Last Wednesday, an unusual standoff unfolded in the scenic fields of Enniscrone, Sligo, as Johnny Kilcullen, a dedicated sheep farmer, took a stand against an unauthorized helicopter landing. Kilcullen, who was planning to watch the historic sinking of the MV Shingle into Killala Bay to create an artificial reef, noticed the helicopter descending onto his pasture around 1:00 p.m., disturbing the peaceful grazing of his lambs.
Without any prior consent sought by the helicopter crew, Kilcullen decided to take matters into his own hands. He maneuvered his Zetor tractor out into the field, strategically parking it next to the helicopter and raising the front loader close to the rotor blades, effectively grounding the aircraft.
Kilcullen’s actions stemmed from a principle often quoted in his household: “What’s having is worth asking for.” He left a note with his contact details inside the tractor, indicating that those needing the tractor moved could reach him on his mobile.
Source: Johnny Kilcullen
The note that Kilcullen left in his tractor with his phone number Source: Johnny Kilcullen
As the event of the ship sinking drew spectators, the helicopter’s crew, intent on capturing the event from the air, found themselves pleading with local authorities to have the tractor moved. Displaying a mix of firmness and fairness, Kilcullen offered a solution—if the crew were really stuck, they could release the handbrake and push the tractor aside themselves. Taking up his suggestion, the crew managed to shift the tractor and took to the skies shortly after 3:30 p.m.
Reflecting on the confrontation, Kilcullen has received an outpouring of support from both locals and the wider community, affirming his stance on the necessity of basic manners and respect for private property. Despite the tension, Kilcullen remains unapologetic and clear: future aerial visitors should get permission first.
The episode highlighted ongoing challenges for coastal farmers like Kilcullen, whose land and livestock are often inadvertently affected by the actions of tourists and other visitors—earlier in the week, some of Kilcullen’s lambs were harmed by a visitor’s dog. Yet, through these trials, the community’s spirit and Kilcullen’s resolve only seem to strengthen.
