President’s visit to Kilworth – 1995

It was 25 years ago this week that Presdient Mary Robinson visited Kilworth to officially open The Village Arts Centre.

Excitement was high ahead of the president’s visit as schoolchildren lined up to ensure President Robinson got a real Kilworth welcome.

The President arrived to the music of the No 1 Army Band and was welcomed by Liam Howard, Chairman of the Centre before taking to the podium, from where she addressed the people of Kilworth.

President Robinson admires the commemorative plaque in Kilworth Churchyard prior to officially opening The Village Arts Centre. Included in the picture are her husband Nick, Liam Howard of The Arts Centre and David Gleeson, Chairman Kilworth Community Council.

Being the first visit by a president to Kilworth, this was a very special occasion for the village. Inside the building, the President said she was really impressed with the new arts centre and wished those behind the venture, every success for the future.

On emerging, President Robinson met and shook hands with scores of locals both young and old and, prior to departing, she planted a tree in the village square to mark the occasion of her visit.