A nationwide search is on for 28 escorts to participate in the Rose of Tralee Festival.
For the first time in the history of the Rose of Tralee Festival, a nationwide search is underway for escorts. From the applications to become escorts, 50 were invited for interview, from which 26 were selected. Eoin Conroy was subsequently named the 2003 Escort of the Year.
Today escorted by models Gail Kaneswaren and Roberta Rowat, Eoin Conroy is at the announcement for the search for escorts at the 46th Rose of Tralee Festival.
It's not clear why in this day and age adult women need to be chaperoned but festival organisers are adamant escorts play a key role in the Festival.
Martin McGuire from the Rose of Tralee festival committee outlines what is expected from an escort who he describes as,
The epitome of an Irish gentleman.
Being chosen as an escort is no mean feat. Not only must the escort cater to every whim of a Rose he must also secure at least €2,000 in sponsorship money. Eoin Conroy highly recommends the escort experience and encourages those interested to apply.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 23 June 2004. The reporter is Sharon Ní Bheoláin.
