PRESIDENT

VICE PRESIDENT

Marion was born and reared in Galway City where she attended Irish-speaking schools and later graduated in English, French and Mathematics with a teaching Diploma from Galway University. In 2000 she completed an MA in English Literature with the Open University London.  

Marion got caught by the travel bug early – travelling to England, France and the USA in student days, then taught English in Algeria where she met her Basler husband, Michael. In 1985 they moved to Indonesia with their 2 children Saoirse and Aonghus. After 7 years teaching at International schools in Indonesia, she returned to Switzerland in 1992 with her husband Michael and daughters Saoirse and Órla and then taught English at the FMS Basel for 23 years.

Marion is passionate about Irish dancing, attending classes in Basel, loves jogging, hiking, travelling and reading. Her love of the Irish language motivated her to set up the Irish conversation group Ciorcal Comhrá in August 2021 which meets fortnightly on Tuesdays to chat in our beloved Gaeilge.

EVENT MANAGEMENT

I grew up in Dublin and have been living in Basel since 1992. I worked as a management consultant in the pharma industry with projects throughout the world and especially with several sites in Ireland. I enjoy exploring cultures, traveling, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.

TREASURER

Originally from Magheracloone, Co. Monaghan, I studied at UCG before beginning my career with AIB in Dublin. In 2009, my wife Olivia and I moved to Basel, Switzerland, where I currently work in risk management at the Bank for International Settlements. A four-year stint in Hong Kong added some extra colour along the way. Outside of work, I’m a keen hiker, runner, and fan of all forms of football. Delighted to stay connected with the Irish community abroad.  

COMMUNICATIONS

I’ve lived in Dublin from 1997 to 2020 before moving to Basel. Volunteering with the Basel Irish Club helps me stay connected to Ireland and brings me immense joy. It allows me to bring people together and share the rich culture of Ireland with the local community. My three passions are rugby, music and theatre. As James Joyce wrote in "Ulysses": "When I die Dublin will be written in my heart."

SOCIAL MEDIA

I’ve been living in Basel with my Swiss partner, Maja, since retiring 10 years ago. I recently turned 73 and now have plenty of time to enjoy life’s simpler pleasures and connect with others. Before moving here, I spent 26 fulfilling years working in Ireland in Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation, a role that shaped my perspective on resilience and community. Joining the Basel Irish Club has been a wonderful way to stay connected to my Irish roots, meet new people, and share in the warmth and camaraderie that comes with being part of this vibrant group.