Enda Marren

Marren became involved with the Fine Gael party in Dublin during the 1960s, becoming a member of the National Executive. When Garret FitzGerald became leader of Fine Gael in 1977, he initiated a major modernisation programme. Marren became one of his close advisors and, together with Ted Nealon, Bill O'Herlihy, Pat Heneghan and Frank Flannery, brought flair, organisational skills and professionalism to the party.^{[citation needed]} They became known as 'the National Handlers', a name given to them by Mayo-born journalist John Healy.^{[citation needed]}

Over the years, Marren served on the boards of many public and private bodies. He served on the first Law Reform Commission (1975–80); The National Film Studios of Ireland (Ardmore Studios); The Rehab Group; Bord Gáis (now Ervia); Aer Lingus; Bord Failte; the Garda Síochána Complaints Appeal Board and as chairman of the Army Pensions Board. He was also one of the founders of the Irish Committee of UNICEF and served as chairman for a number of years.^{[citation needed]}

In 2004, Marren was appointed to the Irish Council of State by the President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, and served until 2011.^[2] He also served as chairman (1965–66) and president (1975–77) of the Mayo association in Dublin.^{[citation needed]}

Marren was married to Nuala, née Craig, and had five children. He died on 8 March 2013.^[3]