GAA President to officially open 2025 Kennedy Summer School this week
Jarlath Burns
The official opening of the 2025 Kennedy Summer School programme will be performed this Thursday by Jarlath Burns, President of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA).
The New Ross based festival has become a popular attraction in the South East, with Waterford visitors expected to attend in mass once again this year
Following his official opening address, Mr Burns will join renowned broadcaster and Kennedy Summer School Chair, Eileen Dunne, for a fireside chat exploring his career, the future of the GAA, and the enduring role of sport and community in Irish life.
“We are honoured to welcome Jarlath Burns to open this year’s Kennedy Summer School,” said Eileen Dunne.
“His dedication to community, culture and sport reflects the spirit and values that the Summer School celebrates each year.”
Armagh man Jarlath Burns has dedicated his life to Gaelic games both on and off the pitch.
A former school principal, Mr Burns captained Armagh to the 1999 Ulster Senior Football title and has held numerous leadership roles within the GAA, including serving as chairperson and secretary of his club, Silverbridge Harps.
Before his election as Uachtarán, he chaired the GAA Standing Committee on Playing Rules from 2015 to 2018 and contributed extensively to the development of the Association.
The Kennedy Summer School, held annually in New Ross, brings together leading figures in politics, history, media and culture for a unique festival of ideas and conversation inspired by the legacy of President John F. Kennedy and the enduring Irish-American connection.
Friday starts with a Schools Literature and Humanities session marking The Great Gatsby centenary, with American Studies experts moderated by Dr. Brian Murphy.
After lunch, the theatre hosts a panel on local journalism with Alan Corcoran, Brenda Power, Jessica O’Connor, Dave O’Connell, and Bill Forry.
The Noel Whelan Interview follows, with Colm Tóibín in conversation with Sinéad McSweeney, introduced by Seamus Whelan.
The day concludes with 'President Trump & Us', moderated by Tony Connelly and featuring Dan O'Brien, Shona Murray, Greg Ballard, Gilberto Ocanas, and Tanya Gordiienko.
Saturday opens with a public Gatsby Centenary panel with Prof Kirk Curnutt, Prof Philip McGowan, Prof Sarah Churchwell, and Dr Martina Mastandrea.
A discussion on Ireland’s housing challenges will feature Leanne Mallen, Lorcan Sirr and Barry Doyle, moderated by Deirdre O’Shaughnessy.
Next is a discussion on the Irish-American relationship with Senator Mark Daly, Larry Donnelly, Ruairi Barnwell, and Linda Dorcena-Forry, moderated by RTÉ’s Jackie Fox.
Saturday afternoon features acclaimed American journalist Jim Acosta in conversation with Dr. Stacey Connaughton, then the Marion and Cal Roadshow with Marion McKeone and Cal Thomas, moderated by Larry Donnelly, with a forum on the upcoming Irish Presidential election, followed by a performance by the New Ross District Pipe Band.
For further information and for tickets, visit www.kennedysummerschool.ie.
