The story - as I have it is, the locals from Michael Coleman's birthplace Gurteen, in Sligo, raised the money and build a (rather magnificent, I have heard) music centre in the town.
They organised a fund-raising event and invited the relevant Government minister Eamonn O'Quiv, who was apparently so impressed that he offered to supply the money required out of Government funds.
Shortly afterwards he appeared to have second thoughts; he agreed to supply the cash, but insisted that he would only give it to Comhaltas, who, as far as I can ascertain, had nothing whatever to do with the project (but does have a director who is a State Senator).
The building was duly signed over to Comhaltas - and that is the situation at present.
I have to say that this happened some time ago. I have been vaguely aware of the situation for some time, but I was only able to find out this much yesterday.
Would love to be told that these details are right or wrong!
Off for a couple of days break - but I'll be back!!!
Jim Carroll