Sharon Donnery: Coining rockstars - music and money

Remarks by Ms Sharon Donnery, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, at the launch of the €15 Silver Proof Commemorative Coin marking 70 years since the birth of Irish musician Phil Lynott, Dublin, 26 November 2019.

The views expressed in this speech are those of the speaker and not the view of the BIS.

A Uachtaráin, a Ghobharnóir, a dhaoine uaisle, Dia dhaoibh.

Good morning, I am delighted to be here this morning to launch the Central Bank of Ireland's €15 Silver Proof Coin to commemorate 70 years since the musician Phil Lynott was born. The Central Bank is proud to be issuing this fabulous coin to celebrate such an iconic musician. We are particularly pleased to be launching it in Crumlin: Phil Lynott grew up on Leighlin Road and went to school here at St Kevin's College - before going on to become one of Ireland's greatest rockstars!  Now traditionally, central banking is not very 'rock and roll', so I am delighted to have the opportunity to launch this particular coin not only as the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank but also having grown up in Crumlin myself.

I would like to thank President Higgins for launching the coin. Although I must admit, having to follow up on a speech from President Higgins is a bit like having Thin Lizzy as your warm up act - A tough act to follow!