Mayo woman honoured as one of Ireland's 'Eurobabies'

Minister for European Affairs, Peter Burke, TD, has honoured Ireland's first European citizens, known as the 'Eurobabies', at a special event held in Government Buildings. The event, titled ‘Celebrating EU Values’, was hosted by European Movement Ireland.
Edwina McDonnell Dawson, who lives in Swinford, was born on January 1, 1973, coinciding with the day Ireland joined the then European Economic Community.

To commemorate this historic moment, the then Irish Council of the European Movement (now European Movement Ireland) commissioned special medallions for the newborns. These medallions symbolised their unique status as Ireland's first European citizens. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Ireland's EU membership, the Eurobabies were presented with new medallions to mark this significant milestone.
Minister Burke expressed his appreciation for the Eurobabies' symbolic status as the first European citizens of Ireland.
He commented: “This occasion allows us to reflect on the immense progress Ireland has made within the European Union over the past 50 years. The Eurobabies represent a unique generation who have witnessed Ireland's journey as a member of the European Union since its inception. They have grown up with the opportunity to live, work, and study across the EU, benefiting from the freedom of movement and the diverse cultural experiences it brings.”
The Eurobabies were honoured in front of politicians, guests from across Ireland’s business and public sectors as well as young people who took part in the Government’s MyEU50 youth competition.
Noelle O'Connell, CEO, European Movement Ireland said: “This event marks the culmination of our programme of events and outreach work marking Ireland’s 50 years of membership. Today, we reflect on how EU values and rights has changed Ireland and shaped Irish citizens’ lives – all while celebrating our Eurobabies.
“As Ireland's first European citizens, the Eurobabies have been witness to the transformative impact of EU membership on our country. They represent a generation that has experienced the many social, cultural, and economic advantages that stem from being part of the European Union. We were thrilled so many were able to join us today for what was a truly special event.”
One of the founders of the then Irish Council of the European Movement (now European Movement Ireland), Neville Keery, who played a pivotal role in the 1972 referendum campaign, spoke at the event.
He said: “Today, as we celebrate 50 years of Ireland’s membership of the EU, we can reflect on all of the progress that we have made as both a people and as a nation. Joining the ECC did more than open up the markets, it also opened up our minds. We have been transformed from a nation that looked inward to one that has opened up to be a major force on the European stage.”