A RECENT family reunion in the Horse & Hound, Ballinaboola, had a distinctly international flavour.

Over 160 members of the Cooney-Colfer family gathered for the event. In addition to family members from across Co. Wexford some of those in attendance travelled from places like Birmingham, London and even Australia.

One distinctive aspect to the Cooney-Colfer clan is the fact that despite being very large in number the majority of the family members settled in their native county and even many who emigrated in the 40s and 50s eventually returned home to Wexford.

While the social function was held in Ballinaboola the first port of call was St. Leonard’s Church where family members gathered for Mass during which deceased loved ones were prayed for and remembered.

Following the mass the clan moved to the Horse & Hound where they enjoyed music courtesy of Eugene French who was ably assisted by various family crooners throughout the night.

There was plenty of craic throughout and in addition to old acquaintances being renewed many introductions were also made with new friendships being formed.

As one family member commented: “There was plenty of chat and introductions between relatives who had never met and, in some cases, who were not even aware of the existence of others.”

Research into the family has been ongoing for the last few years. The research was initiated following the discovery of a hereditary heart defect which was diagnosed in several branches of the family.

“To date, 47 people have been diagnosed as having the condition (Long QT) and 17 have been fitted with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs),” said one family member who was in attendance.

“These ICDs work in a similar way to external defibrillators found in many sports and public facilities – with the obvious difference being that they are ‘automatic’,” she added.

The first family member diagnosed with the condition was Billy Colfer who emigrated to Australia many years ago. When Mr. Colfer emigrated it was on a £10stg air fare!

Having happily settled in the Land Down Under Mr. Colfer returned home for the reunion. It was only the third time that he has been home to Ireland since emigrating.

He was the astonished recipient of a bespoke Waterford Crystal piece on the night which was presented on behalf of all the family members by 91 year-old Bridie Forristal and five-year old Louise Walsh who were the oldest and youngest ladies in attendance.

The organisers of the event were delighted with the turnout and they expressed sincere gratitude to everyone who helped make it such a success. Special words of praise were extended to all the family members who travelled long distances to be in attendance. It was truly a night to remember for all those present.

In particular the family wished to thank the ‘chief organiser’, Ann Lacey, for all her hard work. Thanks were also conveyed to her team of ‘elves’ for co-ordinating with various branches of the family tree ensuring the burden of work involved was minimised.