Gilbert O'Sullivan confirms he will play in Waterford at a future date
The Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr Joe Conway presents the Freedom Scroll to mark the occasion of his conferring of the Freedom of Waterford, to Waterford born musician, Gilbert O'Sullivan at a ceremony held in City Hall, Waterford. Picture: Noel Browne
Music legend Gilbert O'Sullivan, who was given the Freedom of Waterford City and County last Thursday, March 27, has said he will perform in Waterford later this year.
The iconic songwriter, accompanied by his wife, children and grandchildren, was afforded the honour at a special ceremony in City Hall where he was joined by all the elected members, officials from the local authority and a large gathering of invited guests.
Among those present were his relatives from Waterford and personal friends, including British TV star, Bobby Davro.
The accolade, the highest one that can be bestowed by the local authority, was in recognition of the iconic songwriter's contribution to popular culture through his music and songs.
Following the formalities of the evening O’Sullivan spoke briefly to the Waterford News & Star about his work and what it meant to him personally to be recognized by his home city.
His acceptance speech was very personal and at times emotion-filled, especially when he referred to how proud his mother would have been to see Waterford recognising her son in such a manner.
With regard to his future plans, he admitted that a concert in Waterford is very much on the agenda.
“That’s the plan, it has to be,” he said. “We are going to be doing two shows in Cork, two nights in Dublin, in September, and the plan is to come to Waterford, so that will happen."
Glowing tributes were paid to O'Sullivan during the event, with Mayor of Waterford City & County, Councillor Joe Conway, highlighting the fact that his "unique blend of melodic craftsmanship, witty wordplay, topical acuity and surrealist humour" had given him an enduring and endearing career. Presenting Freedom of the City and County on the star was proposed by Councillor Lola O'Sullivan and seconded by Councillor Joe Kelly, both of whom also paid tribute to Gilbert O'Sullivan at the ceremony.
The event was attended by elected members, local authority officials and relatives of the star, many of whom he said he hadn't seen for many years.
