Tributes pour in for Slane man whose 'contribution to music and culture in Ireland was immense'

Tributes have been pouring in for Lord Henry Mount Charles who passed away last night at the age of 74.

In a statement issued this morning, his family confirmed his death saying he died “peacefully” late on Wednesday night after a “long and valiant battle with cancer”.

President Michael D Higgins has led tributes to Mount Charles, describing his contribution to live music in Ireland as "quite unique."

In a statement, the President said he was "saddened" to learn of Lord Henry's passing, and praised his vision in transforming Slane Castle into one of the country's most iconic music venues.

"Lord Henry's contribution was quite unique and a very important turning point in live music in Ireland when he decided to begin using the natural amphitheatre at Slane Castle as a venue at which public performances could be held by some of the most contemporary makers of music," President Higgins said.

"It wasn’t just in relation to very well-known events that Henry was involved; he had a deep interest in the promotion of music, including new and young talent."

Meanwhile Taoiseach Micheál Martin said in a statement on X: "Lord Henry's vision for Slane Castle resulted in one of Ireland's best music venues, hosting many of the biggest and best concerts this country has ever seen.

"His contribution to music and culture in Ireland was immense."

Tánaiste Simon Harris has also paid tribute to Lord Henry, the man "who brought rock-and-roll to the iconic music venue that is Slane Castle." Harris praised his "unrivalled wit, warmth and generosity", and thanked him for bringing music, culture and pride to Co Meath.

Closer to home Meath County Council Cathaoirleach and Slane Fianna Fail Cllr Wayne Harding said:

"Lord Henry Mounthcharles has left and extraordinary legacy to this country in making his family home one of the most iconic rock concert venues in the world. Over the last almost 50 years, the worlds biggest headline acts have took to the stage at Slane Castle.

" Lord Henry's determination and perseverance was not just evidenced with the rock concerts but also with the restoration of Slane castle which was devastated by fire in1991. This same determination was displayed in his long battle with his illness.

"As Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council and on behalf of the people of Meath, I would like to express my condolences to his wife Lady Iona, to his children Alexander, Henrietta, Wolfe and Tamara, and to all of his family and friends."

Meath East TD and Minister for EU Affairs, Thomas Byrne expressed his sympathy to the Conyngham family.

"Meath has lost one of its finest gentlemen today with the passing of Lord Henry Mount Charles.

"I was very friendly with Henry and I deeply admired his sense of entrepreneurship, innate decency and good humour, even in challenging times.

"Henry’s legacy in bringing some of the world’s biggest names - in music and business - to Slane will live on.

"My deepest condolences to Iona, his children, grandchildren, wider family and friends.

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal."

"It is with deep sadness that I note the passing of Lord Henry Mountcharles.

Fine Gael Cllr Paddy Meade said while his family's loss was deeply personal, the entire community of Slane and the surrounding areas shares in their grief. He added:

"Henry was more than just the custodian of Slane Castle — he was a visionary who brought global attention to our village. The legendary concerts he hosted placed Slane on the international map, creating memories that defined generations and brought immense pride to the area.

"During my father’s time involved in politics in the 1990s, Henry was known as a key figure locally — someone deeply engaged and active in community and national affairs. Though his pursuit of elected office came to an end after 2004, his thoughtful newspaper articles in the years that followed showed a sharp political mind and a real passion for public discourse. In the few conversations I had with him, those same insights and deep reflections were always present.

"Henry was a towering presence — charismatic, generous, and utterly committed to Slane’s legacy and future. His impact will be felt for many years to come."