AS ONE of Ireland’s most recognised symbols, it was fitting that the beautiful sounds of the harp, played by Irish harpist Madeleine Doherty, opened this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations in the Lisbon Marriott Hotel.
Over 160 guests enjoyed glasses of Guinness and whiskey, traditional Irish dishes, and the reels and jigs played by The Melting Pot. Generous sponsorship by Vodafone, Grafton Recruitment, Jameson and Guinness ensured the evening was a success.
Wonderful prizes were presented by Ambassador O’Connor and Mrs O’Connor, Hotel Avenida Palace, the Lisbon Marriott Hotel, O’Gilin’s Irish Pub, Penha Longa Golf Club, Redoptica, Tourism Ireland and Vodafone. The highlight of the draw was a trip to Ireland, compliments of Aer Lingus, and a stay in the beautiful Mount Juliet estate in Co. Kilkenny.
In his speech, Ambassador O’Connor expressed his delight in seeing so many nationalities represented and, in particular, his pleasure in seeing so many Portuguese guests. He referred to the strength of the links between Ireland and Portugal and his delight in having, as an honoured guest, someone who personifies that link, The O’Neill of Clanaboy, head of the O’Neill clan and the current chief of Irish chieftains whose family have lived in Portugal for generations.
The Irish Portuguese Friendship Society, who organised the event, said that they were pleased to see so many people, both Irish and friends of Ireland, make this a regular event and thanked sponsors, guests, musicians and staff at the hotel for ensuring a memorable evening.
