Freeman Barry: ‘I don’t feel worthy, but I am very honoured’

FORMER tánaiste Peter Barry got an unexpected yet pleasant surprise just before he was presented the freedom of his native city.

The man who gave him his first ministry, Liam Cosgrave, turned up in Cork City Hall to shake his protege’s hand minutes before the owner of Barry’s Tea got his accolade.

Cosgrave appointed the Corkman transport and power minister in 1973, and 16 years later he rose to tánaiste.

Peter Barry was accompanied to the ceremony by his wife, Margaret, their six children, including TD Deirdre Clune, and 26 grandchildren.

He said he was deeply honoured to be a freeman in his own city.

“I’m recognised by my own. I don’t feel worthy, but I am very honoured,” the 81-year-old said.

Mr Barry said he believed the highlight of his political career had been the signing of the Anglo-Irish Agreement in 1985.

He said it showed there was a political route to achieving a united Ireland other than through violence and added that he didn’t want Sinn Féin sidelined in the process so they would give up their guns.

He was nominated for the Freedom of the City by Lord Mayor Cllr Dara Murphy.

The mayor said it was a long time coming and he was “delighted to see a great Corkman and a great Irishman given the accolade he richly deserved”.

Mr Barry was given a standing ovation as he walked into the concert hall for the ceremony which was attended by more than 700 people.

The dignitaries included Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny, Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin and Ireland South MEPS Sean Kelly and Alan Kelly.

Commenting on Fine Gael’s showing in opinion polls, Peter Barry looked towards Enda Kenny and said: “I know he’s doing well and is not finished yet,” which drew huge applause from the party faithful.

He advised younger politicians that they had to get out more.

“The public must see you regularly. It’s a different world and people are having a tough time now,” he said.