Tánaiste 'absolutely thrilled' that Rory's Gallaher's guitar will be 'coming home' to Ireland and Cork

Tánaiste Micheál Martin has said he is “absolutely thrilled” that Rory Gallagher’s 1961 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster is coming home.

The guitar was bought at auction in London on Thursday by Live Nation Gaiety for £700,000 (€840,000).

The iconic item will be donated to the National Museum of Ireland.

According to the managing director of music promoter MCD, Denis Desmond, who was one of the people instrumental in purchasing the guitar, its final home will be in Cork.

In an interview yesterday, Mr Desmond said that the guitar “is going to stay in Ireland, and it will end up in Cork — that is important”.

“We haven’t figured out where yet, but we will.”

Rory Gallagher was born in Ballyshannon in 1948, and spent his formative years in Cork. The bluesman passed away in 1995 at the age of 47, three decades into a career that saw him travel the world and become one the most influential musicians of all time.

Speaking to The Echo, the Tánaiste said the purchase of the guitar was very good news Cork.

Delighted

“I’m delighted that the guitar is coming home and will be displayed in the National Museum for fans and the public to enjoy, and it will be a fitting recognition for an Irish rock legend,” Mr Martin said.

“I’m absolutely thrilled that the Irish people, and the people of Cork, will be able to see the guitar on display. It’s great news.”

Mr Martin said he had fond memories of hosting a civic reception for Rory Gallagher in City Hall during his year as lord mayor from 1992 to 1993. “He was a wonderful artist. I remember he was a very humble and shy man, and I remember meeting him and his brother Donal and their mother. They were lovely people.”

Rory Gallagher’s brother Donal, who was his manager, said the news was “the best of all possible worlds”.

Grateful

The guitar was among a collection of items belonging to the late musician sold at the auction in London earlier this week.

“It has been nearly 30 years since my brother’s passing and, though it was a difficult decision to part with this collection, I am grateful that these treasured instruments can now tour the globe as Rory did, spreading his music and memory,” Mr Gallagher said.

“Rory meant so much to so many people, and we want to thank everyone who took part in the auction and everyone who shared their own memories of Rory with us.

“We have been overwhelmed by the response to this auction and the outpouring of love and respect shown towards Rory and his incredible legacy.

“I’m delighted that Rory’s 1961 Strat will be returning to Ireland and, as far as I’m concerned, it’s coming to Cork,” Mr Gallagher added.