During a luncheon which included several students who had participated in SHU's semester and short-term study abroad programs in Ireland and a subsequent lecture, Ambassador O'Connor shared his perspectives on Ireland-U.S. relations, the robust economic growth in Ireland and the political climate in Ireland.  As a participant in the crafting of the Good Friday Agreement, O'Connor shared first-hand knowledge of the peace process.

"There has to be sufficient will to create a path toward peace. Enough people have to believe that a peaceful way forward makes better sense than the status quo. Whatever you come up with has to have the support and endorsement of the people, not just the politicians who are negotiating it," O'Connor said.

        Ambassador O'Connor with SHU Students