Kilkenny Chamber pays tribute to ‘trailblazer’ Eamonn Langton

Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce President Claire McInerney Brown has paid tribute to the giant of Kilkenny business and public life, Eamonn Langton, who passed away on Wednesday.

Mr Langton grew his family namesake business on John’s Street into one of the city’s most iconic venues and grew it from a pub into a hotel, restaurant, theatre and music venue and also ran several other establishments.

Many other businesses in Kilkenny were aided by his advice and support, something which led to then-Mayor John Coonan calling him “an unofficial ambassador” of the city when Mr Langton was awarded the freedom of Kilkenny in June.

“Eamonn was ahead of his time, constantly striving to raise standards in each of his establishments and never afraid to try new endeavours in Kilkenny,” Ms McInerney Brown said.

“Those who experienced his hospitality were always impressed and those who worked for him always gave extra to their roles; such was his imprint across aspects of his business. We offer our condolences to his wife Trish and his children Eddie, Conor and Tracey.”

“He was a trailblazer and was synonymous with business in Kilkenny. Eamonn was such a great supporter of the business, sporting and civic life in the city and county.”

“In 2022, the then (Chamber) President Brian Keyes and the Board awarded the President’s Award to Eamonn at the Kilkenny Business Awards, and we were honoured to have been able to do this, to reflect the huge contribution he made during his lifetime.”