Work is expected to start soon on restoring the grave of Mary O'Connell, wife of 'The Liberator' Daniel O'Connell.
Mary, who died in 1836, is buried in an O'Connell family plot on Abbey Island, Derrynane.
Many visitors to the grave in recent years, suggested it be cleaned up and restored ahead of the celebrations to mark the 250th anniversary of Daniel O'Connell's birth this August.
This grave was originally commissioned by Maurice “Hunting Cap” O’Connell for the final resting place of his parents - The Liberator’s grand-parents - Donal Mór O’Connell and Maire Ní Duibh O’Donoghue.
Subsequently, Hunting Cap himself was placed in the grave.
Mary, the Liberator’s wife, died in 1836, 11 years before her husband, and she was also interred there.
In later years, Captain Maurice and Emily O’Connell were interred in the tomb and a plaque acknowledging their presence and that of Mary was added.
Dr Geoffrey O’Connell was the last of the family to be placed there as recently as last year, and the family now plan to place an additional plaque commemorating his passing and that of a number of others.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Dan O'Connell told Radio Kerry News that the grave itself needs significant restoration and this process has already started.
Both the OPW and Glasnevin Trust have been consulted on this and have recommended expert stonemasons to carry out the work.
Mr O'Connell says the grave dates back to 1770 and is exposed to the ravages of the North Atlantic and, consequently, such restoration has to be approached with great care.
Following consultation with the appropriate experts, he says he hopes the work will be started soon.
