It was a landmark day in Ballinalee on Sunday last as the Rose Cottage War of Independence Centre was officially opened by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. This historic property, which was home to the late General Sean MacEoin, and headquarters to the North Longford Flying Column, played an important role during the Battle of Ballinalee 103 years ago, has been regenerated into an exhibition centre, community hub and coffee shop. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO The community-led development is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, Ballinalee Community Group, and Longford County Council. Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar spoke of the significance of the history associated with North Longford and the importance of Rose Cottage to the local community in Ballinalee. He remarked, “Alongside the Rebel Trail, Rose Cottage will preserve the history and identity of North Longford and of General Sean MacEoin during the War of Independence and will allow you, in this part of the country, to tell your significant story.” Mr Varadkar continued, “Rose Cottage, formerly a derelict building, has been transformed into a wonderful asset for the locality and will provide employment here at the heart of Ballinalee. It will also be an ideal stopping off point for tourists helping visitors to appreciate and learn the heritage of this special place in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.” Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Colm Murray paid tribute to the local community for their dedication in making the vision of Rose Cottage a reality. “It is right that the people of Longford celebrate the heritage and history of Sean MacEoin and I want to praise the people of Ballinalee and the wider county who have helped to preserve his memory and achievements over the years. “Ten years ago, Iar-Taoiseach Enda Kenny came here to unveil a statue to Sean MacEoin and we are delighted to have Taoiseach Leo Varadkar here with us today to officially
PICTURES | Landmark day for Longford as An Taoiseach opens Rose Cottage War of Independence Centre in Ballinalee
Caption: Taoiseach Leo Varadkar making his speech at the opening of the Rose Cottage War of Independence Centre, Ballinalee Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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Caption: Large crowds gathered for the event in Ballinalee Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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Caption: Wreaths were presented to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Cathaoirleach Colm Murray by Grace MacEoin great granddaughter of Seamus MacEoin and Killian Burns great grandson of Pat Cooke. Both men were members of the North Longford Flying Column. Also in picture is Killian's father Charlie Burns and Grace's mother Paula MacEoin Picture: Shelley Corcoran
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Caption: Grace MacEoin presents a laurel wreath to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar during the ceremony in Ballinalee Picture: Shelley Corcoran
