IRELAND loves its heroes, even when they look like American Indians and speak fluent Cantonese.
''I had a big party when I got home and was invited to tea by the Prime Minister, Albert Reynolds, and his wife,'' John Rocha says with a smile that lights up that wonderfully homely face.
''In June I'm getting an honorary doctorate from Queen's University in Belfast. I've never had a degree in my life.'' With its bestowal, this unassuming man will bridge the chasm that has defeated even the most determined of politicians.
Yes, Northern Ireland is just as thrilled about John Rocha as his fellow citizens in Dublin, and why not? After all, Britain's reigning Designer of the Year holds a British passport, has a Portuguese father and a Chinese mother, and was born and raised in Hong Kong.
This week he was back for the first time since his win at London Fashion Week last October - great rejoicing at Joyce which carries his women's wear and the Swank Shop which has his collections for men - and as usual, headed straight for his childhood home in North Point to see his parents Henry and Cecilia.
With five of his six siblings still living in Hong Kong - ''one sister has gone to New Zealand'' - the Rochas have remained a close-knit family and fame certainly hasn't turned the head of its most famous member.