Dr. John Lahey to Headline Irish Workhouse Centre Benefit in New York

The Consulate General of Ireland in New York is hosting a benefit event on Wednesday, October 14, to support restoration efforts at the Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna, County Galway. This gathering serves to fund the renovation of the site’s former dining hall, according to the Irish Echo.

Restoration of the Portumna Dining Hall

The upcoming event continues a fundraising campaign that launched in New York last year and has since included three major programs across Ireland. Organizers state that the host committee has developed an informative program designed to generate financial support for the restoration of the Workhouse’s dining hall.

The Irish Workhouse Centre, located in County Galway, serves as a museum and heritage site dedicated to the history of the Irish workhouse system, which played a significant role during the Great Famine and the following century.

Leadership and Event Organization

Dr. John L. Lahey, President Emeritus of Quinnipiac University and former chairman of the New York Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, is scheduled to serve as the guest speaker.

The New York Host Committee overseeing the project includes Hilary Beirne, Janet Corcoran, James Duffy, Paul Finnegan, Brian Kelly, Professor Christine Kinealy, Patrick Lally, Gene Lennon, and Turlough McConnell. Mary Reed serves as the campaign director for the initiative.

Tax-Deductible Contributions for the Irish Workhouse Centre

Donations from the United States are processed through the Irish American Partnership in Boston, which allows for tax-deductible contributions to support the restoration project. Further information regarding the center and its history can be found at www.irishworkhousecentre.ie.

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