Outstanding
Achievement
in Business
Awarded to Mr. Brian McCarthy at
Cork Chamber's Dublin Dinner
NOVEMBER 2012. ISSUE 10
Chamber Link
policy
training
IN THIS ISSUE:
Get Inspired by Science
InAugural InBusiness InCork
Chamber Appointments
events
promotion
international
REGULAR FEATURES:
Members News
Upcoming events
New Members
works for your business
Chamber Link
policy
training
events
promotion
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o
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for
international
contents
Dear Chamber Member
policy
The last month has been a very busy time for the Chamber with Fiona Buckley,
Fáilte Ireland sharing plans for ‘The Gathering’ at our Business Breakfast Briefing,
networking at the Business After Hours in VHI Swift Care and over 50 new members
sharing their business concepts at the New Members Breakfast. The second Cork
Chamber Dublin Dinner was held in the Burlington Hotel, in association with Ernst
& Young, with close to 500 people attending from across the 2 regions. We were
very pleased to honour Mr. Brian McCarty, Executive Chairman, Fexco with an
Outstanding Achievement in Business Award and have Minister Simon Coveney as
guest speaker on the night.
4
Business Air-Travel Survey-Results
5
Government Expands Support
Schemes for Business
This month’s edition of ChamberLink reveals the results of our Air Travel survey
which shows that almost 80% of businesses in Cork use the airport on at least a
quarterly basis which is testament to the importance of the airport to the region,
with London, Amsterdam and Paris being the most popular destinations. The
Chamber has recently participated in a number of high-level meetings with
Secretaries General across various government departments where the Chamber
highlighted the key issues and challenges facing businesses in the Cork region and
made recommendations regarding appropriate actions that will support businesses
in 2013 and beyond.
8
Business School @ Cork Chamber
9
Upcoming Training Courses
The inaugural InBusiness InCork event saw over one thousand people descend on
City Hall for a morning of speakers, workshops and an exhibition area all aimed at
aspiring entrepreneurs and those looking to expand. The event was organised by
Cork Innovates who are hosted by Cork Chamber, for more go to page 7.
Looking ahead to the last few weeks of 2012 we will see the launch of Energy Cork,
by Minister Pat Rabbitte on the 7th of Dec and Oliver Mangan, Chief Economist with
AIB will speak at the Business Breakfast on the 11th Dec. Our Christmas Lunch will
be held in Fota Island Resort on the 14th Dec and with speaker Pat Shortt lined up to
entertain on the day it promise to be a great opportunity to start the festive spirits
and meet associates you have done business with during the year and make new
contacts for 2013!
partnered projects
6
Energy Cork & Cork Convention
Bureau
7
Inaugural InBusiness InCork
training
events
10 An Audience with Pat Shortt
11
Upcoming Events
12
Recent Events - Vhi Swiftcare After
Hours, Breakfast Briefings, New
Members Networking Breakfast
15
Get Inspired by Science
cover story
16
Outstanding Achievement in
Business
media
18
Recent Releases & Coverage
connecting
19
New Members
international
Best regards,
20 Silicon Valley comes to Ireland 2013
Conor
promotion
Conor Healy
Chief Executive
conor@corkchamber.ie
22 Membership Directory 2013
23 Members News
29 Newly Appointed
30 Chamber Appointments
Chamberlink is Sponsored by
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Registered in Ireland no. 13918
Chamberlink is published by Cork Chamber and is a monthly
publication exclusive to members. The opinons expressed in
Chamberlink are not necessarily those of Cork Chamber, neither do
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Chamber Link
policy
Business Air-Travel Survey: Results
Cork Chamber recently released the findings of its Business
Air Travel Survey 2012 undertaken in association with Cork
Airport. Data provided by 325 businesses, almost a fifth
of whom employ in excess of 250 employees, are highly
revealing of the critical importance businesses place on a
well-serviced regional Airport to support and grow business
activity.
The fact that 16% of businesses use the air travel services
of Cork Airport on at least a weekly basis, 45% on at least a
monthly basis and almost four of every five businesses (79%)
on at a least a quarterly basis is testament to the importance
of Cork Airport for businesses operating in the Cork region. More than three-quarters (78%) of businesses stated that
the level of direct air services to/from Cork Airport is a key
determinant for businesses when deciding to locate or expand
within the region.
The survey highlighted the top five most frequented
destinations as London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schipol,
London Gatwick, London Stansted and Paris and reinforces
the demand for a large number of existing UK and European
air-routes to/from Cork Airport. Improved frequencies and
’business friendly’ flight timings were highlighted as important
to facilitate even greater uptake of routes for business travel.
More than half (57%) of all indirect travel completed by
businesses from Cork Airport is to the United States, while
a further quarter is to Germany. The reliance on Airports
4
outside the Cork region to meet a wide range of business air
travel demand has intensified since the withdrawal of the
Cork/Dublin route and more than in one in two businesses
were prepared to pay a premium of between €60 and €80
before opting to fly from Dublin/Shannon as an alternative.
The top five most requested new routes by businesses were
Cork/Dublin, New York, Frankfurt, Boston and Belfast. A
significant proportion emphasised the challenges the lack of
a Cork/Dublin air-connection poses to their business activities
and called for the reinstatement of the flight as an essential
infrastructural enabler to economic growth in the Cork region.
While the many assets and resources of the Cork region
mean it remains an attractive location for businesses, survey
findings reinforce the need for wider route development,
increased frequencies and competitive costs to/from Cork
Airport to sustain and grow business activity and economic
development within the South of Ireland. Equally, it is
important that airlines maintain existing key routes to UK and
European destinations and that new high demand business
routes are adopted to maximise opportunities for those
currently engaged in or seeking to develop business in the
region.
Cork Chamber would like to thank the senior team in Cork
Airport for their involvement in this survey and for their
ongoing efforts to increase the number of available air-routes.
The Chamber would also like to express its gratitude to all
those businesses who took part in the survey.
Wo
•
•
Putting People First: Action Programme
for Effective Local Government
Cork Chamber recently welcomed the local government
proposals announced by Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan
T.D., but is disappointed at the absence of merger plans for Cork
City and County Councils and the lack of emphasis on greater
transparency in the roll-out of the new local enterprise offices
(LEOs). The decision to reduce the number of local authorities and
councillors is very welcome and will result in cost-savings and
also supports greater cohesion, accountability and efficiencies
in the management and delivery of local services. The increasing
emphasis on the role of local government as key leaders in
economic, social and community development is also welcome.
However, the Chamber believes that the proposal to alter the
boundaries of the Cork metropolitan area within the next five
years and to maintain both City and County councils does not
go far enough and is an opportunity lost when limited resources
of the region could ultimately be better applied by one strong
local authority to cover over half a million people. The Chamber
also believes that there is a need for greater transparency in the
roll-out of the proposed local enterprise offices, which are due to
replace the city and county enterprise boards. City and county
enterprise boards currently play an important role in providing
support for the SME sector and it is critical that the new LEO
structures maintain the appropriate level of support for the SME
sector.
Government Expands Support Schemes
for Business
The Department of Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation recently
announced details of initiatives which will provide finance to
businesses operating in a range of sectors. The Credit Guarantee
Scheme will provide an additional €450 million funding for
lending to small businesses over the next three years. The
purpose of the scheme is to encourage further lending to SMEs
– where businesses have insufficient collateral and operate
in sectors with which banks are unfamiliar. The scheme will
provide much needed credit to job creating SMEs and enable
them to develop a good record with the lender in order to
return to standard commercial credit facilities in time. It shall
provide a 75% state guarantee to banks and set lending targets
for the pillar banks. The Government believes this demand-led
scheme will benefit 1,800 businesses creating 1,300 jobs while
increasing tax receipts and decreasing social welfare payments.
Further information can be accessed on the Department of Jobs,
Enterprise and Innovation website.
The Government has also announced the establishment of the
Microfinance Scheme which will provide credit, up to €90m over
the next ten years, to start ups, sole traders and microenterprises
where previous requests have been declined by banks. It is
expected that the scheme will benefit 5,500 microenterprises
and create up to 7,700 jobs. The scheme is currently accepting
requests for finance with the maximum amount of any loan set at
€25,000. Applications can be made to local enterprise boards and
further information can be found at www.enterpriseboards.ie
The Chamber continues to highlight the work of the Credit
Siobhán Bradley, Acting Policy & Research Manager
e: siobhán.bradley@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530132
Aislinn Stanton, Policy & Research Executive
e: aislinn@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530143
Review Office (CRO), established in 2009 to allow SMEs, sole
traders and small and medium-sized farm enterprises appeal
decisions when their applications for credit are refused, reduced
or withdrawn. The Chamber urges all businesses seeking loans
to complete formal application processes and if they are in any
way unhappy with the results to appeal directly to the CRO.
The Chamber supports these schemes as a means of lowering
unemployment, supporting the domestic economy and
increasing the potential for SMEs to gain access to credit.
Excellence in Local Government Awards
The Chambers Ireland 9th Annual Excellence in Local Government
Awards was recently held in Dublin. The awards recognise the
strong relationship between local authorities, businesses and the
community. Organised by Chambers Ireland the awards are held
in association with the Department of Environment, Community
& Local Government. A total of 17 awards were presented on the
night across a range of categories. The overall winners were Dún
Laoghaire-Rathdown (City/County Council of the Year) and Navan
Town Council (Town/Borough Council of the Year). Further details
on the awards can be found at www.corkchamber.ie
Announcing the launch of Intreo
Minister for Social Protection recently
launched new integrated employment
and support services for jobseekers
and employers at the Clarion Hotel in
Cork. Intreo streamlines a number of
services previously provided by FÁS,
the Department of Social Protection &
Community Welfare Services. Intreo is
based in dedicated offices nationwide
and roll-out will be complete by 2014.
The scheme provides a wide range of
supports and services to assist with
employment needs, designed to make
sure that companies can access potential
employees.
The scheme provides a range of services to employers including:
•
Employment support and advice on a national and European
level, giving access to skilled, job ready candidates. The Jobs
Ireland employment services is an online support system for
companies looking to recruit
•
JobBridge internships and work placement services
•
Financial supports to companies creating new jobs by
minimising cashflow demands. The Employer (PRSI) Incentive
Scheme currently exempts employers from liability to pay
their share of PRSI for certain employees and is open to
employers who create new and additional jobs.
•
Workplace supports to assist employees with disabilities
•
Advice and access to any employment initiatives relevant to
companies.
Further information go to www.intreo.ie
works for your business
5
Chamber Link
partnered projects
Christmas has come
early for Cork Conference
Ambassadors!
Gain recognition, increase your profile and enhance your
reputation by bringing your association or organisation’s next
conference or event to Cork.
Find out what free supports are available from Cork Convention
Bureau (CCB) for organising conferences or events and be in
with a chance to win an overnight stay including dinner at a
Cork 5 star hotel.
CCB’s remit is to increase the number of business tourism
opportunities (conferences, meetings and events) for the
Cork region. Business Tourism is a key strategic area for Cork.
In a recent evaluation of the destination, an UK organiser
commented on the ‘’excellent facilities in the city as well as the
quality of the hotel accommodation and dinner venues in Cork.’’
He noted in particular the support and enthusiasm evident
across the city with particular mention of the support provided
by the Cork Convention Bureau.
Economic Value of business visitors to the local economy:
•
Out of pocket expenditure of International delegate €980
(FI 2009)
•
Out of pocket expenditure of Leisure tourist €545
Find out more at www.corkconventionbureau.com/
ambassadors/ambassadors
to launch at major energy
industry event
Energy Cork, the industry-driven cluster pursuing coordinated
actions to strengthen enterprise and support job creation within
the energy sector in Cork, will be formally launched by Minister
for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte
TD on Friday 7th December at the Maryborough Hotel & Spa in
Cork from 8am until 1pm.
The event will include an address by Minister Rabbitte as well as
presentations from a range of high profile speakers including:
•
Fintan Slye, CEO of Eirgrid
•
John Mullins, CEO of Bord Gáis & President Cork Chamber
•
Tony O’ Reilly, CEO of Providence Resources
The Launch Event will provide a snapshot of some of the exciting
developments taking place in the energy sector in Cork and
provide a context for the emergence of Energy Cork as a new,
member-driven organisation.
As places are limited, registration is essential. To register for
this free event, simply email Kieran Lettice, Energy Cork’s Project
Manager (kieran_lettice@external.corkcity.ie) before Monday 3rd
December confirming your contact details and indicating that
you would like to attend.
Energy Cork is supported by Cork City Council and Cork County
Council through their respective Economic Development
Funds which see 1% of the commercial rates of both Councils
dedicated to enterprise support and job creation. The concept
was initially conceived by Cork Chamber with a view to building
on the unique opportunities for the region to secure competitive
advantage in the energy sector. Energy Cork is currently being
led by a Steering Group whose members are drawn from a wide
range of industries and government agencies, the Councils, Cork
Chamber and from UCC and CIT.
6
•
•
•
Siobhán Finn, Cork innovates
e: siobhán.finn@corkinnovates.com
Kieran Lettice, Energy Cork
e: kieran_lettice@corkexternal.ie
Evelyn O'Sullivan, Cork Convention Bureau
e: evelyn@corkconventionbureau.ie
Cork innovates* - Inaugural InBusiness InCork Showcase &
Exhibition is an outstanding success!
Well over one thousand people attended City Hall on November
14th for the inaugural Inbusiness InCork event. While the event
carried a Cork message, attendees arrived from as far away as
Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Kilkenny and Kerry for an extended
morning of interactive speaker workshops and exhibitions
pitched at aspiring and new entrepreneurs as well as those
already in business. This geographical mix alone clearly
demonstrates the absolute demand for such networking
opportunities as well as the appetite that exists for information
and supports around entrepreneurship, both from the business
community and those considering a business venture.
The entire morning of speaker workshops drew large numbers,
interspersed with networking in the exhibition space and
on-going commentary over twitter. Gavin Duffy, Dragon and
Entrepreneur opened the morning with a highly motivational
and inspiring speech, stressing the importance of positivity
and determination for the entrepreneur. The cross section of
attendees from all walks of life confirmed that entrepreneurship
is by no means an exclusive career-choice but rather that
entrepreneurship has so many different dimensions and that
no one size fits all. The number of support providers who were
on hand to offer advice and guidance also reinforced the extent
of the assistance which does exist for those exploring options
around setting up or growing their business.
Paul Hands, Chairman Cork innovates stated that "Inbusiness
InCork Showcase event was a testament to the Cork
entrepreneurial spirit, that despite the recession many of the
1200 attendees showed up to chat with the exhibitors and
entrepreneurs to explore a career in starting their own business."
*Cork innovates is an initiative of the Cork Entrepreneurship Steering Group, is funded by Cork City
Council and Cork County Council and is hosted by Cork Chamber.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. John Buttimer; Gillian Keating, JW O'Donovan
Solicitors & Vice President Cork Chamber and Paul Hands, Chairman Cork
innovates.
InBusiness InCork Showcase & Exhibition. (Photographs: Ger McCarthy)
Karl O'Flanagan, brandmagic with Gavin Duffy and Orlaith
Carmody, Mediatraining.ie.
Greg Canty, Fuzion Communications with Jackie
Gowran, Business Mentor & Trainer.
Jayne Ronayne, UrYearBook.com and Isabel
Rossiter, CIT
InBusiness InCork Workshop in progress.
works for your business
7
Chamber Link
training
Business School @ Cork Chamber
Biznetcork Skillnet’s schedule of business training courses is member-driven, meaning that our training
courses are organised primarily on the basis of requests from member companies. In this way we can ensure
that our training is responding to your needs in a timely and innovative way.
If you would be interested in a meeting to discuss your training needs for 2013 with a member of our training
team, please contact Norma Lynch at t: 021-4530142 or e: norma@corkchamber.ie
As see
n
Natio on
nwid
e
After 40-something years successfully supplying the retail sector in Ireland and
overseas, Kinsale-based family business Wild Goose Studio has turned its attention
to the corporate sector.
Wild Goose will:
• Hand make your imaginative gift in Kinsale
• Design and create specially commissioned pieces
• Offer Competitive pricing to suit your budget
We are offering 10% off all Corporate
orders over €500 made by members of Cork
Chamber during November & December.
8
Please call Selina Furlong- 087 9540863
www.wildgoosestudio.com
•
•
Norma Lynch, Training Services Manager
e: norma@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530142
Aoife Dunne, Training Administrator
e: aoife@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530141
Upcoming Training Courses - Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie/training
Cork Chamber Biznetcork Skillnet’s evolving portfolio of management business courses, which are driven by your requests, funded by
Skillnets Ltd and delivered by a panel of expert trainers, selected through a rigorous procurement process, are listed below:
Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt)
Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt) starts on 24th January 2013. This
course is of eight days duration delivered over three months and
is only €900 per person. It is intended for those employees within
a business, who are engaged in daily problem solving and/or
project management. Objectives of this course include:
•
Continuous Improvement
•
Lean Six Sigma methodology and DMAIC
•
Change Management and tools used.
•
How to use the most important tools in DMAIC phases
•
Identify sources of waste and variation within the business
•
Use Lean Six Sigma as an efficient and effective cost
reduction strategy
Green Belt Training includes Lean, Six Sigma and Change
Management tools and methodologies. The training focuses
on utilising the most common Lean Six Sigma and Change
Management tools in the execution of medium complexity
projects. The format of the training will be tutor led. The training
is very interactive thus there is a lot of emphasis on group
dynamics and ensuring the attendees participate and interact
with the trainer and each other. The training is conducted
through presentations, simulations, role plays, group exercises,
discussions and case studies.
Certificate in Business & Executive Coaching
(FETAC level 6)
Certificate in Business & Executive Coaching (FETAC level 6) starts
on 16th January 2013. This course is of five days duration and
delivered over three months and is only €550 per person. It is
designed to provide those with responsibilities for developing
workplace competencies with the skills needed to develop
individual performance in others. Competencies are identified
behaviors, knowledge, skills, and abilities that directly and
positively impact the success of employees and organizations.
It is designed to create an understanding of the organisational
and workplace context within which performance and individual
career development takes place and it will provide the skills,
knowledge and tools required to carry out effective coaching in
the workplace. Coaching is about unlocking a person’s potential
to maximize their performance. The main objective of this course
is to turn managers into effective managers. They will learn to
listen alot rather than to talk alot, to ask rather that to tell, to
explore rather than to presume, to seek commitment rather
than to seek control, to challenge rather than to order, to work
with rather than to work on, to take responsibility rather than to
blame and to make contact rather than to keep distant.
Supervisory Management (FETAC Level 6)
The Supervisory Management (FETAC Level 6) course starts on
23rd January 2013. The course is four days duration delivered
over two months and costs only €450. Objectives of this course
include:
•
Analysis and Decision Making
•
Quality and Customer Focus
•
Planning, Organising and Prioritising
•
Strategic Planning and Change Management
Course participants will acquire the theoretical knowledge
enabling them to understand the role and responsibilities of a
supervisor and learn a range of supervisory and management
skills. They will develop good interpersonal communication skills
and also demonstrate the confidence to deal with a variety of
challenging situations and also good work practices appropriate
in their role as supervisor/line manager. A participative and
interactive training approach will be followed throughout
the programme. In tandem with a number of exercises (both
individual and group), participants will be encouraged to discuss
topics and share their own experiences.
Project Management Professional
Professional Project Management starts on 22nd January 2013
and is delivered over three consecutive days and is designed
to establish a detailed understanding of Project Management
terms, concepts and methodologies. The hands-on approach of
this course ensures trainees “learn by doing” and gain a step-bystep, real-time experience of using the tools and implementing
the methodologies and support structures. In simulating real-life
environments, trainees gather the detailed knowledge required
to apply the training on return to their work environment.
Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie/training or call Norma on 021 4530142 or Aoife on 021 4530141 to discuss the right course for you
Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Networks are funded by member companies and the Training Networks Programme and Finuas Networks Programme
respectively, initiatives of Skillnets Ltd. funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Education and Skills”
works for your business
9
Chamber Link
events
An Audience with Pat Shortt
Cork Chamber Christmas Luncheon sponsored by IBM Ireland
in association with the Marketing Institute of Ireland – Southern Region
12.30pm – 3.00pm, Friday 14th December, Fota Island Resort
€50 members / €75 non members
Cork Chamber & Marketing Institute members are in for a real
treat at this year’s Christmas Lunch, which will be “An Audience
with Pat Shortt”.
Pat Shortt is a comedian, actor, musician and producer, as well
as being a local businessman and is best known for his roles in
“Killinascully” and “Father Ted” as well as his IFTA Winning Role in
the film “Garage” not to mention years of entertaining the Irish
Public alongside John Kenny with D’Unbelievables.
On this unique occasion, Cork Chamber members get to see Pat
interviewed by Irish Rugby Legend Frankie Sheehan. Frankie will
talk to Pat about his long career in the entertainment business as
well as the challenges of running a local business.
The Cork Chamber Christmas Lunch is one of the most popular
annual events in the Chamber calendar. As always, there will
be plenty of festive spirit, with great prizes to be won and the
opportunity to entertain clients and colleagues at corporate
tables while making new contacts for 2013.
10
To entertain Clients & Colleagues
at this popular event
on Friday 14th December
book now on www.corkchamber.ie
•
Leigh Gillen, Events Manager
e: leigh@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530133
Upcoming Events - Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie
EirGrid Informational Business Briefing
EirGrid has partnered with Cork Chamber to bring you an informational Breakfast Briefing
on Tuesday 4th December at 7.30am in the Gresham Metropole Hotel, Cork.
This briefing will cover the major new electricity power link for Leinster & Munster, which
is designed to ensure a secure and reliable electricity supply and provide a platform for
economic growth, as well as supporting sustainable & clean energy in the region.
7.30am-9.00am
Tuesday 4th December
Gresham Metropole Hotel
FREE for Cork Chamber members
The Grid Link Project is an estimated €500 million project planned by EirGrid to upgrade
the electricity grid that will deliver a wide range of benefits to the national and regional
economies. The development will involve the construction of a new power line linking
Leinster and Munster.
Cork Chamber and EirGrid are running this public information seminar to inform
people about the project, answer questions, provide access to maps and technical
documentation and hear the views of the business community and beyond. Further,
more detailed information about this project can be viewed at the following link
www.eirgridprojects.com/projects/gridlink
Festive Cheer at The Kiln
One of the most popular events in the Chamber calendar's. Heineken will once again
host this festive after hours evening in their hospitality suite "The Kiln".
6.00pm – 8.00pm
Thursday 6th December
The Kiln Hospitality Suite, Heineken
FREE for Cork Chamber members
Drinks, Food, Prizes and plenty of Networking Opportunities all provided on the
night with lots of Christmas party spirit. A great way to network with fellow Chamber
members in a relaxed and festive atmosphere, so bring along some colleagues and/or
clients and make a night of it.
Business Breakfast Briefing in association with
Cork Chamber’s Final Business Breakfast of 2012 will feature guest speaker Mr Oliver
Mangan, Chief Economist with AIB Bank.
Guest Speaker: Oliver Mangan,
Chief Economist, AIB Bank
7.30am-9.00am
Tuesday 11th December
Clarion Hotel
€20 members/€35 non-members
Oliver’s previous role was Chief Bond Economist with AIB Global Treasury, specialising
in analysing interest rate and bond markets as well as currency markets. Oliver does
a considerable amount of research on the Irish and international economies and is
responsible for producing AIB's forecasts in these areas. He has worked with AIB Global
Treasury since 1997.
Previous to that, he was the Senior Economist with Davy Stockbrokers from 1990 to 1996.
He worked as an economist in both the Reserve Bank of Australia in Sydney and the Irish
Civil Service before joining Davy.
Join with your fellow Cork Chamber members to hear Oliver give his economic insight
and expert overview for Ireland's economic future.
Places for events are limited. Please quote Purchase Order if required. Events Cancellation Policy: Cancellations will be accepted up to 72hrs
before each event, after this all places will be charged. This policy applies to all events.
works for your business
11
Chamber Link
events
Business After Hours at Vhi Swiftcare Clinic
Cork Chamber and VHI SwiftCare Clinic recently joined forces
to host a free networking event for Cork Chamber members in
the VHI SwiftCare Clinic in City Gate, Mahon. As always, there
was ample opportunity for Chamber members to meet other
companies and expand their business networks. Glynn McCarthy
from Froststop gave a “soapbox” at the event, so there’s no excuse
for frozen pipes this winter if you talk to Glynn!
Cork Chamber Business After Hours Events take place once a
month in various venues throughout the city and are FREE for
Cork Chamber members to attend, so why wouldn’t you want to
promote your business and meet other companies in the Region.
Dr Edith O'Regan, Vhi Swiftcare; Anne-Marie O'Sullivan, H+A Marketing + PR & Deputy
President Cork Chamber and Gearoid Gilley, Vhi Healthcare.
Mark Hegarty, Irish Formations; Ivan Lavelle, Forza Direct Marketing and Emmet Foley,
Regus. (Photographs: John Sheehan Photography)
Tom O'Connor, National Learning Network with Edel O'Connell, McKechnie Services.
Jarlath Feeney, Cork Independent and Claire Myler, River Lee Hotel.
Declan Ryan, Ballinacurra House with Marcel Springorum, Marketswings.com
12
Sharon O'Donoghue, Brook Catering with
Ciara Mahon, Hayfield Manor Hotel.
Aisling Kirwan and Denis Lynch from
Paperdolls.
•
Leigh Gillen, Events Manager
e: leigh@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530133
Business Breakfast Briefings in association with Irish Examiner
John Mullins, President Cork Chamber; Martin Riordan, Cork County Manager and Aidan
Forde, Irish Examiner. (Photographs: Denis Minihane)
Fiona Buckley, Fáilte Ireland (front) with Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber; John
Mullins, President Cork Chamber and Aidan Forde, Irish Examiner. (Photographs: Denis Scanell)
Challenges for Cork County
Tourism and Cork
Cork Chamber’s October Business Breakfast in association with
Irish Examiner took place on 16th October in the Clarion Hotel
and featured guest speaker Martin Riordan, Manager of Cork
County. Mr Riordan opened his address to the 130 attendees with
a brief history of the achievements of the County Council since
its inception and then outlined his current responsibilities which
includes managing the largest Local Authority in Ireland with
land mass of 7,454 km with a budget of €298.7M for 2012 and a
staff of 2,192.
Fiona Buckley, Fáilte Ireland was the speaker for Cork Chamber's
November Breakfast Briefing in The Imperial Hotel. Fiona's
address concentrated on The Gathering 2013 outling where
Fáilte Ireland are in the process of organising it. Digital Platforms
and Social Media are seen as the prime communication method,
plus there is an advertising campaign and promotional material
available. The Homeward Bound series, recently on RTE, was well
recieved.
Martin’s presentation focused on the three main challenges
that he sees facing the Cork Region - Local Capacity, Local
Government Reform and the National Recovery. Martin stated
that local capacity is critical to recovery both locally and
nationally. Currently funding levels for Cork County are back at
2002 levels. We must highlight that centralisation and control at
the centre will not work in the long-run and therefore insist on
retaining local capacity. He also informed the audience that local
government is leading Public Sector reform with cost savings
of €830m and reduction of 8000 staff. However the cost savings
are retained at the centre and this brings its own challenges. He
stressed the need for Cork to seek investment and developments
not just for Cork, or in competition with another counties, rather
that what is good locally will be good nationally. We have a lot of
advantages and potential to exploit Agri-business in North Cork,
tourism in West Cork and Science & Innovation in the city. Cork
must reposition itself by showing how the region can contribute
to the national recovery.
He left the audience with a challenge that if you find yourself
saying “Someone, Somewhere should do Something” then stop
and get involved and act positively for Ireland Inc.
Fiona also outlined the opportunities The Gathering offers in
itself and in subsequent years. The target is to attract 325,000
additional visitors to ireland in 2013. The hope is to attract visitors
from our nearest neighbours as well as France, Germany and
the US, which are viewed as high potential. Seventy-one million
people claim Irish ancestry so this is a diaspora we should target.
While attracting them in 2013 is the inital focus the main aim is
for repeat visits.
Individuals and communities are encouraged to organise their
own gathering by inviting people home. Learning from the
experience in Scotland where the event was industry led Ireland
has chosen a bottom up approach which is envisaged to yield
more success in the longterm. All events that are pledge can
be accessed on the Gathering website and funding is available
subject to criteria. Fiona thanked the Cork Steering Group who
were present on the morning and recently hosted four public
meetings around the county resulting in 200 ideas which are
now under review. She also highlighted the Business Gatherings
scheduled for Cork including Silicon Valley comes to Ireland
(January) and CORKMEET 2013 (April).
Fiona complimented the City and County Manager for recent
tourism initiatives. She stated that Cork needs to develop it's
offering as a City Break destination with the City Centre and the
Harbour area to the fore.
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13
Chamber Link
events
New Members Networking Breakfast in association with AIB
Once again, Cork Chamber and AIB joined forces to host the Cork
Chamber New Members Breakfast on Thursday 8th November in
the Gresham Metropole Hotel. Over 40 companies attended the
event, each one showcasing their company to the crowd as well
as participating in a one minute “soapbox” – great practice for all
aspiring networkers in the Chamber. Cork Chamber Ambassadors
also participated in this event, giving new members the benefit of
their extensive experience and as always offering a helping hand
at events where needed.
New Members also had an opportunity to display their brochures
and wares to the rest of the group, which is a great way to learn
more about what each company offers in terms of services and
products. The New Members Breakfast series is sponsored by AIB
Bank.
Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber with John O'Doherty and Noreen Walsh,
AIB. (Photographs: John Sheehan Photography)
Mark Culligan, AIB with Cormac Smith , MMD Construction and John Roche, John Roche
Photography.
Marguerite O'Donovan, AIB with Norma Lynch, Biznetcork Skillnet; Brid Ryan, Queen B Athletic
and Oonagh Donnelly, AIB.
14
Damian Callendar, Magikspell; Donald Morrissey, Oysters Restaurant and Ken Buckley,
The Gallery Kinsale & Chamber Ambassador.
Gillian Ryan, FRS Training with Anne Gough, Grafton Recruitment & Chamber
Ambassador.
Get Inspired By Science
Second prize was presented to Ruslan Volkov from St Brogan's College Bandon, pictured with
his teacher Zoe Dinneen.
Tom Mangan, Boston Scientific presenting the winning team from Rossa College, Skibbereen
with their trophy. Also pictured Dave Austin, Phillips 66; Kevin Murray, Kevin J Murray & Co. &
Deputy President Cork Chamber and Prof. Barry O'Sullivan, UCC.
Chairperson of Cork Chamber’s Science, Research and Innovation
(SRI) Committee Dave Austin, congratulated all students that
participated in the Cork Chamber School Science Award 2012 that
took place in UCC on Saturday 3rd November. The competition,
which is in its fifth year, has been sponsored annually by Boston
Scientific and this year’s projects were entered under the theme
“Get Inspired By Science”.
Speaking in advance of the event Mr Austin said, “This science
awards scheme was launched in 2008 in response to the widelyrecognised problem of the declining numbers of science and
engineering graduates in Ireland. The aim of the competition,
which was open to applications from a number of schools in the
Cork region, is to generate an interest in science among preJunior Certificate students. It is one of two initiatives focused on
these sectors that have been championed by Cork Chamber’s SRI
Committee”.
Third prize was awarded to Colaiste Mhuire, Buttevant pictured with teacher Pat Curtin.
A team from Rossa College in Skibbereen won first prize in the
competition with their project entitled “Boot the Cruciates”,
while second and third prizes went to St. Brogan’s College in
Bandon (“Examercise”) and Coláiste Mhuire in Buttevant (“Mastitis
Mandy”) respectively. Rossa College also received an honourable
mention for the project “Easy Spring”. The presentations were
judged by representatives of Boston Scientific, Phillips 66 and
UCC.
Speaking at the event Tom Mangan, Managing Director of
Boston Scientific, said, “Boston Scientific is proud to sponsor
the Cork Chamber School Science Award. Every year we see an
improvement in the creativity and the quality of the projects that
are entered. In many cases the students are actively applying
the knowledge gained in class and using it as the basis for
demonstrating solutions to everyday problems. Cork has a strong
cluster of world-class, science-based industries operating locally
and we hope that initiatives such as this awards scheme will
encourage students to continue studying science at higher level
and ultimately pursue careers in science.”.
Rossa College received an honourable mention for their project "Easy Spring".
works for your business
15
Chamber Link
cover story
John Mullins, President Cork Chamber; Brian McCarthy, Executive Chairman FEXCO; John Higgins, Ernst & Young; Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food & the Marine and Conor Healy,
Chief Executive Cork Chamber. (Photographs: Johnny Bambury)
‘Outstanding Achievement in Business’ awarded to Brian McCarthy, FEXCO
Cork Chamber's Dublin Dinner in association with Ernst & Young
Businessman Mr Brian McCarthy, Executive Chairman, FEXCO was
presented with an Outstanding Achievement in Business award
at Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner, in association with Ernst and
Young, at the Burlington Hotel.
With close to 500 people in attendance, the event promotes
the strong connections that exist between Cork and Dublin and
provides a unique opportunity for companies based across the
two regions to network with their peers.
Minister Simon Coveney was the key note speaker on the
night and he gave an extensive speech, favouring a shared
vision for the city and county to maximise Cork’s industrial and
tourist potential and called for an early start to the 6000 seater
convention centre.
Brian McCarthy started his career with Allied Irish Banks where
he worked for almost 20 years before setting up Fexco in
Killorglin, Co Kerry and since then it has grown to be Irelands
most successful privately owned financial services company
employing 1700 people across its operations in Ireland, the UK,
the USA, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Australia. The company
is financially strong and continues to grow demonstrated by
its recent acquisition of Ireland’s leading stock broking firm,
Goodbody, in 2011 and a leading UK FX and payments company
No1 Currency earlier this year.
As a result of this success Cork Chamber is delighted to honour
Brian McCarthy with an Outstanding Achievement in Business
award for his many successes and contributions to business in
Ireland and overseas.
16
Speaking from the event, Mr John Mullins, President, Cork
Chamber said, “We are pleased to bring this unique event to the
corporate calendar, as an occasion for representatives of our two
largest economic regions to network and to celebrate successes
of Cork and Dublin based businesses”.
Adding “Cork Chamber are delighted to have the opportunity
to acknowledge the outstanding role that Brian McCarthy
has played in both the national and international business
community.”
John Higgins, Partner at Ernst & Young commented, “We are
proud to be associated with this important business event. Cork
has a tremendous mix of indigenous industry, multinational
companies and SME's. In particular, indigenous companies in the
Agri- food sector should have a great opportunity over the next
decade to play a crucial role in driving economic growth and
recovery.
John also commented "Cork is also home to many leading
entrepreneurs. We have been privileged to have a ringside seat
to entrepreneurial companies based in Cork through Ernst &
Young's Entrepreneur of the Year programme."
Finally John commented, "As a previous winner of the Ernst
& Young International Entrepreneur of the Year award, Brian
McCarthy epitomises the entrepreneurial spirit that will drive our
country forward”.
Dr. Michael Murphy, President UCC with H.E. Luo Linquan,
Chinese Ambassador.
John Mullins, President Cork Chamber and Fiona
Buckley, Fáilte Ireland.
Sean O’Driscoll, Glen Dimplex; Patrick Coveney, President Dublin Chamber and Peter
O’Neill, President American Chamber of Commerce in Ireland.
Rose Hynes, Chair, Bord Gáis with Denis Creighton, FEXCO.
Cllr. Barbara Murray, County Mayor with Cllr. John
Buttimer, Lord Mayor of Cork.
Frank Boland, Frank Boland Ltd; Siobhán Bradley, Cork Chamber and Dr. Brendan Murphy,
President CIT.
Barbara Nestor, Ernst & Young with Pamela
Newenham, Irish Times.
Louise O’Byrne and Jill O’Donohoue from Arthur Cox.
works for your business
17
media
What the media covered
Cork Chamber featured in the media on a number of issues. The
topics covered included the Chamber Pre-Budget Submission; the
Chamber business breakfast with Cork County Manager Martin
Riordan; the Business Air Travel Survey 2012; the Action Plan for
Effective Local Government; the Chamber BiznetCork Business
School; the ‘Mentoring for Female Entrepreneurs’ event; the Cork
Chamber School Science Awards 2012; the launch of the Health
Hub Demonstrator Project; supporting local business in the run up
to Christmas; the Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner
Press Releases
20th Nov
16th Nov
8th Nov
31st Oct
26th Oct
19th Oct
16th Oct
18
‘Outstanding Achievement in Business’ awarded to Brian McCarthy, FEXCO
Cork Chamber calls for support for Local Business in the run up to Christmas
Cork Chamber and Boston Scientific get inspired
by Science
Cork Chamber Business Air Travel Survey reveals high demand for improved air-travel from Cork Airport
Cork Chamber welcomes Cork Job Announcements
Cork Chamber Welcomes Launch of Health Hub Demonstrator Project
Cork Chamber expresses concern about the absence of any future merger plans for Cork City and County Council in today’s ‘Action Programme for Effective Local Government’ concern
Press Releases and News Stories are posted on Twitter & LinkedIn
and are also available on www.corkchamber.ie
connecting
•
Patrick Doyle, Membership Development Manager
e: patrick@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530145
We welcome the following New Members
Building Contractors/Providers
EBO Home Rescue
One stop shop for all your home & business
property upgrade, repair & maintenance needs.
Contact: Mike Boyle
T: (086) 2666946
E: boyle.mick@gmail.com
W: www.ebohomerescue.com
MMD Construction
Construction company which undertakes
industrial, commercial, retail projects. Contact: Cormac Smith
T: (021) 4975979
E: cormac@mmd.ie
W: www.mmd.ie
Charity
Irish Primary Principals Network
An independent professional association of school
leaders established in 2000.
Contact: Sean Cottrell
T: 1890 21 22 23
E: sean.cottrell@ippn.ie
W: www.ippn.ie
Computers/Hardware
Hittite Microwave International
Fab-less semiconductor company supplying
components for high performance applications.
Contact: Jason Lynch
T: (021) 2407996
E: jason.lynch@hittite.com
W: www.hittite.com
Entertainment/Leisure/Tourism
Blackwater Lodge
Salmon & Trout fishing, provide tuition &
accommodation.
Contact: Glenda Powell
T: (058) 60235
E: glenda@ireland-salmon-fishing.net
W: www.ireland-salmon-fishing.net
Eazycity
Organises work abroad, internship abroad &
language courses
Contact: Julia Lynes
T: (021) 4222243
E: julia@eazycity.com
W: www.eazycity.com
Flahool.com
Ireland's destination discount portal.
Contact: Fergus Murphy
T: (086) 2500841
E: fergus@email4us.com
W: www.flahool.com
Financial Services/Pensions/Investment
Insight Private Clients Ltd
The service offering from Insight Private Clients,
primarily focuses on the Protection, Pension &
Investment markets.
Contact: Mark Ryan
T: (021) 4299002
E: mark.ryan@insightpc.ie
W: www.insightprivateclients.ie
Freight Forwarders/Shipping Agents
Dan Connolly Tractors & Plant Ltd
We specalise in the export of Ford+Massey
Ferguson tractors, JCBs,excavators, telescopic
handlers & more
Contact: Dan Connolly
T: (028) 21276
E: connollytractors@eircom.net
W: www.usedplantmachinery.com
Fuel/Energy
Verde Led
Irish owned multinational headquartered in
Cork specialising in commercial LED Lighting
solutions.
Contact: Sean Keohane
T: (021) 4861577
E: sean@verdeled.com
W: www.verdeled.com
Hotel/Guesthouse
Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa
4 star luxury hotel based inbetween two beaches
just outside of Clonakilty
Contact: Hannah Rose Farrington
T: (023) 8833143
E: hfarrington@inchydoneyisland.com
W: www.inchydoneyisland.com
Media/Publishing/Video Production
urYearbook
Create yearbooks for students using social media
content.
Contact: David Murray
T: (087) 6899387
E: david@uryearbook.com
W: www.uryearbook.com
Merchandising/Promotion
AB Sales
Office Supplies
Contact: Niall Kenny
T: (021) 483 7077
E: niall@absales.ie
Motor Traders
Lehane Motors
Lehane Motors, Wilton is part of Macroom Motors,
a company that has been trading successfully as a
Toyota dealership since 1975.
Contact: Paudie Donegan
T: (021) 4817700
E: pdonegan@lehanemotors.ie
W: www.lehanemotors.ie
Public Relations
Lucy O'Donoghue Consulting
Provides expert advice in areas such as
development strategy, project management,
public relations, event management & social
media
Contact: Lucy O'Donoghue
T: (087) 2904282
E: lucy@lodconsulting.ie
Recruitment/Executive Search
Collins McNicholas Recruitment
An Irish based recruitment+HR services company
which has over 20 yrs experience.
Contact: Joann McGlinchey
T: (021) 4809118
E: joann.mcglinchey@collinsmcnicholas.ie
W: www.collinsmcnicholas.ie
Retail
Crowleys Opticians
Opthalmic refraction of eyes. Dispenser of
spectacles including lenses, sports spectacles &
safety specatacles.
Contact: Conor Crowley
T: (021) 4271351
E: conor@crowleysopticians.com
W: www.crowleysopticians.com
Software/Software Services
Voumove
Software company that provides interactive video
analysis of physical exercise.
Contact: Seadna MacEllistrim
T: (086) 3757343
E: seadnamcellistrim@gmail.com
Telecommunications
Bidpup
Provides global sellers a convenient, easy &
effective platform to advertise & sell their goods &
services
Contact: Mary Culloty
T: (086) 0878957
E: info@bidpup.com
Spectrum AV
Installations company specialising in digital TV
systems, sound systems, digital signage CCTV etc.
Contact: Damien O Halloran
T: (021) 4323928
E: damien@spectrumav.ie
W: www.spectrumav.ie
Vconnecta Ltd
Specialise in vote relationship management
systems & productivity mobile political
applications.
Contact: Brendan Finucane
T: (086) 1524893
E: bfinucane@vconnecta.com
W: www.vconnecta.com
Transport
Ashford Chauffeur Services
Looks after the travel needs of individuals &
companies who rely on chauffeur services for
business travel.
Contact: Paul Thompson
T: (085) 2888351
E: info@ashfordchauffeurs.ie
W: www.ashfordchauffeurs.ie
works for your business
19
Chamber Link
•
international
Katherine Fitzpatrick, EU Trade & Innovation Services Manager
e: katherine@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530137
Imelda Mulcahy, Export Documentation Manager
e: imelda@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530130
•
Irish Technology & Leadership Group coming to Ireland in 2013
Pitch Camp Sessions
One element of the 2 day event involves a ‘pitch-camp’ session
at the CIT Rubicon Centre where pre-selected start-ups and
entrepreneurs from the island of Ireland with exciting new
technologies and innovations are invited to pitch to investors
from the US. The Fast Pitches will be approx. 10 minutes in
duration: 6 minutes of pitch and 3-4 minutes of Q&A.
Start-ups, spin-outs and early stage companies and businesses in
the following sectors are invited to apply to pitch at this event:
Barry O'Sullivan, Cisco with Conor Healy, Cork Chamber.
Silicon Valley Comes to Ireland 2013
The Irish Technology and Leadership Group (ITLG) will be
coming to Ireland for the “Silicon Valley Comes to Ireland 2013”
event on 21st & 22nd January 2013. The delegation will be led
by former Chairman and CEO of Intel Dr. Craig R. Barrett. This
two-day summit is the top international business event taking
place as part of The Gathering 2013 and will be hosted by ITLG
in partnership with Cork Chamber, Cork City Council, University
College Cork and Cork Institute of Technology. The Summit will
bring together top executives, entrepreneurs, and venture capital
investors. The ITLG investor team will meet and engage with
selected top innovative technology companies. The conference
will include thought leadership, panel debates and technology
showcases that will provide delegates with an inside look at the
latest cutting-edge technology opportunities.
For more details or to register for the conference please visit
www.itlg.org
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Entertainment and gaming
Software & Services/Cloud
Mobile
Social Media/Web
Biotech
Cleantech
Hardware/Semiconductor
A shortlist of 50 companies will be drawn up and this list will be
further shortlisted in advance of the event, where the finalists
will pitch directly to the investors. As part of the company
evaluation process, ITLG will choose a number of companies to
participate in the prestigious ITLG/Irish Times Awards in Silicon
Valley in Spring 2013.
To apply to participate in the pitch camp session, see the
following link: www.itlg.org/events/2013-SVCTI/fast_pitch_
registration.php
Enterprise Europe Network 2013 International Events Programme
The Enterprise Europe Network welcomes feedback from SMEs that would
be taken into consideration when planning the events schedule for 2013.
If you would like to attend an event on a specific foreign market or sector,
on a particular trade or EU-related topic or on any general issue affecting
your business, then please email your ideas to katherine@corkchamber.ie.
20
EA-32-09-209-EN-P
Hit
your target
Enterprise Europe Network
The right course
for your business
European Commission
Enterprise and Industry
works for your business
ec.europa.eu/enterprise-europe-network
21
Chamber Link
promotion
Chamber Membership Directory 2013
Unique opportunity to promote your business for one year
The Cork Chamber Membership Directory is distributed free
of charge to all Cork Chamber members, local representatives
and visiting dignitaries – with a total distribution of over 1,500
copies. It is considered to be a top B2B business directory and
is used by members and associates on a daily basis – making it
indispensable as a desk reference book.
Readership Profile: Cork Chamber’s strong membership is
made up of an interconnected network of over 1,000 members
including key decision makers from a range of organisations at all
stages of development from ‘start up’ to ‘trading internationally’
across a variety for sectors.
Advertising: Once again the 2013 Membership Directory
offers a range of options for members to advertise and profile
their companies, ranging from quarter to half and full page
advertising in addition to sponsorship opportunities which will
include editorial space to profile your company.
Advertising rates 2013
• ¼ page - €500
• ½ page - €800
• Full page €1200
• Double Page Spread - €2000 (includes editorial)
• Inside Front Cover - €3000 (includes editorial)
• Inside Back Cover - €2500 (includes editorial)
To advertise in this publication and/or discuss editorial content
email: deborah@corkchamber.ie
Member's Details: As all member companies will be listed in
the directory please ensure your details are up-to-date on the
Chamber website, including contact name, email addresses,
company website, etc. To review and update your details simply
log onto: The MEMBERS AREA on the Cork Chamber website:
www.corkchamber.ie
Please note: Following feedback from members, the 2013 Membership
directory publication will be in a standard A4 paperback format, and will
not include a diary element as was done in previous years.
CTM & PCH travel forward together
Corporate Travel Management (CTM) is delighted to announce a
renewed global travel services contract with PCH International.
CTM and PCH have been successfully doing business for near on
12 years. Angela Walsh, Managing Director, CTM commented,
“We are very happy to continue our relationship with PCH and
we will continue to work closely with Liam and his team to
develop a travel solution that best suits their expanding needs
and challenges.” This contract comes on the foot of this year’s
Cork Chamber Conference where Liam Casey, CEO of PCH,
cited CTM as a major support service to PCH doing business
worldwide. “Geography is history” says Liam. Business can now
be done anywhere in the world and CTM are behind companies
like PCH allowing such business take place.
Angela Walsh, Corporate Travel Management with Liam Casey, PCH.
22
•
Barbara-Anne Richardson, Marketing & Commercial Services Manager
e: barbara-anne@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530140
Members News
Gifts of Change
For the past twelve years, ethical and practical gifts have been
changing lives for the better in some of the world’s poorest
communities. Since 2000, Trocaire have distributed real gifts such
as seeds and tools, fruit trees, chicks, school books and midwife
kits to over 700,000 people across the globe from Guatemala to
India. These gifts have enabled people living in abject poverty to
grow food, generate a small income, send their children to school
and have hope for a brighter future. For more information on this
year’s range of gifts or to support this year’s Global Gift Campaign
contact t: (021) 4275622 or log onto www.trocaire.org/gifts
Peter Hanan, Managing Partner Pina; Audrey Burke-McCarthy, MotivAction; Liam Linehan,
CIPD and Ken Murphy, Director CareerWise Recruitment.
How the HR Team can deliver value
Over 100 members of the Chartered Institute of Personnel
& Development (CIPD) met at a recent business breakfast
sponsored by CareerWise Recruitment to hear Mr Peter Hanan,
Managing Partner, Pinta share his thoughts on the role of HR
as a Business Partner. With HR being the engine that helps an
organisation to reach its potential, Mr Hanan asked the audience
to consider if the goals of their HR team are supporting the overall
direction of their company and do employees regard the HR team
as a strategic resource or a well-meaning team responsible for
being the guardians of the company's values. He also touched
on the process used to develop a HR Strategic Plan and the
methods used to track the success of its implementation. Ken
Murphy, Director of CareerWise Recruitment and event sponsor
said, "During our work within organisations we are often asked
to review HR as part of an overall strategic planning process. We
can advise on how to focus on strategically positioning the HR
team within a company to maximise its potential contribution to
the overall goals of the company". Liam Lenihan, Chairman, CIPD
Southern Region stated, "Business leaders understand the value
of people and they can articulate their top people priorities and
are willing to invest to get what they need. At the same time the
HR leaders know they have to deliver what the business needs
and wants. This morning Peter shared some practical tips on how
to empower your HR team to deliver more value."
An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, with Dermot Moynihan, Jim Lehane and Brendan O'Reagan
from Zenith Technologies.
Taoiseach opens Zenith new US HQ
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD officially opened the new US
headquarters of Cork based Zenith Technologies in Bluebell,
Montgomery County Pennsylvania. Speaking at the opening,
An Taoiseach said: “It is companies like Zenith that will drive
the export growth that will underpin Ireland’s economic
prosperity and support valuable Irish jobs..” Founder and CEO
of Zenith, Brendan O’ Regan, said, “I am delighted to have the
Taoiseach of Ireland Enda Kenny TD here to open our new US
headquarters and mark this very significant milestone in our
company’s development”. Zenith Technologies is a leading Global
Automation and MES Engineering company providing high-value,
innovative, reliable and technically- advanced automation and
MES solutions to the Life Science and other industries. Zenith
Technologies has 14 offices located across Europe, Asia and the
US with headquarters in Cork.
Brazilian venture for Carbery Group
KPMG Cork’s Charity Carrantuohill Climb
50 staff from KPMG Cork conquered Ireland’s highest peak, Carrantuohill, to raise funds for
Friends of Leukaemia Patients Cork (FOLPC). Pictured above are Barrie O’Connell, KPMG
Partner and Eoin O’Regan, KPMG Manager presenting the cheque to Imelda Reynolds,
Chairperson and Pascal Scott, Patron of FOLPC.
Carbery Group has announced the formation of 50/50 joint
venture with one of South America’s leading food companies BRF
Brasil Foods. The venture, which involves a shared investment of
$50 million will use Carbery’s innovative technology to process
whey generated at Brasil Food’s cheese making operations in
one of the foremost milk producing regions in Brazil. BRF, which
employs around 115,000 people and has an annual turnover of
US$13.7 billion, is the second largest collector of milk in Brazil.
Carbery Group is expanding its presence in rapidly growing
emerging markets and has a growing requirement for skilled
graduates in research and development, market development
and commercial roles.
works for your business
23
Chamber Link
promotion
Members News
Staff breakout area at Arvato Bertelsmann.
Creativity Key in Creating Modern
Workplace O’Brien Office Systems have just completed a large project for
Arvato Bertelsmann in Eastpoint Dublin. The project involved
the upgrade & refurbishment of an existing 15 year old 6000m2
commercial property for 500 employees. A key part of the project
was to create an environment where workers felt open to be
creative, this was enabled by creating modern breakout areas,
colourful meeting spaces and by mixing textures to create an
environment that is truly unique. OBOS, a family business with
over 30 years experience, specialise in creating modern affordable
workplaces and have recently completed projects for Yves Rocher,
Solarwinds, University of Limerick, The Tyndall Institute, Aegis
Media Ireland & Euromedic.
Jazz Club in session at Ballinacurra House
The Strictly Private Jazz Club Show
Kinsale’s 1st Strictly Private Jazz Club at Ballinacurra House, got off
to a flyer on Sunday October 28th as a sell-out crowd enjoyed a
host of world class acts in the ultimate house party experience, as
part of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. The guests were treated to
a banquet of bebop supper club food and greeted by 3 different
DJ’s playing a collection of Gypsy Swing, Groove and Deep
Jazz Cuts in various rooms in the exclusive-use 40 acre Kinsale
Georgian Estate. This was complemented by a collection of
sophisticated themed wine and cocktails bars – evoking the great
Supper Club house events of the past. Tickets included admission
and all entertainment, canapes, inventive fork supper throughout
the evening and sold-out on its launch occasion – to add another
element to the Cork Jazz and Kinsale Jazz Festival.
24
Susan Hogan, Business Manager, Hays IT with John Connelly, Sophie Mulcahy - Symmons,
Misha McEnaney and Saoirse Sheehy-Ariff.
CoderDojo teams up with Hays
CoderDojo, the free coding club movement where young
people learn to code and create has teamed up with recruiting
experts Hays to leverage its network of IT professionals to
recruit volunteers, mentors and companies to support the rapid
expansion of the CoderDojo movement. They have jointly set
a target of finding 1,000 new Mentors and 100 companies to
provide facilities for the Dojos in Ireland, by their 2nd birthday –
July 2013. Maureen Lynch, Director of Hays in Ireland explains
why Hays got involved, “CoderDojo is such a positive news
story for Ireland. We know as well as anyone how difficult it is to
source talented developers and this is a really innovative way to
hopefully plug that gap in the future. But more importantly, the
Dojos themselves are a really cool environment that everyone
involved seems to enjoy.” If you are interested in becoming a
Mentor or hosting a Dojo go to www.hays.ie
Pictured at Ballymaloe: Phil O'Donovan, Twelve Winds; Gilles Bouchard, Harvard Business
Angels; Johnny Walker, Global Diagnostics; Sean Phelan, Serial Entrepreneur & Investor;
Audrey Mandela, Mandela Associates; Jack Lang, Entrepreneur in Residence and Michael
O'Connor, CorkBIC.
Entrepreneur Superstars in Ballymaloe
The Going International Conference 2012 – Building a High
Growth Company with Smart Investment took place at the Grain
Store, Ballymaloe House, Shanagarry, Co. Cork. Dr Johnny Walker
of Global Diagnostics kicked things off with a lively presentation
on why Ireland is a great place from which to expand your
business globally, followed by Dr Phil O’Donovan, chairman of
Twelve Winds and Gilles Bouchard, Vice President of Harvard
Business Angels France, both of whom who gave incredible
insights into the world of investments and why people invest.
It was Jack Lang, Serial Entrepreneur, Business Angel and cofounder of the Raspberry PI foundation who really wowed the
delegates. Jack explored the 4 Exit routes; Acquisition, Flotation,
MBO and Liquidation.
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Fastnet Recruitment hold Open Days
Michael Barry addresses the attendees in his new capacity as Honorary Mexican Consul.
Mexican Honorary Consul
At an investiture ceremony at Hayfield Manor Michael Barry
was installed as Honorary Consul of Mexico by the Ambassador,
H.E. Ambassador Carlos Garcia de Alba, acting on behalf of the
Mexican government. The Ambassador added: ‘It is my pleasure
to entrust him with the mission to represent Mexico in the Cork
and Kerry region, performing consular work and acting as an
important link between the Mexican people, local institutions and
business while representing the consular section of the Mexican
Embassy at events and public functions.'
Fastnet Recruitment, a leading provider of recruitment and
outsourcing solutions to the pharmaceutical, medical device
and food sectors, recently held a number of open days to fill
a significant number of roles in life sciences organisations in
the Cork region. The open days to fill current roles were in the
areas of Accountancy & Finance, Supply Chain, Engineering and
Quality & Laboratory for the pharma and life sciences sector
"Fastnet Recruitment has a large number of openings within the
multinational sector in Cork currently. We launched a series of
open days to make people aware of the opportunities within
the pharma and life sciences sector currently, and to engage
with people that are interested in filling these roles", said Niamh
O’Driscoll, Managing Director, Fastnet Recruitment. Due to the
success of the open days, it is likely that Fastnet Recruitment will
repeat their open day series in the coming months.
Pat King, CEO of The Doyle Collection (centre) with Paula Cogan, Sales & Marketing
Manager and Ruairi O'Connor, General Manager at The River Lee Hotel.
Double win for The River Lee Hotel
Michael Magner, Vienna Woods Hotel and Chairman of the Cork Branch of the IHF with
Mark Moynihan, Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa; Aaron Mansworth, Cork International Airport
Hotel; Fiona O’ Donoghue, Carrigaline Court Hotel and John Gately, The Montenotte Hotel
launch a series of Cork events planned for 2013.
Cork Hotels Revive Irish Hotels Federation
Annual Dinner Dance
Following on from the huge success of the recent Guinness Jazz
festival in Cork which saw full house signs go up on numerous
hotels in Cork City and county, the Cork Branch of the Irish Hotels
Federation (IHF) are gearing up to make 2013 an even better year
for hoteliers. Under new leadership the Cork Branch are launching
a series of initiatives over the coming months which will help
the organisation protect the jobs of the four thousand workers
across the 60 member hotels in Cork by funding a promotional
campaign highlighting the importance of the tourism industry to
the region, which will in turn help drive the local economy and
sustain jobs, while contributing millions annually to the local Cork
economy.
The River Lee Hotel is celebrating after securing the much
coveted ‘Business Hotel of the Year Award’ at the Georgina
Campbell Awards 2013, following hot on the heels of another
award for their environmental initiatives at the Repak Best
Practice Awards for 2012. During a glittering ceremony at the
annual Georgina Campbell Awards 2013, which are Ireland’s
longest-running hospitality awards and are highly respected
within the hospitality industry, the 4 star The River Lee Hotel
was recognised as a key Business Tourism performer and was
acknowledged for its excellent service and world class facilities.
The other recent award, the Repak Best Practice awards for the
hospitality sector, was designed to recognise the efforts and
ingenuity of businesses in the area of packaging prevention,
reuse and recycling and The River Lee Hotel was recognised for
its overall excellence in waste reduction and the dedication and
passion shown by staff to save on energy, money and natural
resources.
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Members News
John X Miller, Cork Vision Centre and Mick Hannigan, Director of the Cork Film Festival.
Michael Dineen, Founder & Chairperson; Frank Ryan, CEO of Enterprise Ireland and Fergal
Lennon, Managing Director of Contracting PLUS.
57th Corona Cork Film Festival
Contracting PLUS Announces 30 New Jobs
The 57 Corona Cork Film Festival, took place from Nov11 -18
and screened over 300 Irish and International Feature Films,
World Cinema, Documentaries and Short Films from all over
the world. The Festival opened with the screening of The Great
Flood, directed by Bill Morrison and inspired by the catastrophic
Mississippi River Flood of 1927. The screening was accompanied
by a live performance on the Cork Opera House stage by the
legendary jazz guitarist and composer Bill Frisell. Directed by
Oscar-winning writer Martin McDonagh, the acclaimed Seven
Psychopaths, starring Colin Farrell closed the festival. The Corona
Cork Film Festival was delighted to screen the Irish Premiere of
the film.
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Ireland’s leading accountants for professional contractors,
CXC Consultants Exchange, has announced their new name,
Contracting PLUS. Further to their buyout of foreign investors,
Contracting PLUS is now a wholly owned Irish company with
expansion plans in Ireland as well as in the UK and Europe which
will lead to the creation of 30 new jobs, 17 of which will be in
their Irish offices in Dublin and Cork. Contracting PLUS has seen
a 70% increase in turnover in the last 3 years with a 50% growth
in employee numbers to in excess of 100 people in their offices in
Ireland, UK, Russia and India. Contracting PLUS provides solutions
to over 3,000 professional contractors in sectors including
Aviation, Engineering, IT and Pharmaceutical.
Dr Liam Plant, Consultant Renal Physician, CUH showing Karen Murphy-O'Sullivan who is
awaiting to be put on the transplant list and her sister Sandra Murphy, Trend Micro how a
Haemodialyser is used to treat Kidney Disease.
‘Give & Match’
A heartfelt email to her colleagues at Trend Micro helped Sandra
Murphy raise funds of almost €7,000. The employees at Trend
Micro organised a number of events from “I’m a Manager, get
me out of here”, car washes, cake sales and a table quiz and
ultimately raised over €3,300. As part of the “Give and Match”
programme, this was matched by Trend Micro to bring the total
amount fundraised to almost €7,000. With over 3,775 people
in Ireland suffering from end-stage kidney disease, the Irish
Kidney Association (Cork Branch) represented by Teddy O’Neill
(Chairman) gratefully accepted the cheque.
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Best Chef Munster was awarded to Michael Fleming, Flemings Restaurant at the launch of
The 2012 Portside Media ‘Good Eating Guide to Ireland’. Pictured above (l/r): Tanya Lawless,
Kilbeggan Whiskey; Mary Mitchell-O’Connor TD; Michael Fleming, Flemings Restaurant;
Karen Scanlon, Tipperary Crystal; Eileen Fleming, Flemings Restaurant; Marty Burke and
Paddy McCarthy from Portside Media.
“Un Histoire D’amour a Noel” at Flemings
On Saturday 24th November Flemings Restaurant Tivoli hosted
“Un Histoire D’amour a Noel” a truly original evening of music ,
song and of course fine dining. En rouge et Noir is a new music
duo performed some of the best loved and most familiar
French songs, think Edith Piaf and Jaques Brel. There is another
opportunity on Thursday 13th Dec to attend this unique Christmas
experience where you can enjoy a special seasonal menu created
by Michael Fleming – who has been awarded "Best Chef in
Munster". With a definite Christmas theme it is a season’s must.
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Brendan Keary, Keary’s Renault with Magician Keith Barry.
Chulainn Murray and Mr Begley from Mayfield Community School at the Challenge Science
event.
Cork Students Challenge Science at NMCI
Challenge Science, PepsiCo and Junior Achievement’s annual
science event, took place in NMCI Ringaskiddy. The event
unleashes a world of fun, learning and amazement to more than
150 Cork secondary students. Attended by students from local
Cork schools (St Aloysius College, Carrigtwohill; Colaiste and
Phiarsaigh, Glanmire, Colaiste an Chraoibhin, Fermoy, St. Vincent’s
Secondary School, Blackpool, Mayfield Community School and
Colaiste Mhuire, Crosshaven) and assisted by business volunteers
from PepsiCo, Challenge Science features hands-on workshops
on forensic science, energy and careers in science, technology
and engineering as well as a tour of the NMCI campus. In its
eighth year, Challenge Science is supported by the science,
biotechnology and engineering industries nationally as part of
the push towards a knowledge-based economy.
New Clio unveiled
Magician Keith Barry and Keary’s Renault, Ireland’s largest
Renault dealer, unveiled the new Renault Clio in Midleton, Cork.
With over 350 guests in attendance at the launch of the new
5-door hatchback model, the new Renault Clio is likely to be a
big hit with Irish motorists. “The Renault Clio has always been a
popular model here, however this new Clio really is one of the
most exciting cars available now in Ireland”, said Brendan Keary,
Director at Keary’s Renault. “Given its spec, the new Renault Clio
offers an amazing driving experience and provides a good value,
reliable and exciting motoring experience”, Keary added. Priced
at €14,990, Kearys Motors are now taking orders for the new Clio
which will arrive in Ireland in early 2013.
Killarney Royal wins Golf Hotel of the Year
With over 110 years of welcoming golfers from all over the world
to Killarney Royal, the hotel has been officially recognised as a
forerunner (pun intended!) in Irish golf tourism and was recently,
awarded the Ireland Golf Tour
Operator Association (ITGOA),
2012 Boutique Golf Hotel of
the Year. The proprietors, Joe
& Margaret Scally and family
and all the members of the
team at Killarney Royal were
overjoyed to receive this
prestigious honour at the
glamorous awards ceremony
held at Lough Erne resort,
Fermanagh last night. The
award was presented to Claire
Scally by IGTOA Vice Chairman
and Director of Lynchpin
Tours, Mr David Hudson,
and celebrity presenter, GAA star, Peter Canavan. Claire Scally
accepted the award on behalf of the Scally family and their team
at the hotel and stated: "We are very honoured to be recognised
by the IGTOA members who are the lifeblood of Irish Golf Tourism
and we look forward to even more success in the golf market
now that we have been officially recognised as the golfer's choice
Boutique Golf Hotel of the Year."
Patricia Mallon, Hon. French Consul; Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Jim Corr and Nora
Callanan, President Alliance Française de Cork.
Alliance Française Celebrates 65 Years
Attendees from the cultural, academic and business world from
throughout Ireland gathered in Fleming's Restaurant to celebrate
Alliance Française's 65 years in Cork. Thomas McCarthy, poète
Corconian renommé, led the toast to the President and team of
Alliance Française de Cork. Nora Callanan, President, paid tribute
to Rachel Burrows, the great educationalist and pupil of Beckett’s
in Trinity who in early post-war days in 1947 gathered together
80 like-minded Francophiles in Cork and so the Alliance Française
was founded. Today Alliance Française de Cork is a thriving
language and cultural centre, embodying a vibrant annual
cultural programme the highlight of which is Cork French Film
Festival.
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Chamber Link
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National Learning Network – Investing in People, Changing Perspectives
A Useful Link in Assisting Your Corporate Social Responsibility Needs
In the ever-changing world of business, there is a need to
continuously adapt to new and improved practices, methods
and corporate social responsibilities to stakeholders within the
community. One of these Corporate Social Responsibilities is the
need for businesses to embrace diversity in the workplace.
The ability to think “outside the box” has proven, time and again, to
be the key to many a success story by simply looking at something
from a different perspective. Take a few minutes to think about a
very simple situation… maybe having to replace a member leaving
a company. When the business goes through the hiring process,
they look for a person who can come as close as possible to the
needs of the job. They then identify several candidates, who are
called for interview.
One of the candidates, who come for interview, has an obvious
disability and the first thoughts of the interviewer are of the
disability, not the ability of the person.
Has the interviewer thought “outside the box”? Has he thought
about what the candidate might bring to the business?
The National Learning Network, the education and training service
of the ReHab Group, specialises in providing high quality work
oriented training programmes leading to recognised qualifications
for people with injuries, illnesses or disabilities. It is the largest nongovernmental training organisation in Ireland, operating on a not
for profit basis, with over 40 different vocational training courses in
over 60 locations nationwide.
There are two training centres in the Cork City area, which cover
the whole county (exclusive of West Cork, which is covered by
our Bantry facility. They are located in Hollyhill and at Model Farm
Road, with community outreach centres in North and East Cork.
A variety of training programmes is provided in a number of
vocational areas, such as IT systems and PC maintenance, catering,
secretarial/ office administration plus on-the-job training through
the Employer Based Training (EBT) programme.
EBT provides hosting businesses with an opportunity to give a
person with a disability or long term illness a chance at a new
career without the commitment of employment or any financial
obligations ( the trainee is paid through the National Learning
Network).
The host business has no obligation to hire the trainee at the end
of the programme, which has a duration of one to two years. If,
however, an opportunity arises within the business there may be
some financial incentives to available should the business decide
that the trainee is a suitable candidate.
If you are interested in having your business involved in working
with the National Learning Network in the area of Corporate Social
Responsibility by providing suitable work placements; please
contact Tom O’Connor at the National Learning Network offices in
Hollyhill at 087 9890647 or 021 4300144 / email - (tom.oconnor@
nlncork.ie), or June Morley at the National Learning Network
offices in Model Farm Road 021 4341028.
We look forward to working with you!!
MakeITinCork.com to attract IT talent to Cork An industry-led initiative, Make IT in Cork, was launched by Minister
Simon Coveney, T.D. to attract skilled professionals to work in the
local technology sector. While Cork has been very successful in
attracting some of the world’s leading technology companies, the
demand for skilled professionals with multi-lingual and IT skills
continues to increase. With over 10,000 people already employed in
over 40 overseas ICT/Technology companies in the city and county,
Cork has a strong IT cluster and Make IT in Cork will help to attract
additional skills to Cork to support the continued growth of the
participating companies. Make IT in Cork provides job opportunities
and listings at www.makeITinCork.com, as well as supporting
information about relocating to Cork. Make IT in Cork is run by
Cork-based software and social media company, AssemblyPoint Ltd,
and has the support of Cork Chamber and other business support
organisations in the region.
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John Mullins, President Cork Chamber; Siobhan Hasner, Make IT in Cork and Minister for
Agriculture, Food & Marine, Simon Coveney T.D.
•
To submit articles for Members News to e: imelda@corkchamber.ie
New Appointments
New at Grandon Car Sales
Richard Cotter has
been appointed Sales
Executive. He has a
Certificate in Business
Studies in CIT, has
previously worked with
Kevin O’Learys Nissan
& Audi. He joins from
Kearys BMW.
Anthony Horgan, Cogan's Toyota
Anthony Horgan joins
Cogan's Toyota
Anthony Horgan formerly of Munster Rugby
and Ireland has joined the sales team at
Cogan's Toyota, Carrigaline. Welcoming
Anthony on board, James Cogan said it
is an ideal time to start in car sales as the
2013 pre-ordering season is well underway.
The Toyota brand coupled with Anthony’s
strong Cork connections make for a winning
partnership.
Ronan Murray, Ernst & Young
Ronan Murray appointed
Director
Ronan Murray joined Ernst & Young in 2007
and was recently promoted to Director in the
Transaction Advisory Services team. Ronan
works primarily in corporate restructuring
and leads a number of large scale formal and
informal restructuring engagements. Prior to
joining Ernst & Young, he worked as an Audit
Manager with another Big 4 firm in Ireland
and New York. He holds both a B.Comm
(Honours) Degree and an Executive MBA
with Distinction from UCC. He is a Chartered
Accountant and a member of the Irish
Society of Insolvency Practitioners.
Michael O’Halloran
has been appointed
Business and Finance
Manager. He has many
years of experience in
the Finance Industry
having previously been
employed as Regional
Manager with GE Capital
Solutions.
Patrick Egan joins the Chris
Mee Group
The Chris Mee Group incorporating CMSE,
CMSE recruitment and Carbon Action is
delighted to announce the appointment
of Patrick Egan as Group Business
Development Manager. Chris Mee Group
is the leading market provider of Health &
Safety, Carbon, Energy and Environment
management solutions. Patrick previously
spent almost 10 years working between Yale
Material Handling Equipment as National
Sales manager and Jungheinrich Material
Handling Equipment as Area Sales Manager.
Patrick holds a Master in Business Studies
from the Dublin Business School and is
a graduate of the Marketing Institute of
Ireland. Eoin Mulligan, Strencom
Strencom appoints Eoin
Mulligan
Strencom, the leading provider of
private cloud computing and managed
connectivity, is delighted to announce the
appointment of Eoin Mulligan as Partner
Account Manager at Strencom. Mulligan has
over 20 years’ experience in the ICT sector,
having worked with a number of high profile
companies including Siemens Nixdorf
Ireland, Vertical Communications and
CT3 Europe. For the last ten years, he has
worked in the converged voice / data market
and with the reseller channel in Ireland and
the UK to deliver voice and data solutions
to leading brands such as Payzone, London
Underground and Eircom.
Michael O'Halloran,
Grandon's
Further Growth at Fastnet
Recruitment
Claire McGuckin
Patrick Egan, Chris Mee Group
Richard Cotter,
Grandon's
Maeve Curran
Fastnet Recruitment, the leading provider
of recruitment and outsourcing solutions
to the pharmaceutical, medical device and
food sectors, is delighted to announce the
appointment of Claire Mc Guckin to the
position of Quality & Laboratory Recruitment
Consultant. A graduate of UCC, Claire holds
a BSc in Nutritional Science and a Masters
in Health Promotion. Claire will focus on
the recruitment of Quality & Laboratory
candidates for clients in the Pharmaceutical,
Medical Device and Food industries
Maeve Curran has recently joined Fastnet
Recruitment as Business Unit Lead (Contract
Engineering). Having worked for the past 9
years in Engineering & Medical Recruitment,
Maeve brings a wealth of experience and
knowledge in both the domestic and
international markets. Maeve will be
focused on Contract Engineering roles at
Fastnet, and will work predominantly with
clients and candidates in the areas of Life
Sciences, Oil & Gas and Food & Beverage.
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Chamber Announcements
Aoife Dunne joins the team
Aoife Dunne, Cork Chamber.
Cork Chamber is pleased to announce that
Aoife Dunne has been appointed as Training
Administrator with Biznetcork Skillnet, the
Business School at Cork Chamber. Aoife works
closely with the Training Services manager
and manages all the reporting elements of
the BiznetCork network, membership, website
management, financial management, liaising
with network members and trainers. Aoife was
previously employed as a legal executive with
Kieran McCarthy & Co., Solicitors and holds a
Bachelor and Master degree in Law from UCC.
Kevin joins Chambers
Ireland Board
Cork Chamber is pleased to announce that
Kevin Murray, Kevin J. Murray & Co has
been appointed to the Board of Chambers
Ireland. Kevin is a member of the Cork
Chamber Board, sits on the County Council
Transport Strategic Policy Committee and
was a member of the former Transport &
Infrastructure Committee. Chambers Ireland
is the country’s largest business organisation,
with 60 member chambers representing over
13,000 businesses throughout Ireland.
Kevin Murray, Kevin J Murray
& Co.
Vodafone Ireland secures Winning Spectrum Combination
The spectrum frequencies awarded to Vodafone Ireland represents
the best possible outcome for the company’s customers now and into
the future. The spectrum allocation will further strengthen Vodafone’s
position as Ireland’s leading mobile network, enabling the continued
delivery of innovative market-leading products and services to Irish
customers. To date, Vodafone has invested €900m in the network and
will further invest more than half a billion over the next five years to
ensure the best-in-class mobile experience in Ireland in line with current
levels of expenditure.
Vodafone Ireland’s Strategy Director, Paul Ryan commented, “In addition
to having the fastest network for mobile data*, we now have the largest
allocation of spectrum of any mobile operator in Ireland. This will
ensure that the company continues to lead the way on mobile data
services.
Vodafone Ireland has secured the largest allocation of spectrum in
the market, ensuring the fastest possible 4G rollout to deliver wider
coverage and enhanced speeds to customers. 4G data services will
enable customers to upload content faster than with existing fixed
broadband and experience download speeds over 4 times better than
3G.
The acquisition by Vodafone of new and additional spectrum allows
the company to increase its capacity to provide data in urban areas and
enable Vodafone to deliver the widest mobile broadband coverage in
rural areas from 2013.
Vodafone Ireland CEO, Jeroen Hoencamp said, “This is great news for
our customers and demonstrates that, despite challenging economic
conditions, we will not compromise on the superior quality of our
network. We now have the best possible combination of available
spectrum and work has already commenced on upgrading our network
nationwide. Our customers have access currently to the fastest data
network and from next year, they will experience the next generation of
mobile technology, 4G.”
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Paul Ryan, External Affairs Director
Vodafone is committed to future investment in order to introduce
innovative mobile communications services that play a central role
in the daily lives of Irish businesses and the broader community of
consumers and public service providers throughout the country.”