The Board and staff of Gael Linn are deeply saddened by the passing of George Morrison. We would like to express our deepest condolences to his family and friends.
George Morrison played a central role in the development of filmmaking in Ireland.
In 1960, Gael Linn released Mise Éire, a film that traced the history of Ireland from c.1890 to 1917. It was the first ever feature length Irish language film to be produced. Newsreels and other contemporary materials were used. The film was directed by George Morrison and the music was arranged by Seán Ó Riada. Mise Éire had a profound impact on Irish people. Gael Linn then made another film, with Morrison and Ó Riada, which dealt with the period 1917 – 1923 – called Saoirse? which was released in (1961).
In 1971 Morrison directed Lorg na gCloch with Gael Linn. The history of art as depicted on the engraved stones of Ireland was the subject of this beautiful film.
‘Gael Linn has a long association with George Morrison, and we hold what he did to develop the film industry in Ireland with the highest regard. He was a director of immense talent. Irish people around the world are deeply indebted to him for the valuable legacy he has left behind.’
Wayne Mac Feilimí, Chairman of the Board of Gael Linn
‘The films Gael Linn produced with George Morrison helped the Irish understand themselves better and gave them confidence facing into the future.’
Réamonn Ó Ciaráin, Gael Linn CEO