Call to rename bridge in tribute to minister

The Luas bridge in Dundrum should be re-named after late TD and Government Minister Seamus Brennan to mark his achievements, it was claimed today.

Mr Brennan, who died last month, was a former Minister for Transport who spearheaded moves to bring the light rail system to the south Dublin suburb.

Local Fianna Fáil councillor Gerry Horkan said the bridge, which opened in 2004, would serve as a fitting monument to the political legacy of Mr Brennan.

The cable-stayed structure, which has a span of 108.5m, is currently named after railway pioneer William Dargan.

Mr Horkan, who was a close personal friend of Mr Brennan, will raise the issue at next month’s meeting of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council.

“I want to investigate the possibility of re-naming the Luas bridge after Seamus and see what procedures are involved,” he said

“Seamus built up Dundrum to what it is today and he also had a massive influence on the Luas project and transport infrastructure in general across Dublin and the rest of the country.

“In fact, Seamus’s resting place in St Naghi’s Cemetery near his home in Dundrum is fittingly overlooked by the bridge.”

The Luas bridge was also depicted on the cover of the Mass booklet at Mr Brennan’s funeral Mass last month and one of the gifts presented by relatives and friends at the ceremony was a Luas ticket.

Mr Brennan, 60, served in several government departments under Taoisigh Charles Haughey, Albert Reynolds, Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen.

His untimely death drew affectionate tributes from cross-party politicians, business leaders, charities, arts and culture agencies and sporting bodies.

In a funeral eulogy, the Taoiseach said Mr Brennan helped to shape a more modern, confident and ambitious Ireland.

“Seamus was a doer and was never afraid to roll up his sleeves,” he added.

Mr Horkan, who has served as a councillor since 2003, added: “Seamus was a Co Galway native but he made Dundrum his home and he was very proud of the local community and its achievements.

“His appeal transcended simple party political allegiances.”

A by-election to fill the vacant seat in Dublin South is expected to take place next year and will be Taoiseach Brian Cowen’s first Dáil electoral test.

Mr Brennan received more than 13,000 first preferences to top the poll in the constituency.