The appointment by Taoiseach Enda Kenny of Galwayman John Concannon to head up the county’s new five year culture strategy Creative Ireland has been widely welcomed. John and his family live in Galway and he is well known for such significant past successes as Discover Ireland, the first Volvo Stopover, the Wild Atlantic Way, The Gathering 2013 and Ireland’s 1916 Commemorations. John’s career included marketing roles with Unilever and Dubarry before being appointed CEO of Ireland West Tourism and then Director of Marketing & Development at Fáilte Ireland. He is described as able, ambitious, talented and positive, with a passion for music. He will bring his energy and creativity to this new project, which holds such promise for much needed investment in cultural services, supports and infrastructure, including Music.