Enda Marren facts for kids

Enda Marren (born December 10, 1934, died March 8, 2013) was an important Irish person. He worked as a solicitor, which is a type of lawyer who helps people with legal problems. He was also part of the Council of State, a special group that advises the President of Ireland.

Enda Marren's Early Life and School Days

Enda Marren was born in a small place called Killasser, in County Mayo, Ireland. His parents, Patrick and Eileen, were both teachers at Knocks National School, which is where Enda went for his first years of school.

High School and College Years

After primary school, Enda went to Rockwell College, a boarding school near Cashel, County Tipperary. He was very good at sports, especially rugby! In 1953, he was part of the team that won the Munster Schools Senior Cup, a big achievement.

Later, he studied at University College Dublin. He earned degrees that helped him become a lawyer. In 1958, he officially became a solicitor. That same year, he started his own law firm, Martin E. Marren & Co., Solicitors. He was the main partner there until 1996, when his son, Paul, took over.

Enda Marren's Career and Public Service

In the 1960s, Enda Marren became involved with the Fine Gael political party in Dublin. He joined their main committee. When Garret FitzGerald became the leader of Fine Gael in 1977, he wanted to make the party more modern. Enda Marren became one of his trusted advisors.

The 'National Handlers'

Enda Marren, along with a few other smart people like Ted Nealon and Bill O'Herlihy, helped the Fine Gael party become more organized and professional. They were known as 'the National Handlers' by a journalist from Mayo named John Healy. They brought new ideas and skills to the party.

Serving on Important Boards

Over the years, Enda Marren served on the boards of many important groups, both public and private. This means he helped make decisions for these organizations. Some of the places he worked with include:

• The first Law Reform Commission (1975–1980), which helps update laws.
• The National Film Studios of Ireland (Ardmore Studios), where movies are made.
• The Rehab Group, which helps people with disabilities.
• Bord Gáis (now Ervia), which provides gas and water.
• Aer Lingus, Ireland's airline.
• Bord Failte, which promotes tourism in Ireland.
• The Garda Síochána Complaints Appeal Board, which looks into complaints about the police.
• He was also the chairman of the Army Pensions Board.

Helping Children Around the World

Enda Marren was also one of the people who started the Irish Committee of UNICEF. UNICEF is a big organization that helps children all over the world. He was the chairman of this committee for several years, working to make a difference in children's lives.

Advising the President

In 2004, the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, asked Enda Marren to join the Irish Council of State. This group gives advice to the President on important matters. He served in this role until 2011. He also led the Mayo association in Dublin for a few years, helping people from his home county who lived in the city.

Enda Marren's Family Life

Enda Marren was married to Nuala, whose maiden name was Craig. They had five children together. He passed away on March 8, 2013.