This article is from page 98 of the 2006-09-05 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 98 JPG
THE promoters of plans to commemorate Richard Harris in Kilkee are ready to flout the planning laws by erecting a statue to the Hollywood actor in the west Clare resort.
Last month, Clare County Council granted planning permission for plans to celebrate the late Hollywood actor in Kilkee, in spite of opposition from local residents.
Plans have been drawn up with one Hollywood star due in Kilkee on September 30 to unveil the statue.
But the project has already suffered a setback with local resident, Maureen McMahon, yesterday appealing the decision to An Bord Pleanála.
The statue was to be erected in the Wellington Square area, depicting Harris playing racquet ball. The actor won a racquet ball competition four times in a row in the west Clare resort, where he used spend much of his summer holidays.
However, Project Director Manuel di Lucia said that the statue will now be erected on private property on a temporary basis on Kilkee’s Cliff Walk over the well-known Pollock Holes.
Mr di Lucia said that he was not concerned about any planning issues that may arise until An Bord Pleanála deliver its decision on the appeal.
“The statue will be there until an Bord Pleanála gives planning permission for the statue at Wellington Square”, he said.
Mr di Lucia confirmed that “a major Hollywood star” will be in attendance for the unveiling at the end of September.
“We are very disappointed that the appeal has been lodged. I’m absolutely gutted. It should go up on Wellington Square because it was near there that Richard played racquet ball. I can’t understand why anyone would appeal and one woman is scuppering the arrangements for the whole town.”
He said that the organising committee would not be negotiating with Ms McMahon over her appeal.
Speaking to The Clare People yesterday from Kilkee, Maureen McMahon said, “I have no objection to the Richard Harris statue, but I do object to where it is being put as it is a residential area.”
In her initial objection , Ms McMahon said, “The proposed statue is 20 yards from my house. I do not want a statue or anything like it erected in front of my home. It would interfere with my view and attract crowds of people who may be undesirable.”
Mr di Lucia confirmed that over €35,000 of the €42,000 budget for the project has now been raised with former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds contributing €1,000.
The twice-Oscar nominated actor and star of Gladiator and The Field has strong associations with Kilkee and his three sons have confirmed that they will contribute €21,000 to the project and will be present for the unveiling of the statue by local sculptor, Seamus Connolly.