Dancing in...O'Connor Park?

Can you imagine Bruce Springsteen singing hits including “Born in the USA”, “Dancing in the Dark” and “Streets of Philadelphia” in O’Connor Park?

It might not be as far-fetched an idea so you think, as that’s just what was suggested at last Tuesday’s meeting of Tullamore Town Council.

At the meeting Independent councillor Sean O’Brien proposed that the council congratulate both Tullamore GAA and the Offaly GAA County Board for the development of the excellent facilities in Tullamore which have led to the attraction of top GAA matches to Tullamore.

“We recognise the huge contribution these matches make to the local economy with many local businesses benefiting,” he said.

“We also recognise that many volunteers work long hours to ensure the success of these matches.

'We endeavour to work with the GAA to ensure that these events continue, are successful and minimise disruption to residents in the immediate locality.”

The motion attracted no dissenters, with councillors across the board lauding the work of the GAA locally.

Town clerk Martin Daly told those gathered that over 81,000 had attended O’Connor Park in 2012, while to date this year the venue has attracted 54,000.

He said the two challenges in relation to the impressive venue are increasing its benefit to the town of Tullamore, and also working with the community around it to ensure match days have minimal negative impact.

However it was a suggestion by Fianna Fail councillor Sinead Dooley that stood out.

She suggested that other uses for O’Connor Park - for example as a concert venue - be looked at. “Like Bruce Springsteen,” she suggested.