Travel pioneer Gillian Bowler dies

Budget Travel founder and former Irish Life & Permanent chairperson Gillian Bowler has died at the age of 64.

The death of Ms Bowler — one of the most recognisable figures in Irish business circles over the last 40 years — was announced yesterday.

It is understood Ms Bowler — who sat on numerous boards including Fáilte Ireland and Grafton Group — passed away following a long illness.