Pics & Vids
29 May 25

Luke Kelly Bridge renaming ceremony 1985 (Photos)

Ahead of the 40th anniversary celebrations of the renaming of the Luke Kelly Bridge, we're taking a look back at the original ceremony in 1985. Photos courtesy of the Dublin and Irish Collections, Dublin City Library & Archive.

The original renaming ceremony of the Luke Kelly Bridge in 1985 was attended by figures such as Taoiseach Charles Haughey, The Dubliners, Bertie Ahern, Nial Ring, Michael D. Higgins, Deirdre O’Connell, singer Christy Moore, and presided over by the then-Lord Mayor of Dublin, Michael O’Halloran, and Dublin City Manager, Frank Feely.

The 40th anniversary of the renaming will take place at the historic North Dublin landmark in Ballybough, on May 31 at 11am.

The event promises to be a vibrant tribute to the legendary musician - who grew up in the nearby North Strand/Sheriff Street area - his legacy, and the bridge’s historical and cultural significance.

The celebrations - organised in association with Dublin City Council - will include live music performances by renowned Luke Kelly Tribute Chris Kavanagh & Niamh Kelly (Luke’s niece) friends, history talk with Sean Deegan (Irish Tenement Museum & In The Shadow Of Croker Walking Tours) as well as a prize giving ceremony to local children and members of Luke Kelly’s family will be in attendance.