A historical exhibition on the life and career of the first Polish diplomat to Ireland has been opened at DeValera Public Library in Ennis.
‘Friends in Times of Turmoil’ – a historical exhibition on the life and career of Consul-General Dobrzyński reveals how the Polish nobleman initiated diplomatic relations and long-lasting friendship between the young states of Ireland and Poland in the 20th century. The exhibition is presented by the Polish Embassy in Dublin in cooperation with the Clare County Library. It is in English and is admission free.
From the moment he set foot on the Emerald Isle, Dobrzyński became deeply infatuated with Ireland and her people. In total, he spent 34 years in Ireland, of which 25 years were in diplomatic service, making him the longest-serving foreign diplomat in the history of the Irish State.
Through the innocent gesture of inviting President Douglas Hyde to soccer match between Poland and Ireland in 1938, Consul Dobrzyński – otherwise a very popular and admired personality in 1930s Dublin – unwittingly caused chaos on the Irish political scene. President Hyde’s attendance at the game ultimately led to his resignation as chairman of the GAA.
The exhibition is on display in the DeValera Public Library, Harmony Row, Ennis until October 31 during library opening hours. In conjunction with the exhibition, a lecture on the history of Irish-Polish relations will take place on Tuesday 24th October at 6.30pm delivered by Dr Roisin Healy, NUI Galway.
More information at www.polishconsulexhibition.ie.