Funfair owner stops council injunction: 'I went to court in my shorts and represented myself'
Louth County Council had tried to get a High Court injunction against Killian Allen, who continued to run his 10-day festival in Blackrock despite only having permission for a three-day event this year.
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The local man has held the 10-day fun event in the village for the last 15 years after taking over the funfair which has been held at the site for over 50 years.
However this year the local authorities only allowed him to hold the fair for three days, which he says was not feasible and would have finished his business.
Mr Allen claims he has been trying to engage with the council for the last six months to find a resolution but has been largely ignored.
Killian Allen
Despite the order, he moved on site with the funfair last weekend and received legal letters from the council which rescinded him of all permission and advised him that the council was to seek a High Court injunction.
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"I heard that the council were on their way to the High Court on Tuesday, while I was working in Kildare," said Mr Allen.
"So I drove up in my shorts and T-shirt and represented myself, without a solicitor or a barrister. Thankfully I had a fair judge who saw the passion I have for the funfair.
"This case was not about the money but about the keeping the fun and festivity for my kids and their kids to have the same experience as we had growing up.
"I made a stand against the local authorities and it is a milestone for showpeople everywhere. Funfairs and circuses are protected under Unesco and should be recognised and supported."
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"I've been involved in the funfairs since I was six years old and I personally feel that it is important to stand up for Irish traditions and cultures as a lot of them are being lost.
"I think it is important to learn from this that everyone needs to work together in a community and, after talking to local businesses, I think 10 days is too long for a festival and three days is too short so maybe six days is the answer.
"But for now, the funfair is open in Blackrock for the full 10 days, until this Sunday and I hope everyone will come out and support it."
In a statement, Louth County Council said: "Following a legal hearing on Tuesday, 12th August, Louth County Council reached agreement with K Allen & Sons Ltd regarding the operation of the Blackrock Funfair.
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"The agreement provides Louth County Council with the protection of the Courts to ensure full compliance with the terms of the licence.
"Under the agreed terms, the festival organisers will operate in a limited capacity, will be fully responsible for all clean-up obligations, have clarified and confirmed insurance and indemnities, and must maintain access for council and emergency services.
"Over the next five days, Louth County Council will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that all conditions are met."
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My Saxophone Saved My Life by Des Lee with Ken Murray is out now (Red Stripe Press)
