On 5th May 1613, a charter was granted which formally set up the Borouogh of Cloghnykyltye, setting in train, 400 years of continuous and unbroken local Municipal Town Government in Clonakilty.
On 5th May 2013, exactly 400 years later, the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina, came to Clonakilty to mark this special occassion with the people of the town, and surrounding areas.
It was a great occassion and as Méara an Bhaile, it was a proud day to welcome the President of our country to our town, but just as importantly to acknowledge the greatness of our town and it's people.
Many people have been asking me for the speeches which were made on the day, so I post them below in the order in which they were delivered.
At 1.00pm, the President and Mrs. Higgins arrived at the Council Offices where I as Mayor and my colleagues on the Town Council accorded a Civic Reception to the Presidential couple.
My speech..................
Óráid by Méara an Bhaile Cllr. Cionnaith Ó Súílleabháin at Civic Reception for President Higgins and Mrs. Higgins.....
A Uachtarán, Mr. Michael D. Higgins; Mrs. Higgins; mo Comh Comhairleóirí
ar Comhairle Bhaile Chloch na gCoillte; Méara Chontae Chorcaí Cllr. Barbara
Murray; Presidential Aide-de-Camp Col. Brendan McAndrew; Baill do Comhairle
Chontae Chorcaí; An Teachta Jim Daly, TD; An Teachta Michael McCarthy, TD; Mr.
Justin England, Cléirigh an Bhaile; Ms. Mary Ryan, Bainisteóir Comhairle
Bhaile; Mr. James Fogarty Bainisteóir Comhairle Chontae Chorcaí Thiar; Mr.
Séamus Daly, Town Foreman and other members Clonakilty Town Council Staff; members
of Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage Committee; specially-invited guests; friends and
family.
Ar son muintir Chloch na gCoillte, cuirim fáilte ó chroí chuig gach duine
anseo inniu chuig an ócáid stairiúil agus specialta.
The visit of the President of our country to any community is always an
auspicious occasion and here in Clonakilty today, it is especially symbolic and
welcome.
Today, this town, it’s people and this Town Council remember that 400
years ago to the day, a charter was granted that established on a formal basis
The Borough of Cloghnykylty. In the four centuries since, right up to the
present day, the people of Clonakilty have had continuous and unbroken local
representation of varying sorts to represent their interests and run their
town. We know it wasn’t always perfect, but as the centuries went by, it became
more inclusive and democratic.
We have a proud heritage and we are extremely proud today that you Mr.
President have taken time from your busy schedule to be with us. In doing you
honour all that was and continues to be good about local representative
democracy, and those that have loyally served their town over the generations.
Throughout the decades, our Town Council has been to the fore in providing
leadership, inspiration and encouragement to our people in good times and bad.
Many great ideas, which went on to become great realities in our community,
were first mooted in the chamber at Clonakilty Town Council meetings, and from
the offices of officials. Many of these are the reasons that have made
Clonakilty one of the best places to live, visit and work in, in our country.
I welcome you as Uachtarán na hÉireann, but also as a man whom I have admired
during your years in public life, in which you have always been a person of
integrity and humanity with a caring disposition and an empathy with the less
fortunate in our world. Your powerful speeches - and actions when you had the
power to do so, against injustices and abuses of power have always been thought-provoking
and inspiring.
On behalf of all the people of our town, and on behalf of all the
Elected Representatives and the Officials of Clonakilty Town Council; as
someone who was born and have spent practically all my life here; as an elected
representative of the people on this Council for almost 20 years, and as Méara
an Bhaile i mbliaina it is my great honour to extend to you President Higgins
and to you Mrs. Higgins a sincere Céad Míle Fáilte.
I now invite Uachtarán na
hÉireann to address us.
The President then addressed the assembled Town Council and guests as follows.........
Remarks by President Michael
D. Higgins
at a Civic Reception
Clonakilty Town Council, Town Hall
Sunday, 5th May 2013
Tá an áthas orm bheith anseo libh inniu. Míle buíochas daoibh as an cuireadh bheith anseo libh agus as an fáilte.
My sincere thanks to Mayor of Clonakilty, Cionnaith Ó Súilleabháin, Town Clerk, Mr Justin England and all the members of Clonakilty Town Council for their kind invitation to visit you here today.
Is onóir mhór liom é cuireadh a fháil chuig an bhFáiltiú Cathartha seo chun Cairt Bhaile Chloich na Coillte, a bronnadh ceithre chéad bliain ó shin, a chomóradh; agus táim ag tnúth le freastal ar an ócáid speisialta atá eagraithe chun an comóradh sin a cheiliúradh tráthnóna i gCearnóg Emmet.
[It is a great honour for me to be invited to this Civic Reception to mark the occasion of the 400th Anniversary of the granting of the Clonakilty Town Charter and I look forward to attending the special event organised to celebrate that anniversary later this afternoon atEmmet Square
We know that 400 years ago the first Irish Parliament of King James the First was established after a period of great upheaval inIreland
Royal Borough served the needs of a King and the ruling class rather than to provide direct representation for the people and it was the case that the Reformation hadn’t really gained a foothold inIreland
Your town is well known for its famous lineage with rich links to poignant times inIreland Ireland
A few weeks ago, I attended the Easter Rising annual commemoration ceremony at which I laid a wreath at the General Post Office inO’Connell Street , Dublin Clonakilty Town
Emmet Square
The past year for you and for the community of Clonakilty has not been an easy one and I would like to take this opportunity to salute your efforts and those many volunteers who responded to the flooding that hit your town last year and which caused so much damage to property and upset to people. It was a most testing time for the people of Clonakilty and its hinterlands but your citizens showed remarkable resilience and solidarity. Clonakilty worked together, determinedly, utilising important community networks to revive damaged land, houses and businesses, to come back.
The manner with which the town and its environs reacted is a lesson in what true community collaboration, support and neighbourliness really means. Today and in this Town Hall, I would particularly like to take this opportunity to commend the staff of Clonakilty Town Council, Cork County Council, the Emergency Services, Gardaí, the Civil Defence and Red Cross Volunteers who wholeheartedly came to the assistance of their community, local traders and residents in the quick and coordinated response to the severe weather events. This is active citizenship at its best.
The rapid response to the emergency by council staff who were mobilised in the middle of the night within 30 minutes, fires crews from Clonakilty and Dunmanway and in particular the unpaid volunteers of the Civil Defence and Red Cross, was instrumental in minimising the damage done and ensuring there was no loss of life or serious injury sustained.
Giving to our community, strengthening it and protecting it, creates the solidarity that is the core of any true community. To empathise with each other, to support each other, to reach out is the essence of being human. Fortunately for us inIreland
That sense of place and community is very much in evidence here.
We in Ireland have experienced and continue to experience change that has impacted significantly on just about every home and family here in Cork as it has all over our island. Change is often disconcerting, challenging and when it is accompanied with uncertainty about the future or even perhaps a sense of foreboding about the future it presents many challenges for people. In days when our current economic crisis has visited both hardships on people and families but also at times an accompanying negativity at the hands of media and other commentators, it is heartening to see communities pulling together, working together, innovating together to make things better.
I was impressed to learn of initiatives such as the Clonakilty Favour Exchange an impressive response to these recessionary days; to your Random Acts of Kindness Festival; and looking to help those farther afield, Clonakilty’s achieving the accolade of becoming Ireland’s first Fairtrade Town.
At a time when the fundamental debate as to the relationship between creativity, culture and the economy has become increasingly important, the establishment of the Clonakilty Community Arts Centre, under the direction of the talented Courtmacsherry artist Deirdre Keohane is testament to the investment Clonakilty is prepared to make in a cultural space that can be shared by all of its citizens; and to its desire to bring the arts right into the heart of the community, ensuring they can be shared by all.
The complex web of our society is held in place by contributions from many sources, including by local government, in both its representative and service provision roles. From my own experience as a public representative in different capacities over many years, I know that you will be very conscious of the responsibility that comes to bear, most importantly among them, the extent to which as public representatives we review how our public services meet the needs of the people, and where possible to make the improvements necessary to meet changing needs.
By drawing on the expertise and wisdom of the community and voluntary sector, local people and the local development bodies, communities such as here in Clonakilty can re-imagine and in their own way re-create our future, and create a more sustainable, ethical model of economy which is connected to society in a just and citizen focused manner.
It has been a privilege to visit here on what is a very special occasion. I am very grateful Mayor, Councillors and staff of Clonakilty Town Council for your kindness in hosting this Civic Reception and I look forward to meeting you all again with members of the local community later in Emmet Square.
Is iontach an obair atá ar siúl agaibh anseo. Go n-éirí go geal libh sna blianta atá romhainn ‘s go raibh maith agaibh go léir.
at a Civic Reception
Clonakilty Town Council, Town Hall
Sunday, 5th May 2013
Tá an áthas orm bheith anseo libh inniu. Míle buíochas daoibh as an cuireadh bheith anseo libh agus as an fáilte.
My sincere thanks to Mayor of Clonakilty, Cionnaith Ó Súilleabháin, Town Clerk, Mr Justin England and all the members of Clonakilty Town Council for their kind invitation to visit you here today.
Is onóir mhór liom é cuireadh a fháil chuig an bhFáiltiú Cathartha seo chun Cairt Bhaile Chloich na Coillte, a bronnadh ceithre chéad bliain ó shin, a chomóradh; agus táim ag tnúth le freastal ar an ócáid speisialta atá eagraithe chun an comóradh sin a cheiliúradh tráthnóna i gCearnóg Emmet.
[It is a great honour for me to be invited to this Civic Reception to mark the occasion of the 400th Anniversary of the granting of the Clonakilty Town Charter and I look forward to attending the special event organised to celebrate that anniversary later this afternoon at
We know that 400 years ago the first Irish Parliament of King James the First was established after a period of great upheaval in
Royal Borough served the needs of a King and the ruling class rather than to provide direct representation for the people and it was the case that the Reformation hadn’t really gained a foothold in
Your town is well known for its famous lineage with rich links to poignant times in
A few weeks ago, I attended the Easter Rising annual commemoration ceremony at which I laid a wreath at the General Post Office in
The past year for you and for the community of Clonakilty has not been an easy one and I would like to take this opportunity to salute your efforts and those many volunteers who responded to the flooding that hit your town last year and which caused so much damage to property and upset to people. It was a most testing time for the people of Clonakilty and its hinterlands but your citizens showed remarkable resilience and solidarity. Clonakilty worked together, determinedly, utilising important community networks to revive damaged land, houses and businesses, to come back.
The manner with which the town and its environs reacted is a lesson in what true community collaboration, support and neighbourliness really means. Today and in this Town Hall, I would particularly like to take this opportunity to commend the staff of Clonakilty Town Council, Cork County Council, the Emergency Services, Gardaí, the Civil Defence and Red Cross Volunteers who wholeheartedly came to the assistance of their community, local traders and residents in the quick and coordinated response to the severe weather events. This is active citizenship at its best.
The rapid response to the emergency by council staff who were mobilised in the middle of the night within 30 minutes, fires crews from Clonakilty and Dunmanway and in particular the unpaid volunteers of the Civil Defence and Red Cross, was instrumental in minimising the damage done and ensuring there was no loss of life or serious injury sustained.
Giving to our community, strengthening it and protecting it, creates the solidarity that is the core of any true community. To empathise with each other, to support each other, to reach out is the essence of being human. Fortunately for us in
That sense of place and community is very much in evidence here.
We in Ireland have experienced and continue to experience change that has impacted significantly on just about every home and family here in Cork as it has all over our island. Change is often disconcerting, challenging and when it is accompanied with uncertainty about the future or even perhaps a sense of foreboding about the future it presents many challenges for people. In days when our current economic crisis has visited both hardships on people and families but also at times an accompanying negativity at the hands of media and other commentators, it is heartening to see communities pulling together, working together, innovating together to make things better.
I was impressed to learn of initiatives such as the Clonakilty Favour Exchange an impressive response to these recessionary days; to your Random Acts of Kindness Festival; and looking to help those farther afield, Clonakilty’s achieving the accolade of becoming Ireland’s first Fairtrade Town.
At a time when the fundamental debate as to the relationship between creativity, culture and the economy has become increasingly important, the establishment of the Clonakilty Community Arts Centre, under the direction of the talented Courtmacsherry artist Deirdre Keohane is testament to the investment Clonakilty is prepared to make in a cultural space that can be shared by all of its citizens; and to its desire to bring the arts right into the heart of the community, ensuring they can be shared by all.
The complex web of our society is held in place by contributions from many sources, including by local government, in both its representative and service provision roles. From my own experience as a public representative in different capacities over many years, I know that you will be very conscious of the responsibility that comes to bear, most importantly among them, the extent to which as public representatives we review how our public services meet the needs of the people, and where possible to make the improvements necessary to meet changing needs.
By drawing on the expertise and wisdom of the community and voluntary sector, local people and the local development bodies, communities such as here in Clonakilty can re-imagine and in their own way re-create our future, and create a more sustainable, ethical model of economy which is connected to society in a just and citizen focused manner.
It has been a privilege to visit here on what is a very special occasion. I am very grateful Mayor, Councillors and staff of Clonakilty Town Council for your kindness in hosting this Civic Reception and I look forward to meeting you all again with members of the local community later in Emmet Square.
Is iontach an obair atá ar siúl agaibh anseo. Go n-éirí go geal libh sna blianta atá romhainn ‘s go raibh maith agaibh go léir.
I as Mayor thanked the President for his words saying that we are a proud community that epitomise the Irish seanfhocal "Ní neart go chur le chéile" (We are stronger together).
I then made a presentation to him of a once-off miniature of the "Clonakilty Tiger", which is part of the Clonakilty Jungle City Project which I explained to the President. The beautiful piece of work by Courtmacsherry-based Artist and founder of the Clonakilty Community Arts Centre, Deirdre Keohane (who was in the chamber as a guest of the Mayor), delighted the President.
I then called on my colleague, Cllr. Ann Cullinane, (recovering from major surgery, but thankfully was able to attend the Civic Reception), to present flowers to Mrs. Higgins.
The Presidential couple then signed the Visitors' Book, and they mingled with the guests.
Outside afterwards, a large crowd had gathered, and Mr. and Mrs. Higgins ensured that they met practically all of them, shaking hands and posing for photographs. The Presidential party then departed for a private lunch, and would be back at 3.00pm.
The tone was set for an event better afternoon............
Shortly after 3.00pm, the Presidential car arrived down Bridge St., passed the Post Office and stopped near the Michael Collins statue, where the President and Mrs. Higgins and their party alighted. Estimates say arouund
3,000 people were waiting. I introduced
the President and Mrs. Higgins to locals, including the Dúchas Committee who arranged a lot of the Lá Mór. Mr. and Mrs. Higgins were very impressed by the efforts made by people in an historical timeline representing a number of periods of Irish and local history over the 400 years. Schoolchildren from the six primary schools of the parish, as well as the student councils of the second level schools were also lined out in this area and the President and Mrs. Higgins made a great effort to meet as many as possible.
A special stage was erected and when we eventually reached it, the MC, Cllr. Phil O' Regan welcomed everyone on stage, and called on the Clonakilty Brass Band and Allegria Singers and Folk Group combined to play/sing "Amhrán na bhFiann", our National Anthem.
I then made the following speech..................
A Uachtarán, Mr. Michael D. Higgins; Mrs. Higgins; Méara Droichead na
Bandann Cllr. Gillian Coughlan; Leas Mhéara Beanntraí Cllr. John Connolly; Méara
Cionn tSáile, Cllr. Billy Lynch; Méara An Sciobairín Cllr. Karen Coakley; mo
Comh Comhairleóirí ar Comhairle Bhaile Chloch na gCoillte; Méara Chontae
Chorcaí Cllr. Barbara Murray; Presidential Aide-de-Camp Col. Brendan McAndrew; President
of the Association of Municipal Authorities of Ireland, Cllr. Willie O’
Callaghan; Baill do Comhairle Chontae Chorcaí; An Teachta Jim Daly, TD; An
Teachta Michael McCarthy, TD; Mr. Justin England, Cléirigh an Bhaile; Ms. Mary
Ryan, Bainisteóir Comhairle Bhaile; Mr. James Fogarty Bainisteóir Comhairle
Chontae Chorcaí Thiar; Mr. Tom Ryan, Director of the AMAI; Mr. Séamus Daly,
Town Foreman and other members Clonakilty Town Council Staff; members of the Clergy;
specially-invited guests; friends and family.
And especially, you the people of Clonakilty and those of you who are
visiting us. Tá fáilte mór romhaibh go léir chuig an ócáid stairiúil agus
specialita seo i saol ár mbaile.
And in extending my welcome, as Mayor representing the people of our great
town, I want to send greetings to people in our hospitals and care homes and those
who are ill at home, and their carers. Likewise, to those working in the
Emergency Services and in other workplaces in our community.
I also want to remember Clonakilty people, and descendents of Clonakilty
people, who are domiciled in places throughout the world. We think of our Diaspora
on this special day.
And to those who have come home and are here in Emmet Square
And as First Citizen of the best
town in Ireland
Táimíd ag céiliriudh ceithre céad bliain inniu ó fuaireamar cart a
bunaíodh Bárdas Chloch na gCoillte ar an 5ú lá de Bhealtaine sa bhliain sé déag
agus a trí déag.
We are here today, to remember that on this day in 1613, a charter was
granted that formally set up the Borough of Cloghnykylty. In doing so, four
centuries of continuous and unbroken local self government to one degree or
another was established - a proud service that continues right up to the
present day.
While it may have had it’s flaws from time to time, I think most people
will agree that this local self determination - where local people are elected by local people to serve them, has stood this
town and it’s people well. Over the years the Town Council has played a pivotal
role in leading the people to make Clonakilty the great town and community we
have today.
Clonakilty is a proud and resilient place, and throughout it’s history –
including in recent and present times, it has always had a determination and fighting
spirit to face down and beat adversities great and small. We are a caring and welcoming community that
embraces diversity and extends the Céad Míle Fáilte to new people who choose to
come to live among us, and those who visit us for a short while. We care about
our environment in all it’s facets, we are passionate about sports of all
disciplines and we encourage our youth. Our schools are among the best and
music is all around us. We are famed for our high quality indigenous food.
Musicians, poets, authors and artists walk among us. Táimíd brodúil ár dteanga dúchais
a úsáid lena gcéile nuair a bhíonn deis againn. Entrepreneurs put the name of
Clonakilty on their labels.
And we are a generous community who give freely when called upon. Time,
the most precious thing we have, is also the thing that is given most freely given
in our town. Talents are shared and voluntary effort is second nature. We aim
high, we achieve much but we are always striving to do better.
Quite simply “CLON IS GREAT!”
I believe that much of the credit why we have the best community in the
country is down to the fact that we have had a Town Council in some format for
the last 400 years. This statutory body has been innovative and brave. It has
taken on challenges, and sailed the ship through calm and stormy waters. I
believe that the Town Council has led, inspired and encouraged our people for
generations, and in partnership with our citizens, has made Clon great.
Táimíd an-bhrodúil inniu, go bhfuil Uachtarán na hÉireann, an tUasal
Micheál D. Ó hUiginn agus a bhean chéile, Bean Uí hUiginn inár measc ag an
ócáid stairiúil seo. Is onóir mór dár mbaile, agus muintir an bhaile, go bhfuil
sibh linn agus arís tá fáilte mór romhaibh.
We are extremely proud and honoured that you President Higgins and Mrs.
Higgins are with us on this special day. With a life in public service over several
decades in which you distinguished yourself as a person of integrity, humanity
and decency you were elected as the ninth President of Ireland in 2011, receiving
over one million votes. It is truly a great honour that you are with us on this
special day. You and Mrs. Higgins are very welcome.
I invite you now to listen to some combined musical and singing
entertainment provided by the Clonakilty Brass Band and Allegria Singers (and
Clonakilty Folk Group). Bain taithneamh as.
(The Brass Band and Allegria/Folk Group sang two songs at this stage - "The Banks of My Own Lovely Lee", including a new verse as gaeilge composed for the Presidents visit, and "One Moment on Time")
The President then replied as follows........................
Remarks by President Higgins
at the
‘Clon’ 400 Anniversary Celebrations, Clonakilty
Sunday, 5th May 2013
Mayor Cionnaith Ó Súilleabháin, Mr John Loughnan who wrote to me last year and members of the Clonakilty 400 Organising Committee Council, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls…
Tá an áthas orm bheith anseo libh inniu ar an ócaid speisialta, ócáid stairiúil seo. Mo bhuíochas daoibh as an cuireadh dom teacht anseo agus an fáilte.
May I thank you Mayor Ó Súileabháin and the people of Clonakilty for that warm and generousWest Cork welcome. I am grateful
to have this opportunity to share this occasion with you. I am honoured by your
presence and welcome as I was to be received by Mayor Ó Súilleabháin and
members of Clonakilty Town Council earlier this afternoon.
Congratulations Clonakilty on the 400th anniversary of receiving a Charter as a new Borough from King James the First in 1613. That year has another historical significance we know as in the aftermath of Kinsale and the Flight of the Earls a short few years later, the Parliament that opened in 1613 represented the first time that all ofIreland
Boroughs such as this and indeed Bandon which likewise received its charter in the same year became key elements for the governing of Ireland and the beginnings of local government institutions in parts of this island that had previously remained removed from central authority. Of course James the First’s motivation was principally focussed on furthering the Reformation inIreland
There are other reasons for celebrations right now in Clonakilty not least among them that, one of your own, Laura Guest was a key member ofIreland France
No visit to this town could be made without reference to a veritable giant of Irish history. Sam’s Cross, Woodfield, Lisavaird Village, Béal Na mBláth and Newcestown Village - these areas resonate with the memory of one man, and it is Kevin Holland’s statue, depicting an oration by Michael Collins, that is a focal point of your town, to the legacy he left to West Cork and indeed this nation as a whole.
Michael Collins’ status is assured wherever people seek to understand the turmoil and tribulations that surrounded the foundation of our State, but the kernel of his legacy has been nurtured within the community in which I now stand.
I am told that a fine replica of Michael Collins’s famous Rolls Royce Armoured Car, “Sliabh Na mBan” in which he travelled on his last journey can be viewed at the nearby Michael Collins Centre. The original has undergone an impressive restoration with the direct involvement of the Defence Forces and is a feature of the museum in the Curragh Camp.
Clonakilty’s link to famous motorised vehicles does not end however with Sliabh Na mBan. Like so many sons and daughters ofIreland ,
John Ford left Ballinascarthy with his family in 1847 – when Ireland was in the throes of the ‘great famine’
- to start his new life in America
I might borrow the words of Henry Ford when he said that
‘Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success’
(The Henry Ford – 2004 Annual Report http://www.thehenryford.org/images/AnnualReport04.pdf (page 2)
a simple philosophy that is embedded in the Clonakilty Community, not just within your locality but with an eye, a responsibility, to further afield.
a simple philosophy that is embedded in the Clonakilty Community, not just within your locality but with an eye, a responsibility, to further afield.
By becomingIreland ’s first Fairtrade Town
Despite, or indeed because of the current straitened times, we are seeing the most engaged, civic-minded generation emerging in this country in perhaps the last 50 years, citizens who are volunteering in their communities in record numbers.
As part of that great spirit credit is due to your local Tidy Towns Committee for galvanizing local support. Here as throughout our country, dynamic and effective Tidy Town Committees are vital in supporting the efforts of communities, business people, local entrepreneurs, local authorities and innumerable others in improving the living environment for everyone, local and visitor alike.
For everyone involved, I am glad to see that you have reaped reward for your efforts - winning the title ofIreland ’s
Tidiest Small Town
Your achievement is all the more remarkable given the extensive flooding Clonakilty endured last summer when over 200 homes and businesses in the area were devastated. The reaction was one of resilience and determination to get back on your feet, which you did to great effect. The perseverance and strength of purpose that the people of Clonakilty demonstrated was an inspiration to us all as you showed that in times of adversity, the people of this town display generosity of spirit, good neighbourliness and an ability to steel yourselves for the task ahead to ensure the best for the community. Not least among those stalwarts I’m told were your local Civil Defence and Red Cross volunteers, who not only train regularly in their own spare time each week, but turned out last summer in the middle of the night to help their community in its hour of need.
A theme of my Presidency is that of active, inclusive citizenship, based on participation, equality, respect for all and the flowering of creativity in all its forms. And in this regard there are many positive and innovative initiatives underway in Clonakilty.
One such initiative has drawn national acclaim and prompted international interest is the Clonakilty Random Acts of Kindness Festival. I am delighted to see that such an unique and inspirational festival has been acclaimed nationally by the press, commended internationally by the award from the Rural Youth Project travelling trophy and celebrated and enjoyed locally. I believe the Random Acts of Kindness Festival will continue this year in July for which I wish continued success.
I am delighted to hear that following my launch, earlier this year of the Bliain na Gaeilge 2013, the local community in “Clon”, in the form of the recently formed “Clonakilty Dia Dhuiters” meet on a regular basis to ensure that the cúpla focail are preserved and indeed I am also aware that there is a strong emphasis on Gaeilge in the community with over 250 children educated daily through Irish in the local Gaelscoil.
But it is not only recent history that the regional community of Clonakilty endeavours to restore and maintain. Before Model T Fords and Rolls Royce Armoured Cars, a very different, but no less dynamic people inhabited the surrounding countryside. The extraordinary work undertaken at the Lios-na-gCon ringfort in Darrara, gives us insight into how our ancestors lived. The passion and commitment of the local community has allowed us reach back in time to forge a bridge with our own history, and this is a link that should continue to be cherished.
All the examples I have mentioned could not have been completed and indeed maintained on a daily basis without the dedication of the people of Clonakilty and the surrounding area. We are fortunate indeed in this country that we have a deep tradition of investing our own time, dynamism, and vision into the very fabric of both our localities and our nation. It is for this reason that I have such confidence about our future - because community spirit is not the preserve of an age group, a generation or a specific interest group.
Today is a significant milestone for your town and thecounty of Cork
Ba mhaith liom buíochas a ghlacadh arís as an gcuireadh a fuair mé le bheith anseo, agus guím gach rath oraibh don ócáid inniu, agus go deimhin do na himeachtaí ar fad a bheith ar siúl agaibh chun “Cloich na Coillte Ceithre Chéad” agus An Tóstal a cheiliúradh.
[I renew my thanks for inviting me to be here and I wish you the very best for today’s event, and indeed for all the events that you will hold in celebrating “Clonakilty 400” and The Gathering.]
Comhghairdeachas libh arís inniu. Gurb fada buan sibh ‘s go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir.
‘Clon’ 400 Anniversary Celebrations, Clonakilty
Sunday, 5th May 2013
Mayor Cionnaith Ó Súilleabháin, Mr John Loughnan who wrote to me last year and members of the Clonakilty 400 Organising Committee Council, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls…
Tá an áthas orm bheith anseo libh inniu ar an ócaid speisialta, ócáid stairiúil seo. Mo bhuíochas daoibh as an cuireadh dom teacht anseo agus an fáilte.
May I thank you Mayor Ó Súileabháin and the people of Clonakilty for that warm and generous
Congratulations Clonakilty on the 400th anniversary of receiving a Charter as a new Borough from King James the First in 1613. That year has another historical significance we know as in the aftermath of Kinsale and the Flight of the Earls a short few years later, the Parliament that opened in 1613 represented the first time that all of
Boroughs such as this and indeed Bandon which likewise received its charter in the same year became key elements for the governing of Ireland and the beginnings of local government institutions in parts of this island that had previously remained removed from central authority. Of course James the First’s motivation was principally focussed on furthering the Reformation in
There are other reasons for celebrations right now in Clonakilty not least among them that, one of your own, Laura Guest was a key member of
No visit to this town could be made without reference to a veritable giant of Irish history. Sam’s Cross, Woodfield, Lisavaird Village, Béal Na mBláth and Newcestown Village - these areas resonate with the memory of one man, and it is Kevin Holland’s statue, depicting an oration by Michael Collins, that is a focal point of your town, to the legacy he left to West Cork and indeed this nation as a whole.
Michael Collins’ status is assured wherever people seek to understand the turmoil and tribulations that surrounded the foundation of our State, but the kernel of his legacy has been nurtured within the community in which I now stand.
I am told that a fine replica of Michael Collins’s famous Rolls Royce Armoured Car, “Sliabh Na mBan” in which he travelled on his last journey can be viewed at the nearby Michael Collins Centre. The original has undergone an impressive restoration with the direct involvement of the Defence Forces and is a feature of the museum in the Curragh Camp.
Clonakilty’s link to famous motorised vehicles does not end however with Sliabh Na mBan. Like so many sons and daughters of
I might borrow the words of Henry Ford when he said that
‘Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success’
(The Henry Ford – 2004 Annual Report http://www.thehenryford.org/images/AnnualReport04.pdf (page 2)
a simple philosophy that is embedded in the Clonakilty Community, not just within your locality but with an eye, a responsibility, to further afield.
a simple philosophy that is embedded in the Clonakilty Community, not just within your locality but with an eye, a responsibility, to further afield.
By becoming
Despite, or indeed because of the current straitened times, we are seeing the most engaged, civic-minded generation emerging in this country in perhaps the last 50 years, citizens who are volunteering in their communities in record numbers.
As part of that great spirit credit is due to your local Tidy Towns Committee for galvanizing local support. Here as throughout our country, dynamic and effective Tidy Town Committees are vital in supporting the efforts of communities, business people, local entrepreneurs, local authorities and innumerable others in improving the living environment for everyone, local and visitor alike.
For everyone involved, I am glad to see that you have reaped reward for your efforts - winning the title of
Your achievement is all the more remarkable given the extensive flooding Clonakilty endured last summer when over 200 homes and businesses in the area were devastated. The reaction was one of resilience and determination to get back on your feet, which you did to great effect. The perseverance and strength of purpose that the people of Clonakilty demonstrated was an inspiration to us all as you showed that in times of adversity, the people of this town display generosity of spirit, good neighbourliness and an ability to steel yourselves for the task ahead to ensure the best for the community. Not least among those stalwarts I’m told were your local Civil Defence and Red Cross volunteers, who not only train regularly in their own spare time each week, but turned out last summer in the middle of the night to help their community in its hour of need.
A theme of my Presidency is that of active, inclusive citizenship, based on participation, equality, respect for all and the flowering of creativity in all its forms. And in this regard there are many positive and innovative initiatives underway in Clonakilty.
One such initiative has drawn national acclaim and prompted international interest is the Clonakilty Random Acts of Kindness Festival. I am delighted to see that such an unique and inspirational festival has been acclaimed nationally by the press, commended internationally by the award from the Rural Youth Project travelling trophy and celebrated and enjoyed locally. I believe the Random Acts of Kindness Festival will continue this year in July for which I wish continued success.
I am delighted to hear that following my launch, earlier this year of the Bliain na Gaeilge 2013, the local community in “Clon”, in the form of the recently formed “Clonakilty Dia Dhuiters” meet on a regular basis to ensure that the cúpla focail are preserved and indeed I am also aware that there is a strong emphasis on Gaeilge in the community with over 250 children educated daily through Irish in the local Gaelscoil.
But it is not only recent history that the regional community of Clonakilty endeavours to restore and maintain. Before Model T Fords and Rolls Royce Armoured Cars, a very different, but no less dynamic people inhabited the surrounding countryside. The extraordinary work undertaken at the Lios-na-gCon ringfort in Darrara, gives us insight into how our ancestors lived. The passion and commitment of the local community has allowed us reach back in time to forge a bridge with our own history, and this is a link that should continue to be cherished.
All the examples I have mentioned could not have been completed and indeed maintained on a daily basis without the dedication of the people of Clonakilty and the surrounding area. We are fortunate indeed in this country that we have a deep tradition of investing our own time, dynamism, and vision into the very fabric of both our localities and our nation. It is for this reason that I have such confidence about our future - because community spirit is not the preserve of an age group, a generation or a specific interest group.
Today is a significant milestone for your town and the
Ba mhaith liom buíochas a ghlacadh arís as an gcuireadh a fuair mé le bheith anseo, agus guím gach rath oraibh don ócáid inniu, agus go deimhin do na himeachtaí ar fad a bheith ar siúl agaibh chun “Cloich na Coillte Ceithre Chéad” agus An Tóstal a cheiliúradh.
[I renew my thanks for inviting me to be here and I wish you the very best for today’s event, and indeed for all the events that you will hold in celebrating “Clonakilty 400” and The Gathering.]
Comhghairdeachas libh arís inniu. Gurb fada buan sibh ‘s go raibh míle maith agaibh go léir.
Cllr. John Loughnan, Chair of Dúchas Heritage Clonakilty who put the programme for the day together, then made a presentation of a montage of six Historical Scenes from Clonakilty over the centuries, by Tomás Tuipéar, and thanked all who had made the day possible.
Following the formalities, the President and Mrs. Higgins took a tour of the new Kennedy Gardens; walked along Bridge Street; through Spiller's Lane and into the Credit Union and Kent St. Car Parks where there was a vibrant market in place.
The whole route was packed with people anxious to shake the President and Mrs. Higgins hands and get photos with them. The Presidential party were elated with the welcome and well wishes, and spent about an hour and a half over schedule in order to meet people. After the visitors had departed, there was music at Emmet Square by the talented "Saxy Lady Boys"
Thanks to all who made it such a memorable day, and who worked so hard for several months to prepare.
As Michael Collins' wrote in his last entry on his diary the night before he was killed: "The people they are splendid".
Thank you people of Clonakilty. I was proud to represent each and every man, woman and child on the day. It's so easy in a great place like ours.
Thanks too to "The Southern Star", the only media publication I'm aware of that gave comprehensive coverage of the day..............
Cllr. Cionnaith Ó Súilleabháin,
Méara Chloch na gCoillte.
CllrCOS@gmail.com
086-2202029
