Meet the Team

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The people behind Byrne Eyecare

Byrne Eyecare is a small team with a shared focus on providing thoughtful, personal care.

From your eye examination to choosing your glasses, we're here to listen, explain and help you make the right choices for your eyes and your lifestyle.

With experience across optometry, eyewear and patient care, our team brings different skills and perspectives to the practice. We work closely together to make sure you feel comfortable, well informed and looked after throughout your visit.

William Byrne

BSc (Hons) MCOptom. Optometrist Director

Originally from the New Ross area of County Wexford, William completed his degree in Optometry at the University of Bradford before qualifying as an Optometrist with the College of Optometrists, London in 2011.

He subsequently worked across multiple and independent practices in the UK and Ireland before returning home in 2017 to establish Byrne Eyecare in Kilkenny.

With a vision for truly individualised eye care, William created an independent practice where patients have the time and attention they deserve, alongside a carefully curated collection of design-led eyewear from across Europe.

William’s commitment to accessible eye care has also led him to develop an outreach service supporting patients who may face barriers to accessing care, including residents seeking international protection.

William is passionate about delivering exceptional eye care through a combination of clinical expertise, the latest technology and ongoing professional development. He regularly attends conferences and educational events to stay at the forefront of advances in optometry and optical technology.

Away from the practice, William enjoys live music, travelling and exploring his interests in history and current affairs.

Lorna Farrell

Senior Optical Assistant

Carlow native, Lorna, has been an integral part of the Byrne Eyecare team since 2018, bringing over 20 years of experience in the optical industry to her role as Senior Optical Assistant.

Lorna plays a key role in selecting the distinctive eyewear collections available at Byrne Eyecare, with a natural eye for choosing frames that she feels will suit a particular patient. She works closely with patients throughout their eyewear journey, helping them find the right frame and guiding them towards the lenses best suited to their individual needs. Her wealth of knowledge, together with her personable approach, makes her a familiar and trusted face for so many of our patients.

Outside of work, Lorna has a wide range of interests, including wellbeing, creativity and a love of hands-on crafts.

Christine Power

Assistant Manager

Christine who hails from Kilkenny, joined the Byrne Eyecare team in 2026 as Optical Manager. She plays an important role in the day-to-day running of the practice, working closely with the team to ensure every patient receives a warm, attentive and consistent experience.

Christine particularly enjoys the personal side of her role, from welcoming familiar faces back to the practice to helping patients find eyewear that feels right for them. As a frame stylist, she has a keen eye for pairing patients with frames that suit their individual style, whether for everyday glasses or sunglasses. She also works behind the scenes to keep the practice running smoothly and supports the team in delivering the best possible patient experience.

Outside of work, Christine enjoys spending quality time with family and going for walks with her beloved dog, Little Andy.

Tracy Penfold

Senior Optical Assistant

Originally from Kent in the UK, Tracy joined the Byrne Eyecare team in 2026, bringing with her more than 15 years of experience in the optical industry. Her wealth of knowledge and practical experience is a real asset to the practice, particularly when it comes to helping patients find eyewear that complements them, both in style and fit.

Tracy has a natural ability to understand what works for each individual, whether they are choosing their everyday glasses or a pair of sunglasses. Combined with her warm and approachable manner, she helps make the process of choosing eyewear an enjoyable and reassuring experience for every patient.

Outside of work, Tracy enjoys getting creative with art and dressmaking, keeping active with swimming and spending time around animals, which she has a particular love for.