Former President Mary Robinson got a real glimpse of the musical, cultural and educational talent that is part of everyday life at St Brendan’s College in Killarney when she was the VIP guest for the annual Liam O’Connor Show in the school chapel.
Pictures: Konrad Paprocki
She received a rousing ovation on her arrival, accompanied by long-time friends Michael and Geraldine Rosney, and Mrs Robinson was later grilled on a number of national and international matters in an on-stage interview conducted by Sem students Harry Bolger and Ted O’Gorman.
Earlier the packed and atmospheric chapel was filled with the wonderful music of multi-instrumentalist Liam O’Connor and his family comprising daughter Sorcha and sons Óisin and Cillian as well as the top class St Brendan’s College music group, solo musicians and dancers.
A presentation was made to Mrs Robinson to the occasion by principal Seán Coffey.
Mary Robinson broke the mould in Irish politics when she became the first woman to be elected President of Ireland in 1990 and she held that position for seven years.
She has always had strong links with Kerry through her special advisor and great friend the late Bride Rosney who was born in Caherciveen.
Mrs Robinson went on to become the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and is a former chair of The Elders, an independent network of global leaders working for peace, human rights and a sustainable planted, which was formed in 2007 by Nelson Mandela.
She is a passionate advocate for gender equality, women’s participation in peace-building processes, human dignity and climate justice.
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