Books of condolences were opened in Dublin and Cork today for Ms Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of the Special Olympics, who died on Tuesday in Massachusetts
Members of the public can pay their respects in Cork City Council's offices in City Hall, Cork and the Mansion House, Dublin. The books will remain open until 6pm tomorrow.
The Special Olympics began as a small event in Ms Kennedy Shriver's garden in 1968. It quickly blossomed into a global movement. In 2003 Ireland hosted the Special Olympic World Games in which 6,500 athletes from 170 countries competed.
Ms Kennedy Shriver led the organisation until 2006. She attended the games in Ireland and had visited friends here many times.
On his arrival to sign the book US Ambassador Dan Rooney said Ms Kennedy Shriver "was a fine, fine lady". "What she did here with the Special Olympics was really heart-warming. It was inspiring," he said.
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emer Costello was "very saddened" to hear of Ms Kennedy Shriver's passing. "She was a remarkable woman. Her campaigning spirit, zeal and organisational abilities will not be forgotten, she has left behinda vibrant and brilliant organisation".
Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork Laura McGonigle said Ms Kennedy Shriver "epitomized all that was positive and good about those who wished to transform the image of those with intellectual disabilities".
Mary Davies, chief executive of Special Olympics Ireland also paid tribute. "Ms Kennedy Shriver was a remarkable woman who left a profound legacy", she said.
Several Special Olympics athletes signed the books. Terry Gavan, a Special Olympics athlete from Rialto in Dublin, said sport had become a big part of his life and was signing the book to say thank you.
Ms Kennedy Shriver will be laid to rest today in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The Irish Government will be represented by Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Mary Hanafin.