Louth councillor calls for Radio Caroline memorial at Greenore

Cllr John Reilly has said he will be asking Louth County Council to erect a plaque, or another suitable form of commemoration, at Greenore Port to celebrate the remarkable story of pirate radio station, Radio Caroline, and its founder, local man Ronan O’Rahilly.

Ronan O’Rahilly, who grew up in the Greenore area, had the visionary idea in the early 1960s to launch what many regard as the first pirate radio station.

His bold move revolutionised broadcasting, bringing pop music directly to millions of listeners across Ireland and Britain at a time when, Cllr Reilly said, mainstream radio stations largely ignored emerging artists and youth culture.

The ship that carried the original station, MV Caroline, was fitted out at Greenore Port before setting sail, making Greenore, Cllr Reilly added, the birthplace of this broadcasting revolution. Radio Caroline went on to shape modern radio and music culture, and its story remains a powerful symbol of creativity, independence, and change. The station’s legacy even inspired films that celebrated the rebellious spirit of that era.

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Cllr Reilly said: “Ronan O’Rahilly was a true pioneer whose vision changed the world of radio and music forever. Greenore played a central role in that history, and it’s only fitting that we recognise and commemorate this connection with pride.”

Cllr Reilly said a motion will be brought before the Louth County Council November meeting, where he hopes to gain support to honour both Ronan O’Rahilly and Greenore’s unique place in broadcasting history.