Ireland Appoints Joseph P. McGill as First Honorary Consul in Michigan
Foley, Baron, Metzger & Juip (FBMJ) is proud to announce that FBMJ Member Joseph P. McGill was appointed as Ireland’s first Honorary Consul in Michigan. The appointment coincides with the recent visit of Ireland’s Attorney General, Rossa Fanning, to Michigan, which was marked by a series of economic, political and community engagements including the formal opening of the Honorary Consul office at the FBMJ office in Livonia, Michigan.
While continuing his duties as a Member at FBMJ, McGill will assume the responsibilities as Honorary Consul, playing a pivotal role in strengthening Ireland’s ties with the state of Michigan and enhancing cultural, economic, and political connections. In his role as Honorary Consul McGill will collaborate with the Consulate General of Ireland in Chicago to assist Irish citizens, strengthen Ireland’s presence in Michigan, and promote the state as a hub for tourism, investment, study, and career opportunities.
The appointment of an Honorary Consul underscores Ireland’s commitment to Michigan, a state where approximately 10% of residents proudly claim Irish heritage. Michigan and Ireland share significant economic links, with Ireland ranking as the eleventh-largest creator of jobs among investing countries in the state.
Raised in Detroit, McGill is deeply rooted in the Irish American community. As the founding member and past president of Irish Network Detroit (formerly known as the Michigan Irish American Chamber of Commerce), he has been instrumental in networking between Ireland and Michigan. He also served as president of the Incorporated Society of Irish American Lawyers and is currently serving as the 90th president of the State Bar of Michigan.
Expressing his gratitude for the appointment, McGill said:
“I am humbled and honored to take on this role as Ireland’s first Honorary Consul in Michigan. Detroit’s Irish American community is a vibrant force, and I am excited to build upon our shared history. This appointment offers tremendous opportunities to grow economic, cultural, and political relationships between Michigan and Ireland, and I look forward to the journey ahead.”
With McGill’s leadership, Ireland and Michigan are poised to forge deeper relations and celebrate the enduring bonds between the two communities.