VFI Vintners Federation of Ireland

Tipperary woman makes history.

North Tipperary woman becomes first female publican elected president of the Vintners Federation of Ireland.

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Taking up the mantle at the VFI’s annual conference Noreen O Sullivan of Puckane says tourism innovation and economic recovery  will assist the flagging pub industry.

Noreen O’Sullivan has made history as she takes up the head role in the body which represents over 4000 pubs outside Dublin and accounts for 50 thousand jobs.

The 53 year old publican and mother of two from Puckane runs the family owned pub Rocky O’Sullivans in Nenagh  – which as been in her husband Jim’s family for three generations.

She previously worked as a nurse – studying and working in London, Dublin and Portlaoise.

Speaking at the VFI annual conference today in Westport Noreen O Sullivan stated that for decades women have played a crucial role in the Irish pub industry and that it was a great honour to be the first female to hold the position of president.

However she added that symbolism alone will not address the issues facing the industry which supports over 4000 jobs in Tipperary alone and said her focus will be on highlighting the important role the industry plays in the economic and tourism recovery.