Dear Tim,
I learned with deep regret of the passing of your father, The Honourable Robert Sargent Shriver, who lived such a full life and worked so tirelessly on behalf of others. Please accept my sincere condolences on your loss.
With President Kennedy, your father played a leading role in the establishment of the Peace Corps. Working with your late mother, he also built the wonderful Special Olympics movement of which, as you know, we in Ireland have very fond memories and which has had an enduring impact on many people here and around the world.
Your father was a dedicated public servant, who devoted his enormous energy and commitment to work for social justice. You and your family can be justifiably proud of his many achievements.
Although you have suffered a great loss, I know that your father's contribution to improving the quality of life of people around the world will be a source of comfort to you and your family at this sad time.
Yours sincerely,
Mary McAleese
President of Ireland