoimhe de Barra, CEO of Trócaire. Trócaire is celebrating 50 years since its foundation this year. Caoimhe spoke about the longstanding partnership between Irish Government through the Irish Aid Programme and Trócaire, in addressing challenges around protracted conflict and climate change in the countries where Trócaire works and at the global level. Caoimhe illustrated how women are bringing about real change in some of the most conflict and climate affected countries in the world by highlighting the vital work being done by women leaders in their communities to address these challenges. She also provided an urgent reminder of the need to prioritise gender equality in our fight against global challenges, and to acknowledge the enormous contribution being made by women to their families, communities, countries and on the world stage.
The event was a great success with a full house. As always, a huge thanks to Fr. Hugh McKenna OFM and the community of St. Isidore’s for being such gracious and welcoming hosts.