February 16, 2011
By Staff Reporter
By Andrew Bushe
DUBLIN – The rarely conferred title of honorary Irishwoman is to be given to outgoing U.S. Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith in recognition of her contribution to the peace process, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern announced at the ambassador’s final Fourth of July party at the Phoenix Park residence.
Ahern said he would be advising President Mary McAleese to exercise the power she has to confer the honor, which has only gone to nine other people.
About 2,500 attended the party – with a red, white and blue dress code – which was the envoy’s last official engagement.
The taoiseach said Kennedy Smith had given immense service to the country since she arrived in 1993.
“You have helped to bring about a better life for everyone of all traditions throughout the island,” he said.
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