Breen confirms retirement plans
STEPPING DOWN AFTER 45 YEARS SERVICE
TRIBUTES RANG out around County Hall yesterday (Monday) after Eddie Breen confirmed that he is set to retire before the end of the month. The quiet-spoken Enniscorthy man is stepping down following 45 years in public service after masterminding the move to the local authority's new headquarters in Carricklawn.
The compliments were led by current chairwoman Kathleen Codd Nolan who noted that the leading official and his family moved home ten times as he pursued his career. The journey up through the ranks included stints in Macroom, Castlebar and Meath, leading to his appointment as manager of Waterford City.
He had five years as town clerk in Wexford in the 1970s and 80s and later returned to the top in his native county, when he took over from Seamus Dooley. As they said their farewells to Eddie Breen, Wexford councillors referred to the departing boss's courteousness and willingness to listen.
Among the projects fostered by the local authority while he was in command, were the Gorey civic centre, plans for major roads, libraries in all corners of the county and the rejuvenated quays in New Ross. The developments furthered in his home town included Enniscorthy Castle and the Presentation Centre.
Councillors have been invited to a farewell dinner in honour of Eddie Breen to take place in the Talbot Hotel on the evening of January 11.