‘His death is a great loss’ – President Higgins pays touching tribute to Irish music star’s father after tragic passing

PRESIDENT Michael D Higgins has paid tribute to the father of a member of the band Kneecap as a “major figure in the Irish language movement”.

Kneecap, whose eponymous feature film was recently shortlisted for two Oscars, honoured Gearoid O Caireallain at their Belfast gig on Saturday, hours after his death.

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A photo of Mr O Carrellinfather of bandmate Moglai Bap – whose real name is Naoise O Caireallain – was projected onto a screen alongside the dates 1957-2024.

In a post on social media, the Irish language rap trio described him as “an Irish language revolutionary, community activist, loving father, husband and an inspiration to many”.

Mr Higginswho is an avid advocate for the Irish language, paid tribute to Mr O Caireallain in a statement on Sunday night.

“A major figure in the Irish language movement, Gearoid O Caireallain’s death is a great loss for all those who work for the use of the Irish language: its rights, its literature, and its place in the daily life of people.

“He served as president of Conradh na Gaeilge, but his contribution was much wider than that.

“Sabina and I send our sympathy to his family, including his sons Ainle, Cairbre and Naoise.”

His funeral is due to take place on Christmas Eve in in St Peter’s Cathedral in Belfast at 10am.

He is survived by his wife Brid O Gallchoir, sons Ainle, Cairbre and music star Naoise as well as mum Theresa, and siblings Marie, Anthony, Martin, Claire, and Cristin.

In the full tribute posted on social media Kneecap said the gig they played Saturday night would make him proud.

They wrote: “Gearoid O Caireallain, father of Moglai Bap passed away last night.

“He was an Irish language revolutionary, community activist, loving father, husband and an inspiration to many.

“We are heartbroken.”

They continued: “Tonight’s concert at the SSE arena will be the largest Irish language gig in the city’s history.

“Nothing would have made him prouder. Tonight is for him.”

Flaunt Weeekly BAND’S SUCCESS

The popular trio released their self-titled movie earlier this year that has helped their preexisting success skyrocket.

The film scooped up seven gongs at the British Independent Film Awards at the start of December.

And the Northern Irish trio have made the Oscars shortlist for the film.

Members Mo Chara, Moglai Bap and DJ Provai are up for Best International Feature and Best Original Song at the prestigious awards.

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