GALLERY: Kildare minister's visit to US for St Patrick's Day

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Kildare TD Martin Heydon has highlighted the celebration of new Irish citizens and deepening economic links as key moments from his St Patrick’s Day visit to the United States.

Speaking after a series of engagements across Seattle and San Francisco, Mr Heydon said one of the standout occasions was a citizenship ceremony at the Irish Consulate in San Francisco, where more than 50 members of the diaspora were recognised.

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“One of the highlights of my St Patrick’s festival visit this week in San Francisco was to celebrate new Irish citizenship for over 50 of our diaspora in the Irish consulate,” he said.
“Over 50 people who chose to apply for Irish citizenship which they qualified for, through a relative, choosing to lean into their Irish connections and to enrich our diaspora further.”

The minister began his US programme in Seattle, describing it as a “fascinating visit” that included a tour of Boeing’s manufacturing facility, where the Boeing 737 MAX is built. He noted the relevance of the visit given Ireland’s prominent role in global aircraft leasing and the fact that Ryanair is the largest single customer for the aircraft.

Mr Heydon also held discussions with Washington State officials on sustainable food systems and visited the Port of Seattle, gaining insight into the region’s diverse economic activity.

He praised Seattle’s Irish community, noting the city’s status as a global tech hub and its long-standing relationship with Galway, which will mark 40 years as twin cities in 2026.

The minister’s second day brought him to San Francisco, where he said engagements “highlighted the strength of Ireland–US economic links and the vibrancy of the Irish community on the West Coast.”

In partnership with Bord Bia, he visited Hotaling & Co., a distributor of Irish spirits to more than 60,000 outlets across the United States.

Mr Heydon also addressed an Irish Network Bay Area St Patrick’s Day lunch, where Irish Olympian Mona McSharry was honoured for her sporting achievements.

Business ties were further strengthened with the launch of AIB’s new West Coast office. The event was attended by CEO Colin Hunt and officially opened by San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie, alongside members of the Irish business community.

On St Patrick’s Day itself, Mr Heydon attended Mass in San Francisco, where he delivered a reading before meeting with local parish representatives, Irish families and Consul General Micheál Smith.

He later joined celebrations at the city’s 175th St Patrick’s Day parade in downtown San Francisco, alongside Mayor Lurie and large crowds celebrating Irish culture and music.

The visit concluded with a reception at the consulate residence, attended by community, sporting and industry representatives of Irish heritage.