Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin T.D., on the death of Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver on 11 August 2009
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Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin T.D., on the death of Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver on 11 August 2009
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death this morning of Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Sister of Senator Edward Kennedy, Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith and the late President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, Eunice Kennedy Shriver will be especially remembered for her steadfast commitment to improving the lives of those with intellectual disabilities through the foundation of the Special Olympics movement which she established in 1968. Her energy, drive and dedication to advancing the rights of those with disabilities was truly remarkable and will be her enduring legacy.
The Special Olympics movement has inspired millions of people with its focus on hope, dignity, courage and the will to succeed. Many of us in Ireland will recall with great pride the Special Olympics Games which we were honoured to host in 2003. Communities all over Ireland forged links and connections with communities all around the world, which live on to this day. The Special Olympics movement could not have happened without the determination and vision of Eunice Kennedy Shriver who set out to ensure that those with "intellectual disabilities" had the opportunity to participate in life to the best of their abilities.
On behalf of the Irish Government, and on my own behalf, I offer my deepest condolences to Mrs. Shriver’s husband, Robert Sargent, and to their children Robert, Maria, Timothy, Mark and Anthony.
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Press Office
11 August 2009
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