I am still waiting for my question re the alleged financial misappropriation of royalties[what was the amount] to be answered by Fred McCORMICK.as far as I am concerned and anyone else who wants to make a level headed judgement, it is relevant. I am sorry to hear John died of malnutrition, but that is the responsibility of the IRISH SOCIAL SERVICES AND GOVERNMENT, It is their duty to look after citizens in need, [ if we knew how much kennedy ripped off, of reilly we could make a considered judgement]as to whether or not he contributed to it, are we talking about five shillings, five pounds, fifty , 500pounds, five thousand pounds,50 thousand pounds, i am sorry but it is relevant and it does make a difference.I agree it is very sad when someone dies of malnutrition,but care is needed in apportioning blame and making judgements.
if you accuse someone of ripping someone off,I would like to have detailed financial evidence[ amount wise],perhaps you can make me change my mind .
if the case was so strong against Kennedy why did no one take him to court,Dallas, mccormick, carroll etc.
   I would be prepared to change my assesment of Kennedy if you can give me more information.
       Finally collectors need to make it clear, that traditional songs are not necessarily the property of those who sing them,any more than they are of collectors. Honesty is required, no one should be coerced into letting a collector record the song they are singing, if the deal doesnt suit both parties.
But IN criticising Kennedy,is it going to prevent others operating Similarly or worse in the folk field.
I have three recordings owned by someone in englandthat are being suppressed, that even if I didnt see a penny in royalties , I would prefer to see giving pleasure to people, and publicity to myself, but this discussion I am sure will not convert THAT PERSON on the road to damascus.