Erin Brockovich in Dublin

Erin Brockovich's visit to Dublin in September 2008 was one of the highlights of National Organic Week. Erin spent the week in Dublin, meeting with lots of different people, doing interivews with the media and even spent an afternoon with Minister for the Environment, John Gormley discussing environmental issues and policies. Organised by Glenisk, Erin's trip was designed to make a real feature of organic week;  Erin is a committed consumer of organics, always choosing organic food over conventional where she can.

Pictured above, Erin Brockovich with fellow panelists Michael O'Callaghan, GM Free Ireland Network, Minister Trevor Sargent, T.D. and Vincent Cleary, MD, Glenisk.

"We're all connected."

Glenisk's aim in organising the visit was not only to encourage people to think about organic food but also the way in which we are all connected, a point which Erin eloquently conveyed. Even the smallest choices we make every day for ourselves and for our families can have a profound and far reaching effect - on our own health, our communities, our economy and our environment. Erin's visit culminated with a special address to 500 guests at UCD in Dublin on 20 September where she was introduced by Minister for Food, Trevor Sargent, T.D. As well as talking about her experience in Hinkley, California and becoming the subject of an oscar-winning film, Erin inspired the audience with her unique perspective on the way in which an individual can effect lasting change in society.

The Power of One...

It's clear from her message that this 'power of one' is not limited to bold gestures like suing a utility company - we can all exercise this power in the everyday choices we make; our influence is always greater than we may at first believe. As a result, a great many people wrote to us after hearing Erin speak to tell us that they felt inspired to stand up for what they believe and make their voices heard.

Thanks to everyone who booked tickets to attend this event which raised over €5,000 for GM Free Ireland Network. Thanks also to those of you who took the time to email us with your views on the event.

Photographs reproduced here by kind permission of Ciaran Finn ©.