Friends of Ireland

Friends of Ireland Society- Cairde Na hÉireann

' Ourselves are not only where we are, but where we have come from'. Patrick O'Farrell, historian of Ireland and Australia

Founded in 1985, theFriends of Ireland Society. or, in the Irish Language,Cairde na hÉireann,reflects the deep interest of many people in the Canberra region in their Irish origins and in the links between Ireland and Australia.

The Societyseeks to promote a better understanding of modern Ireland (both North and South) and of the distinctive contribution that the Irish have made to the Australian way of life.

Our guest speaker nights are particularly popular. They are usually held at the Canberra Irish Club on the third Wednesday of the month.with an optional pre-meeting meal beforehand. Past speakers include Booker Prize winning author, Thomas Keneally; the curator of the National Museum's Not Just Ned Exhibition, Richard Reid; European Union Ambassador,David Daly; and Noel White, Ambassador of Ireland.

Other events include the St Patrick's Day Ecumenical Service, Bloomsday, and the annual Eureka Dinner and Lecture. which commemorates the Eureka Rebellion (3 December 1854). The 2012 Eureka Lecture was given by the Hon Susan Ryan AO, the Federal Age Discrimination Commissioner and was attended by over 100 people..

The Society is supported by the Canberra Irish Club. We encourage members & their friends to support the Club. Becoming a Club member, enjoying a meal from the new Irish-style menus at Molly Bloom's, or arranging your work / family function there, are all practical ways to ensure the continuation of an Irish Club in Canberra.

NEXT MEETING

Wed.19 June 8pm. Three plays reading of contemporary Irish plays. More details, Barry Hussey 6287 7587

Irish language classes 2013: The Society runs Irish language classes. For more information see Irish Language classes page on this menu or call Conor Bradley on 6251 4838. Classes re-starts on Tuesday 5 Feb 2013.

PUBLICITY
Cairde Na hÉireannpublicises its activities on theIrish Voiceradio programme on 2XX at 10.30 am on Sundays;Queanbeyan FM Radio;and in the Fridge Door column inThe Canberra Times.

All of our events are open to the public.Why not become a member?You'll find a warm welcome! Membership fees start from a low $10, and 2 year memberships and direct debit facilities are available.Members receive a regular newsletter.

Membership and general enquiries toKen Riordan6286 1218, orTania Bradley6251 4838.