Passions run high over statue’s status

THE PROMOTERS of a statue to commemorate the late writer Bryan MacMahon (1909-1998) have appealed a planning decision by Listowel Town Council so they can retain the height of the monument in the interests of “the status of the statue.”

Controversy has surrounded the €27,000 project. Its scheduled erection and unveiling during last month's Listowel Writers' Week by Senator Maurice Hayes was postponed when it was realised it needed planning permission.

The 1.8 metre life-size bronze statue on a 15 centimetre bronze base on the grounds of the refurbished Listowel Castle was given the go-ahead, but on condition the 71cm stone base was omitted. Planners considered the overall height of 2.66 metres too high if the base were to be included.