Kerry Association in Dublin pick Deenihan as Person of the Year

ARTS Minister Jimmy Deenihan is the 2012 Kerry Person of Year as chosen by the Kerry Association in Dublin.

The accomplished politician and Kerry footballing legend now joins former team-mates, Páidí Ó Sé, Mick O’connell, Pat Spillane and Mick O’dwyer among the prestigious list of winners of the coveted award.

The Finuge native was selected at a reception in Dublin on Tuesday night for his significant contribution to his beloved Kerry and for his many achievements which adjudicators felt have reflected credit on the county.

During her tribute to Minister Deenihan, Cathaoirleach of the Kerry Association in Dublin, Maura Hughes, praised the Kerry man’s commitment to so many community projects over the years.

“Jimmy has given freely of his time to a wide range of causes in the literary, footballing and industrial fields,” she said, before praising his superb achievements as a footballer and, more recently, as Minister for Arts, Heritage and Gaeltacht Affairs.

A GAA legend, Minister Deenihan won five All-ireland football medals with Kerry in 1975, 1978, 1979, 1980 and in 1981 — the year he captained the team to AllIreland victory against Offaly. He also received a GAA All-star Award that year. He won Railway Cup medals with Munster in 1975, 1976, 1978, 1981 and 1982. He also played rugby for a spell with Garryowen, Tralee and Listowel.

Speaking on his selection, Minister Deenihan said he greatly appreciated being chosen as Kerry Person of the Year 2012, describing it as a great honour for his family.

The award, sponsored by Kerry Group, will be presented at the association’s 60th annual dinner at the D4 Berkeley Hotel on Friday, March 2.