Kells Cross rescue plan
March 31st, 2009

By Evan Short
Senior Reporter

A FAMOUS Kells landmark is on the verge of getting extra protection it was
confirmed talks were at an advanced stage with a Irish American family who were
interested in spending money to support local heritage.
Concerns have been growing about the high cross located at the entrance of the
heritage centre and the level of protection afforded to it by the current roof.
A new roof is needed but the Council have been forced to look elsewhere for
funding because of cutbacks.
Kells Cathaoirleach Brian Collins said he met up with the successful business
family when he was in New York for St Patrick's Day, and while he cannot yet
divulge who they are he says they can trace their roots back to the town and are
very keen on getting involved.
"I had initial discussions with one member of the family and they suggested a
fundraiser over there on behalf of the town or they will make the donation
themselves but the details have still to be worked out," said Cllr Collins.
According to the Councillor, the current roof that covers the cross is totally
unacceptable for a structure of such importance.
"The current thing is ugly, and it is an eyesore, and it should be removed but
if the council had no money to fix it in times of plenty we certainly don't
now," he said.
"The protective cover on the cross is made of two sheets of laminate and while a
lot of people look at the top and think its ugly and green and the Council are
not doing their job and cleaning it, it is actually a fungus growing between the
laminate.
"There was a failure on the seal on the side of it between the two sheets. We
could have replaced it with one sheet but the advice at the time was that this
wouldn't be of any use."







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