The Government are to look into the idea of purchasing a legendary electric guitar owned by rock and blues icon Rory Gallagher.
This option is being explored by the Government in order to keep it as a piece of national cultural heritage.
It had been announced that this guitar, a 1961 Fender Stratocaster which was owned by Gallagher, was to be auctioned off in Bonhams in London on October 17.
It was originally purchased by Gallagher for £100 from Crowley’s Music Store in Cork in 1963.
The interest in the guitar which has been described as “the most recognisable Strat in rock history”, is set to intensify in the meantime, with some even estimating the value of this instrument of over €1 million.
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up as part of the bid to keep the guitar in the country.
Government Say “it would be lovely” To Keep Gallagher Guitar In Ireland
Speaking about the guitar, Tánaiste Micheál Martin has said that he will mention the matter to Culture and Heritage Minister Catherine Martin.
“I would love to (keep it in Ireland) if we could”, said Mr Martin, who has even watched Gallagher perform live. “Obviously I will talk to (Minister) Catherine Martin and see what is possible. But it would be lovely if we could get that guitar back on Leeside”.
Elsewhere, Micheál Martin has said that holding a civic reception for Gallagher, was one of his fondest memories from his tenure as Lord Mayor of Cork.
Mr Martin have also added that it was unclear what the Government could do regarding the guitar. He also said that he would explore every possible avenue to keep items which have such valuable cultural heritage in Ireland.
Next year marks the 30th anniversary of Rory Gallagher’s death.
Despite this, the late singer’s record sales and music downloads remain strong, remaining popular in countries like France, Germany, the Netherlands and the US.
