Donegal County Councillors have given their unanimous support to awarding Clannad the ‘Freedom of the County’.
Grammy-winners Clannad will soon join an illustrious list of people who hold the county’s highest honour, including Paul McGinley, Daniel O’Donnell and Anthony Molloy.
Clannad are being recognised for their enormous contribution to our culture, the promotion of our Irish language and our traditional Irish music both nationally and internationally.
The Gaoth Dobhair band was formed in 1970 by siblings Moya, Ciarán and Pól Brennan and their uncles Noel and Pádraig Duggan (who sadly passed away in 2016), and for a short time later became a six-piece with the addition of Enya Brennan who then went on to have her own successful solo career.
Over 50 years, the multi-award-winning band took Irish music and the Irish language to a worldwide audience. They are one of the most successful and acclaimed soundtrack artists, winning a Grammy Award (‘Best New Age Album’ for 1999’s Landmarks), Billboard Music Award, and a BBC 2 Folk Award (for Lifetime Achievement).
Cllr Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig said it was a personal honour to propose the band members for the Freedom of Donegal. He also remarked on the sorrowful fact that two members, brothers Noel and Pádraig, were no longer with us.
Cllr Mac Giolla Easbuig said the honour would have a special significance this year, as it is Clannad’s final year of touring after more than 50 years.
Cllr Noreen McGarvey, who seconded the motion, said that Clannad is a highly influential group and that Moya Brennan has continued to share her passion as a mentor for the youth in Donegal.
Donegal County Council is now set to make arrangements to hold a reception for Clannad to present the honour.
