Film's Oscar nomination breathes new life into Book of Kells campaign

A call for a concerted campaign to have part of the the Book of Kells returned to the town has been made in the wake of the Oscar nomination for the film, 'The Secret of Kells', which is seen as a major tourism boost for the town. Councillors say that the Oscar nomination for the film will see increased interest in the town and the best way to capitalise on that is to have the book on display in Kells itself. A motion calling on the film's producer, Tom Moore, to lend his support to the campaign has been put down for next Monday night's meeting of the council, while the chairman of Kells Town Council was on RTE's 'Liveline' last Thursday appealing for the historic manuscript to be returned to the town. Cllr Sarah Reilly has proposed a motion for next Monday's meeting alling on the council to write to Tomm Moore, who produced the animated film, looking for his support for their campaign. She said what was needed now was a concerted effort to bring the book to Kells, involving tourist interests throughout the county. Cllr Reilly is also proposing that the town council write to the 'Keeper of the Book' in Trinity College, making their case for the return of the Book of Kells. "It is vital we all work together for this," she said. The cathaoirleach of Kells Town Council, Cllr Brian Curran, has also called for the book's return and spoke on the issue on RTE's 'Liveline' last Thursday. He said the Oscar nomination has led to a 'sense of renewal' to the Book of Kells campaign. He welcomed the Oscar nomination which he said would mean even further recognisition for Kells internationally. "I want to congratulate all involved in this film and the Oscar nomination will increase interest in the town," he said. Cllr Curran said now was the time to capitalise on that success by having the Book of Kells restored to the town. "We will be putting a strong campaign together and there was quite a bit of support for us among callers to the Liveline show last week," he said. Cllr Brian Collins congratulated the entire crew of 'The Secret Of Kells' on their Oscar nomination. He said it was great news for the town.