Brendan O'Regan

Brendan O'Regan
Born(1917-05-15)15 May 1917
Sixmilebridge, County Clare, Ireland
Died2 February 2008(2008-02-02) (aged 90)
England
NationalityIrish
Known forDevelopment of Shannon Airport and the Shannon Free Zone

Brendan O'Regan CBE (1917–2008) was an Irish businessman responsible for developing Shannon Airport, inventing the concept of the duty-free shop and transforming the Shannon Region of Ireland.[1] He was involved in promoting peace in Northern Ireland and co-operation between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. He has been described as one of Ireland's "most noted peace ambassadors and initiators of commercial and industrial projects".[2] In a tribute to him, President Mary McAleese said that O'Regan was "a true visionary" and "leaves a legacy that permeates throughout all levels of economic, social and cultural life in Ireland."[3]

  1. ^ "Tributes paid to Clare man who pioneered duty free at Shannon". The Irish Times. 4 February 2008.
  2. ^ "Dr. Brendan O'Regan (1917–2008) Founder of Duty Free Shopping Died, Aged 90". Irish Examiner USA. 6 February 2008.
  3. ^ "President praises O'Regan's contribution". RTÉ News. 4 February 2008.