History
The inspiration for a Council of Irish Associations Organizations in Bergen County started some 30 years ago with the idea that the various Irish Organizations should join together to co-ordinate their activities, cultural events and plan for the annual celebration of St. Patrick, the patron Saint of Ireland.
The organization’s first meeting took place in 1980 in a small room at the Paramus Park Mall. The meeting was led by George P. Gunning. George and members of the various Irish Organizations of Bergen County , The Bergen Irish Associations and Ladies Auxiliaries, Irish American Social Club, Clan na Vale, New Jersey Gaelic League, North Jersey Irish American Association, Police and Emerald Society, St. Joseph’s Gaelic Football Club, Shamrock Guard of Honor and Traditional Irish Musicians met to discuss the possibilities of creating a Council. The Bergen County Council of Irish Associations was formed and George P Gunning served as the first President. The Council’ first St. Patrick’s Day Parade was held on March 14th, 1982. The 2011 parade will mark our 30th anniversary.
On November 25, 1995 The Great Hunger Memorial 1845- 1849 was erected outside the Bergen County Court House in Hackensack, NJ. The plague was donated by the council. Each year the Council holds a Great Hunger Commemoration at the Memorial.
In 2008 the Council incorporated as The Council of Irish Associations of Greater Bergen County, Inc. We also received our Certificate of Assumed name (DBA ) ;The Bergen County Council of Irish Associations.
In March of 2010 our application for tax exempt status was approved. The council now operates as 501 (C) 3 charitable organization.
