Date: 17 Oct 2025
Global Irish Excellence Celebrated at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel for the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards
The 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards took place on Friday evening at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana, honouring four exceptional members of the Global Irish community whose achievements reflect the enduring spirit and values of the Irish diaspora.
The day began with a special in-person panel discussion hosted by Ulster University, featuring Professor Paul Moore, Head of the School of Arts and Humanities. The session explored themes of identity, legacy, and the evolving role of the Irish diaspora in global affairs, setting a thoughtful and engaging tone for the evening’s celebrations.
Since their inception in 2012, the Tip O’Neill Awards have honoured the legacy of Thomas P. “Tip” O’Neill, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and proud descendant of Inishowen. The event continues to bring together dignitaries, community leaders, and guests from across the globe for an evening of recognition, reflection, and celebration.
This year’s four distinguished awardees included:
Buncrana-born founding member of the legendary American rock band Three Dog Night, Danny Hutton, recognised for his lifelong contribution to music and his pride in Irish heritage.
The first Irish-born Lord Mayor of the City of London in over 800 years Vincent Keaveny, honoured for his leadership in civic life and his advocacy for diversity and sustainability.
Restaurateurs, community leaders, and cornerstones of the Irish community in Sydney, Australia, Eileen and Seán Donaghey celebrated for their cultural contributions and philanthropic work supporting Irish and Australian charities.
The evening featured formal addresses from Minister Charlie McConalogue, Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, and Minister Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Also speaking on the night were Cathaoirleach Cllr. Paul Canning, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council John G. McLaughlin, and Chair of the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards Committee Mr. Nicholas Crossan. A closing word of thanks was given by Tom O’Neill, son of Tip O’Neill and proud supporter of these awards.
Guests were treated to video messages from the Australian Ambassador to Ireland, Ms. Chantelle Taylor, and legendary Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell, adding a personal and international dimension to the evening.
The evening celebrations concluded with a special performance by Three Dog Night, marking a unique moment of cultural celebration and homecoming.
The Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards continue to serve as a bridge between Donegal and its global family, celebrating those who never forget where they come from — and who continue to give back.
For more information, visit www.donegal.ie/tiponeillawards or contact the Donegal County Council Economic Development Unit.
