Life-size statue of Shannon Airport innovator to be unveiled in hometown

A life-size statue of innovative businessman and Clare native Brendan O’Regan will be unveiled in his hometown on Monday.

The bronze statue will be unveiled in The Square of Mr O’Regan’s native Sixmilebridge to celebrate his legacy and contribution to the area at 2pm on Monday July 10.

Brendan O’Regan transformed the Shannon region through the development of Shannon Airport and the creation of the world’s first duty-free shop, the establishment of the Shannon College of Hotel Management, the opening of the Shannon Free Zone and the birth of Shannon Town.

Twenty members of the O’Regan family from Ireland and overseas will attend the unveiling ceremony, which is open to the public.

The bronze statue, created by one of Ireland’s leading bronze sculptors, Seamus Connolly, was commissioned by Shannon Chamber and Sixmilebridge Historical Society.

Making the announcement, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes said: “When we were approached by the committee of the Sixmilebridge Historical Society to get involved with this amazing project, we did not have to think twice.

“The impact Brendan O’Regan had on this region is extraordinary. He was a visionary. However, taking a project from concept to delivery requires support and that’s what we got from the many sponsors who have enabled the delivery of what will be an amazing statue. We are all looking forward to its unveiling.”

Chairperson of Sixmilebridge Historical Society, David Deighan, added: “Brendan O’Regan has left an extraordinary inheritance to Ireland which can never be forgotten. 

“We are all indebted to his vision which has impacted our lives in so many ways. The population of Sixmilebridge, Shannon and all the towns and villages in the county and region have emanated from his vision to establish Shannon Free Zone. It is fitting that the statue being unveiled will serve to perpetuate his memory among current and future generations.”