McAllister succeeds Flynn as President of Ennis Chamber

Publican Darragh McAllister has been elected as the new President of Ennis Chamber.

Darragh alongside business partner Dylan Hayes runs both Lucas’ Bar and Considine’s Bar, both of which are situated on Parnell St in Ennis. He makes the elevation from the role of Vice President and succeeds hotelier Allen Flynn.

Flynn of The Old Ground Hotel held the position during a manic twelve month period for businesses as models of operation changed drastically due to COVID-19.

Branch manager with Bank of Ireland in Ennis, Colin Ryan was elected as the new Vice President of Ennis Chamber. They took on the positions following Tuesday’s AGM.

Speaking after his election, Darragh acknowledged that his tenure would be a challenging one but he insisted he was ready for the task. “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. Moving forward must mean growth. Any potential rebound from the reopening of the economy may be short-lived and it will be essential for us all to make the most of potential gains,” he stated.

Learnings as individuals and as a group will be vital, Darragh maintained as he applauded the members’ Esprit de Corps. “If there is to be a new world then we should not only embrace it but become pioneers. By listening, leading and lobbying for ‘Recovery and Growth’, our aim is for Ennis Chamber to make its mark on the local economy in 2021”.

CEO of Ennis Chamber, Margaret O’Brien expressed her confidence that Darragh “will bring energy and astuteness to the role”.

She praised outgoing President, Allen Flynn for his commitment to the role, “e did not waiver once, despite his own business obligations. He always made himself available and gave tremendous support to staff at Ennis Chamber. He represented Ennis Chamber members with professionalism on the many Covid related taskforces and committees to which he was appointed. For a person running four hotels, operating in what became a beleaguered hospitality sector, he remained stoic in his commitment not only to the business community represented by Ennis Chamber, but also to his beloved. adopted hometown of Ennis”.