DARRAGH McAllister has been elected to the role of President of business advocacy group Ennis Chamber at this week’s AGM. A well-known publican in Ennis, Darragh together with his business partner Dylan Hayes, runs Lucas’ Bar and Considine’s Bar, both located on Parnell Street.
Colin Ryan, Branch Manager, Bank of Ireland, Ennis was elected Vice President. Mr McAllister takes over as President of Ennis Chamber from Allen Flynn, Old Ground Hotel, who held the position during the unprecedented, turbulent Covid times experienced over the past 12 months.
Speaking after his election, Mr McAllister said, “I am delighted to take on this role, no doubt it will be challenging, especially in this climate, but I’m up for it.”
He said the past 12 months have been among the most challenging in living memory, for both business and private life. “The spectre of March 2020 continues to haunt us, in new and varied ways. What many have lost can never be replaced and, without a doubt, how we live, work and conduct business has changed irrevocably. However, the spirit of the Chamber is one strengthened by challenge and change.
“In the coming year we will have to face upheaval, like never before in the history of Irish or international business, but before we know where we are going, we must know where we are.
“Recovery, in 2021, will not mean a return to business as it was, rather it will mean once again finding our feet in a new reality and ensuring we have a strong stance from which to move forward.”
Ennis Chamber CEO, Margaret O’Brien welcomed the appointment of Mr McAllister as the newly elected President. “I have known Darragh for some time and know he will bring energy to and astuteness to the role. I look forward to working with him and to support his aspiration for recovery and growth.”
She also thanked outgoing President Allen Flynn for his tireless commitment to the role of President over the past year.
“I’d like to acknowledge Allen Flynn’s commitment to the role. He did not waiver once, despite his own business obligations. He always made himself available and gave tremendous support to staff at Ennis Chamber.”
A native of Ennis, Colin McGann has been editor of The Clare Champion since August 2020. Former editor of The Clare People, he is a journalism and communications graduate of Dublin Institute of Technology.