Heydon in Korea for St Patrick's Day and meeting local politicians and members of Irish community

Minister of State Martin Heydon is currently in Korea for St Patrick's Day and is meeting members of the Irish community in the region. 

The Kildare South TD, whose areas of responsibility are Research & Development, Farm Safety and New Market Development, said he is helping to pave the way for Irish beef to be exported to Korea. 

The first visit was to Jeju island, off the south coast of the peninsula, where the minister laid a wreath at St Isidore Farm to commemorate Father PJ Glinchey, a Colombian Missionary from Co Donegal who helped modernise agriculture on the island.

In addition to pigs and dairy cows, the farm also has a thriving stud farm operation which is part of Korea's growing horse racing industry.

Mr Heydon added: "It was also great to meet with members of the Irish community in Jeju who have helped spread Irish culture here and set up the world's newest GAA club- Inis Jeju CLG!

"I was delighted to present the club treasurer Min with a token of Lilywhite appreciation. A little bit of Kildare in Korea!"

The minister also said that progressing Ireland's market access application for Irish beef to Korea is among the primary aims of this year's St Patrick's Day mission.

Mr Heydon said: "I held meetings with the Korean Ministries for Agriculture and Food Safety to discuss the file while I also visited the Korean Parliament.

"It was great to visit the home of McHale and Tanco in Korea! Won International is bringing the best of Ballinrode and Bagenalstown to Korean farmers. Irish made machinery is doing the business abroad! It's a family business delivering benefits for rural communities in Ireland and Korea.

"We spent the evening with members of the Irish community in Seoul.

"Seoul Gaels have been at the heart of community here for many years and it was great to meet some local musicians who are passionate about traditional Irish music.

"A warm welcome no matter where you go!"