Senator Edward Kennedy: "True and Loyal Friend of Ireland"

An Roinn Gnóthaí Eachtracha Preas Ráiteas

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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