Rosslare councillor avails of photo opps at event he had previously criticised – ‘I’m not sure he was aware of where he was’
Wexford PeopleA councillor who has previously questioned New Ross’s ties with Danville, California has been accused of “taking centre stage” at an event designed to strengthen relations between the two towns. As part of the Eugene O’Neill festival, a week-long event which celebrates New Ross’s relationship with the US, a concert was held in St Michael’s Theatre which celebrated the music of Carrig on Bannow.
Featuring performances from Bar of Lough, Tulua, and The Danescastle Music Group, the event also featured a presentation to John and Pip Murphy, sons of the late Phil Murphy, honouring their lasting contribution to Irish music and culture.
In keeping with such a grand occasion there were photo opportunities aplenty for those who wished to share in the celebrations with the Murphys, However, the presence of one politician, enjoying a night outside of his own district, in those photos has drawn criticism from some quarters.
Speaking at the October meeting of the New Ross Municipal District (NRMD), Councillor Bridín Murphy noted that this Rosslare councillor, believed to be Jim Codd, had previously voiced his opposition to New Ross’s ongoing partnership with Danville.
"At that event a councillor not from this district who has been one of the biggest critics of our relationship with Danville and the festival took it upon himself to be centre stage in every photo,” said Cllr Murphy. “I’m not even sure he was aware of what event he was at.”
In more positive news, district manager for New Ross, Alan Fitzhenry, said this year’s festival had been a great success.
“On behalf of the district I’d like to say a huge congratulations to the organisers of the Eugene O’Neill festival,” he said. “It saw large crowds in the town and brought significant business to retailers, it was almost fully sold-out and we welcomed a large delegation from Danville for the week, strengthening our ties with them.”