Senator Edward Kennedy: "True and Loyal Friend of Ireland"
An Roinn Gnóthaí Eachtracha Preas Ráiteas
Department of Foreign Affairs Press Release
Preas Oifig, Teach Uibh Eachach, Faiche Stiabhna, Baile Átha Cliath 2
Press Office, Iveagh House, St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2.
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Idirlíon/Internet: www.dfa.ie Ríomh Phost/E-mail: press.office@dfa.ie
Senator Edward Kennedy - "A True and Loyal Friend of Ireland"
Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin, TD
I am deeply saddened by the news of the death of Senator Edward
Kennedy. I offer our profound sympathy to Ted's beloved wife Vicki,
to his children, Kara, Ted and Patrick and to his step-children
Curran and Caroline.
I extend also our heartfelt condolences to all of the Kennedy
family at this sad time.
I want also to convey our sympathy to Ted's colleagues and many
friends in the US Senate.
Ted Kennedy was a gifted and committed public servant and the
outstanding legislator of his generation. He was, to the very end,
a true profile in courage. For over forty years, Ted championed
many causes. His extraordinary and progressive contributions in
areas such as healthcare and education are legendary and
enduring.
Ted Kennedy knew and loved Ireland - its people, its music
and its culture. As the embodiment of the Irish immigrant
story, his special dedication to the peace process was unrivalled
and deeply held. We owe him a debt of gratitude for his true
and loyal friendship and steadfast support, particularly during the
process which resulted in the Good Friday Agreement.
Today, our minds are flooded with memories, of Ted himself, of the
extraordinary days of President Kennedy's visit to Ireland in 1963,
and of the immense pride all of us here in Ireland take in our
kinship with the Kennedy family.
When Ted spoke at the opening of the John F Kennedy Presidential
Library 30 years ago, he said that the Library would be a
lighthouse bearing witness to the truth that America at its best
can light the world. Ted himself lit our world, and it is a light
that will remain undimmed as we remember and honour his
memory.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Vicki and the Kennedy family
today.
ENDS+++
Press Office
26 August 2009
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