by Robet Prole
Tuesday 22nd July 2008.
It was one of those rare 2008 real summer days which most fortunately coincided with our good fortune to have been invited to a tour of our President Mary McAleese's residence in the Phoenix Park. In view of the occasion it had been decided to invite wives/partners to participate and while this had the unfortunate effect of limiting regular C.A.R. attenders at our outings it was lovely to have so many ladies joining us for the occasion.
We assembled between 2 and 2-15pm at the entrance to the Aras, got our name badges as usual, and then drove through the gates in convoy to the car park.
When walking the short distance up to the house one felt a real sense of occasion which was appropriately matched by the splendour of the grounds. In the entrance hall we were formally welcomed on behalf of Uachtaran na hEireann by our guide for the day Sgt John Grennan, ADC. We were then invited to afternoon tea which provided an excellent opportunity for introducing and meeting each other and our "other halves" in keeping with the spirit of Contact After Retirement.
It was soon time for a formal group photo to be taken and having seated Jim Barton in the position of honour, centre of the front row, we announced his appointment as the first President of C.A.R. Obviously completely taken surprise Jim nevertheless appropriately responded for the second time in almost as many minutes following an earlier presentation of a plant for himself and Peggy who had recently celebrated their Diamond Wedding anniversary.
The history associated with the house, portraits, pictures, furniture and the splendid surroundings were then expertly pointed out and explained by John as we moved through the various rooms At the end of the tour and following words of Thanks to all who had made the day possible, we strolled back to the cars through the grounds with the sun still shining and reflecting the enjoyment of a memorable day.
R.D.E.P.