The main entrance road to Cork Airport has been named in honor of legendary Irish guitarist Rory Gallagher. Taoiseach Micheál Martin unveiled ‘Rory Gallagher Avenue’ to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Cork musician’s death in 1995. The airport is part of a Cork City Council’s new ‘Stompin’ Ground trail that highlights places that were associated with Mr. Gallagher’s life and career.

Although born in Co Donegal in 1948, the blues and rock guitarist grew up in Cork city, where his legacy continues to resonate. This is the first time the city has celebrated his international career on such a large scale with events being held across the weekend. Rory Gallagher was known internationally as a blues and rock musician.

Mr. Martin paid tribute to the 'genuine rock star who inspired people right around the world with his music'. 'His legacy is one which reverberates across Cork, and it is only fitting that he is honored in the city where he spent much of his life,' he said. 'I want to pay tribute to the Gallagher family and all those at Cork Airport and Cork City Council in bringing about this wonderful initiative in Rory’s memory.'

Mr. Gallagher’s brother Dónal said that the star had traversed the roadway 'throughout his lifetime to engage with his international career'. He added that the Gallagher family was deeply honored by the 'heartfelt gesture'. Belgian guitarist Jacques Stotzem played a rendition of some of Mr. Gallagher’s greatest hits at the event.

Meanwhile, Lord Mayor of Cork Dan Boyle said that Mr. Gallagher will be 'forever remembered at the airport that brought him all over the world, showcasing his unique talent and equally so, the airport that welcomed him home'.