Newly released documents reveal that Irish officials believed Princess Diana was more skilled at handling media conflicts with Prince Charles 30 years ago. The papers show that Diana’s team actively worked to overshadow St James’ Palace during the Prince’s two-day visit to Ireland in June 1995, following their separation in 1992.
According to the documents from the Irish Government’s National Archives disclosure, Charles’s team strategically used the Irish trip’s media coverage as part of a long-term public relations plan to improve his image post-separation. Charles’s press team, led by Alan Percival and later Sandy Henney, praised the Irish visit as a successful public appearance for the Prince.
In the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs’ records, Henney was described as fiercely loyal to Charles and always seeking opportunities to promote his interests. A memo from the department expressed uncertainty about Henney’s suggestion that Diana might also visit Ireland, indicating her proactive approach in promoting the Prince’s activities.
Joe Hayes from the Department of Foreign Affairs noted that in the media rivalry between Diana and Charles, Diana was perceived as more skilled and aggressive, with her team focusing on outshining St James’ Palace. British and Irish officials acknowledged that while UK media coverage of the visit was positive, it was lighter compared to the extensive reporting in Ireland.
The information provided in this article is sourced from documents in the National Archives of Ireland under the file 2025/124/160.