Henry Lyons (b. 1945)

Track 1: Henry Lyons was born in Glin, Co. Limerick. He graduated with a science degree in Dublin and he explains that he taught in Kevin Street Dublin for eight years, after which he came to Tralee in 1979 following his appointment to Tralee Technical College as Head of Science. He became involved in local industry and commerce, and he recalls the members of the Tralee Chamber of Commerce at that time. He also recalls his involvement, along with others, with Sean Crispie, Tralee Town Clerk, in the initial development of Blennerville Windmill and other amenities, beginning in 1983. Track 2: He provides great detail on the restoration of Blennerville Windmill, and he mentions the people who came on board to support the project. The local historical group which was established to research the background to the Blennerville area is also recalled, as are the sponsors, the financial support, the setting up of the Windmill company and the building of the enterprise units. The voluntary input into this project is emphasised. Track 3: He discusses the setting up of Tralee Museum and Medieval Experience and explains that the same people who sat on the board of the Windmill company became involved in the ambitious Jeanie Johnston project. The initial idea to build the ship, the naval architect involved, the huge voluntary effort, the building of the shipyard at Blennerville and the shipbuilders, sourcing the funding and those who came on board with finance are all discussed. Track 4: The three turbulent years following the launch of the Jeanie Johnston are recalled, as is the sale of the ship and the new board, headed by Hugh Friel of Kerry Group, which worked to facilitate the sale, are discussed. Track 5: The Tralee Institute of Technology North Campus and its establishment is discussed as is the setting up of a Steering Committee for Kerry Technology Park which included Tralee Institute of Technology, Shannon Development, Tralee Urban District Council and Kerry County Council. The co-operation between the Urban District Council, Tralee Chamber of Commerce, AnCO (later FÁS) and the Tralee college is also described. Track 6: Dr. Henry Lyons retired in 2005 from his position as Head of Development at Tralee Institute of Technology and he explains that he then became involved in the seaweed business in Kerry and with the Heritage Council of Ireland.