Encountering a Déise diplomat

THE GAA’s influence spreads far and wide. When the Irish party arrived in Melbourne, we were invited to a reception hosted by the Irish Ambassador in the Celtic Club.

On meeting the ambassador we first noted his name — Máirtin Ó Fainnin. Translated to English that is — Martin Fanning. And as we Irish always ask on meeting a fellow countryman. “What part of the country do you come from?”

When he replied that he was from Waterford, we wondered did he know or was he related to our former GAA president, the eloquent Padraig Ó Fainnin. Yes, indeed, he was related. In fact he was his son.

The Irish Ambassador was none other than the son of the gentleman of the Decies, Uachtarán C.L.G. almost 40 years ago.

The Ambassador was also a keen supporter of the game and when Ireland won he had a smile as big as if Waterford had won the All-Ireland. Next year is the golden jubilee of Waterford’s last All-Ireland success in 1959. The great Pat Fanning was involved at that time. Could Davy Fitz work the oracle in 2009? It’s a tall order at this stage but if they do, don’t be surprised if they head down under for their holidays.