Clare County Council today honoured one of the county’s most celebrated pioneers with the official unveiling of a bust of Dr Brendan O’Regan at Áras Contae an Chláir in Ennis.
The ceremony celebrated Dr. O’Regan’s extraordinary legacy in industry, tourism, and peacebuilding, and was attended by elected members and family members of the Sixmilebridge native.
Dr. O’Regan’s remarkable journey began in the hospitality industry, where he developed expertise in hotel management across Europe. His appointment as Catering Comptroller at Foynes flying boat base in 1943, a key refuelling point for transatlantic seaplanes, marked the start of a career that would revolutionise multiple sectors in Ireland.
In 1947, Dr. O’Regan transformed air travel by establishing the world’s first duty-free shop at Shannon Airport. This pioneering move enhanced passenger experience and laid the foundation for the global duty-free industry.
Committed to sustainable economic growth, Dr. O’Regan founded the Shannon Free Airport Development Company (SFADCO) in 1959, leading to the creation of the Shannon Free Zone, Ireland’s first industrial free zone, which attracted foreign investment and boosted the regional economy.
His dedication to education and tourism was evident in founding the Shannon College of Hotel Management in 1951 and his visionary restoration and promotion of Bunratty Castle as a premier tourist destination. These initiatives highlighted his foresight in leveraging tourism as a driver of economic development.
Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Dr. O’Regan was a passionate advocate for peace and reconciliation. In 1979, he established Co-operation North (now Co-operation Ireland), fostering collaboration between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and contributing significantly to peace efforts on the island.
Cllr Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, said, “It is a great honour to unveil this bust of Brendan O’Regan, a visionary whose tireless dedication has left a lasting legacy in Clare and beyond. His pioneering work in industry, tourism, and peace continues to inspire us all. We are proud to celebrate a man who whose pioneering spirit in hospitality, industry, and peacebuilding created lasting opportunities for our communities. This bust stands as a tribute to his extraordinary achievements and the enduring inspiration he provides for us all to innovate and build bridges.”
The bust, produced by Kilbaha sculptor Seamus Connolly, will remain on display at Áras Contae an Chláir.
Meanwhile, Clare County Council also announced plans to develop a dedicated exhibition space at Bunratty Castle, further celebrating Dr. O’Regan’s life and work.