THE 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards took place on Friday evening at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana, honouring four exceptional members of the Global Irish community whose achievements reflect the enduring spirit and values of the Irish diaspora.

The day began with a special in-person panel discussion hosted by Ulster University, featuring Professor Paul Moore, Head of the School of Arts and Humanities. The session explored themes of identity, legacy, and the evolving role of the Irish diaspora in global affairs, setting a thoughtful and engaging tone for the evening’s celebrations.

Some of the large crowd at the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards which took place on Friday evening at the Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Buncrana.

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Since their inception in 2012, the Tip O’Neill Awards have honoured the legacy of Thomas P. ‘Tip’ O’Neill, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and proud descendant of Inishowen. The event continues to bring together dignitaries, community leaders, and guests from across the globe for an evening of recognition, reflection, and celebration.

Vincent Keaveny, one of the award recipients at the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards which took place on Friday evening.

This year’s four distinguished awardees included:

Buncrana-born founding member of the legendary American rock band Three Dog Night, Danny Hutton, recognised for his lifelong contribution to music and his pride in Irish heritage.

The first Irish-born Lord Mayor of the City of London in over 800 years Vincent Keaveny, honoured for his leadership in civic life and his advocacy for diversity and sustainability.

Restaurateurs, community leaders, and cornerstones of the Irish community in Sydney, Australia, Eileen and Seán Donaghey were celebrated for their cultural contributions and philanthropic work supporting Irish and Australian charities.

Danny Hutton, award recipient at the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards.

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Minister Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Pat McCarron and Tara Collins.

The evening featured formal addresses from Minister Charlie McConalogue, Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, and Minister Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. 

Darcy Greene, Jim Greene, Sarah Greene, Sean Greene, Mick Hawoth and Bjorn Bailey at the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards.

Also speaking on the night were Cathaoirleach Cllr. Paul Canning, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council John G. McLaughlin, and Chair of the Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards Committee Nicholas Crossan. A closing word of thanks was given by Tom O’Neill, son of Tip O’Neill and proud supporter of these awards. 

Guests enjoying the Three Dog Night performance 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards.

Guests were treated to video messages from the Australian Ambassador to Ireland, Ms. Chantelle Taylor, and legendary Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell, adding a personal and international dimension to the evening.

Guests at the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards.

The evening celebrations concluded with a special performance by Three Dog Night, marking a unique moment of cultural celebration and homecoming.

The Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards continue to serve as a bridge between Donegal and its global family, celebrating those who never forget where they come from — and who continue to give back. 

Ciaran Roarty, Leonard Roarty and Peter McLaughlin at the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards.

Heather Zindt, Penny Zindt, Sarah Zindt, Sarah Haworth and Taura Deacon.

Tom O’Neill speaking at Friday night’s event.

Shirley Barrett, Toni Forrester, David Leonard and Joan Crawford.

Eileen and Charlie McGonigle.

Guests at Friday night’s awards celebrations.

Eileen and Sean Donaghey with their family at the 2025 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Awards.