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Honorary Consultate of WA
MARTIN KAVANAGH
HON CONSUL OF IRELAND
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2021 WILL BE A VERY DIFFERENT ST PATRICK’S DAY. OUR THOUGHTS IMMEDIATELY GO TO IRELAND AND THE TOUGH TIMES FAMILY AND FRIENDS ARE FACING WITH COVID-19.
Apart from the medical experts I imagine many of us are surprised that Covid-19 is still be having such a major impact on our lives 12 months down the road. Hopefully the vaccines will soon lead us all back to a degree of normality.
ST PATRICK’S DAY FESTIVAL
A very unfortunate casualty of Covid-19 is the cancellation of the 2021 SPD parade and festival. Whilst it is a great disappointment, I think everyone understands that it was a prudent and sensible decision in these uncertain times. On behalf of the Irish community may I express my deep appreciation to the committee, organisers and the many volunteers who have worked tirelessly to organise the event. We are fortunate to have so many selfless volunteers in our community. Whilst it will be very strange not to have the SPD parade and festival, we also understand how lucky we are to live in WA and to enjoy a relatively normal way of life in a Covid-19 world.
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS
I wish to express my appreciation to the many volunteers who give of their time and commitment to the Irish community in WA, particularly the Claddagh, GAA, Soccer, ITP, AIHA and the Irish Club.
GREENING
I’m happy to report that many Perth venues will be green for SPD including Optus Stadium, Council House and Elizabeth Quay and the Bell Tower. My thanks to all these venues for their goodwill towards Ireland and the Irish. I also understand that religious services will occur at the Cathedral and St Georges.
PASSPORTS
Whilst Ireland is at Level 5 lockdown the production of passports has ceased. If you require an emergency passport, please contact the Honorary Consulate in Perth or the Passport Office Webchat service.
EMBASSY AND HCWA
My thanks to Ambassador Breandan and his team at the embassy for their dedication and commitment over the year and also my thanks to Lynda, Yvonne and Richard at the HCWA.
I’m sure we will all hold our heads high on 17 March and celebrate our culture and our identity.
Happy St Patrick’s Day!
