The Earl of Shannon is a title in the peerage of Ireland, created in 1806. It is associated with the Shannon River, which flows through Ireland. The title has been held by various members of the Hastings family, and it is part of the larger Irish nobility system. The current holder of the title is the Earl of Shannon, who is a descendant of the original titleholder. The title is often linked to the Barony of Shannon, which is a geographical area in Ireland. The Earl's responsibilities and privileges are largely ceremonial in modern times.