Cork, Ireland, July 24, 2026. Invited to the "Spirit of Mother Jones" Festival—an event held annually in Ireland's second-largest city—Cuban Ambassador Bernardo Guanche Hernández dedicated his presentation to Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz on the centenary of his birth.
Welcoming him on behalf of the Organizing Committee, trade union leader Ann Piggott expressed her satisfaction at the presence of the Head of the Cuban Mission and highlighted the bonds of friendship between the Cuban and Irish peoples.
Speaking at the event, which takes place every summer in Cork, the diplomat highlighted the role played by Mary G. Harris Jones—known as Mother Jones—throughout her long life (1837–1930) in promoting social and labor justice worldwide.
He expressed his satisfaction at having been invited to such an important occasion and highlighted the presence of Comrade John Bowen, a prominent member of the solidarity movement with Cuba.
Invited to describe life in Cuba today, the ambassador spoke of the successes achieved by the Cuban Revolution under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief. He highlighted, among other things, Cuba's medical collaboration with the rest of the world, encompassing both the provision of medical care and the training of healthcare personnel. He denounced the negative impact that the economic, commercial, and financial blockade—as well as the oil-related restrictive measures adopted since January—have had on all areas of Cuban society.
He also addressed the dangers Cuba currently faces following threats of military intervention by U.S. authorities. In this regard, he emphasized that Cubans prefer peace and favor a negotiation process with the U.S. based on fundamental principles, such as respect for independence and sovereignty, and non-interference in internal affairs.
At the conclusion of the presentation—held in a packed hall at the “Maldron Hotel” in Cork—several participants reaffirmed their solidarity with Cuba and the Cuban Revolution, a gesture the ambassador appreciated.