Muiris opens new chapter for Baile an Lochaigh
Credit: Photo by Ted Creedon
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Wednesday December 02 2009
THE first book ever written in Irish dealing with the experience of emigrating to Australia was launched in An Díseart, Dingle, on Friday night.
'An Mám Ó Dheas' was written by Muiris Mossie Ó Scanláin, a native of Baile an Lochaigh and he is the first person from the townland to produce a book, according to Danny Sheehy who launched the publication.
The book deals with the author's early life in his native place including details of his house where he was born, the family farm and the neighbours. His time at the local school and the Technical school in Dingle is also covered
Born in 1954, he joined the Irish Naval Sevice before he reached the age of 17 and was based in Haulbowline in Cork.
But, as Danny Sheehy said, he had an independent mind and a preference for freedom rather than a secure job and so he eventually left the service. He spent time in Dublin and London before heading for Perth and Melbourne in Australia.
The book is peppered with family photographs and etchings by local artist Tomás Ó Ciobháin.
Published by An Sagart, An Mám Ó Dheas was edited by Monsignor Pádraig Ó Fiannachta and is available in hardback at €12.
