It has to be said that the Irish Diaspora is unique in having a close relationship with its Embassies world-wide, which is the envy of all other nations. It would be difficult to find a citizen of another country abroad, who even knew the name of their Ambassador. The Irish, on the other hand, disport themselves with their Ambassador and Embassy Staff at every possible opportunity, a happy situation which oils the wheels of Diplomatic niceties for our overseas citizens to a most satisfying degree.
As a consequence of this close relationship, The Association recently found itself bidding farewell to a true friend and, to coin a phrase, "a scholar and a gentleman", when a large number of members gathered in Mitchell's Brewery in the Waterfront, to say goodbye to Luke Feeney, the 2nd Secretary of the Irish Embassy. Our President, Maureen Sharpe, organised an intimate and well catered affair, with suitable comestibles, and liquid that was both wet and alcoholic, to test our taste buds. A violin player of some talent was thrown in for good measure. Luke arrived politely late, and from the moment he was handed his first Guinness, joined enthusiastically in the spirit of the evening, and appeared to thoroughly relish the good fellowship and good wishes heaped upon him by a grateful membership he commented, in an impromptu speech, that dealing with the ISAA had been one of the highlights of his tour of duty, and had encompassed some four Presidents of the Association. He wished our President and the Members every success with their endeavours in the future and vowed to keep our needs very much in mind in the future. Discretion forbids any mention of when we all left. Suffice it to say we would still be there if someone hadn't dropped a hint in the small hours.
Chris Mahon, a former President, in his farewell speech to Luke, alluded to Luke's constant availability to all and sundry during his four year tenure at the Embassy.
He was a true friend and mentor, and never failed to provide his expert advice and encouragement to all who sought a hearing. He goes back to the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin, and we can't help noting that this move has often led to higher things for other old friends from Pretoria. We wish no less for Luke and hope to see him back as Ambassador in the fullness of time.
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