merrion street

Mr. Brian Hayes, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW), this evening announced that a new Visitor Centre and Exhibition will be constructed at the ancestral home of John F. Kennedy in Dunganstown, New Ross, Co. Wexford.

Speaking at the announcement Minister Hayes said: “It gives me great pleasure to be in New Ross this evening to mark the association of the Kennedy family with Wexford, particularly in view of next year’s 50th anniversary of the visit of President John F. Kennedy.”

The Minister continued: “As St Patrick’s Day approaches, much international focus will be trained on Ireland, and great goodwill generated. What better way to promote tourism than to stimulate, in particular, the vast market in the USA where the Kennedy legacy is so revered?”

“Here, in the Dunbrody Visitor Centre, it is fitting that we address the theme of historic emigration and the achievement of Irishmen and women who started new lives abroad and rose to pinnacles of achievement. Undoubtedly, one of the greatest names in this respect is President John F. Kennedy, whose great-grandfather left New Ross for the US in 1848. The original Homestead is still in the hands of Kennedy family descendants and I would like to acknowledge the great work done in recent years by Patrick and Siobháin Grennan in maintaining the memory of the historic ‘beginnings’ and facilitating access and presentation for visitors.” the Minister said.

The Minister continued: “Given the importance of the Homestead as a historic site and tourism attraction, the provision of modern visitor facilities is badly needed, and in consultation with the property owners a design scheme has been completed which comprises: a new Exhibition Area, Refurbishment of existing out-building, Reception, Toilets, Car/Bus-park, Road Improvements and Signage. Discussions with the owners regarding necessary legal agreements are also at an advanced stage and, subject to satisfactory conclusion, final technical details will be completed and tenders invited".