The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
A public house where family ties matter…
FAMILY in any walk of life, whether in business or pleasure, matters a great deal. But in the hospitality sector it matters more so as a family presence is the driving force that instils a personal touch and sense of connectivity that customers relate to.
Con and Mary O’Sullivan are proud members of their community and owning a bar and restaurant is an exciting way of enhancing this sense of pride. The ancient Greek poet Aeschylus once wrote ‘happiness is a choice that requires effort at times” and this pretty much sums up what it takes to oversee the day to day running of a business. Sisters Jennifer and Rachel and son-in-law Chris, who also runs the other family business The Sleepy Camel, put their shoulder to the wheel, something Darran describes as ‘essential’ to a family run business. “There is always one of us here at all times and that strengthens the family aspect,” said Darran who also mentioned that his grandmother Sheila O’ Shea instilled a strong work ethic in the family and that she has been a big influence on them all.
The O’Sullivan clan maintain a strong family presence in the bar as this is precisely what locals have come to expect. 2017 has so far been a hectic one for the family, especially Darran who’s still busy in Kerry’s green and gold and will be getting married in September to Laura MacSweeny, who helped with the design of Rosspoint, when the venue is sure to enjoy its biggest party yet. “Ya, it’s been busy for all of us since the bar opened really, but it’s something we’re committed to. Having a family presence in business is something you can’t buy and it’s something I’m keen to see continue,” he added.