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The vision of Robert G. Kearns coupled with the collective interests of and Rowan created an instant partnership. What better place to create a reciprocal memorial than Toronto, Ontario where more than 38,000 immigrants arrived in pitiful conditions over the course of six months during “Black 47.”
Rowan agreed to create the new sculptures as long as an appropriate waterfront location was secured. Robert met with Terry Smith another kindred spirit who had also seen the sculptures in Dublin, heard about the proposed memorial in Toronto and suggested a visit to the City’s Parks, Forestry and Recreation Department to seek approval for a spot of land. In July 2000, with the help of then Councillor Olivia Chow, Toronto City Council ratified a proposal to make the south east corner of Bathurst Quay available for a memorial park to honour the Irish famine immigrants of 1847. This was an ideal location due to its historical significance to the famine as it is just west of Reese’s Wharf where the immigrants landed and it is just south of where the fever sheds were located at Bathurst and Front Streets.
Since that time, Robert assembled a board of directors from across the city of both Canadian and Irish backgrounds. The park, designed by Jonathan M. Kearns, has been planned, built and funds raised of $3.5 million to cover the costs and endow the park. This Park has been built with Irish and Canadian hands, minds and determination to complete the vision and mandate created by the directors of Ireland Park Foundation.
Today, we are thrilled to present to you Ireland Park and “The Arrival” sculptures.
May the Park be a tranquil place to remember the past to save the future.
The Board of Directors, Ireland Park Foundation
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