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Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty Honoured in Kiskeam with Commemorative Mural Unveiling
Monsignor Hugh O’ Flaherty, remembered as one of the most courageous humanitarians of the 20th century, was honoured in his native Kiskeam last Sunday when the local community got together to unveil a commemorative Mural in the Village. The Project was coordinated by Marie O’ Leary and Niall Collins under the umbrella of Kiskeam Community Development Association and funded by Cork County Council. The morning’s torrential rain gave way to a sunshine filled dry spell from 2pm - surely a symbol of the beacon of hope Monsignor O’ Flaherty offered to the 6,500 people he saved during World War Two.
Speakers at the launch included MC Paddy H O’ Connor, Cllr. Bernard Moynihan, Marie O’ Leary, Niall Collins and descendents of the late Monsignor O’ Flaherty. Marie and Niall who were the main coordinators of the project thanked Cork County Council for providing funding; the Cullinane family for allowing the mural to be painted on the wall of their premises and everyone who helped get the project over the line.
Artist Pat Cronin who is a Kiskeam native living in Dublin was commended for his wonderful creativity in depicting the many facets of Monsignor Hugh’s life in the painting. The ribbon was cut and the mural officially unveiled by Pearl O’ Flaherty from Cahersiveen, a niece of the late Monsignor O’ Flaherty. Presentations were made to the Cullinane Family and to Artist Pat Cronin while Anne Quinlan, a relative of the late Monsignor presented his Baptismal Certificate to his niece Pearl O’ Flaherty. Kiskeam Brass Band and Piper Joanie McAuliffe were on hand and added their own special musical magic to the occasion.
