RIP Laura Buckley Noonan
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06 Sept 2025
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06 Sept 2025
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Katie Duggan-Hastings, lead instructor with Limerick recruits Saoirse Griffin, Gordon Regan, Nicolay Krutsyk, Susan O'Neill, and Daniel Murphy | PICTURE: Arthur Ellis
SHANNON Airport has welcomed 14 new members to its airport security team in anticipation of a busy summer schedule, five of them from Limerick.
The new Airport Search Unit (ASU) officers have completed training, which includes the operation of the airport’s state-of-the-art three-dimensional X-ray screening system.
The training also included cabin baggage search, manual handling, sunflower hidden disability training and more.
This was given by in-house instructors and involved both classroom and practical training, with their certification completed by examiners on behalf of the Irish Aviation Authority.
The new team members hail from Limerick, Clare, Tipperary and as far afield as Finland.
From Limerick is Saoirse Griffin, Caherdavin, Gordon Regan, Ballybricken, Nicolay Krutsyk, Limerick city, Susan O'Neill, Ballysimon, and Daniel Murphy, Newcastle West.
READ ALSO: Passenger numbers at Shannon Airport reach 15-year high as targets are exceeded
They received their official certificates this week at an event welcoming them to the Shannon Airport team.
Speaking at this event, Pat O’Brien, chief officer, Shannon Airport Police Fire Service and Security, said: “The Airport Search Unit (ASU) officers are a vital part of both Shannon Airport security and the customer experience, which is always to the forefront of our operations here. I would like to congratulate our newly trained ASU officers and thank them for the commitment they have shown throughout their intensive training programme.
“I would also like to thank Jean Moloney, Deputy Chief Security Officer, Katie Duggan-Hastings, lead instructor, Leona McGuigan and Padraic Whelan instructors, together with their colleagues, for the wonderful training they have given these new members.”
The 14 recruits come from a variety of backgrounds, including hospitality, retail, and healthcare, as well as some having progressed through other departments of the airport, such as the Mobility Assistance Unit.
Katie Duggan-Hastings, screening supervisor and lead instructor, said: “There was a lot of learning across the training programme as most didn’t come from a security background.
“They are a lovely group and it’s wonderful to see them being certified now, a great achievement for all involved.”
Over 53,000 people passed through the airport during the May bank holiday period, it's set to be a busy start for the newest team members.
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