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Minister Deenihan said “it is with great sadness that I learned of the death of one of Ireland’s most well known musicians. Barney McKenna was a member of the Dubliners from its initial formation as ‘the Ronnie Drew Ballad Group’ some 50 years ago. His talent playing the Banjo was exceptional. He is credited with bringing the banjo into mainstream traditional music playing”

“Though a Dublin man in every sense, born and bred in Donnycarney, now residing in Howth, he was also known throughout the length and breadth of the country. Indeed, at many performances people would request some of his own melodies. He was one of life’s gentlemen and his passing so unexpectedly is no doubt a great shock to his partner Tina and his extended family and friends.”