An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD has officially unveiled “Rory Gallagher Avenue” – the new name for the main entrance road at Cork Airport. At a special event held at the airport on Saturday, June 14th 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 one of Cork’s most famous sons and one of the world’s most renowned guitarists. Guests in attendance at today’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. Gallagher, who grew up in Cork, rose to international fame as a masterful blues-rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Revered for his electrifying performances and soulful sound, his influence spans generations of musicians and still has many adoring fans located across the globe. His legacy continues to resonate strongly in Cork, his home city – as strong today as it did during his lifetime.
Cork Airport will also feature in Cork City Council’s “Stompin’ Ground” heritage trail, designed to bring visitors to some focal points around the city which influenced Rory’s career – including the location of the former Crowley’s Music Shop on MacCurtain Street where he bought his famous Stratocaster guitar and other prominent music venues across the city where he performed. Cork Airport is located on the trail as Rory was a frequent visitor to Cork Airport when flying to and from his home city to his various gigs and performances across the world.
Performing the official unveiling of Rory Gallagher Avenue, An 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, who joined An Taoiseach at the unveiling, 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.”
Niall MacCarthy, Cork Airport Managing Director, said: “We are honoured at Cork Airport, to celebrate the life and achievements of Rory Gallagher by naming the main entrance road in his memory. We are so proud of our heritage and culture in this region and we at Cork Airport play our part in its celebration and promotion. We thank the Gallagher Family and Cork City Council for wonderful collaboration in this initiative.”
