Paul Smithwick, a lawyer and member of the Kilkenny brewing family, has been appointed an OBE in the New Year Honours list of Britain's Queen Elizabeth.
British ambassador Robin Barnett said the award was in recognition for services to British-Irish relations.
Judge Peter Smithwick, Paul’s brother, hosted a black-tie dinner at the Smithwick brewery visitor centre in Kilkenny last night, where Mr Barnett was the guest of honour.
The Smithwick brothers are the ninth generation of their family to be associated with the famous brewery founded by John Smithwick in 1710.
At the event the British Ambassador would not confirm or deny if Prince Charles will visit Kilkenny in the coming year, but Paul Smithwick said he was confident such a visit would take place and he is working hard to make it happen.
If the visit is confirmed it could take place over a number of days in May.
Over 100 people in NI feature on honours list
In total more than 100 people in Northern Ireland feature in the New Year Honour list.
Among the recipients is Northern Ireland Football manager Michael O'Neill who receives an MBE.
Nearly 1,200 people are included on the honours list.
Historian Anthony Beevor, actor Mark Rylance, comedian Ken Dodd, and tennis player Andy Murray, have been knighted.
Meanwhile, actress Patricia Routledge was made a dame.
Victoria Beckham has been appointed an OBE for her contribution to fashion.
