The main roadway at Cork Airport is to be renamed, 'Rory Gallagher Avenue', it has been confirmed.
This formal naming of the runway will take place on June 14, which will mark 30 years since the music legend's passing. The event will see Taoiseach Micheál Mairtin unveil the new signage of the main roadway, accompanied by Rory's brother, Dónal Gallagher and other members of the Gallagher family.
It also forms part of a bigger initiative from the Rory Gallagher Estate, Cork City Libraries, and the Cork City Council who are also organising memorial celebrations for the late guitarist, dubbed 'Cork Rocks for Rory'.
It was also confirmed that a photographic exhibition on Rory's early years would also open in the Atrium, including unseen photos of the late musician, as well as his first guitar, handwritten lyrics and first recordings.
Cork City Library will also host an event called 'Lyrics, Vinyle & Visuals', looking at Rory's writings and musical influences. This will run from June 14-24.
Elsewhere, the Rory Gallagher 'Stompin' Ground Cork City Walking Trail will be available via the QR Code from June 14 onwards. This will highlight the streets and places which Rory often frequented.
Speaking on these celebrations, Cllr Dan Boyle, the Lord Mayor of Cork, said: “Rory Gallagher has been Cork's finest cultural export across the world. As we mark the 30th anniversary of his passing, we must celebrate his genius".
Elsewhere, the Gallagher family have said that they are “honoured and proud” of the renaming and the initiative taken by the city.
Speaking on this, Rory’s nephew, Eoin Gallagher stated that “the popularity and interest in Rory’s music and life has only continued to grow and grow here in Ireland and throughout the world. The Rory Gallagher estate is committed to continue to share the magic of Rory Gallagher's music and look forward to building together with the Cork City Council and future partners in continuing to honour Rory’s legacy and Cork roots”.
Other places named after the late musician include The Rory Gallagher Place and the Rory Gallagher Music Library.
Last month, our very own Marty Miller aired a special documentary in honour of Rory Gallagher, which included rare recordings, previously unheard interviews, as well as a host of deeply personal memories. Check that out here.
