|
|
23.10.2007
High profile personalities back campaign to
save Fr. Mathew Hall
The Athlone Architectural Heritage Group are greatly encouraged by
the strong united support shown by such an authorative list of personalities.
From the music world we are proud to have the support of internationally
renowned Athlone born tenor, Louis Browne. "The Fr. Mathew Hall
has been a landmark in Athlone for 110 years. Generations of Athlone
families and residents have an affection for the building and is part
of what Athlone is and has been for a long time. Past generations
remember concerts and recitals by our most illustrious citizen Count
John McCormack who brought the name of Athlone to a world audience."
"The building is of historic interest to Athlone. It would be
a sorry mistake to demolish something that has meant so much to real
Athlone people and tourist alike."
Another famous music personality to add his support is Phil Coulter.
"Count John McCormack was known and respected throughout the
world - truly the first Irish Superstar. I would have hoped that he
would be have been honoured by his own local people and that a John
McCormack Museum would be ideally located in Fr. Mathew Hall, where
the great man performed."
Eanna Ni Lamhna, An Taisce President "Your councillors are answerable
to their electorate as they represent their voters. They must be told
what it is enough of you want, to make them realise if they don't
represent their electorate they will lose their seats in 2009 - that
is what democracy is supposed to be all about."
Ian Lumley, An Taisce Heritage Officer "On behalf of An Taisce,
wish to offer our full support for your campaign."To reinforce
the depth of feeling in favour of retaining the Fr. Mathew Hall, the
Athlone Architectural Heritage Group are continuing to collect signed
petitions. We will be pleased to issue a statement when all the cards
are collated. We are hopeful that the Town Council, having studied
the submissions and listened carefully to the people, will make the
correct decision and preserve this cherished piece of our heritage."
If this were indeed to be demolished, and/or redeveloped in a manner
or for a purpose that did not fully respect its origins and function,
and its unique place in the cultural history not just of Athlone ,
but of the country, it would be a travesty. If this were to happen
in John McCormack’s home town would compound the neglect already
evident in the fate of his birthplace. .
Nial Doyle, Chief Executive of Opera Ireland said; "I would urge
those who have any influence over its future development to do so
only in a manner and for a purpose which befits its unique history.
In doing so, you will bring credit to the Town of Athlone and contribute
richly to the cultural heritage of the town and our country."
Back
|
|
|
