The Canadian Association for Irish Studies

The Canadian Association for Irish Studies (CAIS; French: L'association canadienne d'études irlandaises) is a nonprofit scholarly organization established in 1973 by Robert O'Driscoll. Its primary mission is to promote the study and appreciation of Irish culture within Canada, with a special emphasis on engaging young scholars in the field of Irish studies.

Objectives and Activities

CAIS fosters academic and cultural dialogue about Irish heritage, literature, history, and arts through various means, including:

• Organizing annual conferences held at Canadian universities, which bring together scholars, students, poets, musicians, actors, novelists, and members of the wider public to explore contemporary issues and celebrate Irish culture.
• Publishing the Canadian Journal of Irish Studies, a semi-annual peer-reviewed journal that serves as the official scholarly publication of the Association.
• Distributing a regular newsletter to keep members informed about research, events, and developments in Irish studies.

Membership and Reach

While based in Canada, CAIS has an international membership that spans all Canadian provinces and territories as well as Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australasia. This wide geographical reach reflects the Association’s role in connecting those interested in Irish culture globally.

Annual Conferences

The Association's annual conferences often revolve around themes that explore various facets of Irish studies. For example, the 2025 conference titled "Boundaries, Borders, and Frontiers in Irish Studies" examined political, historical, cultural, ecological, and artistic boundaries, reflecting the complex relationship between Canada and Ireland and the diasporic movements that shape this connection.

History and Significance

Founded in the early 1970s, CAIS has played an important role in nurturing Irish studies as a vibrant academic discipline in Canada. Through its activities, it promotes the exchange of ideas and fosters a scholarly community interested in Irish identity, diaspora, and cultural expression.

The Association's archives are maintained at the Clara Thomas Archives and Special Collections at York University Libraries in Toronto, ensuring preservation and research access to its institutional history.

Business Registration

The Canadian Association for Irish Studies is registered as a nonprofit with the Business Registration Number 890507643RR0001.[1][2][3][4]

This summary encapsulates the Canadian Association for Irish Studies' foundation, mission, activities, and outreach, emphasizing its role in promoting Irish culture and scholarship in Canada and beyond.