Batt-mobile brings hometown son back to hero’s welcome

BATT ’is back in Ballincollig — and he told his supporters of 20 years last night they now have a voice at the top table.

The country’s new Education Minister Batt O’Keeffe received a triumphant welcome back to his home town in Cork last night and spoke of the moment his long-term friend, Taoiseach Brian Cowen, announced his appointment.

Mr O’Keeffe said he walked in to the Sycamore Room in Government Buildings on Wednesday evening and saw a friend who said: “Hey kiddo — give me a hug.”