By Evan Short
Senior Reporter

A FAMOUS Kells landmark is on the verge of getting extra protection it was confirmed talks were at an advanced stage with a Irish American family who were interested in spending money to support local heritage.
Concerns have been growing about the high cross located at the entrance of the heritage centre and the level of protection afforded to it by the current roof.
A new roof is needed but the Council have been forced to look elsewhere for funding because of cutbacks.
Kells Cathaoirleach Brian Collins said he met up with the successful business family when he was in New York for St Patrick’s Day, and while he cannot yet divulge who they are he says they can trace their roots back to the town and are very keen on getting involved.
“I had initial discussions with one member of the family and they suggested a fundraiser over there on behalf of the town or they will make the donation themselves but the details have still to be worked out,” said Cllr Collins.
According to the Councillor, the current roof that covers the cross is totally unacceptable for a structure of such importance.
“The current thing is ugly, and it is an eyesore, and it should be removed but if the council had no money to fix it in times of plenty we certainly don’t now,” he said.
“The protective cover on the cross is made of two sheets of laminate and while a lot of people look at the top and think its ugly and green and the Council are not doing their job and cleaning it, it is actually a fungus growing between the laminate.
“There was a failure on the seal on the side of it between the two sheets. We could have replaced it with one sheet but the advice at the time was that this wouldn’t be of any use.”