The Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ireland, Micheál Martin, has announced the appointment of James Lamb as Honorary Consul of Ireland in Pittsburgh for Western Pennsylvania.

Minister Martin, seeking to expand the network of honorary consulates in the United States, identified Pittsburgh, among other cities in which Ireland must develop and enhance greater links for trade and investment, culture, education, research, and community development.

Mr. Lamb is President of the Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh, a private nonprofit organization dedicated to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. The Institute fosters economic, academic, and cultural links between the greater Pittsburgh area and the island of Ireland. In this position, Mr. Lamb will represent the Government of Ireland in Western Pennsylvania.

Commenting on the appointment, Minister Martin said, “Pittsburgh represents a terrific opportunity for Ireland. First class universities, a diverse knowledge-based economy, and a vibrant Irish American community are compelling factors for good partnerships. Jim has proven, over many years of service to Ireland and to Pittsburgh, his ability to direct activities and realize goals of mutual interest to Ireland and to Western Pennsylvania.”

Ambassador of Ireland to the United States, Michael Collins will visit Pittsburgh on Friday, January 21st to preside over the official installation of the Honorary Consul. Accompanying the Ambassador will be Consul General of Ireland, Noel Kilkenny. Local Congressmen, Mike Doyle, Tim Murphy, and other leaders representing Pittsburgh’s business, academic, religious, political, and Irish communities will also be on hand for the installation.