Killarney businessman Pat O’Leary, chair of the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation, has been appointed as a director to the board of Tourism Ireland, the body responsible for marketing the island overseas as a holiday destination.

The appointment was approved at a North South Ministerial Council meeting on 17 October 2025, alongside fellow new board member Des Annett. Ruth Andrews and Stephen McNally were reappointed for a further term.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, welcomed the appointments, saying:
“I am delighted to welcome two new appointees, Pat O’Leary and Des Annett, to the Board of Tourism Ireland and warmly congratulate them on their appointments. I wish the members well as they undertake important roles in supporting the tourism industry on the island of Ireland.”

Pat O’Leary, who retired as managing director of Liebherr Container Cranes, became chair of the Kerry Tourism Industry Federation in January 2020. The Federation was formed from a countywide forum of tourism employers and businesspeople, aiming to strengthen collaboration across the sector.

Cathaoirleach of the Killarney Municipal District, Cllr Martin Grady, extended a warm welcome to the Ambassador of India to Ireland, H.E. Mr Akhilesh Mishra, and his wife, Mrs Reeti Mishra, during their visit to Killarney on Wednesday.

The visit formed part of the Ambassador’s ongoing engagement with communities across Ireland.

During the meeting, the Ambassador and Mrs Mishra met with Cllr Grady, Killarney MD Officer Matt Farrell, and SEO for Corporate Services, Bridget Fitzgerald.

Discussions focused on tourism, education, and shared opportunities for collaboration, particularly in promoting Killarney as a welcoming destination for international visitors.

Cllr Grady said it was an honour to host the Ambassador and his wife in Killarney and to showcase the town’s natural beauty and strong community spirit. He added that the meeting reflected Killarney’s growing reputation as a hub for international visitors and cultural exchange.