merrion street

The centrepiece of Minister Fitzgerald’s Saint Patrick's Day itinerary was the launch of the

at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra.  This major exhibition focuses on the role played by Irish migrants in shaping the history of Australia. Organised by the National Museum it is the first time the Irish diaspora has been honoured in this way in Australia.

Australian Ambassador to Ireland Bruce Davis hoped that the Minister's presence at the launch of this groundbreaking exhibition would encourage both Irish and Australians to explore their shared heritage.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard was in attendance at the Lansdowne Club St Patrick's Day lunch where Minister Fitzgerald delivered an economic-themed address to an audience of over 1200 Irish and Irish-Australian business people.  This was one of several promotional events organised by Irish State Agencies with a presence in Australia with a view to ensuring that our key economic partners know that Ireland is 'open for business'.