Today, the New Jersey-Ireland Trade Commission delegation embarked on a pivotal mission to strengthen the ties between New Jersey and Ireland. As vice chairman of the commission, I am honored to represent Gov. Phil Murphy, the state of New Jersey, and the commission in this significant endeavor.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the governor for his foresight in creating this commission and for appointing me as a member. His leadership has been instrumental in promoting the economic and cultural connections between our two regions. It was critical for me to ensure that we made this mission during the governor’s tenure, to continue the collaboration started with his visit two years ago.
I also would like to express my appreciation to Assemblywoman Carol Murphy for spearheading the legislation in the establishment of this commission. Her leadership has been invaluable, and while I am disappointed she couldn’t join us on this mission, her spirit and dedication are felt throughout our delegation.
Additionally, I commend Senator Paul Moriarty and Assemblyman Bill Moen for their leadership and for headlining this delegation. Their commitment to enhancing the relationship between New Jersey and Ireland is inspiring, and I am grateful for their partnership in this venture.
I wish that the entire commission could have joined us on this journey, as each member brings a unique perspective to our shared mission. Nevertheless, it is an honor to represent our collective efforts and the strong bond between New Jersey and Ireland.
On a personal note, my family has deep ties to Ireland that shape my commitment to this mission. My paternal grandfather, Harry J. Kennedy, was the son of Irish immigrants from County Limerick who arrived in the United States in 1890. Raised in Franklinville, Gloucester County, he instilled in our family a strong sense of pride in our Irish heritage. My paternal grandmother, Mary Genevieve Kennedy (née Walsh), was descended from great grandparents who emigrated from Ireland during the Great Hunger, with all eight of her ancestors hailing from the province of Connaught, including counties Sligo, Mayo, Leitrim and Galway. My aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Emmet Kennedy, are dual citizens of the U.S. and Ireland, further strengthening our family’s connection to our roots.
This mission represents not only an opportunity to enhance trade relationships but also a celebration of the rich cultural heritage that binds us. I look forward to the fruitful discussions and partnerships that will emerge from this endeavor.
Sean Kennedy is the vice chairman of the New Jersey-Ireland Trade Commission.
