O’Brien Coffey MacSweeney Chartered Accountants has announced the launch of OBCM Wealth Management. The new brand has been established to reflect the growth of the firm’s pensions, investment, and protection services, marking a new stage in its expansion as a distinct financial services provider.
The growth of the division has been led by John Cronin, who joined the firm 18 months ago. Mr Cronin is a dual-qualified lawyer in Ireland and New York, a Qualified Pension Trustee, and a Qualified Financial Adviser. With over 15 years of experience across the legal and financial sectors, he provides specialist guidance on complex pension and investment matters.
John joins James O’Brien and Patrick MacSweeny, both of whom are Chartered Accountants and Qualified Financial Advisers. Their combined backgrounds in taxation and business advisory form the basis of the firm’s integrated approach to financial planning.
“We were delighted to welcome John to expand the existing financial services business,” said James O’Brien. “His extensive experience in the industry has already been a significant benefit to our clients. Combined with our tax and accountancy expertise, it enhances our ability to provide a comprehensive, client-focused service.”
The team at OBCM Wealth Management will continue to offer tailored professional advice aimed at helping clients build secure financial futures through dedicated pension and protection strategies.

Urgent Appeal issued for ‘Drink Tea for MND’ fundraiser

Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone has issued an urgent appeal to the Killarney community to support the annual “Drink Tea for MND” initiative this March. The fundraiser is the largest of its kind for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association (IMNDA), providing essential financial support for home care and specialist medical equipment for over 470 people living with the disease across Ireland.

The importance of the campaign is highlighted by the growth of the association’s frontline services. In 2011, the IMNDA operated with just two nurses for the entire country. Following years of intensive fundraising—including major contributions from the late Fr Tony Coote and Charlie Bird—the association now employs seven specialist nurses. Last year alone, these nurses conducted 1,131 home visits to support patients and their families.

Organisers noted that 85% of the association’s income is derived from public fundraising events like tea parties. Last year, the initiative raised €150,000, which is critical for maintaining services. There is a strong local hope that the tradition of “having a cuppa” with neighbours can be harnessed once again to meet the rising costs of providing specialised care.

Christy Lehane, Chairman of the Kerry Friends of Motor Neurone, is leading the local appeal. Speaking at a recent campaign launch, Mr Lehane noted that while many people in the Killarney area have already pledged support, the need remains constant.”Every week our seven nurses sit at kitchen tables across Ireland sharing cups of tea with people who have been diagnosed with MND. I will Drink Tea for MND this year, will you?”

Residents are encouraged to host a tea party, office tea break, or coffee morning at any time during the month of March. For those unable to organise an event, donations can be made online at www.imnda.ie or by calling 01 6703552.