A new permanent interpretive centre celebrating the life and legacy of Dr Brendan O’Regan has officially opened at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park this week.
The Dr Brendan O’Regan Centre brings together archive material, interpretation and a dedicated exhibition space to recognise the Sixmilebridge native’s influence on tourism, aviation, industry, commerce and peace-building in County Clare, across Ireland and internationally.
The centre was developed following a long-held vision by Sixmilebridge Historical Society to establish a permanent tribute to Dr O’Regan. A working group was formed to progress the project, bringing together representatives from Sixmilebridge Historical Society, Shannon Chamber, Ei Electronics, Atlantic Aviation Group and others.
Following representations to Clare County Council, a location was provided within Bunratty Folk Park, along with project funding. A dedicated content group researched, gathered and collated material for the exhibition, with support from the O’Regan family. The centre will be operated by the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park team.
The Dr Brendan O’Regan Centre and its associated statue, sculpted by artist Seamus Connolly, were made possible through the support of Clare County Council, primary sponsor EI Electronics, and with support from Atlantic Aviation Group, Engine Lease Finance Corporation, Shannon Chamber of Commerce, CAE Parc Aviation, The Shannon Airport Group, Roche, Shannon Engine Support Limited and Shannon Aviation Museum.
The project was designed and delivered by Big O Creative Agency, with additional contributions from Sixmilebridge Historical Society, Cian O’Carroll and biographer Brian O’Connell.
Officially opening the new centre, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Killeen, said, “As we open this centre today, we celebrate a legacy of innovation, service and belief in what is possible. We also invite future generations to be inspired by Brendan O’Regan’s example: to think differently, to work with others, and to build opportunities that benefit communities far beyond our own time.”
Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly, said, “The opening of the Dr Brendan O’Regan Centre is an important addition to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and to County Clare’s wider tourism offering. Bunratty is one of Ireland’s best-known visitor attractions, and this new centre adds further depth to the experience by telling the story of a Clare man whose vision, energy and determination helped to shape the County and region we know today.”
Director of Services for Tourism, Festivals, Libraries and Cultural Services with Clare County Council, Siobhán McNulty, said, “The opening of the Dr Brendan O’Regan Centre is a fitting tribute to a man whose vision transformed County Clare, Ireland and communities far beyond our shores. Through this permanent exhibition at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Clare County Council is proud to celebrate not only his remarkable achievements in tourism, aviation and economic development, but also his commitment to innovation, peace and public service.”