REMARKS BY PRESIDENT McALEESE AT THE OPENING OF THE 38TH CONFERENCE OF AMERICAN STUDIES
REMARKS BY PRESIDENT McALEESE AT THE OPENING OF THE 38TH CONFERENCE OF AMERICAN STUDIES TUESDAY 27TH JUNE 2000
A dhaoine uaisle
Is breá liom bheith anseo i bhur measc ag an ócáid speisialta seo, agus ba mhaith liom mo bhuíochas a chur in iúl díbh as an chuireadh agus as fáilte fíorchaoin.
I am delighted to join you this evening in Limerick to officially open the 38th meeting of the American Conference on Irish Studies. I would like to thank Dr. Roger GH Downer and the organisers of the Conference for the kind invitation.
I would like to welcome all the delegates to the University of Limerick. This University has gained a well-deserved reputation not only for its excellent academic standards but also for its progressive international education section, so it is no surprise that it is the principal sponsor of this year’s meeting.
I would also welcome you to Ireland, an Ireland that is filled with optimism and hope for the future. The words prosperity and peace, both so elusive for so long, are no longer beyond our reach. The economic circumstances which drove generation after generation of our young people to America, have given way to a remarkable new story which sees Irish industry actively recruiting in North America. Our complex and conflict riddled history, is rapidly maturing to a fresh understanding and appreciation of the shared cultural legacy each bequeathed us. You join us at a time when we are preparing to embark on a new journey, to write a fresh chapter to our history as we embrace the emergence of peace throughout this island. These are indeed good times for Ireland, times of hope when the ambition for equal opportunities for all our citizens has the chance to become a lived reality.
Perhaps, in 2005, when your next Conference takes place in Ireland, future delegates will then discuss and reflect upon this era, when we embarked on a new and exciting adventure in shared and respectful partnership, the hallmark of this Millennial Ireland.
Irish history is inextricably bound up with its neighbour across the Atlantic Ocean. The history of Ireland cannot be told without the history of America. Over the centuries each has sustained the other, each has drawn strength from the other. Both traditions in Ireland share a deep sense of pride in the contribution Irish people have made to the development of America. Whether in politics or business, arts or education, Americans of Irish origins continue to make their presence felt, continue to make their unique mark in the development of American society. While they embrace America, its culture and traditions, while they work hard to contribute to their society, their interest in their homeland never wanes. We know we have a tried and trusted friend in America, it is a friendship we value and one which has remained constant throughout the centuries. Like all friendships it requires time, effort and shared interests if it is to grow and to flourish.
The American Conference for Irish Studies has helped nourish and strengthen the cultural and historical ties between our two countries. From its modest beginnings it has grown to become a highly influential group and has made a significant contribution to the development of Irish studies in America. You have been instrumental in creating a network of support that has developed into the first generation of Irish Studies professionals in the United States. Nowadays Irish Studies programmes are mainstream programmes, and I applaud the huge efforts you have made in celebrating and supporting these programmes and in implementing new programmes in the area of women’s studies, film, visual arts and sociology. One of the most significant contributions you have made to the development of Irish Studies in the United States is your support of the educational projects of our young students.
Through your teaching and research you play a pivotal role in influencing public opinion in the United States in relation to Ireland. We are fortunate to enjoy your friendship and support.
This conference brings together so many leading scholars and writers whose work explores the complexities of the Irish experience. You are blessed in your subject matter, and in each other as in the days ahead you discuss and debate a variety of topics of interest to delegates. You will find that no one person has the full picture, each of you brings your own unique expertise and perspective as you critically examine the Irish experience. It is by learning from each other you will perhaps discover a new perspective, a fresh approach to your own individual study of Ireland.
I wish you well in your discussions in the next few days and I hope that this meeting provides you with fresh ideas and new insights in your study of Ireland.
Go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir.