“I spent most of my working life serving in and managing bars, telling folk-tales to customers and hiring in traditional Irish musicians to give life to the place. I loved nothing more than sharing my knowledge of our great history and wonderful Country. I always felt that there was something missing however. It was as if I was preaching to the choir and wasting my enthusiasm on those who already felt the same as I did. I shared my feelings with my wife to which she replied “so why not share your enthusiasm with those who don’t know” – it was then that I decided a career in tourism was for me.”

“I started off working various jobs as a Tour Guide in places such as the Burren Visitor Centre, Co.Clare and I spent some time working in Bunratty Castle. I still felt that I was not exceeding my full potential until I applied for a job with Deborah at Irish Essence Tours. It was the next natural step for me. Now I get to express my love for the emerald isle to those who are new to it and I also get the joy of  watching the love for my country grow in others as well.”

‘

“People always ask what I do for fun but my answer is always the same – for me, work is fun! Of course, I have a life outside of work though. I love nothing more than to sit back and relax with a fishing rod at one of our many beautiful Rivers. I also like to take in a Gaelic game at the weekend. Be it football or hurling, the passion that the Irish fans portray at these games is contagious and any scraps on the field are soon forgotten over pints of Guinness in the pub afterwards!“