Hundreds of Canadian-Irish descendants to gather at anniversary event in Cork 

Between 150 and 500 Canadian-Irish descendants are expected to attend an anniversary event in Cork this year.

This September will mark the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Settlers’ Assisted Emigration Scheme, through which families left communities across the Ballyhoura region — including Mitchelstown, Doneraile, Kildorrery, Churchtown, Liscarroll, Charleville, Croom, Kilfinane, Kilbehenny, and Colmanswell — and emigrated to Canada.

These families all left in search of a better life, departing on 11 ships from the ‘Port of Cove’ in 1823 and in 1825, bound for the Ottawa and Ontario regions of Canada.

A week-long homecoming to remember these families will begin on September 15, culminating in a commemorative event at Griston Bog on September 21.

Across the week, Ballyhoura communities will have the unique opportunity to engage with returning descendants, share local stories, and celebrate the cultural heritage of the region.

Ballyhoura Development CLG is now reaching out to individuals, community groups, businesses, and heritage enthusiasts to help make this event a memorable celebration of culture, history, and connection.

To get involved, people across Cork are asked to share if their family has connections to the Peter Robinson Scheme, or if they are a part of a local heritage group, to impart their knowledge and stories around the scheme.

Community councils, local businesses, including hotels, B&Bs and cafes, and volunteers, can also help to create a warm welcome for the arriving visitors by offering services and time.

Ballyhoura Development is further inviting everyone interested in the event to attend a community information session on January 15 at The Old Creamery, Kildorrery, to learn more about the festivities.

Registration for the community information session is available on the Ballyhoura Development website, www.ballyhouradevelopment.com.