A special tapestry dedicated to the late Seamus Heaney has been unveiled at Dublin Airport.

Singer songwriter Paul Simon was on hand for the unveiling of the tapestry of golden, silver, silk and cotton threads, lined with the poetry of Heaney.

“It’s always a good day when you can give a gift,” he said. “I think this is particularly lovely because of the magnitude of the gift and because of the recipients who are all the people of the world really, who are passing through Dublin Airport – soon to be renamed Seamus Heaney airport...”

The poet’s wife, Marie, as well as members of his family along with broadcasters Marian Finucane and Olivia O’Leary also attended the ceremony where the specially-commissioned tapestry was unveiled over the departures floor of terminal two. The tapestry, measuring 16 square metres was suspended from the ceiling of the terminal, visible to all departing passengers.

Chief executive of the Dublin Airport Authority Kevin Toland told the assembled guests it was “a joyful occasion but we are aware that for the Heaney family and for all those who knew Seamus Heaney personally, the joy of this event must still be tinged with deep feelings of sorrow and loss”.