Duke and Duchess of Leinster “Come Home” with Visit to Ancestral Home of Leinster House

Maurice Fitzgerald, the current Duke, is the 9th Duke of Leinster and is a direct descendant of James FitzGerald, 1st Marquess of Kildare (1722–1773) who was created Duke of Leinster in 1766. The Duke was accompanied on today’s visit by his wife Fiona, Duchess of Leinster.

The couple toured their ancestral home, walked the corridors of Leinster House and learnt more about their genealogy and the lifestyles of their ancestors.

Ceann Comhairle, Seán Barrett TD said;
“There was a real sense of history being alive today. To tour the hallowed hallways of Leinster House with direct descendants of its first occupants and learn about some of the momentous events which went on in this building was truly humbling.

I believe that it is extremely important to cherish the history of our parliament building and maintain the links with its past. By getting a better understanding of its history and preserving its historical significance we can help safeguard its future.”

ENDS

Note to the Editor
1. Leinster House which was originally known as Kildare House, after James Fitzgerald, Earl of Kildare was commissioned to be built between 1745-47. On becoming the Duke of Leinster in 1776, the house was renamed Leinster House.
In 1815, Augustus Frederick, the third Duke of Leinster, sold the mansion to the Royal Dublin Society (RDS).  The Society made extensive additions to the house, most notably the lecture theatre, later to become the Dáil Chamber.
After the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922, the Government secured a part of Leinster House for parliamentary use. The entire building was acquired by the State in 1924.

For further information please contact:

Ciaran Brennan,
Houses of the Oireachtas,
Communications Unit,
Leinster House,
Dublin 2

P: +3531 618 3903
M: 086-0496518
F: +3531 618 4551
E: ciaran.brennan@oireachtas.ie