[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E224-E225]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK'S DAY FOR ALL AND PARADE SPECIAL GUEST CONSUL 
                    GENERAL OF IRELAND HELENA NOLAN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 18, 2025

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Consul General Helena Nolan, who has been serving as the Consul General 
of Ireland in New York since August 2021. Consul General Nolan's career 
is a testament to her unwavering commitment to public service and 
diplomacy. She joined Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs in 1990, 
after an initial seven years in the Department of Education, where she 
worked on educational policy. Her passion for international relations 
and public service led her to transition to diplomacy, where she has 
achieved a remarkable career.
  Throughout her career, Consul General Nolan has held a wide variety 
of roles both at home and abroad, showcasing her versatility and 
dedication. Most recently, she served as Ireland's Ambassador to 
Belgium from 2017 to 2021, a role that was critical in strengthening 
Ireland's ties with the European Union and NATO. During this time, she 
also headed the Partnership for Peace Liaison Office, representing 
Ireland's interests in international security and peacekeeping. This 
diverse range of experience has made her a well-rounded and insightful 
leader in Ireland's foreign service, committed to advancing Ireland's 
role in global diplomacy and international relations.
  Established on March 5, 2000, the parade takes place in Queens' 
Sunnyside and Woodside neighborhoods, historically home to Irish 
Americans in New York. The St. Pat's for All Parade offers a welcoming 
space for all and highlights Irish American heritage while promoting 
diversity, equality, and inclusion, bringing together people of all 
backgrounds in a shared celebration of love and unity.
  Mr. Speaker, Consul General Helena Nolan's distinguished career is a 
testament to

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her lifelong dedication to diplomacy, cultural exchange, and public 
service. Her leadership not only strengthens the relationship between 
Ireland and the United States, but also exemplifies the values of 
unity, inclusivity, and mutual respect. Consul General Nolan's work 
continues to inspire us all to embrace our shared heritage, stand up 
for the causes that matter, and celebrate the power of international 
cooperation. Through her unwavering commitment to her country and her 
role in fostering stronger global connections, she reminds us of the 
importance of service, community, and the bonds that unite us across 
borders and, we are all better for it.

                          ____________________