This article is from page 21 of the 2012-07-03 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 21 JPG
SECURITY arrangements in place for the recent Clare Connections concert in Ennis appeared “heavy handed”, a meeting has heard.
Despite poor weather, the concert, which featured performances by singer Maura O’Connell and the Kilfenora Ceilí Band, drew a large crowd to the Abbey Street car park.
The free music event was organised as part of Love Live Music – a daylong celebration of all forms of music in Ireland through free live music events in cities, towns and villages all over the country. The success of the event could see Ennis receive financial support for a larger concert next year.
Councillors hailed the success of the concert though some voiced concerns over security arrangements.
Councillor Michael Guilfoyle (Ind) said he had met two elderly men who were re-directed to other entrances despite having hand-stamps for the event.
He said security at times appeared “heavy handed” and that this was an issue that organisers should address for future events.
He said, there had been “fantastic feedback” from people in Ennis to the event.
Town manager Ger Dollard noted that there had been a short lead in time to the event. He said the fact that the event was “heavily policed and well marshalled” should be viewed positively.
He added, “It does give a platform, in terms of The Gathering in 2013, that we have a track record for an event of that kind.”
Cllr Mary Howard (FG) said music lovers would normally pay up to € 200 to see the calibre of line-up on display at the concert. Cllr Howard said the rain failed to dampen the spirits of those who attended on the night. She said that in light of ongoing attempts to stage Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann, the concert showed that Ennis has the capacity to hold family friendly mid-week events.
Cllr Frankie Neylon (Ind) said the even had attracted national attention.