15/06/2010 -

Flatley Leads Community Celebration in Culfadda

‘This is the proudest day of my life’ declared Michael Flatley as he formally opened the new ‘Garden of Music and Memory’ in his native Culfadda. He was joined in the glorious Culfadda sunshine by his wife Niamh, son Michael St James and parents Michael Senior and Elizabeth.

Michael Flatley and his father Michael Senior

The Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Councillor Gerry Murray welcomed the community ‘to this special day of celebration for the people of Culfadda. For an area steeped in the rich traditions of Irish music and culture, there is an enormous sense of pride in welcoming home someone who has made an outstanding contribution to this on the world stage.’

Michael Flatley celebrates at opening of new garden named in his honour

The Cathaoirleach praised the Flatley family ‘for their warm and genuine hospitality, their unwavering pride in their Irish heritage and culture, and their generosity in sharing their unique talents with the world. One of the priorities I set myself as Cathaoirleach was to work with the Culfadda community to find some way to honour this special association, and I think I speak for the whole community when I say the garden of music and memory is a beautiful and fitting testament which will be admired and enjoyed for many generations.’

Cathaoirleach Councillor Gerry Murray and Michael's Flatley's mother Elizabeth enjoy the Irish music session in Culfadda

The local community were commended for their role.’Today is about the people of Culfadda, and they excelled themselves in preparing for this visit – people like Paul Judge, John Higgins and Sharon Higgins, who, for their tireless efforts over the last few years embody the true meaning of community spirit.’

Michael Flatley formally opens Culfadda's 'Garden of Music and Memory'