As the Tanaiste’s brother ties the knot with long-term partner, we ask, Who is Adam Harris?

Simon Harris was best man at his brother’s wedding today (Saturday) as Adam tied the knot with his long-term partner Daniel.

The brothers were decked out in the black tie affair as Adam and Daniel said their vows in a private ceremony in front of family and friends on Fota Island resort in Co Cork.

Ahead of the ceremony, the Tánaiste revealed that he was ‘putting the finishing touches’ on his best man speech and paid tribute to his younger sibling on social media.

He wrote: ‘To Adam, my buddy, the best brother, uncle and friend anyone could ask for, wishing you and Daniel a lifetime of happiness on this, your wedding day. Proud of you always.’

To mark the special occasion, Extra.ie has taken a look into the life of Adam Harris and his new husband Daniel O’Driscoll.

CAREER

Inspired by his personal experience growing up as an autistic person in Ireland, Adam established AsIAm to create a more inclusive and understanding society for autistic individuals.

Beyond his role at AsIAm, Adam was appointed to the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission in July 2020 and has served on the Executive Council of Autism Europe.

He is also a Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Awardee and has contributed his expertise to numerous governmental policy and advisory committees focused on disability rights and inclusion, playing a key role in shaping progressive national policies.

A committed advocate and sought-after public speaker, Adam regularly appears in national and international media and conferences, engaging with policymakers and the public to foster greater awareness, acceptance, and equality.

Under his leadership, AsIAm has become a central force in autism advocacy in Ireland, guided by his vision of a country where every autistic person is accepted ‘as they are’ – equal, valued, and respected.

Meanwhile, Daniel works as an assistant school principal and English and History teacher in Lucan in Dublin.

FAMILY LIFE

Adam’s older brother is, of course, Tánaiste Simon Harris, who took on the role of best man at the recent wedding.

In 2017, when Simon married his wife Caoimhe, Adam also acted as best man to start what is now a nice full circle moment for the pair.

Adam is uncle to Simon’s two children Cillian and Saoirse.

Simon spoke about his brother on World Autism Awareness Day in April 2023, sharing a photo and saying he is ‘incredibly proud’ of Adam and all the ‘work he does for so many families.

He added: ‘On a personal level, I am so grateful to him for being in our lives. When Adam was born and Autism became a reality in our home, everything changed, my childhood changed and while it certainly was challenging at times, it has given me a perspective on life that I simply wouldn’t have had otherwise.

‘I wouldn’t be doing what I do, if it wasn’t for Adam and my family experience. So from one brother to another; thank you Adam. And let’s all keep raising awareness and let’s keep working to make the changes required in so many areas.’

Adam also has an older sister, Gemma, whom he’s very close to as well.

Gemma was a bridesmaid for Simon’s wife Caoimhe in their wedding.

Adam announced his engagement to Daniel in February 2023 with a cute photo on social media.

In it, he shows off a band on his ring finger, and Adam captioned the picture: ‘Tonight, I answered a very easy question from @driscollodaniel.’