The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, last night said the decision to erect a statue in honour of former Dubliners singer Luke Kelly was "a fitting tribute to an outstanding figure". Dublin City Council agreed provisionally on Monday night to erect a statue in honour of the dead singer.
Speaking last night, Mr Ahern told The Irish Times: "Luke Kelly was an outstanding Dubliner who made a huge contribution to the cultural and artistic life in this country. It is only fitting that he should have a monument to commemorate him."
Proposed by Sinn Féin Councillor Mr Christy Burke, the statue, will be located either in the north inner city or at some point at the docklands where the singer worked.
Mr Burke said the statue was "highly appropriate and a justified acknowledgement of his contribution to those around him". He said: "Luke was not just a great personal friend of mine but this statue is a fitting tribute to a man who has touched and inspired so many people.
"Luke reminds me of Elvis Presley and his music, his name and his vision live on to this day. I can still remember his wild red hair and his bright blue coat walking up Talbot Street."
A spokeswoman for Dublin City Council last night said: "Provisional agreement for a tribute to Luke Kelly has been reached and the matter is now being dealt with by the Arts and Culture Strategic Policy Committee."
Costings and the style for the statue still have to be agreed, however, calls for a life size bronze statue have emerged.
It has emerged that initial figures for the project are likely to be available before the end of the month.
It was discovered that Kelly had a brain tumour after he collapsed on stage, and despite several operations he died on January 30th, 1984.