Irish Centenarians Celebrate in Hell's Kitchen

Three Irish Centenarians have celebrated their birthdays after being presented with gifts by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, T.D., on behalf of President McAleese during a special party in New York.

Patrick Motherway originally from Ballysally, Charleville, Co Cork and Michael Duffy from Finny, Ballinrobe, Co Mayo, both received special coins to mark their 101st birthdays.

Anna Ryan from Aughavas, Co Leitrim received a cheque from the President on reaching her 100th birthday.

The presentations were made at the Irish Arts Centre in New York's Hell's Kitchen. All three had emigrated to the States in their teens.

Minister Martin said: "Anna, Patrick and Michael are from a generation who took a brave leap into the unknown. They crossed the Atlantic not knowing what lay ahead. They came with fear and hope. It was their courage that formed the strong bond between our two countries that continues to this day and has benefited both the United States and Ireland."

The Centenarian Bounty is an award made by the President to people living Ireland and to Irish People abroad who have reached 100 years of age. Centenarians receive €2,540.

In addition the President also marks the birthday of age person over the age of 100 years. On his or her 101st birthday and every subsequent year the person receives a special commemorative coin.