Madam, – I read of the death of Brendan Mac Lua in your columns (January 15th) with sadness. I met him in 1978 when I was preparing the first (and to this day, biggest and most influential) festival of the Irish arts abroad. “A Sense of Ireland” would not have been the success it was in London in 1980 but for the wise and generous advice and support he gave.
As publisher/editor of the Irish Post he had already achieved a pre-eminent position amongst the Irish in Britain. So he was a natural choice for our advisory board. But he didn’t want any position, or credit. Instead, he took me under his wing; and mentored me, in confidence, for 18 months. Of all the personal help and advice I received as programme director, none was more selfless and valuable.
His knowledge of the Irish in London, and of Anglo-Irish relations, was second to none. He had a profound understanding of the complex cultural relationship between our two peoples. He had an acute political nose; and could predict all the pitfalls I would face, and point up all the opportunities available. His only motivation was that Ireland should do itself proud in London, and that the Irish community there be well served.
Though he was often playfully gruff, and rarely pulled his punches, he suffered this fool gladly. We lost touch in the years after; but every time I see some grand Irish Centre being opened or hear of some new Chair of Irish Studies, I think of Brendan.
I trust there’s a tender steak, a classic wine and a fine cigar waiting for him above. – Yours, etc,