Cowen recalls Drew's unique voice loved by so many

THE FUNERAL of singer Ronnie Drew will take place in Greystones, Co Wicklow, tomorrow.

The 73-year-old lead singer of the Dubliners died on Saturday after a long illness, prompting tributes from - among others - President Mary McAleese and Taoiseach Brian Cowen.

Drew is survived by his son Phelim, daughter Cliodhna and five grandchildren.

Mrs McAleese described Drew as "a champion of traditional music'' who, with the Dubliners, had re-energised and refreshed our unique musical heritage.

"He brought great pleasure to the people of Ireland and yet more around the world,'' said Mrs McAleese.

Mr Cowen said Drew was an iconic figure in Irish music over the past five decades. "His unique singing voice was loved by so many people,'' he said.

"Ronnie, whether as part of the Dubliners, or during his solo career, will also be remembered for his promotion of Irish music, both at home and around the world.''

Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny expressed sympathy with Drew's family and said he hoped "they found some solace in the joy he brought to so many people through his music and gregarious character''.

Labour Party spokeswoman on the arts Mary Upton said: "He was widely acclaimed at home and abroad, particularly for his songs reflecting the values and concerns of the working class and labour movements.''

Lord Mayor of Dublin Eibhlin Byrne said that "Ronnie was a Dub in the finest sense of the word, one of Dublin's great ambassadors''.

SDLP leader Mark Durkan said his death marked the loss of one of Ireland's warmest characters, who was recognised worldwide as a man of song and spirit.

"He was also a man of charity. As well as using his charm and talent to bring enjoyment to all," said Mr Durkan.

Nobel peace prize laureate and former SDLP leader John Hume said he would always appreciate Drew's support for the peace process.

"As well as being a man who told many stories through his songs, he was also a man of deep conviction for Ireland and for peace,'' Mr Hume added.

In comments posted on his website, U2's Bono said: "Weddings, funerals, bar mitzvahs . . . that's what I loved about Ronnie Drew's voice and spirit. Music to inspire, to console . . . an optimism that was contagious . . .''

Drew's remains are reposing in his family home in Greystones, Co Wicklow. He will be buried in Redford cemetery after 10am Mass at the Church of the Holy Rosary, in Greystones, tomorrow.