Family links with New Jersey delegation a chance to promote Clare in US
- US politicians visit Shannon Airport, Cliffs and Bunratty
- Boost to promotion of Clare
Fianna Fáil TD for Clare Cathal Crowe is expressing hope that his family’s link to politics on the east coast of the US will assist in forging stronger links between the Midwest region and the United States.
Assemblywoman Vicky Flynn and her fellow politicians from New Jersey have departed Clare after visiting a number of the county’s iconic sites and Shannon Airport.
“On Sunday, I was thrilled to welcome my cousin Vicky Flynn and her colleagues to Shannon Airport,” said Deputy Crowe.
“Vicky was part of a delegation of 37 New Jersey state politicians, including five senators and assembly members, who visited Shannon.
“Earlier that day, they visited the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle, where they experienced a banquet.
“Assemblywoman Flynn is married to my cousin Mike Naughton, whose family like mine originated from the Heathmount area of Cratloe.
“Ancestors of mine emigrated Ireland in the 1920s and they largely based themselves around New York and New Jersey, where many still reside.
“In 2019, during my mayoral term, I visited New York, where I attended a gathering of the New York County Clare Association, but also had a family reunion with Mike Naughton and other cousins.
“Our family here in Clare were bursting with pride to hear that Vicky was also taking the political plunge and she had a very successful election earlier this year.
“Vicky is a lawyer by profession, and she has already initiated a number of new laws in New Jersey.
“Vicky and I have had a number of chats about possible ways of further improving relations and linkages between her state and Ireland.
“One of the points I’ve keenly emphasised is the need for stronger air links between the United States and Shannon Airport.
“During their two-hour visit to the airport, Vicky and her colleagues were shown the new high-tech security systems at the baggage screening area and were very impressed with how quickly passengers were moving through the baggage screening in contrast with current delays at Dublin Airport.
“I hope to continue talks with Vicky and her colleagues and I really welcome the fact that just last month, a daily service between Shannon Airport and Newark, NJ recommenced.
“This service had ceased in October 2019 and I hope that it can now be considered on a year-round basis rather than on the seasonal basis it has operated on heretofore.
“Last Sunday was my first time meeting Vicky in person but we have and will continue to talk very regularly.
“We are very proud that members of our family now serve in political offices on both sides of the Atlantic.”
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