Kerry County Council welcomed the Rose Centres from all over the world at a civic ceremony held at the Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre and Eco Park on Monday.

The event, attended by Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council Cllr. Michael Foley, elected members of Kerry County Council, Chief Executive of Kerry County Council, Fearghal Reidy, Tralee Municipal District Manager and Director of Service, Niamh O’Sullivan and Executive Chair of the Rose of Tralee International Festival, Anthony O’Gara along with the Festival Centres Director, Suzan O’Gara recognised the work done by all the Rose of Tralee Centres to support, develop and grow their connections to Tralee and Kerry.

Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Michael Foley said in his address to the gathering, “The Rose Centres and their representatives embody this global network of Irish identity. They remind us that no matter where we are in the world, our shared culture, values, and traditions continue to thrive and inspire. The connections formed here during this festival bind us together, united by a shared heritage and a collective pride in our Irishness.”

Tralee Municipal District Manager, Niamh O’Sullivan paid tribute to the importance of the work of the Rose Centres for both the town and the county, “This event allows us to formally recognise and express our deep appreciation for the outstanding work being done by each of you in keeping our diaspora connections alive throughout the year. We are honoured to host this reception as a mark of respect and gratitude for your continued efforts in representing Tralee and Kerry across the world.”

Executive Chair of the Rose of Tralee International Festival, Anthony O’Gara thanked Kerry County Council for the welcome and acknowledged all the Rose Centres for their continued work and support for the festival every year.

Each of the Rose Centres were presented with an official scroll by Cathaoirleach of Kerry Council, Cllr. Michael Foley to honour their presence at the 2025 Rose of Tralee International Festival.