State-led event for O'Connell's 250th birthday

A STATE-LED commemorative event will kick off today for the 250th anniversary of Daniel O'Connell's birth.

- BY CIARA O'LOUGHLIN

Known as The Liberator, the Kerry-born lawyer was the first Catholic in modern history to sit in the House ‘of Commons and was one of the world’s greatest champions of freedom and democracy.

His commemorative event kicks off in Derrynane House in Caherdaniel, Kerry, at 2pm today.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin will give a speech and musical and cultural performances will take place, followed by a plaque unveiling and tree-planting ceremony.