The outstanding achievements of Shannon Chamber of Commerce over the past thirty years were celebrated at a special anniversary dinner held in Dromoland Castle Hotel.
Leaders, past and present, along with representatives from government and industry, gathered in the iconic Brian Ború to honour the Chamber’s significant role in shaping the development of Shannon and the wider region since its establishment in 1995.
Minister of State, Timmy Dooley TD, was among the principal speakers. He noted that the Chamber had not only influenced government policy but played a significant role in shaping government thinking. Reflecting on his many interactions with the Chamber since his election to the Oireachtas in 2002, he praised the Chamber for consistently highlighting the importance of regional infrastructural assets and their potential to drive economic development.
Directing his attention to the Chamber presidents and directors, past and present, he said: “It’s important to set out how impactful your activities have been over the past thirty years. Thank you for the guidance, support, and advice that you have provided to me over those years. Together, working at local, national, and European level, you have made a difference.”
Shannon Chamber President Mark Nolan, in his address, reflected on the vision of the founding directors – Chris Taylor, Arthur Hanly, Austin Collins, Michael Firtzpatrick, Risteard Crimmins, Mick Guinee, George O’Carroll, Paddy O’Rouke and Aidan Quish – who established Shannon & District Chamber of Commerce as the ‘Voice of Commercial Activity in Shannon and District.
“We are gathered here in Dromoland to celebrate how your vision has grown into a dynamic, influential organisation, representing a thriving and diverse business community,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the 13 presidents who preceded him, and to the Chamber’s directors for their commitment to ensuring that Shannon Chamber has always acted in the best interests of its member companies and their employees. He singled out Chamber CEO Helen Downes for the dynamic leadership she has provided since assuming the role in 2008, describing her effervescent personality and relentless drive to ensure that all that happens in Shannon and the region receives the recognition it deserves.
Highlighting the spirt of collaboration that has always underpinned Shannon’s success, he continued: “Shannon is, and always has been, about people, about collaboration, connection, and the belief that when we work together, we can achieve extraordinary things. Over the past thirty years, the Chamber has supported industries through change, welcomed new companies into the region, fostered global partnerships, and provided a platform where ideas become initiatives and initiatives become impact.”
He expressed his thanks to the Chamber’s board, committees, and the executive team: “Your dedication and leadership continue to drive the organisation forward,”
Addressing partners, supporters, and the media he added: “We are grateful for your collaboration and belief in what Shannon can be.”
Looking to the future, he added: “The next chapter for Shannon will be defined by innovation, sustainability, and ambition. Shannon Chamber will continue to champion the region, support business, and ensure that Shannon remains a place of opportunity, resilience, and growth.”
The celebratory event, sponsored by Ei Electronics, The Shannon Airport Group. Fine Grain Property, VHI, AIB, Clare County Council and Dromoland Castle, also featured as special presentation to former director Dr Michael Guinee.
Chamber CEO Helen Downes presented him with a bespoke sculptor by Irish Natural Stone (INStone) sculptor Colin Grehan, titled ‘Pools of Light’, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the region.
“Back in 1995, Mick Guinee helped set the Chamber on the journey we celebrate tonight,” she said. “Even when he stepped aside from his directorship, he never really stepped away from the Chamber. He has continued to support us in countless unspoken ways, always quietly, always generously. This sculptor, which embodies, purity, impermanence and quiet contemplation, is a fitting tribute to this extraordinary person,” she added.
Sharing her personal attribution, she added: “Beyond all that, he has been my personal mentor and my go-to person. Leadership can be a lonely place, but having someone of his calibre to bounce ideas off has made it anything but. I listen to his advice, I consider his ideas, and I act on his guidance. When he stepped aside from leading Ei Electronics, I gave him a brown leather book, encouraging him to jot down thoughts for his first book. I suspect he’ll need many more such books to capture all his stories and achievements.”
IDA Ireland extended its heartfelt congratulations to Shannon Chamber on the remarkable achievements of its 30-year history saying that the organisation recognises the Chamber as a strong advocate for collaboration and a key contributor to the continued development of Shannon and the wider region.