Official Grand Opening of the New York Irish Center

March 15th, 2006

The New York Irish Center was officially opened on March 15th, 2006 by Martin Cullen, Irish Minister for Transport. The opening ceremony coincided with the weekly Senior Lunch Club, and was therefore well-attended (free catered food, courtesy of Anna's Place, always draws a crowd). Irish Consul General, Timothy O'Connor and Vice Consul for Emigrants, David Healy, were also in attendance, as was NYC Councilman Eric Goia and Bill Burke, President of Country Bank.

Irish Consul General, Tim O'Connor and Minister Cullen enjoy a hearty lunch

and good company before getting down to business

Minister Cullen performs the Grand Opening ceremony, with Fr. Colm Campbell,

Director & Chairman of the New York Irish Center, overseeing proceedings

Councilman Goia presents a special plaque to Fr. Colm

for all his hard work and dedication in establishing the Center

Some of the attendees at the Grand Opening

Minister Cullen performs the official ribbon-cutting ceremony  

Fr. Colm shows off the Internet Cafe to Minister Cullen and Councilman Goia 

The Center now provides facilities to the public on two floors: the ground floor contains the large multi-purpose room (with stage and hardwood floor for dancing, fully-fitted kitchen and restrooms), while the basement level now includes the "Irish Tea Room / Internet Cafe" (with 5 PCs, connected to high-speed broadband, and very comfy chairs), "The Library" (which also doubles as a meeting room and has a raised hardwood floor for dancing), the administrative office, restrooms and storage areas. The top two floors of the building are rented out to local businesses who help cover the mortgage payments.

Our sincere thanks to all the businesses and private individuals who donated building materials, labor, catering and other services and funding to help the Center open its doors to the Irish and local communities. Please visit our "Supporters" page to learn more about our generous benefactors.