From [L to R] Oscar Hancock, policeman Tom, Samera Desouza, policewoman Maria, Councillor Tom Fortune, Councillor Aoife Kennedy, Lea Cardoz, Councillor Mark Barry and Nikita DSouza.
THE GOAN NETWORK | LONDON
An estimated 2,000 people turned up at the first Irish-Goa Day at Burnaby Park in Greystones, Wicklow, near Dublin on July 22.
The Irish-Goa Day included music, food, games and various stalls, with music provided by Robbie Doyle, Kim Hayden, Pat Ukulele Band, Michael's Ballroom Dancing and DJ Xavier (UK), with Victor Evans as the MC.
When contacted, Milla Hancock, one of the Irish Goemkar (Goa) Committee members, said there were about 40 stalls selling different items from jewellery, clothing, toys and authentic Goan food. There was amusement for kids to play, like musical chairs, Bouncy Castle and lots of games.
“We also had a raffle and had three winners for the lottery. The first prize comprised two tickets all included to Goa for two weeks, followed by 1000 Euros (second), 500 Euros (third) and a Tipperary crystal mirror (fourth).
The various entertainment programmes and stalls include a Dog Show, Raffles with May Smullen, Henna Tattoos, Goan Cuisine, Ava's Cupcakes, Clothing Stalls, Ice Cream Vendor, Hair Braiding, Bouncy Castles, Slush Puppies and Popcorn Vendor, Milla’s Famous Indian Curry, Knockroe Farm - Fresh Strawberry, New Potatoes and Home Made Juices, Jewellery Vendors, Photographer (John McGowan), Vic's BBQ, North Indian Food and South Indian Food.
The various stalls at the first Irish-Goa Day at the Burnaby Park in Greystones near Dublin.
Among those present included Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, Councillors Aoife Kennedy, Gerry Walsh, Lourda Scott, Tom Fortune, Mark Barry and Derek Mitchell, Ashok and Miriam Varadkar (parents of former prime minister Leo Varadkar), Garda Maria Curtis and another Garda Tom.
“One special guest attending the festival all the way from the Vatican was Cicilea Aranha. Cicilea has worked at the Vatican for 50 years and has served five Popes.”
“All our guests who attended the Fun Day said they have not seen anything like this before and it was really nice to see Goans and Irish coming together. They looked forward to seeing more of this event in future,” said Milla.
Milla Hancock said the Goans in Ireland have been very active since 1996 and have been supporting the community on various occasions.
“The Irish Goemkar is a registered community in Ireland. The purpose to register this community is to support our fellow Goans living in Ireland and also Irish people who have welcomed us in their country. Our mission is also to provide support, both financially and emotionally, to those who are struggling or vulnerable in our community,” said Milla.
Goans take part in Ladainha, backed by Irish guitarist
About 70 members of the Goan community took part in a Ladainha (Litany) with traditional Goan fervour on July 21.
“Incidentally, Irish guitarist, Matt Malone, accompanied the singers at the Ladainha. He practised for several weeks preparing for the Goan hymns,” acknowledged Milla Hancock, one of the Irish Goemkar (Goa) Committee members.
Malone thanked Milla for the privilege of accompanying the Goan group at the traditional Ladainha last week.
“I haven't played with a language other than English before, but once I overcame that, the playing was quite simple. Congratulations on the very successful 'Irish Goemkar' celebration last Saturday, and looking forward to next year,” said Matt.
