Dublin City Council has announced that Jim Gavin, manager of the county's men's football team, will be awarded the freedom of the city.
It's a well-deserved honour, with Gavin having now won six All-Ireland titles as manager, including the historic five-in-a-row which was secured just over a week ago.
The 48-year-old was nominated by Lord Mayor Paul Mc Auliffe and was ratified by the council yesterday evening. Gavin now joins the likes of John F. Kennedy, Bill Clinton, Gay Byrne, George Bernard Shaw and Barack Obama on the list of people who attain the Freedom of the City of Dublin. Most importantly of all though, he is now allowed to graze sheep on St. Stephen's Green and College Green.
Yep, among other privileges, holders of the honour are allowed to graze sheep at the two famous Dublin landmarks. Famously, back in 2000, Bono and The Edge of U2, exercised this right when they brought some lambs into St. Stepehen's Green. However, it's not all fun and games, and each Freeman and Freewoman needs to be ready to defend the city from attack if and when it's necessary.
Thankfully, Jim Gavin has mastered the art of defence, at least when it comes to organising a team to play at Croke Park. Speaking about Gavin's honour, Paul McAuliffe said "Jim has led the Dublin team to an unprecedented 5-in-a-row Senior Gaelic Football Titles and his leadership both on and off the field has led to a positive culture in Dublin GAA. I know Jim is a modest man and even after all he’s given, I’m asking him to take one for the team. I’m delighted to be able to acknowledge his contribution to public life and service to his county and country both on and off the pitch.”
It's fair to say McAuliffe's words will be echoed around the city and indeed the country.
