Feeney replaces Reilly at helm of Western People

THE managing director of the Western People, Terry Reilly, is relinquishing his post and will be replaced by the chief executive of the Sligo Weekender, Brian Feeney.

The owner of both newspapers Thomas Crosbie Holdings (TCH) made the announcement yesterday. A former editor of the Evening Echo in Cork, Mr Feeney will retain his post as chief executive of the Weekender.

Mr Reilly was responsible for the huge success of the Western People, which eight years ago was acquired by TCH. During his tenure, the printing press was changed and the offices renovated. In making the paper profitable, he drove circulation from 17,000 to its first ABC figure for January to June 2003 of 21,202.

TCH group managing director, Anthony Dinan said: “I wish to place on record our thanks to Terry for his dedication, commitment, achievements and friendship. Everybody is extremely sorry to see him take this decision and we wish him and Mary the very best. I am anxious that we do not see his talents lost to us and I am, at present, talking to him about playing a new role in the organisation with effect from next year.”

Commenting on Mr Feeney’s appointment Mr Dinan said: “I believe that Brian’s many achievements, including the unprecedented transformation of the Sligo Weekender into a successful paid-for newspaper, will transfer to the Western People and I wish him the very best in his new role.”

Mr Reilly joined the Western People in 1961 and became managing editor in 1976. He said he enjoyed his years with the paper and was delighted with its progress.

Mr Feeney said: “It is a great privilege following in the footsteps of one of Ireland’s great regional newspapermen. As editor and managing director, Terry has achieved such a lot with the Western People.”

Mr Feeney said that one of his first tasks when he takes up his new role on December 17 will be the appointment of a new editor of the Western People.