*Craggaunowen has remained shut since last March.

An appointment for the new Chairperson of Shannon Group is to be made imminently, the Minister for Transport has stated while a review of Shannon Heritage’s operations will also be conducted.

Shannon Group has been without a Chairperson since Rose Hynes’ twelve month contract extension expired in August 2020. The North Clare woman has gone on to be appointed the Chairperson of the Irish Aviation Authority.

Her successor is to be appointed imminently, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan (GP) outlined on Friday at a meeting with Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) and Department officials.

Minister Ryan who was joined by Minister of State for International and Road Transport and Logistics, Hildegarde Naughton (FG) also detailed plans to carry out a review on Shannon Heritage.

Deputy McNamara informed The Clare Echo that he was told “the appointment of a new Chair of Shannon Group is imminent”.

“A commitment was given to me that a review the future of Shannon Heritage’s position within that group will be undertaken in conjunction with the new Chair,” McNamara stated.

Issues on the supports for Shannon Heritage staff was highlighted by the Scariff native during the meeting. “I also raised the precarious position of Shannon Heritage staff whose positions have been transformed into seasonal jobs yet can’t avail of redundancy”.

Shannon Group’s executive team is currently comprised of CEO Mary Considine, Chief Operating Officer Ray O’Driscoll, Caroline Kelleher Director of Public Affairs, Rachael Leahy Head of Legal and Paul MacNamara Chief Financial Officer.