Here in Ireland it is difficult not to compare the reaction to the death of Peter Kennedy with that of the former Taoiseach, Charlie Haughey.
There can be no Disputing the fact that many people, myself included, were first introduced to traditional performers through the BBC collecting project directed by Peter. Equally, there can be no argument that his approach to the material that was collected under the auspices of the BBC, its ownership and distribution and his treatment of the people from whom the songs and music were recorded were, to say the least, questionable.
It will be interesting to see if an open and honest assessment of his work takes place now the threat of legal action is no longer with us.
I'm sure this will get up a number of noses; I certainly hope so!
Jim Carroll