Two of Waterford’s most prominent international figures have been honoured with the Freedom of Waterford City and County.

Dan Mulhall, the Ambassador of Ireland to the United States, and Professor Louise Richardson the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford signed the Freedom Roll at a special ceremony in City Hall last night.

Mayor of Waterford Councillor Declan Doocey described them as “two individuals who have made a significant contribution to enhancing Ireland’s status internationally”.

“Professor Richardson’s extraordinary career in academia, alongside her outstanding role in international security as a top-class political scientist, is being recognised here today.

“Ambassador Mulhall has a distinguished career in the Irish Diplomatic Service, particularly in times of crises and in developing Irish-International relationships throughout an extraordinary career.”

Fianna Fail Councillor James Tobin proposed that the Freedom of Waterford be conferred on Professor Louise Richardson.

“You have not only brought great honour to yourself and to your very supportive family but also to us, the people of Waterford.

“We are all very moved by and proud of your remarkable achievements.

“Wherever people will talk of great Waterfordians your name will be among them.”

Fine Gael Councillor Lola O’Sullivan added “As a fellow Waterford and Tramore woman I have enormous pride when seconding the motion to confer the Freedom of Waterford on Professor Louise Richardson and honour which befits a highly accomplished academic and political science career.”

Tramore Native Professor Richardson says it’s a little intimidating to think of the company she now keeps.

“I was, as a good historian, looking at some of the previous recipients of this honour and saw national heroes, Presidents, cardinals, athletes and so on.

“I thought, my goodness, when I was getting off the bus on the Tramore Road and walking through Ballytruckle to the Ursuline, I never imagined I would be in their company.

“I still find it very difficult to imagine myself belonging in their company.

“I’m very grateful to you all for this extraordinary honour.”

Fine Gael Councillor Pat Nugent proposed that the Freedom of Waterford be conferred on Ambassador Daniel Mulhall.

Fianna Fail’s John O’Leary added “In his forty-year service to this nation Daniel Mulhall has brought distinction to both the people of Ireland and to the city from which he hails and where he is deeply respected and proudly admired for his professionalism, dedication and remarkable work ethic.”

Ambassador Mulhall paid tribute to his parents and the huge respect they had for the value of education.

“They were proud of the fact that I was the first member of my extended family to attend University.

“I still remember how thrilled they were to accompany me to my graduation ceremonies at UCC.

“They would be especially thrilled this evening to see me being recognised in Waterford which meant so much to them

“And the fact that my entire family is present for this special occasion.”

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