JOAN BURTON STATEMENT ON LEONARD COHEN’S DEATH

Labour spokesperson on the Arts, Joan Burton, has expressed her sadness at the news of the death of Leonard Cohen overnight and paid tribute to him as one of the great artists of our time.

Deputy Burton said:

“I am so sad to hear of Leonard Cohen’s passing and offer my sincere condolences to his family, friends and indeed his many fans in Ireland and around the world.

“His concert at the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham in Dublin in 2008, not withstanding the pouring rain, was one of the best of my life, and an evening I will never forget.

“Through his music and lyrics, Leonard Cohen touched so many people, and with his great love of WB Yeats, he had a special affinity with Ireland. His thousands of Irish fans will remember fondly his concerts at Lissadell House in Sligo in 2010, held just a short distance from the birthplace of the poet.

“My own favourite Leonard Cohen song, Hallelujah, was covered by many artists down the years- just one example of his influence.

“Sleep well Leonard, you were one of the people who made the world better.”