Statement by the Tánaiste on the passing of Ethel Kennedy

It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Ethel Kennedy.

She lived a remarkable life, dedicating herself to her family, and to social justice. Ethel Kennedy carried on her husband’s work, founding the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights in the months after his assassination. Her role in the development of the organisation is a testament to her dedication to improving the lives of others.

She was a tireless advocate for the rights of migrant workers, the rights of Native Americans, and a variety of environmental causes, as well as a political force in her own right, playing important roles in the various congressional, senate, and presidential campaigns undertaken by her husband and her brother in law.

Over the course of her life, Ethel Kennedy exemplified the extraordinary commitment to public service we associate with the Kennedy family. Her inspiration and shining example is evident in contributions to political and public life of many of her children and grandchildren.

It is worth recalling the words of President Obama when awarding her the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014

“Ethel Kennedy has dedicated her life to advancing the cause of social justice, human rights, environmental protection, and poverty reduction by creating countless ripples of hope to effect change around the world.”

May I extend my sympathies to her extended family and to her many friends here in Ireland.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.

ENDS

Press Office

10 October 2024