Connemara Chamber of Commerce

Connemara Chamber is delighted to announce the appointment of Siobhán Roche as its first-ever Chief Executive Officer. Following the success of the Chamber’s Win A Home in Clifden initiative in 2025, this appointment marks the achievement of one of the long-stated objectives of the current board: to put in place a full-time, paid CEO to lead and manage the Chamber’s work on behalf of its members and the wider Connemara community. The Chamber undertook an extensive eight-week external recruitment process, managed by 2into3, a consultancy with specialist expertise in executive search and recruitment within the social impact and nonprofit sectors. The final candidate evaluation process was led by 2into3, with valuable support from Kenny Deery, former CEO of Galway Chamber and current Programme Manager of the West Regional Enterprise Plan at Galway County Council. Siobhán Roche holds a master’s in business administration from NUI Galway and brings a wealth of experience and local knowledge to the role. She comes from a family business, the Rock Glen Country House Hotel, giving her a solid background in tourism and hospitality management. She spent over 12 years in Luxembourg as an events manager organising conferences and roadshows around the world. More recently Siobhan […]

Download Final Report – Win A Home in Clifden – November 2025 >> €1.8 million raised generating €830,000 in net proceeds The Win a Home in Clifden fundraiser, run by Connemara Chamber from April to August 2025, was an ambitious community project that raised €1.8 million and generated a net profit of €830,000 — making it one of Ireland’s most successful community draws. The fundraiser offered participants the chance to win a stunning apartment in Clifden valued at €350,000 through the purchase of a €100 raffle ticket, available online at winahomeinclifden.com, from the Clifden sales office, and at various local events.   Purpose of the Win A Home in Clifden fundraiser The Win a Home in Clifden fundraiser supports Connemara Chamber’s goal to establish a Community and Enterprise Hub in the heart of Clifden. A suitable premises has been identified, creating an immediate opportunity to develop a year-round centre for business and innovation in this primarily seasonal tourism region. Financial takeaways from the fundraiser Gross sales of €1.8 million were realised through the sale of raffle tickets. Total campaign expenses amounted to €989,253 (which includes the purchase of the apartment and redecoration) A net profit of €830,000 was achieved All […]

Clifden, Co. Galway – In July 2005, Mark Rebholz and Steve Fossett made history by retracing the legendary path of Alcock and Brown, completing a transatlantic flight from St. John’s, Newfoundland, to Clifden, Connemara, Co. Galway. Flying a faithful replica of the original 1919 Vickers Vimy, the duo paid homage to the aviation pioneers who achieved the first ever non‑stop transatlantic flight. On Saturday, 5th July 2025, Clifden and Connemara will mark the 20th anniversary of that remarkable re‑enactment. The celebrations will welcome Mark Rebholz back to Clifden for a special day of free events honouring this historic feat and the people who made it possible. Highlights of the day include: 1.00pm – Unveiling of a Commemorative Plaque by Mark Rebholz, Clifden Town Square 4.00pm – An Audience with Mark Rebholz, Station House Theatre, Clifden 6.00pm – Screening of Alcock and Brown: The True Story, a documentary by Kevin Glynn This event is organised by the Connemara Chamber of Commerce, which was also involved in welcoming the aviators back in 2005. The commemorations will provide an opportunity for the community and visitors alike to learn more about the historic transatlantic crossings and the role Clifden has played in this remarkable […]