A Celebrity Affair! Keith Duffy and Daithi O' Sé in Galway
Celebrities were out in force for the annual Insurance Institute of Galway dinner, which took place on Friday, February 20th in the beautiful setting of the family run Ardilaun Hotel. MC for the evening was presenter and broadcaster, Daithi O’Se, who shared the stage with former Boyzone star turned actor, Keith Duffy. This year marked the 45th year of the local institute’s existence in Galway, and current president Hazel Morrisson, presented a special award to the very first president, Gerry Nevin.
Daithi O’Se really was the host with the most, where he happily posed for photographs with guests. The Kerry man would be well accustomed to striking a pose as he is the well established presenter at the Rose of Tralee festival.
Keith Duffy was also very charming and enjoyed posing for selfies with the eager guests. After dinner, a lively interview ensued with Daithi and Keith, where Mr Duffy regaled plenty of stories from his Boyzone days, most notably being starstruck having to share a microphone with the late great Joe Cocker during one of their high profile charity functions!
Keith spoke fondly about fatherhood and about the many challenges he has faced. The father-of-two first started fundraising and working with Irish Autism Action (IAA) after his daughter Mia was diagnosed with the condition when she was just 18 months old.
Local Galway school, Abalta, which was established to educate those with autism and complex needs, was the beneficiary for the evening - and it is a cause close to the heart for attendees Eamon Hannon, John and Michelle McGuire, who all have children attending Abalta school. Keith’s public support for this early intervention school helped secure Department of Education recognition in 2010.
Overall a very enjoyable evening was had by all. The Local Institute Dinners are time honoured traditions and provide a wonderful occasion for industry professionals to engage and network with their friends and peers.
