Sir, - The Society of St Brendan congratulates President Vincente Fox on his election to the Presidency of Mexico and looks forward to meeting him on September 12th, 2000 when the society joins the Mexican Government and people in their annual moving, impressive and colourful salute to the San Patricios - "the Irish soldiers of the heroic Battalion of St Patrick" who fought for Mexico in the war of 18461848 against the US. The battalion was led by Major John Riley from Galway.
This, apparently, will be the first participation by an Irish group in these celebrations. The group will visit Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca and other places in what promises to be an exciting and historic 14-day tour. Details can be had from the Society of St Brendan at the address below (tel: 2885858). Yours, etc.,
Con Howard, 42 Lower Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan, Co Dublin.