Tag Archives: 40th anniversary

John Crane Ireland this week marked a milestone anniversary, as it celebrates 40 years since it planted roots in Shannon. The long-established company, which produces industrial sealing applications, currently employs over 90 workers, with an average length of service exceeding 20 years. To mark its 40 years, Shannon Group PLC made a presentation of County Clare bog oak to the company. Plant manager, Chris Milici said the company has had a very positive experience in Shannon. “The levels of expertise, commitment and dedication are second to none and we look forward to building on our heritage as we grow the business to new heights.” Congratulating the company on its 40th anniversary, Ray O’Driscoll, managing director of Shannon Commercial Properties (which is part of Shannon Group) said, “By any standards, 40 years is a very considerable commitment by a company to a location. It speaks volumes not just about the standards delivered week in, week out by the company but also its …

THE very first Fleadh Nua in Ennis was held in 1974 and, as the festival prepares to celebrate its 40th milestone, one family recalls those first days, having uncovered a set of photographs documenting its rich heritage. In 1961, the prominent public house on O’Connell Street, now known as Brogan’s, was owned by the Hogan family. Brian Hogan and his wife, Joan, ran the business there up until November 1976. It was then, as it is now, renowned for its traditional music and entertainment and, when the Fleadh Nua began in the town, it was one of the moments they recall with great fondness. The Hogans’ son, Senan, who lives in Kildysart, was given a stack of old photographs by his aunt, Kitty Heffernan from County Waterford, who used to travel to Ennis to help out the Hogan family during this busy festival period. It is believed that these photographs date to between the first Fleadh Nua or, at the …

With rehearsals running into the earlier hours over the past couple of weeks, there is great excitement in the countdown to the opening performance of The Calendar Girls at Glór next week. Expectations are high that the Ennis Players’ production will draw full houses for the Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night performances. In celebrating its 40th anniversary, the local drama group decided to give something back to the community for their loyal support. Cahercalla Hospice, Sláinte An Chláir, West Clare Mini Marathon Cancer Care Centre and the Alzheimers’ Day Care Centre in Ennis were selected to benefit from the proceeds of the four special performances. Speaking to The Clare Champion, media sponsors for the project, Ennis Players chairperson, Jackie Scanlon, commented, “We are delighted to present Tim Firth’s hilarious and thought-provoking play, The Calendar Girls, to Ennis audiences and further afield. “Directed by Allen Flynn, the play tells the story of a group of English ladies who had the ingenious …