LatWest Timeline

Latvia's Ambassador to Ireland, Gints Apals, Ph.D., and the Director of the Irish–Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC), Ilze Kreslina, arrive in Claremorris on a working visit. In meetings with Mayo County councillors and Claremorris Mayor Richard Finn, the Latvian delegation presents ideas and goals for the upcoming Latgale Days festival in September. The event is part of a four-year project "Latvia's Regional Days in Ireland" run by the ILCC in cooperation with the Latvian Embassy. Mayo officials express interest in cooperation in business, culture and education. The visit concludes with an interview on Claremorris Community Radio 94.6 FM — Apals, I. Kreslina and S. Mukane broadcast in both English and Latvian; the interview is included in the new bilingual show Amber Show. In the afternoon, the delegation visits Ballintubber Abbey and finalises the Latgale Days programme. Organised by Dominante and Skarleta Mukane.

About 20 people from County Mayo, County Galway and County Roscommon gather at Claremorris Town Hall — and the Latvian Association LatWest is established. The groundwork had already been laid: a Youth Group was active, people with their own businesses and hobby projects had been identified. The Town Hall provides the venue. The evening unfolds around a round table — Latvian conversation, peppermint tea, shared baskets and the sound of children in the background. The organisation grows out of the creative association Dominante. Registered with Mayo County Council.

In LatWest's early days, the youth club Alfa Union brings together Latvian, Lithuanian and Irish young people. Sessions include theatre, improvisation and creative activities. The club is not only Latvian — it is a multicultural community project in the heart of Claremorris. Leaders: Noel Lyons and Egija Kundzina.

The bilingual show Amber Show, hosted by Skarleta Mukane, begins broadcasting on Claremorris Community Radio 94.6 FM. The show airs every Sunday at 5pm, with a repeat on Thursdays at 7pm. The idea arose unexpectedly — after a Dominante charity concert with the Western Alzheimer's Association, radio representatives invited Skarleta to the microphone. Rather than speak in English alone, she proposed a bilingual show, which the station happily accepted. The name refers to amber — a stone symbolic to Latvians — like scattered fragments on different shores. The show features Latvian music and interviews with notable figures including the ambassador and Chamber of Commerce representatives. Also available online: ccr946.ie. Recordings archived at: Mixcloud → The Amber Show. On 28 May 2016, the show was awarded the CRAOL Achievements Award 2016 in the Social Benefit Talk category, presented by the Community Radio Forum of Ireland (CRAOL) together with the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland and the Community Foundation of Ireland. The ceremony was held at the Regency Hotel, Dublin.

LatWest, together with Youth Club Alfa Union and cultural association Dominante, takes part in the Claremorris St. Patrick's Day parade. All generations — girls with flower wreaths, young people with flags, women in traditional dress — march together carrying Latvian and Lithuanian flags and the LatWest banner. The parade assembles at 2pm at Smyths Toys, starting at 3pm. Noel Lyons sends a message from the parade: LatWest Claremorris stands for freedom, against discrimination and racism — in solidarity with Ireland's 1916 heroes.

Maxwell, Claremorris. LatWest's first Easter celebration drew a large number of Latvian families from the Connacht region. The hall was filled with a festive atmosphere — children painted eggs, faces were painted, traditional puzuri ornaments and the Latvian flag decorated the room. Every child received an Easter diploma for taking part in the festivities. The event was also filmed.

LatWest's Mother's Day event takes place in two parts: a formal evening with balloons, singing and flowers, where all participants receive flowers; and an informal gathering at home with a lavish table and the Latvian flag as backdrop. Children play in the garden sandpit on a sunny Irish morning — a small but warm Latvian community in the Connacht region.

Mother's Day, Midsummer (Jāņi), White Tablecloth Celebration, Latvia's Independence Day, Christmas, New Year's Ball — LatWest's first year fills the Connacht calendar with Latvian culture.

The Latvian midsummer solstice tradition continues — with folk costumes, songs and an Irish sunset. A Midsummer atmosphere in the Claremorris area.

Months before LatWest's biggest event — planning meetings with ILCC and the Latvian Embassy, Amber Show broadcasts on Claremorris Community Radio, signing of a cooperation agreement with Kuldīga Technology and Tourism College. From Latvia: the Kokļu Zapte kokle ensemble and the TDK "Rudzupuķe" folk dance group, as well as Rūjienas Piensaimnieks with Latgalian products. The event attracted participants from Dublin, Limerick, Sligo, Galway, the UK and Latvia.

Before the Claremorris celebrations, a Latvian delegation — local government leaders, representatives of educational institutions and businesses — arrived in Dublin. Meeting with Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D. at the Latvian Embassy. Liberty Hall, Dublin — a visit to Ireland's largest trade union federation SIPTU: meetings with Ethel Buckley (organizing officer), Everlina Saduikyte and Sintija Sheeran; discussions covered labour rights protection, discrimination, housing and language barriers for Latvian workers in Ireland. Visit to Dublin Institute of Technology — Daugavpils University presented cooperation opportunities. Business and export opportunities between the two countries were also discussed.

Claremorris becomes Latvia's ambassador in Ireland. The Latvian delegation includes: Member of the Saeima of the Republic of Latvia Juris Vilums; Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D.; Director of the Latvian Institute Aiva Rozenberga; ILCC Director Ilze Kreslina; local government chairs — Inara Silicka (Kārsava), Andris Vaivods (Līvāni), Maruta Plivda (Preiļi), Sandra Viskure (Dagda), Peteris Rozinskis (Riebiņi); Kuldīga Technology and Tourism College (Anda Slegelmilha, Aija Rubule, Anitra Rudovska); Rector of Daugavpils University Arvids Barsevskis with colleagues; Rūjienas Piensaimnieks (Normunds Medens); Lafiko.lv (Aleksandrs Grisulonoks); SIA "Olūts" (Bronislavs Plivda). On 9 September, a Friendship Oak is planted in Clare Lake Park — together with Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D., Mayo representative Richard Finn, ILCC Director Ilze Kreslina, the Kokļu Zapte ensemble from the UK, Dominante, LELAB Director Daiga Ezermale and representatives of the Latvian diaspora. That same evening at Dalton Inn Hotel — special guests actresses Olga Drege and Lidija Pupure in a discussion "Here and There" about diaspora experience; afterwards the evening continued at Hanleys Pub. Participants came from Kerry, Limerick, Galway, Donegal, Sligo, Roscommon, Castlebar and beyond. 10 September: at 11am opening of the Latvian and Latvian crafts exhibition in Varde's Alley; at 12pm a ceremonial procession along Claremorris main street to Clare Lake McMahon Park, where a wreath is laid at the memorial to Ireland's 1916 independence fighters; at 1pm singing and games in the town square. At 6pm at Balla Community Centre — concert "Song Unites" (admission €10): Music and Arts Association Dominante with the eLVē choir (cond. Inguna Grietina), TDK Karbunkulis (cond. Solveiga Slaidina), TDK Nemiers (cond. Aiga Kunicka), Kokļu Zapte from the UK (cond. Aivis Kreslins), Zane Kazotniece with family; the concert also featured a Myanmar (Burmese) youth group "Jaunatne" and Ludmila Burcovchi with her daughters — a reflection of Claremorris's multicultural community; Noel Lyons performed "Feed The Flame" by Raimonds Pauls and Janis Peters. At 9pm — Groziņvakars — a dance night with the legendary group "Baltie lāči" from Latgale (admission €20). 11 September: the Latvian delegation made an excursion to Westport and Achill — exploring the natural beauty of County Mayo. The event concludes with the passing of the travelling symbol of "Regional Days in Ireland" — LELAB Director Daiga Ezermale, as organiser of the 2015 Kurzeme Days, is thanked for setting the journey in motion, and the symbol is passed on to the next year's organisers of "Zemgale Days in Ireland 2017". The event was supported by Mayo County Council, ILCC and the Latvian Embassy in Ireland. Approximately 4,000 Claremorris residents attended in person, including 800 immigrants of various nationalities; Latvians came from all over Ireland and the UK.

Accompanied by Co. Mayo County Council officials Richard Finn and Neil Sheridan, LatWest representatives took part in three significant events in Dublin. Mansion House, Dawson Street — a visit to the Lord Mayor of Dublin's residence. Royal Irish Academy, 19 Dawson Street — the opening of the exhibition "Latvia 1991", reflecting events during Latvia's Barricades period; Dainis Ivans, one of the founders of Latvia's Popular Front, participated. Radisson Blu, Dublin Airport — Saeima Speaker Inara Murniece met with the Latvian diaspora in Ireland; discussions covered community strengthening, civic engagement and ties with the homeland. During the event, Noel Lyons received a Letter of Appreciation from Latvia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, presented by Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D., for a significant contribution to strengthening Latvian–Irish cultural exchange.

LatWest, in cooperation with the Latvian Embassy in Ireland and the Latvian National Archives, opens the exhibition "Latvia 1991" at Claremorris Public Library — in memory of Latvia's Barricades period. The exhibition features National Archives documents and photographs from 13–27 January 1991, as well as bilingual information materials. Performers at the event include musicians Andzejs Nigulis-Belenus, Anna Novika, Elina Kundzina-Armane and violinist Zane Kazotniece; a poem about the Barricades is read by Noel Lyons. The ceremony is attended by Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D. and Director of the Latvian National Archives Antra Mazura, local authority representatives and An Garda Síochána. During the event, LatWest establishes the first Latvian-language collection at Claremorris Library — books, video and audio materials for Latvian children and adults, donated by Ambassador Apals and community members.

Two months before Zemgale Days in Ireland (26–30 April), LatWest representatives travelled to Jelgava to begin initial preparation talks with the Zemgale Planning Region and partners. The meeting introduced the project concept, discussed programme possibilities and the format for Zemgale municipal participation. The visit also included a stop at the Jelgava tourism centre, where representative materials for the delegation in Ireland were identified.

On St. Patrick's Day — 17 March 2017 — Claremorris welcomed the Liepāja Travelling Circus "Beztemata" on its first ever guest performance in Ireland. The event was organised by LatWest in cooperation with local partners. Rain did not stop the enjoyment: circus artists with unicycles, juggling skills and costumes took to the streets alongside the St. Patrick's Day parade. Alongside the circus, the parade also featured TDK "Nemiers" from Limerick (director Aiga Kunicka), delighting audiences with Latvian folk dance rhythms, and the children's dance group "Sienāzitis" from Longford (directors Olita Lagzdina and Linda Ozolina) — the little dancers in folk costumes weathered the rain and the parade's pace with a child's spark in their eyes.

At a meeting at Ozolnieki Secondary School, ILCC Board Chairperson Ilze Kreslina presented Zemgale Days in Ireland 2017 to representatives of the Zemgale Planning Region and local government leaders. The presentation examined the programme plan in detail — meeting with the ambassador, a seminar on business and taxes, meetings with the Latvian diaspora in Dublin, Claremorris and Longford. Participants registered from Rundāle municipality, Tērvete, Pļaviņi municipality, Jelgava city, Jelgava District Council and the Zemgale Planning Region.

At Clasac Theatre, Dublin, a conference organised by ILNP (Irish Latvian National Council) discussed the Latvian diaspora in Britain and Ireland, preparations for Latvia's centenary celebrations and the future perspectives of the Latvian community. The programme featured Latvian folk dance groups from Ireland and Norway. The conference also marked the 10th anniversary of the baltic-ireland.ie portal. LatWest and ILCC (Irish–Latvian Chamber of Commerce) were invited as partners.

LatWest gratefully received a donation to the Claremorris Library Latvian book collection. Ivanda Antone donated 6 Latvian books, while Laima Ozola donated a total of 46 books, expanding the collection with a wide range of Latvian prose — from classics to modern detective novels and love stories.

LatWest celebrates Easter in a homely atmosphere — with egg-rolling competitions in the garden, bunny ears, colourful eggs, an Easter cake and a festive table.

This is a retrospective on the "Zemgale Days in Ireland 2017" segment of the Irish Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC) project "Regional Days in Ireland 2015–2018". As noted in previous articles on the topic, the project is carried out in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Latvia in Ireland and the Latvian association on Ireland's west coast — LatWest Association — and with the support of Latvia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In the morning, at Dalton Inn Hotel in Claremorris, County Mayo, an inter-governmental seminar "International Partnership for Economic Development" took place, followed by a meeting with local Latvians.

Latvian participants included:

• Ambassador of the Republic of Latvia to Ireland, Gints Apals, Ph.D.
• Embassy Secretary Zigmunds Zamockis
• ILCC Director Ilze Kreslina
• LatWest Director Skarleta Mukane and members Noel Lyons, Elina Soma, Ingrida Kruma and others
• Andris Tomasuns, founder and director of Jelgava Spīdola Gymnasium, historian and archaeologist
• Janis Tomasuns, historian and teacher at Spīdola School
• Liene Strazdiņa, Jelgava Regional Tourism Centre specialist
• Liga Lonerte, Head of Jelgava Municipality Development Department
• Modris Jansons, Jelgava Municipal Council deputy
• Gunta Žilde, Head of Pļaviņi Municipality
• Elita Kaņepēja, Pļaviņi District Market Manager
• Rita Borscevska, Head of Vircava Municipality
• Linda Mierlauka, Head of Tērvete Development Department
• Laura Ārente, Project Specialist of Rundāle District Council
• Leons Lidums, Head of Aizkraukle Council
• Santa Ozola, Head of ZPR Administration
• Nauris Paulins, Head of ZPR Business Centre
• Aleksandrs Grišuļonoks, entrepreneur "Lafiko"
• Kaspars Salenieks, entrepreneur "Lafiko"
• Mariuss Okunevas, entrepreneur "ECO Logcabins"
• Gunars Meijers, musician

Irish participants included:

• Al McDonnel, Chairman of Mayo County Council
• Jerry McGarry, Director of Ballyhaunis Municipal Development Centre
• Niall Sheridan, Mayo County Council Head of Business Development
• Padraig Flanagan, Mayo County Council Business Manager
• Jerry McDonnel, Secretary of Claremorris Chamber of Commerce

The seminar proceeded as a mutual exchange of experience in local government, business principles and systems. The Zemgale side presented tourism opportunities, agriculture, industrial enterprises and cultural and sports innovation. The Irish side shared their experience in tourism and business development in each municipality — highly valuable information and inspiration to develop similar initiatives in Latvia — and answered questions of interest to the Latvian participants.

Latvian entrepreneurs "Lafiko" presented the SASAP internet application — a service for caring for seniors who have remained in Latvia. Such an application could also be relevant to Irish society, where emigration rates are also significant.

A second business opportunity of note was timber mobile homes, whose production costs are relatively low and which generated interest from Mayo County Council for social housing construction, given the low cost and fast build times.

Group discussions, questions and answers continued even after the formal seminar concluded.

Mayo County Council Chairman Al McDonnel addressed the seminar, emphasising the importance of such international gatherings. He expressed his honour at "meeting the Ambassador of the Republic of Latvia to Ireland, Gints Apals, Ph.D., for the second consecutive year", noting his role in promoting Latvian–Irish cooperation across many fields. McDonnel also praised the work of LatWest in fostering ties between Irish and Latvian communities. He concluded by inviting the Zemgale representatives to join the Ambassador at the official opening ceremony of "Mayo Days" in Castlebar that same evening.

After a short break, historian Andris Tomasuns addressed his compatriots and shared memories of Latvia's restoration of independence — the Supreme Council session of 4 May 1990, when the Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Latvia was adopted. He had brought an impressive exhibition of posters, on display both in the seminar room and during the evening event. He emphasised the importance of 4 May for the entire nation and for each individual, and encouraged Latvians abroad to celebrate it and share its significance with the next generation, marking it as the White Tablecloth celebration. LatWest had already observed this occasion the previous year alongside Mother's Day celebrations.

While Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D. and some of the Zemgale representatives attended the Mayo Days opening, the others joined local Latvians for an evening of music with Gunars Meijers.

Gunars Meijers brought beloved traditional songs as well as new compositions. He captivated the audience performing with voice and guitar alone. Countless popular favourites were sung together. It was "a unique evening when Latvians from 'both sides' united in song, conversation and emotion!"

Skarleta Mukane, Director of LatWest Association

As part of Zemgale Days, the ILCC-organised local government seminar "International Partnership for Economic Development" takes place at the Latvian Embassy. Representatives attend from Jelgava, Vircava, Pļaviņi, Rundāle and Tērvete municipalities, Jelgava city and the Jelgava Regional Tourism Centre, along with several Irish institutions. The presentation covers Zemgale's gastronomy, culture and economic cooperation opportunities. Meeting with Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D.; the delegation also includes Skarleta Mukane and Noel Lyons from LatWest.

The Zemgale Days evening concludes with a country evening featuring Latvian musician Gunars Meijers (1958–2021), at 9pm at Dalton Inn Hotel. Gunars performs with guitar before the Latvian and Irish flags — and it is precisely this evening that sparks the creative impulse that a year later becomes the album "Angels in Your Eyes" with Noel Lyons. The Latvian diaspora in Claremorris rejoices, dances and bonds with the Zemgale guests. Photo: Andris Tomasuns / Michael Donnelly (baltic-ireland.ie)

The Latvian Embassy Cup hockey tournament is held in Longford. The Longford Hawks and several other teams compete; Ambassador Gints Apals, Ph.D. personally presents trophies and medals to the winners. A Latvian history exhibition is also included. Source: baltic-ireland.ie (in Latvian) · Photo: Andris Tomasuns

LatWest representatives visit Latvia on a multi-day trip, building contacts and exploring the regions.

In Riga — meeting with ILCC Director Ilze Kreslina and songwriter and performer Gunars Meijers.

At Likteņdārzs by the Daugava — meeting with Kuldīga College representatives during the graduation ceremony. Graduate works — wooden sculptures and masterpieces — are exhibited in the park by the Daugava.

In Preiļi — visited the Preiļi Puppet Museum; meeting with Preiļi municipality Mayor Maruta Plivda. The neighbouring town of Līvāni was also explored.

At Daugavpils University — meeting with Rector Arvids Barsevskis, who personally shows the university facilities. Special attention is given to the Study and Research Centre "Ilgas" in Skrudaliena parish, within the nature park "Silene" — one of the most modern study bases in Eastern Europe in the field of biology, with a contemporary laboratory complex in a rural setting.

In Rēzekne — the Hill of Crosses is visited in Latgale's second largest city.

On the way home — Sigulda and Turaida in Vidzeme.

At the Latvian Embassy in Dublin, the new Ambassador Janis Silis meets with Latvian organisations in Ireland. LatWest is represented by Skarleta Mukane and Noel Lyons — an opportunity to present the Mayo community's work and plan cooperation ahead of Latvia's centenary celebrations.

LatWest representatives visited the office of the Irish–Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC) in Riga, where meetings were held with the organisation's leadership and discussions took place about future cooperation between the Latvian diaspora in Ireland and the homeland. The visit also included a trip to the international exhibition Riga Comm 2017, where the ILCC presented its work and community projects.

The Irish–Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC) mentions LatWest as a close cooperation partner in its 2017 annual report. During the year, the ILCC organised around 30 events, including Zemgale Days in Ireland 2017. The report announces the upcoming Vidzeme Days in Ireland 2018 — the final stage of the cycle, dedicated to Latvia's centenary. The report is signed by ILCC Board Chairperson Ilze Kreslina.

LatWest, in cooperation with ILCC Director Ilze Kreslina, organised a business meeting with Mayo County Council representative Richard Finn and business representatives from PEL Waste Reduction Equipment, Knock Airport and Electric Skyline. The meetings took place at Barrett's of Mayo hotel and Knock Airport, covering business cooperation opportunities between the Latvian diaspora and County Mayo enterprises. During the same period, ILCC also attended a business and manufacturing forum in Dublin, where cooperation opportunities between the Latvian diaspora and Irish enterprises were represented at the Irish Manufacturing Research stand.

The Latvian Society of Cavan organises Vidzeme Days in Ireland 2018 — the final stage of the "Latvia's Regional Days in Ireland 2015–2018" cycle, dedicated to Latvia's centenary. LatWest attends as guests.

9 March: Cavan Courthouse — Latvia–Ireland local government friendship and cooperation meeting, excursion around Co. Cavan.
10 March: St. Pat's College — basketball tournament, relay races, crafts, family activities. In the evening at Cavan Crystal Hotel — International Women's Day ball with the group Kreicbergi and Irish musician Noel Lyons, dance group Varavīksne (dir. Olita Lagzdina), LBĪ choir eLVē (dir. Inguna Grietina-Darzina) and an Irish dance group from Mounterconought (dir. Helen Henry).

LatWest was invited as a guest to the St. Patrick's Day event organised by ILCC in Riga. The event was attended by Irish Ambassador to Latvia Jim Hennessy and representatives of the Irish Embassy. The event was hosted by Ruta Kapustaite, with Irish dance performances by the ensemble Ceili Rue (Ireland.ie). Noel Lyons (LatWest) also performed musical pieces. The event took place at Riga Sunset Lounge (Andrejostas 5K-14) with a three-course Irish meal, bar, live music and Irish dance performances.

A unique intercultural album is recorded at a studio in Ogre — Irish musician and poet Noel Lyons sings and translates into English the melodies of Latvian composer Gunars Meijers (1958–2021). Skarleta Mukane takes part in the translations and in writing new song lyrics. The album is produced by Reinis Grinhofs, with Marko Ojala on accordion and Andis Klucnieks on flute. A special touch — a fusion of jazz, Latvian and Irish folk music in one sound.

The project was born after an inspiring encounter with Latvian musician Gunars Meijers at the Zemgale Days in Ireland — the idea was to translate his songs into English and record an album to be sung by Noel Lyons. Intensive work on 11 songs began in September 2018, and remarkably, within a month they were ready to record. The team travelled to Ogre, Latvia, where the entire recording was completed in literally four days. The single "My People" was first recorded separately and went on to win 5th place at the Strabane Radio New Songs competition. In January 2019, the published album "Angels in Your Eyes" was received. The album was entered into Latvia's annual Zelta Mikrofons music award competition, where it received a nomination. On 19 January, at Ogre Cultural Centre, a grand album launch took place as part of an author concert dedicated to Barricades Remembrance Day — also broadcast on Novadu TV. This project stands as a lasting contribution to cultural exchange between Ireland and Latvia. We are grateful to everyone who took part in the great effort to bring the album to its listeners. Two hundred albums were gifted free of charge to those who were interested — not a single copy was sold.

At the invitation of Galway Music Residency, LatWest participates in the project From Europe with Love — Latvia, part of the Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture programme. The concert series From Europe with Love presents string quartet repertoire from each EU member state across 27 concerts at St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, from September 2018 to June 2021, on the first Tuesday of each month (September–June, excluding January). The eighth concert in the series celebrates Latvia. At 1:10pm, the internationally renowned ConTempo Quartet — Bogdan Sofei (violin I), Ingrid Nicola (violin II), Andreea Banciu (viola), Adrian Mantu (cello) — performs Peteris Vasks' String Quartet No. 3. Formed in 1995 in Bucharest, ConTempo Quartet has been Galway Music Residency's Ensemble in Residence since 2003, and in 2016 received Honorary Doctorates in Music from NUI Galway. Skarleta Mukane gives a personal introductory reflection on Vasks's music before the concert — providing Irish audiences with a guide through this remarkable world of sound.

The Viesīte Choir from Latvia arrives in County Mayo, Ireland, as part of a touring visit, meeting with LatWest. Their collaboration on the "Angels in Your Eyes" album — recording songs by Gunars Meijers and Noel Lyons — had inspired the idea of coming to Ireland to meet the people behind the project in person. The one concert takes place on Saturday, 14 September, at 7pm — a Catholic mass (in English) at St. Colman's Church, Claremorris, with the Viesīte Choir's Latvian voices, warmly welcomed by the parish priest Fr. Peter Gannon. During their visit, the choir explored some of Mayo's most beautiful places — Achill Island with its rugged Atlantic coastline, the white sands and dramatic cliffs of Keem Beach, and the landscapes of Connemara. A heartfelt reunion with choir directors Reinis and Liene Grihofs and the whole ensemble — shared memories of the recording studio and fresh impressions of the Irish countryside.

LatWest takes part in Mayo Social Inclusion Awareness Week 2019 — a week-long event organised by Mayo County Council and LCDC to foster inclusion, connection and equality among the people of County Mayo. The week's theme: "Belonging in Mayo". The event includes discussions on interculturalism — defined by UNESCO (2005) as "dialogue among cultures with a view to ensuring wider and balanced cultural exchanges in the world in favour of intercultural respect and a culture of peace." Focus is placed on celebrating cultural difference, interculturalism as a policy priority in contemporary society, and its diverse forms in Irish life. LatWest's participation reflects the organisation's role as a bridge-builder between the Latvian diaspora and the wider Mayo community.

LatWest director Skarleta Mukane publishes her first photo book "A Touch of the Moment" — a personal collection of her most beautiful landscape, travel and moment photography, primarily from Latvia and Ireland. The book brings together scenes from different places and times: the grandeur of Knock Shrine's interior, Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris before the fire, the wild Atlantic waves of Achill Island, the Frozen Baltic Sea in Latvia, an Irish sunset reflected on the water, the gentle closeness of two horses in a field, daisies reaching toward the blue sky, and a dandelion in evening light. The book reflects Skarleta's artistic vision — the ability to capture the feeling of the soul in a moment.

County Mayo's annual history and culture journal Annagh publishes Noel Lyons' article "From the Speckled Hill to the Shores of the Baltic" — a personal account of the cultural exchange between Ireland and Latvia. Noel recounts his journey to Latvia, the making of the album "Angels in Your Eyes" with Gunars Meijers and Skarleta Mukane, appearances on Latvian television, and the deep historical parallels between both nations — Latvia and Ireland's shared experience of occupation and the struggle for freedom. The article includes lyrics Noel wrote to mark Latvia's 100th anniversary of independence: "Lift up your voices Lativia, / Sing out together in freedom's hurrah." He also describes the Viesīte Choir's visit to Mayo — places toured (Knock, Croagh Patrick, Achill Island, Connemara) and their concert at St. Colman's Church, Claremorris, which received a standing ovation. The founding of LatWest in 2016 and future cultural projects — including translating Latvian books into English — are also featured. Annagh is the annual community journal of Annagh Parish, County Mayo.

At Latvia's annual Zelta Mikrofons (Golden Microphone) music awards ceremony in Riga, the title song "Angels in Your Eyes" is nominated as the best schlager, country or rockabilly album of 2019. The project brought together Gunars Meijers's melodic creativity, Noel Lyons's performance and English lyrics, production by Reinis and Liene Grinhofs, the Viesīte choir and outstanding musicians. Skarleta Mukane participated in the translations and the creation of new song lyrics with her musical and creative talents.

In Riga, at the legendary MicRec studio, a meeting takes place between Noel Lyons and legendary Latvian musician Guntars Racs. This is a direct fruit of the Zemgale Days encounter — the "Angels in Your Eyes" project has opened doors into Latvia's music world, and the conversation about possible future collaboration confirms that the cultural bridge between Ireland and Latvia continues to grow. As a result of this meeting, work began on translating Raimonds Pauls's songs. More than 10 song lyrics were translated, with words by Guntars Racs, Janis Peters, Ziedonis Purvs, and Alfreds Kruklis.

During the pandemic restrictions, the town of Claremorris has come to a standstill — empty streets, closed doors bearing "Face Mask Required" signs, an oppressive silence where life once buzzed. Public activities are suspended, gatherings and events are impossible. Yet it is precisely during this time of restrictions that LatWest begins to slowly move towards a new and ambitious project — sketching out the idea of a poetry book in three languages. Every month of the Covid period becomes a time for reflection, creative work and planning for the future.

LatWest organised the Latvia-Ireland Business Forum at the Latvian Embassy in Dublin (23 Fitzwilliam Place), in partnership with the Irish Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC) and Latvian Ambassador Janis Silis. LatWest vice-chairman Noel Lyons presented the history of the Latvian diaspora in Ireland; ILCC president Ilze Kreslina emphasised the importance of business networking. Participants included representatives of Riga Port, the Latvian Construction Engineers Union, the timber industry, and education institutions — Daugavpils University and Kuldīga Technology and Tourism College. LatWest chairwoman Skarleta Mukane noted Irish interest in importing timber, fuel and prefabricated homes from Latvia. Photos: Andris Tomasuns / Michael Donnelly

LatWest receives a grant from the Irish Hospice Foundation Arts & Creative Engagement Production programme for an ambitious cultural project — the trilingual poetry book "Voices on The Bridge" in English, Latvian and Irish. The book includes original poetry and lyrics by Noel Lyons and Skarleta Mukane, as well as translations of Irish poets (Pádraig Pearse, Antaine Rafteirí, Seán Clárach Mac Domhnaill) and Latvian poets (Guntars Racs, Janis Peters, Ziedonis Purvs). The poetry deals with many issues of concern and connection affecting the lives of both Latvian immigrants in Ireland and Irish emigrants abroad. The publication is set to go to print in early 2022. The Connaught Telegraph writes: "Noel Lyons and Skarleta Mukane are to the forefront of this publication and are delighted that this project is acknowledged by the receipt of such an auspicious award." Read the article in Connaught Telegraph →

The first Latvian launch of "Voices on The Bridge / Balsis uz tilta / Glórtha ar an nDroichead" takes place at Inčukalns Community Centre. Noel Lyons and Skarleta read their poems, translations and works by other poets, and sang songs in Latvian, English and Irish. The event was attended by former Latvian Ambassador to Ireland Gints Apals, Ph.D. and the chairperson of the Irish–Latvian Chamber of Commerce Ilze Kreslina.

"Skarleta and Noel — voices on a bridge. A bridge that connects Latvia and Ireland! Today's event was beautiful voices on a solid bridge. Thank you, Skarleta, to you and Noel, for being, doing and loving!" — Arvids Barsevskis, Rector of Daugavpils University

The Birmingham Latvian Small Theatre visited Dublin with the performance "Čir, čir" (by Hermanis Paukss). During this event, Skarleta and Noel also presented their newly published book "Voices on The Bridge / Balsis uz tilta".

The third launch of "Voices on The Bridge / Balsis uz tilta / Glórtha ar an nDroichead" takes place at Wardes in Claremorris at 4pm. The Connaught Telegraph reported: "Special new poetry collection in three languages."

Noel Lyons and Skarleta Feierabends hosted a lunchtime session of poetry and music at Tuam Public Library (Co Galway), reading from their newly published book "Voices on The Bridge / Balsis uz tilta / Glórtha ar an nDroichead" — poetry in English, Latvian and Irish. Skarleta performed the Latvian folk song "Love of Mother" together with Noel Lyons.

As part of the Ballyhaunis Summer Festival 2022, Noel Lyons and Skarleta took part in a wonderful poetry and music event at the Augustinian Monastery (Anno 1348). The event "Coming Home" was organised by Frank Greally — sprinter, journalist, poet and composer — who shared memories, poetry and songs in his home town alongside local musicians and poets. Noel wrote a special song dedicated to Ballyhaunis for the occasion. Before the concert, they participated in a Poetry Workshop led by Bernie Crawford — poet, writer, multi-award winner and editor of the poetry journal Skylight 47. "An honour to represent Latvian culture in the world and to be part of Ireland's cultural life!"

LatWest director Skarleta Mukane decides to continue her studies and enrols in the Faculty of Humanities at Daugavpils University, in the Intercultural and Integration Processes and Business Relations programme.

Congratulations to ILCC (Irish Latvian Chamber of Commerce) on their 10th anniversary! Wishing them continued growth and stronger economic, educational and cultural ties between our two countries. Skarleta and Noel Lyons attended the celebration in person in Riga, representing LatWest in Ireland. The Irish Ambassador to Latvia, Eimear Friel, also gave a speech at the celebration.

LatWest took part in an event organised by the Mayo Arts Office, bringing together book publishers, poets and artists from across County Mayo. The gathering provided an opportunity to share experiences on developing literary life in the region.

This was the seventh year of the organisation's existence — a productive one on many fronts.

The highlight of the year was the launch of the trilingual poetry book "Balsis uz tilta / Voices on The Bridge / Glórtha ar an nDroichead". It was a team effort involving Latvians both in Ireland and Latvia. The translators and adapters are Irish poet and historian Noel Lyons and Latvian Skarleta Mukane.

The anthology features Latvian poets – Janis Peters, Ziedonis Purvs, Alfreds Kruklis, Guntars Racs, Gunars Meijers – alongside Irish poets – Padraig Pearse, Antoine Ó Raifteirí, Seán Clárach Mac Dómhnaill and Noel Lyons. The illustrations were drawn by Latvians living in Ireland: Samanta Kruma, Ainars Feierabends and Skarleta Mukane.

The book brings together previously translated Latvian song lyrics, linking this project to the earlier one – the song album "Angels in Your Eyes" by Gunars Meijers and Noel Lyons – and pointing toward a potential future project: a Raimonds Pauls song album in English. Poetry, mostly song lyrics, translated mutually across three languages, has created a small poetic island in the European cultural space, washed by three languages – Latvian, Irish and English. The book is available in several libraries and schools in Ireland and Latvia, as well as the National Library of Latvia.

Launch events were held both in Latvia – in Inčukalns – and in Ireland – in Dublin and Claremorris, Co Mayo. With this, LatWest positions itself not only as an important bridge between Latvian and Irish communities, but also as a cultural connector helping two nations interact.

We continue to maintain relations with ILCC (the Irish–Latvian Chamber of Commerce) and its long-standing chairperson Ilze Cakstina; it is worth noting that in autumn the chamber celebrated its 10th anniversary. We meet, as much as possible, with individuals and organisations who have visited Ireland and participated in LatWest events. Of course, the two preceding pandemic years slowed our event-organising activity, but we hope to resume, bringing younger people into the work.

This year the organisation has been busy with a wide range of community support matters. This support extends not only to members of the Latvian diaspora — though they remain the majority — but also to people of various nationalities, including members of the host community. Our work largely involves the ongoing struggle for justice: communicating with local and state institutions, seeking fair treatment between employers and employees through the Workplace Relations Commission and/or solicitors, resolving disputes between landlords and tenants through the PRTB, and finding solutions to everyday problems in cooperation with women's and children's protection organisations. There are also simpler tasks: filling in social welfare forms, accompanying someone to hospital and translating at their side, helping to top up an electricity key, phoning to make a GP appointment, attending a parent–teacher meeting at school, and helping to arrange rent supplement, disability allowance or sick leave — and so on.

Every such communication, every piece of advice or guidance, matters to a person who does not know the laws, the rules or the language well enough.

With the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in Ireland, we have taken on an additional community group whose members we try to help where possible. Knowledge of the Russian language plays an important role here. At the time of writing we are dealing with a very serious case — a conflict between a Ukrainian worker and an employer who is also their landlord, involving a serious workplace injury.

An important part of the problem-solving process is cooperation with the local council and elected representatives, which is a great support in untangling these situations.

So we can safely say that our hands are full. To close, I will quote Noel Lyons: "We are here for Manai Tautai!"

Wishing you all a warm family Christmas and a bright creative New Year!

Latvia's Ambassador to Ireland Juris Stalmeistars and Embassy staff visited Claremorris to meet with Co. Mayo councillor Cllr Richard Finn, Graudins Mayo Latvian School, LatWest, and the local Latvian diaspora. The meeting focused on community life in the West of Ireland, cooperation with local government, and the community's future development. Attendees: Laine Nigule-Belenusa, Zane Kazotniece, Laima Nigule, Elina Soma, Ingrida Kruma, Noel Lyons, Skarleta Mukane.

LatWest visited Latvia for the Sigulda city festival — and of course, the Mayo flag came along for the trip. Up Mayo from Sigulda!

LatWest representative Skarleta Mukane joined the multinational music group "Le Cairde" as a musician at a Sunday Mass at St. Patrick's Church in Ballyhaunis. Skarleta accompanied the community musicians on piano at this sacred Mass.

LatWest visited and celebrated the Folk Dance Ensemble "Rietumkrasts" at their 5th anniversary event in Galway. Congratulations on this wonderful milestone! Artistic director: Guntis Bergholcs, event organiser: Dina Bergholca.

The Ireland-Latvia Chamber of Commerce (ILCC) and LatWest, together with the Latvian Embassy in Ireland, Latvia's major cities association, and the #esiLV community, organised Latvia Days in Ireland — a multi-day cultural programme in Dublin and Claremorris. On 14 October in Claremorris, the main celebration included a carnival parade, a folk song and dance concert "Song. Dance. Latvia." at Hotel Dalton Inn (starting at 15:00), and an evening sing-along "Asaks & Vētra" with Ainars Asaks and Varis Vetrs at Wardes The Square (starting at 20:00). The concert also featured a special performance — the beautiful song "Amazing Grace" sung simultaneously in 10 languages: Irish, Ukrainian, Spanish, Lithuanian, Filipino, Russian, German, Japanese, Latvian, and English, performed by the Ballyhaunis multinational group of artists and musicians "Le Cairde".

The Mayo Latvian children's school "Graudins" held a celebration dedicated to Latvia's 105th anniversary and the 11 November Lāčplēsis Day — and warmly invited LatWest to take part. The children made lanterns, painted dolls in folk costume colours representing different regions of Latvia, and learned songs and dances. A heartfelt thank you to the school's director and music teacher Laine Nigule-Belenusa for her wonderful and devoted work! And to all the creative parents and talented children — it is a true joy to see our young ones singing and dancing in Latvian, and to celebrate every Latvian moment together with the Claremorris Latvian community!

LatWest organised a small gathering with musicians from the band "Le Cairde" from Ballyhaunis, whose members sing and play from the Philippines, Germany, Poland, Moldova, Romania, Ireland and beyond. We came together at Wardes pub in Claremorris for a few hours of shared music-making. Melodies rang out in many languages, bringing people from different cultures together.

LatWest attended the Mayo Public Participation Network (PPN) Annual Plenary — the forum "Your Voice Your Community". Speakers included Ger Deering, who presented on the role of the Ombudsman in examining public service complaints; Collette Fahey from Mayo County Council, who spoke about supports and funding opportunities for community groups; biodiversity officer Sheila Murphy, who presented the Mayo Biodiversity Action Plan; a Sage Advocacy representative, who explained how to access an advocate; and Clann Credo, who outlined community loan finance options. Events like this help LatWest stay connected with the wider Mayo community network and keep informed about regional developments.

LatWest leader Skarleta Mukane received her Bachelor's degree in Intercultural Studies, Integration and Business Exchange at Daugavpils University. The diploma was presented at the university's formal graduation ceremony. Following this achievement, she decided to continue her studies in the Professional Master's programme in Intercultural Relations and Strategic Communication.

As part of Ireland's Culture Night, LatWest performs at Claremorris Town Hall with three songs, including an original composition dedicated to painful events within the local Latvian community. Music becomes an expression of grief and solidarity.

On Latvia's Independence Day, Latvians living in Ireland gathered at the Dalton Inn hotel in Claremorris to celebrate the 107th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia. The service was led by Rev. Imants Miezis of the Christ United Evangelical Lutheran Latvian Church in Ireland. Songs rang out in several languages, and Irish philatelist Denis Fahey drew particular interest with his presentation of a rare collection of postage stamps and historical documents from Latvia's independence period (1918–1940). "When everyone gathers together, there's shared energy in the air that you cannot experience in daily life," reflected LatWest leader Skarleta Mukane.

Despite a longer period of silence in our reporting, LatWest is now in its 9th year of operation — quieter than before, perhaps, but just as committed.

LatWest is a non-profit organisation in County Mayo working across many areas: promoting Latvian culture, supporting integration, advising individuals on employment disputes, housing issues, healthcare navigation, document preparation and translation — all free of charge.

One of our most active members is Noel Lyons — a living example of integration in both directions. Through his wide circle of Irish family, friends, former colleagues and students, an enormous number of Irish people have learned about Latvian culture and traditions.

Over the years we have collaborated with the Latvian Embassy in Ireland, the Ireland-Latvia Chamber of Commerce (ILCC), the Latvian Society in Ireland, the choir eLVē, the dance groups Karbunkulis and Rietumkrasts, the Mayo Latvian children's school Graudins, and musicians from Latvia including Gunars Meijers (RIP), Marko Ojala, Baltie lāči, Ainars Asaks and Varis Vetrs. Our greatest pride: the album "Angels in Your Eyes" featuring Gunars Meijers' songs in English, and the trilingual poetry book "Balsis uz tilta / Voices on The Bridge".

As part of my Bachelor's thesis at Daugavpils University, I conducted extensive research on the Latvian diaspora in Ireland — exploring what diaspora members gain and lose while living in their adopted country. I am now continuing with a Master's in Strategic Communication at DU. Understanding intercultural communication helps us understand ourselves: where we are, what our role is, who we are in this environment.

Ireland is home to 5.4 million people, of whom 1.2 million were born abroad, representing approximately 180–200 nationalities. The largest communities: Poland, Britain, India, Romania, Lithuania, Brazil, Italy, Latvia, Spain, France, Croatia, USA, China, Germany, Ukraine.

On 19 September, at Claremorris Town Hall, LatWest was invited to perform at Culture Night — organised by the Ukrainian Community in Claremorris — as representatives of the local Latvian diaspora. We performed three songs: Noel sang his own composition "Latvian Angel", in memory of recent tragic events in the Claremorris Latvian community; I sang Raimonds Pauls and A. Rancane's song; and together we sang a Pauls song in both Latvian and English. The evening also featured musicians from Ukraine, India, Brazil, Paraguay, Malaysia, Ireland and beyond, as well as the multinational group "Le Cairde" from Ballyhaunis.

This rich cultural bouquet reminds us that each of us is different, arriving with our own cultural heritage — a chance to look at the other and share our own. In Irish society we are "the others", but at events like this we become "one of us". Integration is not merely communication in the local language — it is learning from one another, mutual respect and respect for what has historically existed here.

Skarleta Mukāne

At the invitation of ILCC Director Ilze Cakstina, LatWest took part in three Christmas events in Riga. Skarleta and Noel performed Christmas songs in Latvian, Irish and English.

LatWest leader Skarleta Mukane was invited to become the musical accompanist (concert master) of the Galway Latvian dance group Rietumkrasts, operating under the Galway Latvian Support Group (GLAG). The first rehearsal took place on 23 January. Rehearsals are held at Gort Community Centre and occasionally at Mervue FC in Galway. The group was founded in the second half of 2018 by Guntis Bergholcs, who served as its founding and first leader until his passing. In 2026 the group enters its 9th season with 19 members, led by Elza Lace since 2024. The group performs more than 6 times per year both in Ireland (including Cultural Night Galway) and abroad — in Latvia and the United Kingdom — with plans to expand its activities further. Among its most notable events: the Latvian National Song and Dance Festival 2023 and the festival Dziesma Dejo Deja Skan in 2025 (Eposs Düna).

LatWest took part in the traditional St Patrick's Day Parade in Galway — one of Ireland's most celebrated national events. Latvia's community brought colour, folk costumes and dance to the streets of Galway, marching through the rain and continuing into the evening celebrations. Joining the Latvian delegation were folk dance group Rietumkrasts (Ireland, led by Elza Lace), children's folk dance ensemble Pastaliņas (led by Aija Araja-Cunka), representatives of the Embassy of Latvia, and special guests from Latvia — folk dance group Mārupieši. Latvians carried the Latvian flag and the Rietumkrasts banner, danced before large crowds on Galway's main streets, and brought the celebrations indoors for the evening event.

The spring event organised by the Galway Latvian Support Group took place at the Connacht Hotel. Nearly three hours of programme featured local dance groups Rietumkrasts (dir. Elza Lace) and children's folk dance collective Pastaliņas (dir. Aija Araja-Cunka), Dublin ensembles Karbunkulis and Dzirnaviņas, visiting collective from Latvia Mārupieši, choir LA'IR, children's vocal studio LA'IR Mazie and the Saulitis singing family. Latvia's embassy adviser Lilita Cirule also attended. A highlight of the evening: Latvian dancers performed Irish dance steps they had learned in a masterclass — a beautiful moment of cultural exchange.

European Parliament member Inese Vaidere, attending the EPP group Summer University meeting in Galway, met informally with Galway Latvian Support Group leader Aija Araja-Cunka and LatWest leaders Skarleta Mukane and Noel Lyons. The MEP spoke about her work in the European Parliament and current EU challenges, while the Latvians shared their experiences of life in Ireland, cultural preservation and projects to pass the Latvian language and traditions to the next generation. The meeting ended with a shared song.

Skarleta Lyons is writing her master's thesis on identity and its dynamics in the Irish environment. She is researching how stable identity is and how it changes over a lifetime, through migration and in the digital environment. The survey is intended for immigrants living in Ireland and is completely anonymous. By answering the questions, you may also learn something new about yourself. After the last question, don't forget to confirm your answers by pressing the black SUBMIT button. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes. Skarleta would be very grateful for your participation!

Skarleta Lyons attended the 105th anniversary celebrations of Daugavpils University on behalf of LatWest, as a partner from Ireland. The university is a member of the Irish Latvian Chamber of Commerce (ILCC), and its representatives have visited Ireland several times and taken part in joint LatWest and ILCC projects. At the celebration, ILCC Director Ilze Čakstiņa presented the university with a painting by the artist Annija Austra Grieķere.