Extraordinary people deserve their memory and achievements immortalised and that’s what prompted Shannon Chamber and Sixmilebridge Historical Society to join forces to remember Sixmilebridge native Brendan O’Regan in a special way.

To honour his legacy to the region and Ireland, the Chamber and the Historical Society commissioned one of Ireland’s leading bronze sculptors, Seamus Connolly, to cast a life-size statue of Brendan O’Regan, to be placed in a prominent position in the centre of his native village.

The unveiling of this creative piece will take place in The Square in Sixmilebridge on Monday, 10 July at 2pm. Twenty members of the O’Regan family from Ireland and overseas will attend this very special unveiling ceremony, which is open to the public.

Making the announcement, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes said: “When we were approached by the committee of the Sixmilebridge Historical Society to get involved with this amazing project, we did not have to think twice.

“The impact Brendan O’Regan had on this region is extraordinary. He was a visionary. However, taking a project from concept to delivery requires support and that’s what we got from the many sponsors who have enabled the delivery of what will be an amazing statue. We are all looking forward to its unveiling and we invite everyone, from locals in the village to the public at large and the business community to join us in The Square, Sixmilebridge on Monday, 10 July at 2pm. It will be a very special occasion.”

Chairperson of Sixmilebridge Historical Society, David Deighan, added: “Brendan O’Regan has left an extraordinary inheritance to Ireland which can never be forgotten. We are all indebted to his vision which has impacted our lives in so many ways. The population of Sixmilebridge, Shannon and all the towns and villages in the county and region have emanated from his vision to establish Shannon Free Zone. It is fitting that the statue being unveiled will serve to perpetuate his memory among current and future generations.”

The life-size statue of Brendan O’Regan will be unveiled in The Square, Sixmilebridge on Monday, 10 July 2023. The event is open to the public and all are welcome.

To coincide with this event, Clare FM’s programme director Padraic Flaherty has produced an hour-long documentary on the life of Brendan O’Regan. This will be aired on Monday, 10 July 2023 at 11am. Clare FM will also broadcast its Morning Focus programme live from Sixmilebridge on the day.