Broken Wand - Dathaí O'Connell

Dathaí O'Connell R.I.P.  We have just learned the sad news that MSM member Dathaí O'Connell has passed away.  Anthony Galvin writes

"Dathaí was best known as a traditional story-teller, and was one of the highlights of more than one Limerick Gala show. He was a very funny performer, who told traditional stories in a uniquely entertaining way.  During his years in the MSM Dathaí was a familiar figure, cycling in from his home in Ballyneaty to attend the meetings. He cycled everywhere, and seemed to have little connection with the twentieth century, living alone in a small house without modern conveniences, with nothing but a vast collection of trad. tapes to keep him company.  However what many people did not realise was that Dathaí had spent decades in England working as an electrical engineer, before returning to his home place.  He was a talented amateur actor, and was also very involved in local quizzes. A warm, friendly and gentle man, he will be missed".