The story of Shannon Parish is the story of the development of the Airport and the Industrial Estate. It all began in the 1950’s when Government Policy designated the Airport as Ireland’s transatlantic Airport and Ireland’s first Industrial Free Zone was established. Such development led to many people coming to Shannon in search of work and housing. By the early 60’s, the infrastructure of the town was established in the Drumgeely area of Shannon. The geographical area of Rineanna was part of the Parish of Newmarket-on-Fergus with a Priest in residence of the Airport to assist in the spiritual needs of this growing community. The need for a School and Church were soon identified and appropriate fundraising and organisation was put in place under the leadership of Fr. This led to the opening of St. Senan’s School and the building of Mary Immaculate Church on Corrib Drive in 1966. Bishop Michael Harty was consecrated Bishop of Killaloe on 19th November, 1967 and on Christmas Eve of the same year, he created the Parish of Shannon, appointing Fr. Tim Mullaly as its first Parish Priest.
