State Papers 1977 - Security concerns amid royals’ visit
The Monaco royals were attending the event on July 4, 1965, on the grounds of Powerscourt. The papers concerning this event were issued with those for 1977.
However, then Garda Commissioner William Quinn was contacted by Monaco’s consular general in Ireland, Lord Michael Killanin, prior to their arrival.
He wrote to the Department of External Affairs (Foreign Affairs) about the celebrity couple attending Le Bal des Petits Lits Blancs at Powerscourt.
“I have told Commissioner Quinn as I imagine this ‘Bal’ could attract some good crooks!”
Lists of diplomatic officials in Ireland were also sought by Lord Killanin.
Princess Grace Kelly, the famed actress, and Prince Rainier, were staying for four days during their private visit, which included lunch with the President and dinner at the US embassy. Both were flying in and out of the country on separate flights.
Questions not only arose between civil servants about patrol officers meeting the princess and prince’s arrival, but also about flowers and carpets for a brief reception for 230 people at the Department of External Affairs in Iveagh House, prior to the Co Wicklow ball.
Bord Fáilte wanted to support and attend the ball, as a similar one held in Beirut the previous year had seen a 40% increase in tourism to Lebanon. The ballroom at Powerscourt could take 600 people and while guests from France paid £110 for tickets, Irish guests only paid £10 per person.
It was arranged that Charles Haughey, then Minister for Agriculture, would meet Princess Grace on her arrival on the concord at Dublin Airport. In typical Haughey style, his secretary Donal Creedon sought to have every comfort prepared at the airport.
“Mr Creedon asked me to check that the VIP lounge at Dublin Airport be opened and all facilities made available,” one department memo recorded.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
