McAleese hails Special Olympics founder as ‘visionary’
President McAleese described her as a visionary.
“Eunice Kennedy Shriver was a visionary who founded the Special Olympics and devoted her life to creating a better and more inclusive world for people with disability,” she said.
“In founding and developing the Special Olympics, which thrived in virtually every country on the planet, she created an organisation and a community inwhich people with disability could demonstrate their talents and where all of uscould participate and learn.”
Kennedy Shriver founded the games in 1968. In 2003, Ireland hosted the Special Olympics – the first time it had been held outside the US. It is now supported in 190 countries.
Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin said the games will be her legacy.
“Her energy, drive and dedication to advancing the rights of those with disabilities was truly remarkable and will be her enduring legacy,” he said.
“The Special Olympics movement has inspired millions of people with its focus on hope, dignity, courage and the will to succeed.”
Minister for Sport Martin Cullen praised Kennedy Shriver for dedicating her life to the cause.
“She had the genius to see that she, in fact, could make a difference and that is exactly what she did for children with special needs,” Cullen said.
Taoiseach Brian Cowen added his tribute describing Kennedy Shriver as a woman of great courage and an inspiration to all.
“She worked tirelessly in her crusade to enhance the lives of those with intellectual disabilities,” the Taoiseach said.
“As a member of the Kennedy clan, Eunice always had a special place in her heart for Ireland and a love of our country and its people.”
Cowen said the Special Olympics and Kennedy Shriver’s endeavours have changed the lives of disadvantaged people for the better.
“Eunice’s legacy is that the eyes she opened, the causes she highlighted and the changes she brought about will continue in her name,” the Taoiseach said.
“Her inspiration and drive will live on – in athletes, in volunteers, in parents and in all who knew her.”
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