In The News Will plan to rename Dublin Airport after Seán Lemass fly?
Nov 28, 2025
Ronan McGreevy, an Irish Times journalist and historian, joins to discuss the proposed renaming of Dublin Airport after Seán Lemass, a pivotal figure in modern Irish history. McGreevy highlights Lemass's contributions, from founding Aer Lingus to championing transatlantic aviation, and examines the hesitance to honor leaders who lived for Ireland rather than those who died. The conversation touches on past proposals, potential political support, and the unique challenges of naming infrastructure after individuals. McGreevy also shares insights on his upcoming book about Lemass.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Lemass’s Transformational Leadership
- Seán Lemass transformed Ireland from a poor, protectionist state into a modern, outward-looking economy.
- Ronan McGreevy credits Lemass with industrial planning and opening Ireland to international markets.
Renaming Idea Keeps Returning
- The renaming proposal has surfaced repeatedly, previously suggested by Micheál Martin in 2021 but stalled.
- Malcolm Byrne revived the idea, framing it as recognition of Lemass’s role in aviation and national development.
Lemass’s Aviation Drive
- Lemass championed aviation across his career, founding Aer Lingus and supporting Foynes and Shannon as transatlantic hubs.
- He bought constellations and promoted stopovers to link the US and Europe via Ireland.