STATUES

This legendary folk singer is being honoured with his own Dublin statue

Luke Kelly of The Dubliners is set to be honoured with his own statue next year.

Luke Kelly on O'Connell Street in 1980 (Donal Doherty)

Luke Kelly on O’Connell Street in 1980 (picture by Donal Doherty).

By Lizzie Healey

A bust of the legendary folk singer Luke Kelly will be unveiled in late January on Guild Street on the North side of Dublin, around the area where Kelly was born and raised.

Many older citizens will remember when Luke came to Dumbarton many years ago and performed in the old SNP hall in Wallace Street.

The effort to commemorate the famous singer has been long-fought and was primarily led by Dublin City councillor Christy Burke, who was a longtime friend of Kelly.

On Facebook, Cllr Burke said: “Some brilliant news not only for Sheriff Street area but all the Luke Kelly fans throughout the world.”

He added: “This is definitely one of the proudest moments in my political career and I would sincerely like to thank Luke’s family and all my fellow councillors for their support.

“He will surely be very proud today. Luke was a close friend for many years and today has brought a tear to my eye.”

Speaking with the Irish Examiner, Cllr Burke added: “It’s a sculpture piece of a head with the beard and the red curly hair and I have no doubt it’s an emotional day for the family (and) the fans.

“Let’s all be honest about it – Luke deserves that and more. (He is) a legend, a master, an ambassador (and) a great musician.”

Luke Kelly died in 1984 at the age of 43. His funeral was attended by thousands, and he is now laid to rest in Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin.

Luke Kelly will join the statues of Molly Malone – the tart with the cart – and the Floozie in the Jacuzzi as a visitor attraction to his native city.

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