Southwest Allegheny News

Senator Devlin Robinson has introduced Senate Resolution 41, designating March 2025 as Irish American Heritage Month in Pennsylvania. The resolution was supported by fellow co-chairs of the American Irish State Legislators Caucus, Senators Timothy Kearney and Marty Flynn.

The resolution aims to honor the rich history of Irish heritage in Pennsylvania and celebrate the contributions made by the Irish community to the state. "I am honored to introduce this resolution along with my caucus co-chairs who also share Irish heritage," said Robinson. "It is important that we recognize how our Irish ancestors helped to shape our commonwealth today, from the arts, workforce, culture, government, Armed Forces and much more."

Many Irish immigrants settled in Allegheny County following the Great Famine of the 1840s, which led to a significant increase in population over a decade. Currently, approximately two million Pennsylvanians claim Irish descent.

March was first designated as Irish American Heritage Month by Congress in 1991. An annual presidential proclamation recognizes the achievements and contributions of Irish Americans across the United States.

Robinson has also been instrumental in establishing an Ireland Trade Commission between Ireland and Pennsylvania through legislation signed into law as Act 116 of 2024. This commission seeks to enhance relations between Pennsylvania and Ireland by promoting trade, investment, and collaboration in business and academic sectors.