Special visit from Irish delegation to Milwaukee

Famous footballer and politician Jimmy Deenihan  arrived in Milwaukee Sunday night.

He's now the Minister of Irish Diaspora, or those living abroad, and he's hoping to bolster already good business relations in the dairy industry and tourism.


\"Ireland is making huge investment in Wisconsin,\" Deenihan said in a CBS 58 News exclusive interview. \"So I'm coming here really with jobs and with very positive news.\"

The proprietor of the County Clare Inn hosted a special dinner. Also in attendance, members of Milwaukee's Irish Fest board.

\"Any minister comes here it's a huge honor,\" said Irish Fest President Cathy Ward. \"Especially this time of year, though, because it validates everything we do at Milwaukee Irish Fest.\"

Of course everybody's looking forward to some great Irish stories and fun with the visit. But there's a serious significance to it, that for the first time someone of Jimmy Deenihan's status comes up here from Chicago to give recognition to Milwaukee.

\"I'm here to thank you,\" said Deenihan, \"But to also acknowledge what we contribute to Wisconsin.\"

Deenihan is proposing a program for third and fourth generation Irish, 18-26 years old. They would participate in a 12 day immersion of Irish culture and Education. 

Deenihan is confident that Milwaukee support could be the boost he needs to build even stronger ties between Ireland and America.

He has a very packed schedule that will include a special breakfast with ConnectIreland at the Milwaukee Double Tree hotel on Tuesday morning. Registration is at 7:30 a.m.

He then plans a lunchtime tour at the Ward Irish Music Archives at the Milwaukee Irish Fest Center in Wauwatosa.  

To see CBS 58 coverage of day 2 of Deenihan's visit, click here  



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