A Kerry woman has been awarded an honorary doctorate at the South East Technological University.
Elizabeth Riordan-Coppin was born in the St Columbanus Home in Killarney, and spent her early years in Ireland’s industrial school and Magdalene Laundry system.
She was conferred with an honorary doctorate for her extraordinary contribution to Irish society, and her courage, resilience, and lifelong advocacy for human rights and social justice.
Ms Riordan-Coppin’s campaign for justice led to a landmark case at the UN Committee Against Torture in 2020, urging Ireland to confront its legacy of institutional mistreatment.
Speaking at the ceremony, Elizabeth said little did she ever imagine she would return to Waterford, close to a Magdalene Laundry where she was once confined, to receive such a magnificent and prestigious award.
