The Taoiseach puts St. Patrick’s Festival in Context

The Taoiseach, Mr. Enda Kenny T.D. attended an event hosted by St. Patrick’s Festival in the State Apartments, Dublin Castle recently.  The Taoiseach spoke about the importance of the festival to Irish people, businesses and its role as a catalyst in our national recovery. 

Mr. Kenny T.D. was instrumental in conceiving the festival back in 1995 and continues to support its development.  He urged businesses and agencies to get behind the festival and to ensure that it has the means to continue to grow in stature and economic impact in the coming years. 

Research conducted by Behaviour and Attitudes on behalf of Fáilte Ireland (principle funder) in 2010 reported that the economic impact of the festival is €43.7 million a figure that rises to €50.5 million when the spend by Dubliners is included.

Other speakers at the event included Tim’ O Connor (former consul general for Ireland in New York, 2005-2007) and Chairman of the Festival board, David Harvey.  Mr. O’ Connor spoke about the cultural significance of the festival on an international scale and Mr. Harvey informed invited guests about the many opportunities the festival has to offer. 

The national multidisciplinary arts festival takes place from Friday 16th-Monday 19th March 2012.