Statement by the Taoiseach on the death of Eunice Kennedy Shriver
"It is with great sadness that I learned today of the death of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. She was 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.
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.
Eunice of course founded the Special Olympics and the hosting of the event in Ireland in 2003 is a cherished memory of people here and all across the world. Through the Olympics and her many other endeavours she changed the lives of so many 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. Her inspiration and drive will live on - in athletes, in volunteers, in parents and in all who knew her.
I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to her husband, Robert and their children Robert, Maria, Timothy, Mark and Anthony.
Ar Dheis De go raibh a hanam dilis."