Tom Frawley a Lahinch Icon

Tom Frawley is temporarily indisposed due to some ill health and his pub lies closed and shuttered, perhaps an apt portent of the economy of Ireland currently. The sharp shock that precipitated the closure was as sudden as it was unexpected.

For the moment Tom resides in Ennis General Hospital in good care but somewhat discombobulated by events. He is stoic in acceptance of the events and does not wish to be a burden to anyone. He wishes for a speedy send off.... something that is quite unlikely given his disposition and general health, but it is typical of his generation.

Tom's late found popularity somewhat bemuses him as he sees no great character traits in himself that would have lead to such publicity over the years. It has to be said that he is more droll than anything else and not naturally loquacious. He is not in the mould of Joe Mc Hugh of Liscannor but nonetheless he can offer gems of his own and on occasion, a song, quite out of the blue if persuaded.

The Pub itself is an icon of the village, the spartan shelves, provisions , tea and other products that give a glimpse of the past. The Vintners price list with so many previous entries scribbled out, the lack of ice or garnish with drinks and the simple seating arrangements make it very much an acquired taste for many! On many a busy night in the village Tom Frawley's bar is the oasis of calm where visitors are left to wait for a service that knows no acceleration but delivers at its own pace. "Nothing added, but Time" as the advert states.

Tom saw 90 this past year and was celebrated and revered by his regulars and others in the know. It would be difficult to fathom Tom's emotions on such events as he keeps an almost sage demeanour. He keeps himself to himself on such issues. He will expound a little on church matters and general politics but not to any great depth that might disturb the enquiring soul. Above all else he is a publican and he observes the balance that is required in delivering his opinions.

For now the pub lies closed and we can only hope and pray that Tom may return to resume normal service. His enforced stay in far off Ennis will rankle with his wish to open the pub and get back to the routine. Even after his eye operation he was back in business within hours of his return home to Lahinch.

It would be great to see the shutters come down.... lets raise a glass and wish for it!!