Building stronger ties between Wexford and France

By Dan Walsh at Wexford Arts Centre

The French Ambassador to Ireland, Madame Céline Place, was guest of honour in Wexford Arts Centre on Friday night where she stated that the re-launch of the Alliance Francaise Waterford Wexford “is a very important moment for the French Embassy”.

Madame Place discussed Wexford’s business ties with France, highlighted Rosslare Europort, and welcomed renewed friendship between the two regions.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy George Lawlor TD recalled that Wexford and France share a unique place in the annals of history remembering the 1798 Rebellion when aspirations for freedom resonated with the French Revolution of 1789.

“The spirit of liberty in France inspired many of us here in Wexford and echoes of that revolution forever reminds us of our common quest for justice and equality,” said Deputy Lawlor.

Deputy Lawlor continued; “We both celebrate through the rich tapestry of cultural exchanges – literature, art, cuisine and music – influences of French culture, particularly the Norman element. Our appreciation for French art and literature can enrich our local culture and foster a spirit of creativity and admiration that continues to thrive today.”

Sandrine Pac-Kenny, President of Alliance Francaise Waterford Wexford said; “Tonight is a new chapter for the Alliance which was first launched in Waterford in 1948. We are part of a big network, and the aim is the coordination of all of us together to bring loads of French events to Wexford and Waterford.

Ms Pac-Kenny emphasised the need to foster culture and friendship between all nationalities and communities that are in Wexford, and also in Waterford. “So we celebrate not only the rich history, but the bright future that lies ahead,” she concluded.

The attendance included Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy TD, Malcolm Byrne TD, Pierre Emmanuel Jacob, Director of the Irish network of Alliance Francaise in Ireland and Director of Alliance Francaise, Dublin, and Laura de Cleach, Attachée de coopération pour le francais, Ambassade de France en Irelande and Chief Executive Wexford County Council, Eddie Taaffe.  

Ms. Melanie O’Reilly, Honorary Consul of France, made all the invited guests welcome, co-ordinated the evening’s activities and acted as master of ceremonies.