Welcome from Ambassador

I am delighted to welcome you to the website of the Embassy of Ireland to Poland.

Since my appointment as Irish Ambassador to Poland in September 2005, I have been struck by the sheer range of links and contacts which have been developing between Ireland and Poland and by the fact that these are continuing to grow at a fast rate.

A key bond which now exists between our two countries is our membership of the European Union. As the Union has developed to comprise 27 Members, bilateral relations between each country have become more important than ever before. Ireland and Poland have already identified many common views and shared interests on multiple issues arising before us. I am confident that we will work even more closely together in the coming years.

There has been a revolution in our relations since the accession of Poland to the EU and our opening of our labour market to what has proved very high numbers of Poles who have had a major impact on our economy and our society, so much so that even after a few years it is difficult for Irish people to imagine life in Ireland without a significant Polish contribution.

I am pleased that, as illustrated by bilateral trade statistics and such initiatives as establishment of the Irish Chamber of Commerce in Poland in 2005, economic links between Ireland and Poland are also developing enormously.

Relations in the cultural and social spheres are also progressing well and hold further significant potential for helping us to get to know each other even better over the years ahead.

This website is intended for Irish people already in Poland or for those who might be considering visiting or doing business here. I hope that it also will be of interest to Polish people who wish to find out more about Ireland and who would like to pursue business or tourism or other interests. My Embassy team and I stand ready to assist you as best we can with your queries and with helping you to realise your goals.

10 April 2010

Statement from President McAleese on Smolensk air crash

I am deeply saddened to learn that a plane crash in Russia has led to the tragic death of President Lech Kaczynski, his wife Maria and scores of other passengers (including senior Polish Officials). This shocking news will cause immense sadness to the people of Poland to whom I convey my heartfelt sympathy and that of the Irish people. I am also acutely conscious that this tragedy will be particularly painful for the Polish community in Ireland as they come to terms with this terrible loss far from their native land.

I had the honour of meeting President Kaczynski when he visited Ireland in February 2007 and we celebrated together the strong bonds of friendship which unite Ireland and Poland. The deep sadness being felt in Poland today is shared by many in Ireland who hold the Polish people in high regard and with great affection. At this time of trauma and bereavement, I extend to the family of President Kaczynski, the Polish Government and people my sincere condolences on their tragic loss.

Mary McAleese
President of Ireland