A formal state ceremony takes place in South Kerry today to mark the 250th anniversary of the birth of Daniel O’Connell.
The 19th-century Kerry politician, known as The Liberator, led the campaign for Catholic emancipation and is remembered as one of Ireland’s most influential political figures.
The event is being held at O’Connell’s principal residence at Derrynane House near Cahersiveen.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin will officiate the ceremony and deliver the keynote address.
He’ll be joined by the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, and the Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, Kevin Moran.
The Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Michael Foley, will also speak.
The ceremony includes a flag-raising, a series of formal addresses, musical and cultural performances, the unveiling of a plaque, and the planting of a tree by the Taoiseach and descendants of Daniel O’Connell.
The national anthem will close the event, sung by Dr Gavan Ring.
The musical programme includes performances by the Binneas quintet, Emily Lenehan, Tim Dennehy, and Declan McCarthy.
