Demise of an Iconic Rural Irish Pub

By Tom O'Keeffe

With some sadness and fond memories we saw this week the demise of an iconic pub, the social centre of a community. Three generations of my family have frequented the Central Bar in Knocknagree or Dan Batty’s as it was known. The Hickey family have presided over it for four generations. And now suddenly it is no more.

It was the focal point for births and baptisms, engagements, marriages and funerals. It became the community centre, the shed, the sports hall and the confessional of a widespread rural community. At every juncture, whether grief or joy, it was the go to place for a celebration or a wake.

The irony of the situation is inescapable. Dan Batty and Bertie, in different eras both opted to give their children an education and open up opportunities for them to have careers and fortunate lives. This has rebounded on the traditional rural industries of farming and pubs among others. Those same offspring now look to pubs and farms for food and social, but often not as a living and a career.

The abiding question being asked is ‘where will we go now’.? There will assuredly be another venue but none so welcoming, engaging and with soul, as Dan Battys.

Bertie without doubt deserves his reward - a period of leisure and relaxation. He has toiled ceaselessly for many years to sustain the business. One did wonder given his boundless generosity how the business could have prospered. But prosper it did, based on the good will of all who frequented the premises.

As the closed call goes out for the last time, we wish Bertie and his family the best of good fortune and fondly hope that he can enjoy the long Autumn of his career. It is totally appropriate that everyone gets the time to enjoy the fruits of their labour. Long may Karma prevail and reward your goodwill and generosity of spirit.

Beir Bua Marita and Bertie !!