Death of former Chamber chief

FORMER Shannon Chamber president Austin Collins passed away last Monday.

In a statement this week, Shannon Chamber said, “The president and board of Shannon and District Chamber of Commerce extend their collective sympathies to the family of former Chamber president, Austin Collins, recently deceased.

“Mr Collins was a founding member of Shannon Chamber in 1995 and became its second president in 1997, when he succeeded founding president Chris Taylor.

“A long-time advocate for the development and betterment of Shannon, Mr Collins was a key player and gave sterling service to the Chamber in the critical first years of its existence. In addition to being the second president (1997/98), he also served on several sub-committees, including the industrial and the airport sub-committees, in his time as a Chamber director.

“Mr Collins brought a vast experience of industry to the Chamber and as a long-time resident of Shannon, he identified personally with the issues relating to the town.

“In the early years, before there was full-time staff, he devoted a lot of time to Chamber business.

“Former Chamber members recall his perceptiveness and rationality in debate and his ability to bring great common sense to the table.”

He had a lifelong interest in sailing and maritime affairs. His sudden death caused great shock in the community.

His wake took place at his home and on Saturday his funeral mass was celebrated in Mary Immaculate Church, with burial afterwards in Illaunmanagh Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Mir; sons, Rory and Daragh; daughter, Gillian, grandchildren and sister Phylis.