Council Chairman Opens Books of Condolence in Memory of Prominent Newry Businessman, Brian Conlon.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Councillor Charilie Casey has opened a Book of Condolence in District Council Offices, Monaghan Row, Newry on the passing of Newry businessman, Brian Conlon, founder of First Derivatives.
Councillor Casey said: “On behalf of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, I would like to express our collective sadness at the news of First Derivatives founder Brian Conlon’s passing. There are few people who have contributed more than Brian to Newry and the wider region and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
“His commitment to this region has improved the lives of the thousands who work for First Derivatives, both here and around the world, and he has played a huge role, not just regenerating the local economy, but also in creating a vibrant and prosperous society for all. By creating such a successful financial software company in this region and importantly, retaining its headquarters in Newry City during years of phenomenal growth, he has put Newry on the map.
“Brian’s contribution was not just across business, he supported so many other aspects of community life in Newry, Mourne and Down, including his love of Gaelic football. He will forever be remembered as a son of Newry who deeply loved his family, his work and his community.
“In time, people will reflect on the tremendous legacy he leaves behind in First Derivatives, but right now the overall emotion is one of sadness for someone who has been taken too young. Our thoughts are with Julie, his wife and mother to their two young children, Brian’s mother Josephine, sister Kathy and brother Ciaran, the wider family circle and his closest colleagues who have been left devastated by this news.”
In recognition of the contribution and esteem that Brian was held in, the Council will be opening a book of condolence in the following Council premises from 1pm on Tuesday 30 July 2019. The books are available for signing Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm for a period of two weeks:
* Crotlieve – Warrenpoint Town Hall
* Downpatrick – Down Arts Centre and Downshire Civic Centre
* Newry – District Council Offices and Newry Town Hall
* Rowallane – Ballynahinch Market House
* Slieve Gullion – Crossmaglen Community Centre
* The Mournes – Newcastle Centre
The Books will close for signatures on Tuesday 13 August 2019.
First Derivatives Comments On Passing Of Brian Conlon
A spokesperson for First Derivatives said: “FD regrets to announce that, further to the RNS on 17 May 2019 announcing his diagnosis with cancer, Chief Executive Officer Brian Conlon passed away on 28 July.
“The Group has initiated a process to appoint a new Chief Executive Officer and will provide an update on progress with that process in due course. In the interim period, Non-Executive Chairman Seamus Keating has been appointed Executive Chairman with immediate effect.”
Seamus Keating commented: “Brian built a world-class business in First Derivatives. His drive, ambition and determination inspired all who had the privilege to work with him. This news is a profound shock to all of us. We offer Brian’s family our sincerest condolences and ask for privacy on their behalf at this sad and most difficult of times.”
Invest NI Expresses Condolances.
Alastair Hamilton, Chief Executive of Invest NI said: “I was deeply saddened to hear that Brian has passed away following a short illness.
“Brian was a true entrepreneur with the vision and commitment to set up First Derivatives and grow it in to the global business it has become. I have witnessed first-hand, Brian’s personal drive and ability which has been pivotal in establishing Northern Ireland as a global centre of excellence for Financial Services technology.
“Brian was also deeply attached to his home city of Newry, and ensured that the success of First Derivatives as a company had a positive impact on the wider community.
“I extend sincere sympathy to Brian’s family at this sad time and recognise that his passing will be strongly felt across our business community.”
