THE PRESIDENT'S DAY
Thoughts of recession and other pressing matters were banished for one day at least as the people of Conna, Fermoy, Kilworth, Mitchelstown and Knockadea rose early with the bright sunshine to prepare for the visit of President Mary McAleese on Thursday, June 24 last.
The President and her husband, Dr Martin McAleese had a full schedule and it was with military - like precision that the trip to North Cork was planned weeks before.
The President made history when she became the first head of state to visit the village of Conna since the foundation of the state and with glorious weather the motorcade moved to Fermoy where she met school children at Presentation Primary School and paid a visit to Fermoy Rowing Club.
More children lined the bridge in the town as the President made her way to Kilworth where the Band of the Southern Command waited for their commander-in-chief.
After a stop in Mitchelstown where the President and her party had lunch, the President met with community and voluntary groups. Then the motorcade moved on to Park in Knockadea where a large crowd had gathered to welcome President McAleese.
Many people lined the roads as the presidential motorcade passed by escorted by no fewer than six garda outriders.
“I have really enjoyed my visit to North Cork and South Limerick,” President McAleese said as she made her way to Ballylanders where an Air Corps helicopter was waiting to take herself and her husband back to Dublin.
Published:
Thursday 1st July 6:19pm
