Sligo-Chile links recognised during diplomatic visit by ambassador

SLIGO’S historic links with Chile through Ambrose O’Higgins and his son Bernardo, Chile’s founding father, and liberator, were recognised last week when the Ambassador of Chile and a trade delegation visited Sligo.

Her Excellency Ambassador of Chile, Ms Carla Serazzi, as well as Chile-Ireland Chamber of Commerce representatives, visited the offices of Sligo County Council on Wednesday last, November 9. Ambassador Serazzi said Chile and Ireland celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations this year and hopes that we can strengthen this historic Chilean-Irish relationship. Cathaoirleach Cllr Michael Clarke said there is a very strong association between Sligo and Chile, centered on the fascinating figure of Bernardo O’Higgins. His story and that of his father Ambrose have been well documented and examined by people in our respective countries.

In addition to the Cathaoirleach, the Sligo delegation welcoming the Chilean group included Councillor Arthur Gibbons, Tara Rodgers, president of Sligo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Aidan Doyle, CEO of Sligo Chamber of

Commerce and Industry, John Reilly, Head of Enterprise, John Moran, Director of Services and Jim Molloy, Director of Services.

Cllr Clarke said it is a source of great pride for the people of Sligo that our friends in Chile have kept the flame of Bernardo’s memory alive, to inform and inspire new generations as to role and legacy. “It is my hope that we can use this special connection to develop our friendship with our friends in Chile. There is enormous potential in exploring exchanges in diverse areas, whether in sport, arts, heritage, or community.

“We are also interested in exploring the potential of developing new connections in the realm of business and enterprise. “I believe there is an excellent foundation to progress the association between Sligo and Chile, and Sligo County Council has an important role to play on this process. There is an onus on civic leaders to take the initiative and consider these strands where links can be forged in the many areas of common interest.” Ambassador Serazzi expressed her great pride in the Irish–Chilean connection through Ambrose O’Higgins and his son Bernardo, Chile’s founding father and liberator. Following the meeting in County Hall, Her Excellency Ambassador Serazzi and along with the Chilean Business delegation visited the O’Higgins monument in Stephen Street car park as well as the Showgrounds Museum.

Ambassador Serazzi unveiled the Bernardo O’Higgins exhibition in the Showgrounds outdoor museum on her previous visit in September 2021.

Jim Molloy (left) and Cathoirleach Cllr Michael Clarke (third from right) with the ambassador of Chile and members of the delgation at The Showgrounds where there is a plaque to Bernardo O’Higgins after whom top Chilean club, O’Higgins FC, are named after.

Ambassador of Chile Carla Serazzi and members of her delegation at the Ambrose and Bernardo O’Higgins memorial in the Stephen Street car park.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Michael Clarke (centre) with the Chilean delegation.