Tribute paid to Dublin character

A TRIBUTE to well-known Dublin figure Mary Margaret Dunne, organised through the social networking site Facebook, was held at the Spire on O’Connell Street yesterday.

The campaign to honour Ms Dunne, who sang danced and preached the gospel in the city centre for more than 30 years, attracted more than 15,000 members on Facebook. However, fewer than 60 people turned up to the event despite the draw of a performance from Dubliners member Eamonn Campbell.

The campaign began when Facebook member Karen Hyland posted a query asking if anyone remembered Ms Dunne. “I remembered her from years ago, but hadn’t seen her in a few years and wondered where she had gone. I got thousands of responses, and almost as many different stories, some saying she’d passed away.”

It emerged Ms Dunne (83) is living with her son in Deansgrange in south Dublin. Fellow Facebook member Danny O’Malley suggested organising a tribute event to her. “I got the idea from Gay Byrne, of organising a tribute to someone while they’re still alive. She was always a very elegant, very spiritual woman and the last of the old Dublin characters.”

Mr O’Malley said he spoke to Ms Dunne, who he said was a “great gaelgóir” but she was unable to attend the event.

Campbell sang Dubliners' standards The Wild Rover, Dicey Rileyand Dirty Old Townat the gathering. He said he was contacted about the event by his brother-in-law.

“Mary was a part of the Dublin scenery. She had a magical smile that would just light up your day. I was glad to play in her honour.”

Phillip Roche, of Dublin band the Nom Nom Noms also performed.