Since joining the Diplomatic Service in 1973, Ms Rico has held many positions in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stationed both in Spain and abroad. She was appointed Ambassador to Ireland in July 2008.
During her visit to the University, Ambassador Rico delivered a guest lecture to European Studies students who are preparing to simulate a European Council of Ministers Meeting over two days. The subject of her address was: “The European Union Presidency and the Lisbon Treaty: the Spanish Presidency Experience”. Spain held the Presidency of the European Union between January and June of 2010. The Ambassador paid a courtesy visit to UCC Deputy President on the day, Professor Patrick Fitzpatrick. She also visited both the Department of Hispanic Studies and the School of History.
This event was organised by Dr Mervyn O'Driscoll and Katherine McGarry of the School of History, in conjunction with the joint European Studies programme operated by the Schools of Geography and History for the past two decades.
Picture: Professor Patrick Fitzpatrick, Deputy President, UCC, Spanish Ambassador, HE Ms Mercedes Rico and Professor Nuala Finnegan, Head of Hispanic Studies UCC.
