A new permanent interpretive centre honouring the life and impact of Dr Brendan O'Regan has officially opened at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park.

Bringing together archive material, curated interpretation and a dedicated exhibition space, the Dr Brendan O'Regan Centre highlights his wide-ranging influence on tourism, aviation, industry, commerce and peacebuilding in County Clare, across Ireland and internationally.

The project stems from a long-held ambition of the Sixmilebridge Historical Society to establish a lasting tribute to Dr O’Regan. To advance the initiative, a working group was formed with representatives from Sixmilebridge Historical Society, Shannon Chamber, Ei Electronics, Atlantic Aviation Group and others.

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Following approaches to Clare County Council, a site within Bunratty Folk Park was secured along with project funding. A dedicated content team, supported by the O'Regan family, researched, gathered and curated materials for the exhibition. The centre will be operated by the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park team.

The Dr Brendan O'Regan Centre and an accompanying statue, sculpted by artist Seamus Connolly, were realised with the support of Clare County Council, primary sponsor EI Electronics, and additional backing from Atlantic Aviation Group, Engine Lease Finance Corporation, Shannon Chamber of Commerce, CAE Parc Aviation, The Shannon Airport Group, Roche, Shannon Engine Support Limited and Shannon Aviation Museum.

Design and delivery were led by Big O Creative Agency, with further contributions from Sixmilebridge Historical Society, Cian O'Carroll and biographer Brian O’Connell.

Officially opening the centre, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Killeen, said: "As we open this centre, we celebrate a legacy of innovation, service and belief in what is possible. We also invite future generations to be inspired by Brendan O’Regan’s example: to think differently, to work with others, and to build opportunities that benefit communities far beyond our own time."