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Remarks by President McAleese at the Evening of Celebration for Maureen Potter, Gaiety Theatre

Remarks by President McAleese at the Evening of Celebration for Maureen Potter, Gaiety Theatre, Dublin January 18th 1999

I am truly delighted to have been asked here this evening, to join with you in honouring Maureen Potter for the enormous contribution that she has made to Irish life over so many years.

So many tributes of genuine warmth and affection have been paid to Maureen this evening, that I fear all the superlatives have already been used up. Let me just say that few of us, in any walk of life, can hope to leave such a rich legacy behind us. Through her talent, professionalism and wonderful imagination, Maureen has brought given the gift of laughter to so many generations of Irish people. I hope that this evening of celebration has reflected back to you, Maureen, how much you are loved and how all of us appreciate the countless hours of fun and happiness you have given us.

Popular entertainment is sometimes seen as the poor relation among the arts. Maureen is living proof that it truly is an artform. It is therefore appropriate that John McColgan should have commissioned this painting of you by Dublin artist, James Hanley. It is a fitting tribute from one artist to another and it is my great pleasure to unveil it.

I hope, Maureen, that yourself and Jack have a wonderful evening in the company of your many friends and admirers.

Thank you