Robert Kearns of the Canada Ireland Foundation was presented with the Inaugural Valentia Global Impact Award at a Gala Dinner at the Royal Hotel on Valentia last night.
The award was established to mark the 10th year of The Valentia Lecture.
Former Canadian Ambassador to Ireland Nancy Smyth said that the criteria for the award was someone who had demonstrated vision, resilience, a pioneering spirit, and who had made an impact on a global level whil maintaining strong links with Ireland.
She said that as Founder and Chair of Emeritus of the Canada Ireland Foundation, Robert Kearns had exemplified these qualities.
The conference marks the connections which began between Valentia and Canada 160 years ago with the first ever message by transatlantic cable.
Over 5 million Canadians are of Irish descent.
The Former Ambassador described Mr. Kearns as a 'one man Valentia Island', being a constant conduit between both countries.
She said that the award presented an opportunity to say thanks for the role Mr. Kearns has played in progressing those relationships and for the decades of support he gave in supporting reconciliation in Northern Ireland.
Among those that had sent messages of congratulations to MR.Kearns were former Canadian peace negotiator General John De Chastelain and his wife.
Mr. Kearns told those present that he was honoured beyond words to receive the award and also to receive the invitation to be in Valentia.
