The Waterford Council Boston visit cost has topped €18,000, with Waterford City and County Council confirming total spending of €18,114.82 on the recent US trip.
The delegation travelled to Boston from March 11th to 16th to take part in St Patrick’s Day events and promote economic and cultural links.
The council has now outlined how the money was spent across travel, accommodation, meals, transport and official gifts.
Flights and accommodation make up bulk of cost
Flights and accommodation accounted for the largest share of the Waterford Boston visit cost, coming to €14,792.96.
Meals during the trip cost €1,107.31, while transport and transfers totalled €481.38.
A further €1,733.17 was spent on gifts for hosts.
Locally sourced gifts presented during visit
The council said the gifts were sourced locally to promote Waterford products.
Items included Waterford Crystal, Blackwater Gin, Ardmore Pottery, jewellery, artwork and artisan food products.
These were presented to hosts during official engagements throughout the visit.
Delegation attended major events in Boston
The delegation was led by Seamus Ryan and included councillors and senior officials.
A key highlight of the trip was participation in the South Boston St Patrick’s Day Parade, which attracted around one million spectators.
The group also attended the Evacuation Day Banquet, where the Mayor was a guest of honour alongside Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.
Business meetings and investment focus
Council representatives used the visit to promote Waterford as a location for investment and business growth.
They met with IDA Ireland officials and senior executives from companies including State Street and CarGurus.
Discussions also focused on major projects such as the North Quays development, new office space and progress at Waterford Airport.
Cultural and academic links strengthened
The visit also included engagements with Boston College and the Irish Institute.
Delegates explored shared history and discussed opportunities for future collaboration.
The Mayor also opened a “Waterford Room” in a Boston restaurant, featuring a mural of Reginald’s Tower.
Council points to long-term benefits
Waterford City and County Council said the visit will support long-term investment, tourism and international partnerships.
Mayor Ryan said the programme showed strong opportunities for continued collaboration between Waterford and Boston.
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