
Richard Neal
A native of Springfield, Massachusetts, Congressman Richard Neal is a tireless advocate for peace in Northern Ireland. In 1980, as a delegate for Senator Edward Kennedy at the Democratic National Convention in New York, then Springfield City Councilor Neal was selected to argue for a plank in the Democratic Party platform supporting Irish unification.
Prior to joining the U.S. House of Representatives in 1989, Congressman Neal served as Mayor of the City of Springfield. In this capacity he led the development of several economic, cultural and public works projects throughout the community. He also established a sister-city relationship with Tralee in Co. Kerry, hosting a delegation from Tralee which included Mayor Jim Finucane. In recognition of his leadership, Boston magazine dubbed him a “Face to Watch” in 1986.
As a member of the House of Representatives, Neal promptly joined the Friends of Ireland. In 1993, he began a series of Special Orders on the House floor addressing the conflict in Northern Ireland. He directly lobbied President Clinton to grant Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams a visa to travel to the United States. He greeted Adams upon his arrival in New York and hosted a reception for him in Springfield, Massachusetts, attended by more than 500 people. In 1995, he was appointed to serve as co-chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee on Irish Affairs. In 1996, he penned a letter to Prime Minister John Major which was signed by 53 congressional colleagues condemning the British government and the RUC for allowing Orange Order marches to proceed through nationalist neighborhoods in Belfast and Portadown.
Most recently, Congressman Neal organized a hearing on Capitol Hill to address the issue of Irish nationals in the United States facing deportation.
Congressman Neal has been honored by the governments of Ireland, Israel and Italy. He has also been recognized for his leadership and innovation by many civic, charitable, educational and labor organizations.