In a ceremony at St Patrick’s Hall in Dublin Castle, President Kennedy was awarded two honorary degrees, one from the National University of Ireland and one from Trinity College Dublin, and the freedom of the city.

In this extract from the live television coverage of the ceremony, he talks about the importance of education and its role in a democratic society.

This extract is taken from ‘Welcome Mr President’, a compilation of highlights from President Kennedy’s visit to Ireland which was broadcast on 28 July 1963 with commentary by Pádraig Ó Raghallaigh.

The event itself was broadcast live on 28 June 1963.

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