Dr. Mary Robinson, the first female president of Ireland and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, was elected Chancellor of Trinity College Dublin on this day in 1998, making her the first woman in the college's history to hold the position. Robinson was born in Ballina, Co. Mayo and is widely regarded as a transformative figure in Irish politics. Her presidency … [Read more...] about November 19, 1998
Today In History
September 5, 1998
On this day in 1998, President Bill Clinton followed in the footsteps of fellow Irish American President John F. Kennedy and became a Freeman of Limerick. This day also marked the last day of President Clinton's visit to Ireland. During this visit, both Bill and Hillary visited the town of Omagh, which was still suffering the effects of the car bombing a month prior. … [Read more...] about September 5, 1998
August 26, 1998
On this day in 1998, British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern meet at Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo to discuss peace processes in the aftermath of Omagh's August 15th car bombing. The two leaders decide to join forces in fighting terrorism and discuss possible laws for the future. … [Read more...] about August 26, 1998
July 13, 1998
The second stage of the Tour de France takes place for the first time in Ireland and ends on July 13, 1998 in Cork. A crowd of almost 50,000 people turn out to watch this historic event. The race was won by Italian Marco Pantani, with German Jan Ullrich taking second and American Bobby Julich finishing in third. … [Read more...] about July 13, 1998
June 8, 1998
Irish playwright Martin McDonagh's debut play "The Beauty Queen of Leenane" wins four Tony awards for its 1998 Broadway production. Director Garry Hynes wins for best director, the first woman to do so at the Tonys. Marie Mullen wins best actress. Annie Manahan wins best supporting actress and Tom Murphy wins best supporting actor. The success of "The Beauty Queen of Leenane" … [Read more...] about June 8, 1998