President Michael D Higgins addressed a reception for the Irish Tourist Assistance Service (ITAS), the organisation that had come to Mr Nasi’s aid, but the focus of the day was squarely on his enduring relationship with the country. Flanked by his mother Simonetta in the State Reception Room, Mr Nasi’s life was inexplicably altered in a few short moments in Dublin’s Fairview Park on a July night in 1999. Mr Nasi told the court his experience was “a nightmare from which I try to wake myself”. He drew heavily on the theme of hospitality – as exemplified in the work of the ITAS now celebrating its 25th anniversary – and its small part in Mr Nasi’s story. ‘Really proud’Outside the Áras, Mr Nasi said a few words through his translator, saying he was “really proud to be here”.

Source: The Irish Times April 01, 2019 15:00 UTC