Taoiseach unveils Rory Gallagher Avenue as name of main entrance to Cork Airport

Eva Osborne

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has officially unveiled Rory Gallagher Avenue as the new name for the main entrance road at Cork Airport.

At an event held at the airport on Saturday, and in the presence of the members of the Gallagher family, local political, business and civic representatives and other invited guests, the main roadway leading to and around the airport was dedicated to the memory of Rory Gallagher.

Gallagher was one of Cork’s most famous people and one of the world’s most renowned guitarists.

Guests in attendance at Saturday's event were treated to a rendition of some of Rory Gallagher’s most notable works by well-known Belgian guitarist, Jacques Stotzem, who travelled to Cork especially for the occasion.

In close cooperation with the Gallagher family, Cork City Council, and Universal Music, the main entrance road to Cork Airport was renamed to commemorate Rory Gallagher on the anniversary of his passing 30 years ago.

Rory Gallagher grew up in Cork and rose to international fame as a masterful blues-rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “It is an immense honour to officially unveil “Rory Gallagher Avenue” at Cork Airport. Rory Gallagher was a genuine rock star who inspired people right around the world with his music.

"His legacy is one which reverberates across Cork, and it is only fitting that he is honoured in the city where he spent much of his life.

"I want to pay tribute to the Gallagher family and all those at Cork Airport and Cork City Council in bringing about this wonderful initiative in Rory’s memory.”

Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dan Boyle, said: "It's both a pleasure and a privilege to join An Taoiseach and members of the Gallagher Family at the official unveiling of "Rory Gallagher Avenue" at Cork Airport today.

"Rory's name will be forever remembered at the airport that brought him all over the world, showcasing his unique talent and equally so, the airport that welcomed him home.

"Cork Airport will be a stop on the new "Cork Rocks for Rory" trail, championed by Cork City Council, and will guide visitors to various locations across the city that were synonymous with Rory's life and work. Thank you to all at Cork Airport for the invitation to be part this wonderful ceremony today."

Dónal Gallagher, brother of Rory, added: “This is a wonderful tribute to my brother, with the naming of the Cork Airport thoroughfare Rory Gallagher Avenue/Ascaill Ruairí Uí Ghallchóir, a roadway he traversed throughout his lifetime to engage with his international career. Our family are deeply honoured by this heartfelt gesture, on the occasion of his 30th anniversary.”