Denis O’Brien retires after 67 years as Leitrim factory closes

Denis O’Brien (86) worked in the same factory in Carrick on Shannon since 1957 until it closed its doors this week.

Over an extraordinary career spanning 67 years, 10 months, and 12 days, Denis became one of Ireland’s longest-serving employees—a living testament to commitment, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a community.

"I have no regrets. I never worried much about anything." Denis could have retired as general manager at 65 in 2003, yet each time he mentioned retirement, his employer insisted: "You're far too young to retire. Stay on for another while."

While many of his contemporaries sought opportunities abroad, Denis chose to build his life at home. He began his journey with a modest wage of £4 and 9 shillings—earning enough to send part of it home to support his family. Despite working in challenging conditions, with extreme temperatures near the machines and minimal health and safety measures, the camaraderie among colleagues made every day memorable.

Managers like Bill Shines, who introduced a radio system that filled the factory with song and energy, helped create a workplace where morale soared even during the toughest shifts. "Everyone sang away with the radio." Denis’s early days saw him tackling “every bits and pieces” on the production line until a turning point came. Foreman Johnny Edwards decisively said: "You are going into the tool room. You’re not going back in there."

That moment propelled Denis into mastering the lathe, the milling machine, the grinder, drills, and everything about hydraulics—a skill set that underpinned his lifelong career. Over the decades, the factory itself evolved from General Plastics to Ward & Goldstone, then Wessel Cables, and finally DYR Electrical. At its height the business employed over 80 people, and 120 with students in the summer, marking a golden era of local manufacturing.

"I remember there was over one million worth of copper in the yard and no one touched it, it would be stolen today," he said. One year turned into another, and soon his record-breaking service became legendary. Now, as the factory closes for good—with 10 jobs lost and a farewell cake. "That factory was more than just a building—it was a part of our lives. But that’s the way she goes." Even as he steps into retirement, his outlook remains unchanged: "Every day I get up, I never worry about anything. Worrying is a waste of time."