Visit of Irish president Mary McAleese

12 September 2007

On 12th September 2007, the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, visited the Spiritual Care Centre at Dzogchen Beara to show her support for the project. Ms. McAleese gave an inspiring speech and dedicated a commemorative plaque to the Centre's founder, Harriet Cornish. The event was attended by more than 500 people.

Irish president Mary McAleese visits View image Sogyal Rinpoche welcomes president Mary McAleese as she arrives at Dzogchen Beara on 12th September 2007

Presenting the Spiritual Care Centre View image Patrick Gaffney of Rigpa International presents plans for the Spiritual Care Centre

Flora Cornish remembers her childhood View image Flora Cornish, daughter of Harriet and Peter Cornish, remembers growing up at Dzogchen Beara

Public address View image Ms. McAleese gave an inspiring speech in which she recognised the Centre's role in helping people to die peacefully without fear

President Mary McAleese View image The president's warm and encouraging words sparked an enthusiastic response from the audience

Inspired audience View image More than 500 people attended the event including clergy, medical professionals, politicians, the local community, and Rigpa sangha members

Walk on the coast View image Mary McAleese and Sogyal Rinpoche making their way to the plaque unveiling on the grounds of Dzogchen Beara

In memory of Harriet View image The president unveils a plaque of Harriet Cornish, who, with her husband Peter Cornish, founded Dzogchen Beara in 1973