Ardmhéara Chorcaí
I am delighted to welcome you all to the 34th Cork French Film Festival, now back in its traditional March dates at The Gate Cinema.
This festival is not only one of Cork’s longest running festivals, but Ireland’s longest running French film festival, something that we are most proud to have here in Cork.
The festival reminds us of the strong links between Cork and France: touristic, cultural and commercial and of course, our strong friendship.
That we host a thriving annual French Film Festival in Cork city, references the profound nature and history of the alliance between Ireland and France, and indeed, between Cork and France directly. Cork is home to many people of French origin who contribute enormously to the life of our city. Now more than ever, such links are to be cherished.
I wish to pay tribute to the board and staff of Alliance Française de Cork who for 34 years have steered the festival and created such a positive addition to the cultural life of our City.
I also wish to acknowledge the important work of the French Honorary Consul in Cork, Josselin Le Gall and Chairperson Valérie David-McGonnell in their respective roles, and also collectively as the Festival Directors.
We all look forward to supporting this year’s festival at the wonderful venue of The Gate Cinema, a steadfast home to the festival.
This year’s Festival secures the position of Cork French Film Festival as the Francophone festival to discover all genres of cinema – a true festival.
Bon festival et bon succès!
