Many friends of Sierra Leone gathered in Wynn’s Hotel in central Dublin last night to celebrate SL Independence and the appointment of the first Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone. Minister Joe Costello attended and spoke of the strengthening and deepening of the relationship between the two countries. He acknowledged the long history of Irish missionary involvement and made particular reference to 150 years of the Spiritan tradition in Sierra Leone.
The Minister also congratulated Ms. Sinead Walsh on her appointment as the first Irish Ambassador to Sierra Leone. Her knowledge of SL and her well established record of hard work and commitment to the people of Sierra Leone were highlighted as important attributes. On behalf of SLIP membership Joe Manning the Honorary Consul thanked the Minister for the most welcome appointment of Ambassador Sinead Walsh. He also wished Ms.Walsh every success in her new role. He looks forward to working with her on progressing development and trade issues.