Tributes have been pouring in for poet and writer Brendan Kennelly following his death (yesterday) Sunday.

President Michael D. Higgins, Minister for Education and Kerry TD Norma Foley, and the Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Jimmy Moloney, have extended their condolences.

Kennelly, one of the country's most popular poets, was a Professor of Modern Literature at Trinity College, Dublin until 2005. He passed away in Áras Mhuire Nursing Home, Listowel, at the age of 85.

"As one of those who had the great fortune of enjoying the gift of friendship with Brendan Kennelly for many years, it is with great sadness that I have heard of his passing," President Michael D. Higgins said.

"As a poet, Brendan Kennelly had forged a special place in the affections of the Irish people. He brought so much resonance, insight, and the revelation of the joy of intimacy to the performance of his poems and to gatherings in so many parts of Ireland. He did so with a special charm, wit, energy and passion."

With more than 30 collections, he leaves a major body of work, a legacy of teaching as Professor of Modern Literature at Trinity College Dublin, and the gratitude of so many younger poets whom he encouraged with honest and helpful critical advice, he added.

"Sabina and I offer our condolences to his sister Nancy, his brothers, Sean, John, Alan and Paddy, his granddaughters and the extended family as well as his wide circle of friends, all of whom treasured his presence among them, a friendship he valued."

A PROUD KERRYMAN

Minister for Education and Kerry TD Norma Foley said she was saddened to hear of his passing.

"A proud Kerryman and giant of the world of literature. A wordsmith beyond compare blessed with a noble heart and infinite well of creativity. Many, many happy hours in times gone by spent with my students studying his wonderful poems. Remembering him with both gratitude and admiration. Rest in peace, Brendan.”

Mayor of Kerry, Cllr Jimmy Moloney, said “Brendan Kennelly was a remarkable poet and writer who produced some of the most important and iconic poems which now form part of his rich legacy".

"He made poetry popular and accessible, which won him such admiration nationally and internationally. Brendan was first and foremost a Ballylongford man and despite many years in Dublin, he always maintained a close link with, and a love of, his native place. Several years ago, Kerry County Council had the honour of hosting a Civic Reception for Brendan in his homeplace. I know that was one of his proudest days, surrounded by his family and neighbours.”

The Chief Executive of Kerry County Council, Moira Murrell, said that Brendan Kennelly was an exceptional ambassador for Kerry.

“Brendan Kennelly was an exceptionally generous and kind man who always had great time for the people of his native county. He has made an enormous and enduring impact on Irish poetry, literature and culture, which is his wonderful legacy.”
 

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS

Friends of Brendan and members of the public are invited to pay their respects at the Church of St Michael the Archangel, Ballylongford, from 3.30pm to 5.30pm tomorrow (Tuesday).
 
Funeral Mass will be held at 12 noon in the Church of St Michael the Archangel, Ballylongford, on Wednesday followed by burial in Lislaughtin Cemetery, Ballylongford.