festive kick-off - Cork Chamber of Commerce
festive kick-off - Cork Chamber of Commerce
festive kick-off - Cork Chamber of Commerce
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<strong>festive</strong> <strong>kick</strong>-<strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong><br />
cork chamber annual christmas lunch<br />
DECEMBER 2011. ISSUE 11<br />
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
policy training events promotion international<br />
works for your business<br />
IN THIS ISSUE:<br />
Report <strong>of</strong> the Advisory Group<br />
for Small Business<br />
Ambassadors Programme<br />
<strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin Business Dinner<br />
REGULAR FEATURES:<br />
New Members<br />
Upcoming events<br />
Members News
Top sellers as ideal gifts this year<br />
for family, friends, staff members, teachers ...<br />
…the Perfect Christmas Gift for All.<br />
Maryborough Hotel & Spa Gift Certificate<br />
any amount from €70<br />
This gift voucher may be used for any facilities at the<br />
hotel including accommodation, dining, leisure<br />
club or spa treatments.<br />
Dinner for Two People in Zings Restaurant<br />
€80<br />
Enjoy superb cuisine with a fusion <strong>of</strong> Irish &<br />
International flavours in the elegant surroundings <strong>of</strong><br />
AA rosette awarded Zings Restaurant.<br />
Dinner for 2 in Zings Restaurant<br />
& Bottle <strong>of</strong> House Wine<br />
€100<br />
Enjoy superb cuisine with a fusion <strong>of</strong> Irish &<br />
International flavours in the elegant surroundings<br />
<strong>of</strong> AA rosette awarded Zings Restaurant.<br />
ESPA Spa Ritual Time - 2 hours 30 minutes<br />
€95<br />
• Luxurious vitality pool and heat experiences.<br />
• 55 minute facial & scalp massage OR classic full<br />
body massage.<br />
• Relaxation room & contemplation pool.<br />
ESPA Maryborough Winter Warmer<br />
€135<br />
• Indian Head Massage.<br />
• ESPA Energising Massage.<br />
• One Course Spa Lunch served with<br />
Tea/C<strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>ee in the Spa Tea Pavilion.<br />
• The Day is Yours: In addition to being pampered<br />
in a treatment room, spend the hours in our<br />
Relaxation rooms, or unwind using the Lifestyle<br />
Showers, Vitality Pool, Laconium, Saunarium,<br />
Heated Loungers and Ice Fountain.<br />
ESPA Seasonal Sensation<br />
€175<br />
Choose Two Treatments from the Following:<br />
• ESPA Skin Hydrator Body Wrap.<br />
• Full Body Hot Stone Massage.<br />
• ESPA Skin Brightener Facial.<br />
• Two Course Spa Lunch served with Tea/C<strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>ee<br />
in the Spa Tea Pavilion.<br />
• The Day is Yours: In addition to being pampered in<br />
a treatment room, spend the hours in our<br />
Relaxation rooms, or unwind using the Lifestyle<br />
Showers, Vitality Pool, Laconium, Saunarium,<br />
Heated Loungers and Ice Fountain.<br />
ESPA Re-Energiser Day Spa Programme<br />
€260<br />
• Welcome foot ritual & lifestyle consultation.<br />
• ESPA skin brightener facial.<br />
• Spa lunch & refreshments.<br />
• ESPA energising massage, holistic leg &<br />
foot treatment with hot stones.<br />
Recommended for Men –<br />
ESPA Facial, Shoulder & Scalp Massage<br />
€95<br />
• Luxurious vitality pool and heat experiences.<br />
• Deeply relaxing oriental scalp massage<br />
and men’s facial.<br />
• Relaxation room and contemplation pool.<br />
Vouchers also available to purchase online at<br />
www.maryborough.com.<br />
Credit cards taken by phone on 021 4918350 &<br />
all vouchers can be sent directly from the hotel.<br />
THE MARYBOROUGH HOTEL AND SPA<br />
MARYBOROUGH HILL DOUGLAS CORK IRELAND<br />
TEL + 353 21 436 5555 FAX + 353 21 436 5662<br />
EMAIL: INFO@MARYBOROUGH.IE<br />
WWW.MARYBOROUGH.COM
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
works<br />
for your business<br />
policy training events promotion international<br />
Dear <strong>Chamber</strong> Member<br />
While we are operating in a challenging environment, 2011 has been a positive<br />
year for <strong>Chamber</strong> activity and the support <strong>of</strong> its members. Many events have<br />
sold out, proving the positive effect <strong>of</strong> networking and the connections made.<br />
Just last month we held the inaugural <strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin Business Dinner in the<br />
Burlington Hotel with over 400 attendees taking the opportunity to build<br />
partnerships across our two main cities and <strong>kick</strong>ing <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong> the <strong>festive</strong> spirits the<br />
annual Christmas Lunch attracted an audience <strong>of</strong> 300 people here locally.<br />
We in the <strong>Chamber</strong> have been very conscious <strong>of</strong> our role in supporting all our<br />
Members throughout the difficult economic times and it has been heartening<br />
to see the business community in <strong>Cork</strong> showing remarkable resilience<br />
and determination to succeed. <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> is absolutely committed to<br />
developing a vibrant and sustainable economy in this region, and we plan to<br />
continue to bring your business issues, be it within the SME or MNC sectors, to<br />
the forefront in 2012. Now, more than ever, it is vital for the <strong>Cork</strong> region and all<br />
businesses to work together to push our issues on to the national agenda.<br />
At a national level we welcome the report from the Small Business Advisory<br />
Group, on which I represent the larger <strong>Chamber</strong> Network, which is available to<br />
download in the Policy section <strong>of</strong> www.corkchamber.ie. The work <strong>of</strong> the group<br />
will continue into 2012 and look forward to government implementation <strong>of</strong> the<br />
key recommendations.<br />
On behalf <strong>of</strong> all the <strong>Chamber</strong> team I would like to take this opportunity to wish<br />
you and yours an enjoyable <strong>festive</strong> season and to thank you for your support in<br />
2011. We look forward to working with you and supporting your business again<br />
in 2012.<br />
Best regards,<br />
Conor<br />
Conor Healy<br />
Chief Executive<br />
conor@corkchamber.ie<br />
contents<br />
cover story<br />
4 <strong>Chamber</strong> Annual Christmas Lunch<br />
policy<br />
6 Report <strong>of</strong> the Advisory Group for<br />
Small Business<br />
7 Budget 2012, Commercial Rates &<br />
Local Government Financing and<br />
Submission on the future <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong><br />
Airport<br />
connecting<br />
8 New Members<br />
9 Ambassadors Programme<br />
events<br />
10 Marketing at Night Event<br />
Leadership Forum & Business After<br />
11<br />
Hours in the Kilkenny Shop<br />
12 <strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin Business Dinner<br />
13 Festive Cheer at Heineken<br />
training<br />
15 Funding Submission for 2012, New<br />
Appointment & Expanding the<br />
scope <strong>of</strong> the training services<br />
international<br />
16 Energy Show 2012<br />
17 Argentina & China<br />
promotion<br />
18 Newly Appointed<br />
19 Members News Are you Winter<br />
ready<br />
media<br />
22 Recent Media Coverage<br />
Join us on<br />
Follow us on<br />
<strong>Chamber</strong>link is Sponsored by<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong>, Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, <strong>Cork</strong><br />
T: (021) 4509044 F: (021) 4508568 E: info@corkchamber.ie W: www.corkchamber.ie<br />
Registered in Ireland no. 13918<br />
<strong>Chamber</strong>link is published by <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> and is a monthly<br />
publication exclusive to members. The opinons expressed in<br />
<strong>Chamber</strong>link are not necessarily those <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong>, neither do<br />
they accept any responsibility or liability for any legal implications<br />
arising there from.
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
cover story<br />
Derek Goggin, Trend Micro (Sponsor); Vincent Scanlon, Chairman Marketing Institute Southern Region; Eddie O’Sullivan, former Ireland rugby coach and John Mullins, President, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong>.<br />
(Photograph: Neil Danton Photography)<br />
Annual Christmas Lunch 2011<br />
sponsored by Trend Micro<br />
The <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> Annual Christmas Lunch took place on Friday<br />
9th December in the Rochestown Park Hotel and was attended<br />
by approximately 300 <strong>Chamber</strong> members, guests and friends and<br />
was run in association with the Marketing Institute <strong>of</strong> Ireland,<br />
Southern Region.<br />
This event was sponsored by Trend Micro and featured Mr Eddie<br />
O’Sullivan, former Ireland rugby coach as the key note speaker.<br />
Eddie spoke about his experiences as a rugby coach and team<br />
leader, and how sports and business would run on the same<br />
principals <strong>of</strong> motivation, leadership and initiative.<br />
As always, there was a charity draw and all monies raised will go<br />
to the <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> member charities – many thanks to all <strong>of</strong><br />
those who gave generously on the day, your contribution will be<br />
well received!<br />
Also thanks to all <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> members who supported<br />
the charity draw and donated beautiful prizes for the day, all<br />
contributors listed below. Please continue to support your fellow<br />
<strong>Chamber</strong> members.<br />
Cover:<br />
Derek Goggin, Trend Micro (Sponsor) with guest speaker Eddie O’Sullivan.<br />
Photography: Neil Danton<br />
Charity Draw Supporters 2011<br />
Many thanks to....<br />
A Touch <strong>of</strong> Magic<br />
Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa<br />
An Excellent Choice<br />
Barry & Fitzwilliam<br />
Boardwalk Bar & Grill<br />
Brown Thomas<br />
Buckley Fine Art<br />
Castlemartyr Resort<br />
Cliff House Hotel<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> International Airport Hotel<br />
Clarion Hotel <strong>Cork</strong><br />
Classic Drinks<br />
Fota Island Resort<br />
Giles Norman Photography<br />
Isaacs Restaurant<br />
Maryborough Hotel & Spa<br />
Musgrave Group<br />
Radisson Blu Hotel, Little Island<br />
Rochestown Park Hotel<br />
Silversprings Moran Hotel<br />
4
Colette Quinn, Real Insights and Noreen<br />
Walsh, AIB.<br />
Gillian Coughlan and Kieran Callinan, Brook Catering with Mandy Gabriel,<br />
Rochestown Park Hotel. (Photographs: Neil Danton Photography)<br />
Judy Hopkins, Hopkins Communications with<br />
John Herbert, Vodafone.<br />
Attendees from Quintas included Julie Murray, Abina Kenneally and Cathy Creedon.<br />
Edel Clancy, Musgrave Group and Renate Murphy, Cameo Communications with Marianne<br />
Lee and Norma O'Callaghan, Trend Micro.<br />
Deirdre Waldron, Fuzion Communications<br />
and Fergal Keniry, PFH Technology Group.<br />
Audrey Burke-McCarthy, MotivAction; Paul O'Connell, Hayfield Manor<br />
Hotel and Diane O'Sullivan, Fota Island Resort.<br />
Aoife Curtin, Greenhouse with Natasha<br />
Lynch, Essential French.<br />
works for your business<br />
5
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
policy<br />
Report <strong>of</strong> the Advisory Group for Small Business<br />
The Government has published the Report <strong>of</strong> the Advisory Group<br />
for Small Business.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> Chief Executive Conor Healy was a <strong>Chamber</strong>s<br />
Ireland nominee to the group. The <strong>Chamber</strong> have welcomed the<br />
report’s publication and emphasised the need for the speedy<br />
implementation <strong>of</strong> the report’s recommendations with a view<br />
to improving the business environment for small business in<br />
Ireland. The Advisory Group for Small Business was chaired by<br />
Minister for Small Business, John Perry T.D.<br />
The report notes that small firms play a significant role in<br />
Ireland’s economy, with almost 200,000 small firms involving<br />
over 655,000 people in their operations (half <strong>of</strong> all people<br />
engaged in businesses in Ireland). The report also acknowledges<br />
the difficult time facing the sector, for example there were 8,000<br />
fewer small businesses and 105,000 less people employed by<br />
small businesses in 2009 than there was in 2007.<br />
The report identifies 12 key areas for action:<br />
1. Lending Facilities and Access to Finance<br />
2. Labour Market Costs and Flexibility<br />
3. Local Authority Structures<br />
4. Costs <strong>of</strong> Doing Business : Energy, Rates and Regulation<br />
5. Enabling Access to Public Procurement<br />
6. Hidden Economy<br />
7. Competitive Practices<br />
8. Improving Cash flow<br />
9. Managing out <strong>of</strong> the Crisis<br />
10. Management Development for Growth<br />
11. Access to Information<br />
12. Insolvency and Debt Resolution<br />
Following the report’s publication Minister Perry indicated<br />
his intention to progress five <strong>of</strong> the Actions from the Advisory<br />
Group for Small Business Report in conjunction with the relevant<br />
Government Departments.<br />
Conor Healy, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong>, and other members <strong>of</strong> the Advisory Group for Small Business<br />
with Minister for Small Business, John Perry TD at the launch <strong>of</strong> the group's report at<br />
Government Buildings.<br />
The initial actions to be delivered are:<br />
• Managing out <strong>of</strong> the Crisis: Develop a simple one page<br />
guide setting out warning signs to encourage small<br />
businesses to ask for help and outline services available;<br />
• Cost Burden <strong>of</strong> Regulations: Audit and review the<br />
multiplicity <strong>of</strong> licences required by businesses to assess<br />
the potential for discontinuing some licences and for<br />
amalgamating licences;<br />
• Hidden Economy: Illicit Tobacco Trade: Introduce container<br />
scanners at ports with large volumes <strong>of</strong> container traffic;<br />
• Prompt Payments: Make available an Official Notice<br />
regarding the Government’s current 15 day Prompt<br />
Payment Practice;<br />
• Prompt Payments: Develop a Voluntary Code <strong>of</strong> Conduct<br />
on Payments within the private sector.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> and the national <strong>Chamber</strong>s network will continue<br />
to monitor the implementation <strong>of</strong> this important report which<br />
is available to download from the policy section <strong>of</strong> www.<br />
corkchamber.ie.<br />
Commercial Rates & Local Government Financing<br />
At a recent meeting with Minister for the Environment,<br />
Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan T.D. the <strong>Chamber</strong><br />
outlined our grave concern at the present unfair system <strong>of</strong><br />
commercial rates and called on the Minister to take appropriate<br />
action to ensure real local government reform is introduced<br />
to allow rates reductions as a matter <strong>of</strong> urgency. Regional<br />
development, advancing the <strong>Cork</strong> Docklands and making the<br />
planning system more responsive to the needs <strong>of</strong> business were<br />
amongst the other issues discussed.<br />
In the <strong>Chamber</strong>’s view the current rates system is grossly unfair on<br />
the productive job-creating aspects <strong>of</strong> the business community<br />
and largely as a result <strong>of</strong> incessant reductions in the Local<br />
Government Fund grant from central government, Councils have<br />
not been in a position to pass on the benefits <strong>of</strong> their reductions<br />
in expenditure and enhanced efficiencies through a reduction<br />
in commercial rates to the business community over the last<br />
number <strong>of</strong> years. This is an unsustainable situation and one which<br />
requires immediate attention by government if we are to create<br />
strong local government models, which are properly resourced to<br />
foster regional economic development.<br />
The <strong>Chamber</strong> has written to <strong>Cork</strong> City and County councillors<br />
in advance <strong>of</strong> their budget meetings in addition to meeting<br />
with the City and County Managers highlighting the issue <strong>of</strong><br />
rates for businesses & seeking a rates reduction in line with the<br />
cost reductions in other aspects <strong>of</strong> the economy. The <strong>Chamber</strong><br />
also asked councillors to consider increasing the percentage <strong>of</strong><br />
rates income ring fenced by each local authority for economic<br />
development measures in 2012.<br />
6
• Alma Murnane, Policy & Research Manager<br />
e: alma@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530147<br />
• Seán O’Leary, Policy & Research Executive<br />
e: sean@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530143<br />
Budget 2012<br />
The Chairman <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Chamber</strong>’s Fiscal Services Working Group,<br />
Michael Lynch (KPMG), met with <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>icials <strong>of</strong> the Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Finance as part <strong>of</strong> a <strong>Chamber</strong>s Ireland delegation in advance<br />
<strong>of</strong> budget 2012. The meeting discussed <strong>Chamber</strong> proposals<br />
for measures to support business, labour market activation,<br />
local authority matters and public sector reform. An analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
December’s budget will be contained in the <strong>Chamber</strong>’s January<br />
Economic Bulletin.<br />
Education & Skills Needs Survey<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> and Limerick <strong>Chamber</strong>s are conducting a regional Skills &<br />
Education Needs Assessment which aims to build a picture <strong>of</strong><br />
the type <strong>of</strong> graduates companies are seeking, the level <strong>of</strong> current<br />
vacancies and employer preferences when up-skilling employees.<br />
The survey will prove valuable in assessing the skills employers in<br />
the region require and articulating them to the higher education<br />
institutions in the region. For more information or to take the<br />
survey go to https://munsterskillsneeds2011.surveyconsole.com<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> Submission on the future <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> Airport<br />
In November the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Mr.<br />
Leo Varadkar TD announced a study on options for the future<br />
ownership and operation <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> and Shannon Airports, to be<br />
carried out by Booz & Company. Given the range <strong>of</strong> issues which<br />
delayed the separation <strong>of</strong> the three State Airports <strong>of</strong> Dublin,<br />
Shannon and <strong>Cork</strong> up to 2008 and as enshrined in the State<br />
Airports Act 2004, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> took the opportunity to engage<br />
candidly with Booz & Company on how the <strong>Chamber</strong> feels the<br />
future <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> Airport should unfold.<br />
The <strong>Chamber</strong> is <strong>of</strong> the view that <strong>Cork</strong> Airport is a crucial<br />
and critical asset for economic development that is strongly<br />
supported by regional stakeholders and is also a key element <strong>of</strong><br />
the “<strong>Cork</strong> Gateway” identified by Government, having the critical<br />
mass to generate and promote regional economic and social<br />
development.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> believes that the current governance structure<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> Airport is not conducive to the wider economic<br />
development <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Cork</strong> region. Given that it is one <strong>of</strong> the most<br />
important facilitators <strong>of</strong> economic development in the Munster<br />
region and beyond, it needs to operate in the most efficient<br />
manner possible. It is unsustainable for the affairs <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> Airport<br />
to be controlled directly by the Dublin Airport Authority. It is now<br />
crucial that the uncertainty surrounding <strong>Cork</strong> Airport’s future<br />
direction is dealt with and the independence and balance sheet<br />
strength is afforded to <strong>Cork</strong> Airport to set out its own business<br />
strategy, maintain stability and attract further routes.<br />
The <strong>Chamber</strong> believes that the fundamental point is that the<br />
governance and liabilities <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> Airport must be restructured<br />
to allow the airport compete on a fair basis with Dublin and<br />
Shannon and deliver valuable connectivity for the region.<br />
There is a need for a fundamental restructuring program which<br />
reviews governance, control, business and route development<br />
and financial sustainability. While ownership is not at the very<br />
core, restructuring must be fully carried out before any change<br />
in ownership to allow development <strong>of</strong> an ambitious plan by new<br />
owners.<br />
With this in mind, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> has proposed the solution to<br />
consist <strong>of</strong> a local company to be an Asset Owner represented<br />
by a competent Board, representative <strong>of</strong> the region. The Asset<br />
owner may include a private equity player/airport operator who<br />
is incentivized to create pr<strong>of</strong>it/ passenger flow/traffic/routes.<br />
The concession would need to be a long term concession.<br />
The level <strong>of</strong> debt transferred to the Asset Owner would have<br />
to be sustainable, nowhere near current levels and this could<br />
be achieved in part by selling some <strong>of</strong> the Airport’s property<br />
portfolio or leasing it long-term. Regardless <strong>of</strong> the timeline <strong>of</strong><br />
implementation <strong>of</strong> this approach, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> recommended<br />
that greater autonomy within the DAA structure is required<br />
immediately. An ambitious new business plan is required for<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> Airport and it is essential that this plan is developed with<br />
stakeholder input. The key sectors <strong>of</strong> society in the region must<br />
also have some say in the operation and strategy <strong>of</strong> the airport; at<br />
least via representation on the board.<br />
Other issues highlighted by the <strong>Chamber</strong> included the<br />
importance <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Cork</strong>-Heathrow, <strong>Cork</strong>-Amsterdam and <strong>Cork</strong>-<br />
Paris slots. Efforts needed to continue to secure a carrier for a<br />
regular and frequent air connection between <strong>Cork</strong> and Dublin.<br />
Additional route development to prominent business locations<br />
such as Frankfurt, Brussels and Madrid are also required and<br />
direct long-haul flights from <strong>Cork</strong> to the US must be introduced in<br />
the future.<br />
The time is ripe for a long-term sustainable solution to be put in<br />
place and the <strong>Chamber</strong> will continue to engage with the Minister<br />
and his Department to ensure the best outcome for the region.<br />
works for your business<br />
7
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
connecting<br />
New Members<br />
We welcome the following New Members!<br />
Agri-Business<br />
Conna Skin and Hide Ltd<br />
Trading in hides and skins, export <strong>of</strong> cured<br />
hides and skins to China, Thailand, South<br />
America & Africa<br />
Contact: Barry Murphy<br />
E: hideaskin@yahoo.ie<br />
T:(058) 59050<br />
Building Contractors/Providers<br />
Sorensen Civil Engineering Lt<br />
Civil Engineering Contractors, Project<br />
Managers. Marine Works Contractors.<br />
Pipeline Contractors. Waste Water Treatment<br />
Contractors<br />
Contact: Olaf Sorensen<br />
E: info@sorensen.ie<br />
T: (021) 4965544<br />
W: www.sorensen.ie<br />
Chemical/Pharmaceutical<br />
Luxcel Biosciences Ltd<br />
Commercialise cutting-edge, porphyrinbased,<br />
phosphorescent, oxygen-sensing<br />
probes and oxygen sensors, with initial<br />
applications targeted at the pharmaceutical,<br />
food safety and packaging industries<br />
Contact: Fred Klok<br />
E: fklok@luxcel.com<br />
T: (021) 490 1447<br />
W: www.luxcel.com<br />
Education/Training/Languages<br />
Atlantic Flight Training Academy<br />
Europe's leading independent Flight Training<br />
Organisation for Aviation Personnel - from<br />
Flight Crew to Cabin Crew<br />
Contact: Allen Field<br />
E: allen.flying.field@gmail.com<br />
T: (021) 4888737<br />
W: www.atlanticair.ie<br />
Engineering<br />
GxP Systems Ltd<br />
Provider <strong>of</strong> engineering consulting<br />
and project management services<br />
to multinational clients in regulated<br />
industries such as biotech, medical devices,<br />
pharmaceutical, oil & gas<br />
Contact: Linda Mellerick<br />
E: linda.mellerick@gxpsystems.com<br />
T: (021) 2309 300<br />
W: www.gxpsystems.com<br />
Enterprise/Trade Development<br />
Digital Marketing Institute<br />
The Digital Marketing Institute's, industryled<br />
academic programmes, are designed<br />
for candidates looking to break into the<br />
digital industry, or seeking to expand and<br />
consolidate their knowledge<br />
Contact: Peter Farren<br />
E: info@digitalmarketinginstitute.ie<br />
T: (01) 2711888<br />
W: ww.digitalmarketinginstitute.ie<br />
Austrian Embassy<br />
Embassy<br />
Contact: Wilhelm Nest<br />
E: dublin@advantageaustria.org<br />
T: (01) 2830488<br />
Motor Traders<br />
Cavanaghs <strong>of</strong> Charleville Ltd<br />
Cavanaghs <strong>of</strong> Charleville is a Ford & Hyundai<br />
dealership based in North <strong>Cork</strong><br />
Contact: John Condon<br />
E: johncondon@cavanaghs.com<br />
T: (063) 81561<br />
W: www.cavanaghs.com<br />
IT Services<br />
Rocket Media Ireland<br />
Graphic, web & multimedia design, social<br />
media marketing & consultancy, web<br />
analytics & full photography services<br />
Contact: Ian Gallagher<br />
E: ian@rocketmedia.ie<br />
T: (021) 4279517<br />
W: www.rocketmedia.ie<br />
Public Relations<br />
Springboard PR & Marketing<br />
Public relations, marketing campaigns,<br />
marketing workshops, online marketing,<br />
virtual marketing, event management,<br />
public affairs & sponsorship services<br />
Contact: Susie Horgan<br />
E: info@springboardpr.ie<br />
T: (021) 4969000<br />
W: www.springboard.ie<br />
S<strong>of</strong>tware/S<strong>of</strong>tware Services<br />
Parade Ring<br />
Online thorough bred catalogue for buying<br />
& selling horses giving racehorse breeders<br />
& traders a platform to sell their horses in a<br />
more cost effective way<br />
Contact: Padraig O'Sullivan<br />
E: info@paradering.ie<br />
T: (087) 2136360<br />
W: www.paradering.ie<br />
Congratulations!<br />
Aidan Dennehy <strong>of</strong> ABACUS Architecture<br />
is the very lucky winner <strong>of</strong> €1,000 worth<br />
<strong>of</strong> advertising in the <strong>Cork</strong> Independent<br />
newspaper. Aidan joined the <strong>Chamber</strong> as<br />
part <strong>of</strong> the Refer a Friend programme and<br />
attended the “Know your <strong>Chamber</strong>” Event<br />
in November.<br />
Solicitors/Legal Services<br />
Crowley Solicitors<br />
A commercial and employment law firm<br />
Contact: Deirdre Crowley<br />
E: dcrowley@crowleysolicitors.ie<br />
T: (021) 4289560<br />
W: www.crowleysolicitors.ie<br />
Technical Writing<br />
Technically Write IT Ltd<br />
Deliverables include user guides, manuals,<br />
online help, e-learning, training material,<br />
website content & video scrips<br />
Contact: Patrice Fanning<br />
E: info@technicallywriteit.com<br />
T: (021) 4868162<br />
W: www.technicallywriteit.com<br />
Telecommunications<br />
Voiptel<br />
Telecoms operator, specialising in voice over<br />
IP B2B, wholesale, industry, switch exporter,<br />
provider <strong>of</strong> support to telecoms operators<br />
Contact: Maurice Twomey<br />
E: info@voiptel<br />
T: (021) 2439210<br />
8
• Lucy O’Donoghue, Membership & PR Manager<br />
e: lucy@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530145<br />
Peter Bradley, Adapt IT; Raymond Kelleher, Clarion Hoel; Ken Buckley, Buckley Fine Art; Ruth Gaffney, New Ireland Assurance; Katherine Gordon, Katherine Gordon & Co; Declan<br />
Casey, Standpoint Media; Anne Gough, Grafton Recruitment; Jarlath Feeney, <strong>Cork</strong> Independent and Mary Harney, Mary Harney Health & Safety Training.<br />
Missing from Photograph Deirdre Waldron, Fuzion Communications. (Photograph: John Sheehan Photography)<br />
Official Launch <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> Ambassadors Progamme<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> has <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>icially launched an Ambassador Programme<br />
to help new members and first time event attendees, by giving<br />
them a warm welcome and helping them network to expand<br />
their business circle.<br />
The Ambassadors have been busily oiling the networking wheels<br />
since April <strong>of</strong> this year and the programme is now being <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>icially<br />
launched, so many thanks to all Ambassadors for their ongoing<br />
support and dedicated service to <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong>.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> Ambassadors 2011/2012 include:<br />
• Peter Bradley, Adapt IT<br />
• Ken Buckley, Buckley Fine Art<br />
• Jarlath Feeney, <strong>Cork</strong> Independent<br />
• Raymond Kelleher, Clarion Hotel<br />
• Deirdre Waldron, Fuzion Communications<br />
• Anne Gough, Grafton Recruitment<br />
• Katherine Gordon, Katherine Gordon & Co<br />
• Mary Harney, Mary Harney Health & Safety Training<br />
• Ruth Gaffney, New Ireland Assurance<br />
• Declan Casey, Standpoint Media<br />
Network at over 50<br />
events each year<br />
works for your business<br />
9
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
events<br />
Marketing at Night Event - Marketing in the Digital Age<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> and the Marketing Institute <strong>of</strong> Ireland, Southern Region join forces once again to bring you<br />
“Marketing in the Digital Age” on Tuesday 24th January in the Hayfield Manor Hotel.<br />
This event will feature Don O’Leary <strong>of</strong> Google, who will talk about the importance <strong>of</strong><br />
social media in this new “digital” age. As the Head <strong>of</strong> Online Sales for Benelux, Don helps<br />
drive sales and account management for Adwords advertisers in The Netherlands and<br />
Belgium. Don’s previous role in Google involved growing the company’s first Irish based<br />
S<strong>of</strong>tware Engineering team.<br />
As always, there will be plenty <strong>of</strong> opportunity to network with your fellow <strong>Chamber</strong><br />
members as well as members <strong>of</strong> the Marketing Institute.<br />
Marketing in the Digital Age<br />
Tuesday 24th January<br />
Hayfield Manor Hotel<br />
6pm – 8pm<br />
€10 for <strong>Chamber</strong> and Marketing Institute members<br />
€20 for non-members and €10 for students<br />
Don O'leary, Google<br />
To book your place at this event please go to directly to the Marketing Institue website at<br />
http://www.mii.ie/en/cev/290<br />
places are limited please book early to avoid disappointment<br />
Vodafone launches new plan for small businesses<br />
Vodafone has introduced an innovative new price plan for small<br />
business customers called Vodafone MyWay. MyWay enables<br />
smaller businesses to better control mobile costs as customers<br />
will only pay for what they need.<br />
Unlike other mobile plans, Vodafone MyWay allows customers<br />
to create a plan to suit the specific needs <strong>of</strong> the business. So<br />
whether customers need to make calls to customers or suppliers<br />
in Ireland or internationally, track orders over the internet or even<br />
send multiple text messages, Vodafone can create the plan that<br />
serves those needs.<br />
In today’s climate businesses are monitoring all operating costs<br />
and seeking to reduce unnecessary costs where possible. With<br />
Vodafone MyWay, because each plan is built to suit the business<br />
needs <strong>of</strong> the customer, they don’t end up paying for what they<br />
don’t need, meaning they can better manage cashflow.<br />
Vodafone MyWay starts from €24.79 per month ex VAT for free<br />
Vodafone to Vodafone calls and texts and 500MB <strong>of</strong> data along<br />
with optional minute and text bundles that can be used both<br />
in Ireland and worldwide. And for those who require more talk<br />
and text there is the Vodafone MyWay Complete Plus plan which<br />
includes free Vodafone to Vodafone calls and texts, 500 minutes<br />
and 500 texts that can all be used worldwide and 1GB <strong>of</strong> data<br />
allowance for €53.72 per month ex VAT.<br />
For more information visit www.vodafone.ie<br />
10
• Leigh Gillen, Events Manager<br />
e: leigh@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530133<br />
Leadership Forum with Martin Shanahan, Chief Executive Forfás<br />
sponsored by Hays Recruitment<br />
The final <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> Leadership Forum for 2011 took place<br />
on Tuesday 6th December in the Hayfield Manor Hotel and was<br />
sponsored by Hays Recruitment.<br />
The guest speaker on the night was Mr Martin Shanahan,<br />
Chief Executive <strong>of</strong> Forfás. Martin provided an overview <strong>of</strong><br />
Forfás structures and role as Ireland’s policy advisory board<br />
for enterprise, trade, science, technology and innovation.<br />
He also outlined Forfás focus on employment, ensuring the<br />
competitiveness <strong>of</strong> the Irish economy, building prosperous<br />
regions, supporting the development <strong>of</strong> sustainable enterprise<br />
and guiding education and training in Ireland to build prosperity.<br />
Forfás’ co-ordinating role for a number <strong>of</strong> enterprise research<br />
related and advice activities and its work with sister agencies IDA<br />
Ireland, Science Foundation Ireland and Enterprise Ireland was<br />
also discussed.<br />
John Mullins , President <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> (centre) with Maureen Lynch, Hays Recruitment and<br />
guest speaker Martin Shanahan, Chief Executive Forfás. (Photographs: John Sheehan)<br />
Ruairi Roddy, TCH; Heather Crowley, The Bank <strong>of</strong> New York Mellon and David A.<br />
Power, McCarthy Insurance Group.<br />
Damien Kelleher, Trend Micro (centre) with William O'Brien Jnr. and William O'Brien Snr.,<br />
William O'Brien Plant Hire.<br />
Business After Hours at the Kilkenny Shop<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> and the Kilkenny Group joined forces for the November Business After Hours, which <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>ered members the opportunity<br />
to sample and purchase a large range <strong>of</strong> products in the Kilkenny Shop, with large discounts as well as a voucher for the Hayfield Manor<br />
Spa. There were plenty <strong>of</strong> prizes on the night, <strong>kick</strong>-starting the Christmas shopping season in style!<br />
Susie Horgan, Springboard PR & Marketing; Leslie Tarrant, Bloxham<br />
Stockbrokers and Sarah Halpin, Halpin & Co Solicitors.<br />
Attendees at the Kilkenny Shop Business After Hours networking.<br />
works for your business<br />
11
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
events<br />
Sean O’Driscoll, CEO Glen Dimplex with the Outstanding Contribution to Business Award with John Mullins, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> President; Noel Creedon, Quintas Wealth Management and Gary<br />
Owens, IFG Corporate Pensions. (Photographs: Johnny Bambury)<br />
<strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin Business Dinner<br />
in association with Quintas Wealth Management & IFG Corporate Pensions<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> in association with Quintas Wealth Management<br />
& IFG Corporate Pensions hosted the inaugural <strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin<br />
Business Dinner 2011 on Tuesday 22 nd November in the<br />
Burlington Hotel, Dublin. The aim <strong>of</strong> the event was to promote<br />
the strong connections that exist between <strong>Cork</strong> and Dublin<br />
Businesses and enhance existing business relations between the<br />
two regions.<br />
At the event, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> honoured the outstanding<br />
contribution to business by a <strong>Cork</strong> person with a presentation<br />
to Mr Sean O’Driscoll, Group Chief Executive <strong>of</strong> Glen Dimplex.<br />
The <strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin Business Dinner afforded unique potential for<br />
Dublin-based companies to meet with their <strong>Cork</strong> peers.<br />
The event also provided the opportunity for networking amongst<br />
business people based in <strong>Cork</strong> and Dublin thereby gaining<br />
new contacts meeting existing clients.The recent partnership<br />
announcement by the event sponsors Quintas Wealth<br />
Management and IFG Corporate Pensions emphasises the type <strong>of</strong><br />
business connections this event is aiming to promote.<br />
Califf Delaney, IFG; Noel Creedon, Quintas Wealth Management; Ann O’Doherty, Quintas<br />
Wealth Management; Nick Charalambous, Quintas Wealth Management and David O’Shea,<br />
Arthur Cox.<br />
Barbara-Anne Richardson and Leigh Gillen from <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> with Sarah O’Neill, Quintas<br />
Wealth Management.<br />
12
Tim McCarthy, Quintas with Maria Murphy and Angela Walsh, Corporate Travel Management.<br />
Dr Jean Van Sinderen-Law, UCC and Anne O’Leary, Vodafone.<br />
Tom Parlon, Construction Industry Federation; Jim Hegarty, Hegarty Financial Management<br />
and John Crowley, Noel Deasy Cars Ltd.<br />
Fiona Buckley, Fáilte Ireland with <strong>Cork</strong> Footballers Graham Canty and Daniel<br />
Goulding.<br />
Michael McCarthy TD, Dáil Eireann with Cllr.<br />
Tim Lombard, County Mayor.<br />
Niall Hayes, Vodafone with Christine Heffernan,<br />
Bord Gáis.<br />
Ciaran Lynch TD, Dáil Eireann; Tim Lucey, City Manager; Cllr Terry Shannon, Lord Mayor <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> and Eddie Hobbs, FDM.<br />
works for your business<br />
13
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
events<br />
Festive Cheer at Heineken<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> held their Annual Festive Cheer Event at Heineken<br />
on Tuesday 13th December in the Kiln Hospitality Suite at<br />
Heineken Brewery. This event was well attended by <strong>Chamber</strong><br />
members and guests and kindly hosted by Heineken who<br />
provided delicious refreshments and some liquid gold prizes for<br />
lucky winners.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> President Mr John Mullins took the opportunity<br />
to thank the Board, Committee and Working Group members,<br />
as well as <strong>Chamber</strong> Ambassadors for their tireless work and<br />
dedication throughout the year and also and the members for<br />
their and ongoing commitment to the <strong>Chamber</strong>.<br />
John Mullins, President <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> and Declan Farmer, Heineken Ireland.<br />
(Photographs: John Sheehan Photography)<br />
Keith Ryan, Xcellent Cleaning; Sarah Halpin, Halpin & Co. Solicitors and Andrew Wood,<br />
Finnergy.<br />
David Austin and Neil O'Carroll, ConocoPhillips Ireland.<br />
Joanne Power, Fashion Designer Ignite Programme and<br />
Daniel O'Carroll, studentnews.ie.<br />
Marion Bradley, Heineken Ireland with John<br />
Crowley and Ray Deasy, Noel Deasy Cars.<br />
Declan Nestor, Mr. Cotton (centre) with Paul Dennehy and Finbarr O'Sullivan, Arachas<br />
Corporate Brokers.<br />
Gabrielle Morehead, Gabrielle Morehead Photography; John Morehead, Wain Morehead<br />
Architects and Lucy Hyland, Food For Living.<br />
14
training<br />
• Norma Lynch, Training Services Manager<br />
e: norma@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530142<br />
• Jennifer Kenneally, Training Administrator<br />
e: jennifer@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530141<br />
Funding Submissions for 2012<br />
Applications have now been submitted for a new round <strong>of</strong><br />
funding on behalf <strong>of</strong> both Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster<br />
Finuas Network for 2012. Both <strong>of</strong> these networks are now well<br />
established providing quality, cost-effective training locally<br />
to help you equip your team with the skills necessary to meet<br />
the challenges <strong>of</strong> today’s dynamic business environment.<br />
Biznetcork skillnet caters to the specific training needs <strong>of</strong> member<br />
companies across all industry sectors and sizes in the greater <strong>Cork</strong><br />
area, while Munster Finuas Network provides training support to<br />
companies in the International Financial Services sector.<br />
New Training Appointment<br />
Norma Lynch has taken over as Training Services Manager as<br />
<strong>of</strong> 28th November 2011. She has experience <strong>of</strong> managing all<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> a previous Skillnets training project, namely MUSTEL<br />
(Munster Shared Teleservices) for the contact services industry.<br />
She has international experience having worked for Siemens UK<br />
as customer service training manager.<br />
Expanding the scope <strong>of</strong> the training services provided<br />
We aim to expand the range <strong>of</strong> training courses <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>ered to you<br />
in 2012. Currently we <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>er training in IT skills, On-line Digital<br />
marketing, Project Management, Train the Trainer, Finance,<br />
Business English etc. All <strong>of</strong> our training is enterprise-led and<br />
driven by your needs. We invite you to contact us and discuss<br />
your current training needs and courses you would like to see in<br />
our 2012 schedule.<br />
We work with a diverse range <strong>of</strong> training providers, selected via<br />
a transparent public procurement process, which ensures that<br />
our trainers are the best in their field, who will engage with your<br />
company at programme design stage in order to ensure that<br />
your training objectives are met.<br />
Another key strength <strong>of</strong> our training is that it is delivered<br />
locally saving you time and increasing your local networking<br />
opportunities. Interacting with other companies on training<br />
courses greatly increases your opportunity to learn about latest<br />
developments across sectors, share best practise and broaden<br />
your network.<br />
We can provide significant cost-savings on courses, through our<br />
grant funding that we receive from the National Training Fund<br />
via Skillnets.<br />
Please contact any member <strong>of</strong> our training team with your<br />
training requirements, (contact details at top <strong>of</strong> this page).<br />
Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Networks are funded by member companies and the Training Networks Programme and Finuas Networks Programme respectively, initiatives <strong>of</strong> Skillnets<br />
Ltd. funded from the National Training Fund through the Department <strong>of</strong> Education and Skills”<br />
works for your business<br />
15
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
international<br />
International Business Opportunities at the Energy Show 2012<br />
The Enterprise Europe Network in <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> along with<br />
our partner organisations throughout Ireland are delighted to<br />
invite you to attend the first ‘stand-alone’ international energy<br />
matchmaking event at the Energy Show 2012 on the 28 March in<br />
the RDS Dublin.<br />
The Energy Show is the annual showcase for thousands <strong>of</strong> energy<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essionals who want to see the latest sustainable energy<br />
technologies and each year it grows in quantity and quality. The<br />
theme <strong>of</strong> the 2012 Show is “Smart Energy Solutions”, highlighting<br />
the diversity <strong>of</strong> energy efficient and renewable energy solutions<br />
which are now available to organisations throughout Ireland as<br />
we move towards a clean low carbon economy. The Enterprise<br />
Europe Network aims to bring together 150 companies to help<br />
them to meet, develop business links and hopefully continue to<br />
work together in the future. This one day business matchmaking<br />
event is suited to innovative companies in the field <strong>of</strong> sustainable<br />
energy who are looking to trade or partner with international<br />
companies.<br />
There is a participation fee <strong>of</strong> €80 per delegate and following<br />
registration participants will have the opportunity to request<br />
meetings in advance <strong>of</strong> the event. An informal evening<br />
networking reception will allow companies to continue to<br />
connect following the meetings.<br />
For further information please see www.een-ireland.ie<br />
Energy Show<br />
RDS Dublin<br />
28th March 2012<br />
Exporting over the Holidays<br />
The <strong>Chamber</strong> will close at 5.00pm Friday December 23 rd 2011<br />
until 9.00am Tuesday January 3 rd 2012.<br />
If you will require export certification over the holiday period<br />
please contact Imelda at 021-4530130 or imelda@corkchamber.ie<br />
to make alternative arrangements.<br />
We hope you have a Happy Christmas and we look forward to<br />
working with you in the New Year.<br />
16
• Siobhan Horan, Acting EU Trade & Innovation Services<br />
Manager e: siobhan@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530138<br />
• Linda Khalfi, EU Trade & Innovation Services Executive<br />
e: linda@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530137<br />
• Imelda Mulcahy, Export Documentation Manager<br />
e: imelda@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530130<br />
Micheal Twomey, Director, VoiPtel; Conor Healy, <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong>; HE Maria Esther Bondanza, Ambassador <strong>of</strong> Argentina; David Byrne, Manager High Growth Markets - Enterprise Ireland<br />
and Siobhan Horan, Enterprise Europe Network. (Photograph: John Sheehan Photography)<br />
Argentina: A Strategic Location for Trade and Investment<br />
The Enterprise Europe Network in <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> was pleased<br />
to welcome the Ambassador <strong>of</strong> Argentina, HE Maria Esther<br />
Bondanza to <strong>Cork</strong> for the recent trade seminar “Argentina:<br />
A Strategic Location for Trade and Investment”. The event also<br />
featured presentations by David Byrne from Enterprise Ireland<br />
and Michael Twomey from Voiptel, a local company currently<br />
doing business in South America. Representatives <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Argentine Embassy were also present to provide information<br />
about all sectors <strong>of</strong> the Argentine economy and outline<br />
opportunities for potential Irish investors.<br />
Argentina has been one <strong>of</strong> the world’s fastest growing economies<br />
in recent years and presents many opportunities for Irish<br />
exporters who are looking to expand in the Latin American<br />
market. As a member <strong>of</strong> MERCOSUR, Argentina also has tariff<br />
free access to a market <strong>of</strong> more than 298 million consumers<br />
and a combined GDP <strong>of</strong> US$ 2.9 trillion. According to the OECD,<br />
Argentina is the least restrictive country in the region when<br />
it comes to FDI. The market also has one <strong>of</strong> the highest levels<br />
<strong>of</strong> English language speakers in Latin America and has strong<br />
cultural similarities with European markets.<br />
The Irish Diaspora also has a strong presence in Argentina, the<br />
country is home to the largest Irish migrant population outside<br />
the English –speaking world. Irish and Argentine naval personnel<br />
also gathered in Buenos Aires recently to celebrate an Irishman,<br />
Admiral Brown, who founded the Argentine Navy over 150 years<br />
ago.<br />
The strongest sectors are:<br />
• IT and S<strong>of</strong>tware<br />
• Pr<strong>of</strong>essional Services<br />
• Food and Beverages<br />
• Renewable Energies<br />
To request copies <strong>of</strong> the presentations or to obtain contact details<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Argentine Embassy please contact linda@corkchamber.ie<br />
Strengthening Tourism Links between <strong>Cork</strong> and Southern China<br />
A trade delegation led by the Lord Mayor <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong>, Cllr. Terry<br />
Shannon, along with members <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> City Council and <strong>Cork</strong><br />
<strong>Chamber</strong> recently travelled to Shenzhen in Southern China to<br />
promote <strong>Cork</strong> as a tourist destination. This visit will also serve to<br />
build on the existing relationship between the two regions as a<br />
result <strong>of</strong> the successful visit <strong>of</strong> the China Merchants International<br />
Travel & Media Group Shenzhen to <strong>Cork</strong> at the beginning <strong>of</strong> July.<br />
The Lord Mayor signed a Memorandum <strong>of</strong> Understanding on<br />
tourism co-operation with the Shenzhen Tourism Association<br />
on December 10th and will also held meetings with city<br />
leaders in Shenzhen to discuss further co-operation measures.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> was represented by Deputy President Gerard<br />
O’Mahoney and Members George Barter, J Barter Travel Group<br />
and Finbarr <strong>Cork</strong>ery, Macau Sporting Club.<br />
Signing Ceremony for Cooperation Agreement between <strong>Cork</strong> and Shenzhen.<br />
works for your business<br />
17
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
promotion<br />
Newly Appointed<br />
Jean Martin, Fuzion Communications<br />
Pierce Stakelum, Davis Langdon<br />
Claire Cullinane, The Rochestown Park Hotel<br />
Jean Martin joins the<br />
team at Fuzion<br />
Jean Martin has come on board<br />
at Fuzion Communications<br />
joining the team as an Account<br />
Executive in the company’s<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> branch. Jean holds a<br />
degree in Business from CIT and<br />
Masters degree in Marketing,<br />
Consumption and Society from<br />
the University <strong>of</strong> Limerick. With<br />
a keen interest in consumer<br />
communications, Jean currently<br />
works on clients across the<br />
hospitality, leisure, lifestyle and<br />
corporate sectors.<br />
Davis Langdon<br />
further strengthen<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> Program &<br />
Project Management<br />
Team<br />
Davis Langdon are pleased to<br />
announce the appointment <strong>of</strong><br />
Pierce Stakelum to the position<br />
<strong>of</strong> Project Manager in their <strong>Cork</strong><br />
Office. Pierce’s appointment<br />
further strengthens Davis<br />
Langdon’s Program & Project<br />
Management service delivery in<br />
the <strong>Cork</strong> and Munster region.<br />
Rochestown Park<br />
Hotel appoints<br />
Claire Cullinane<br />
Rochestown Park Hotel has<br />
appointed Claire Cullinane<br />
as Business Development<br />
Manager. Claire has re-joined<br />
the hotel after a short break,<br />
previous to this Claire spent<br />
12 years at Rochestown Park<br />
Hotel in Business Development<br />
and Sales & Marketing. Claire’s<br />
appointment will further<br />
enhance the strength and<br />
commitment <strong>of</strong> Rochestown<br />
Park Hotel to the Business<br />
Community.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> agency appoints three new<br />
directors<br />
It’s a new era for <strong>Cork</strong> based marketing agency Hopkins<br />
Communications, which recently celebrated 21 years in<br />
business. Three new Directors have been appointed to the<br />
company: Donogh O’Herlihy, Judy Hopkins and Niamh Sullivan.<br />
The newly appointed Directors <strong>of</strong> Hopkins Communications<br />
have a combined experience <strong>of</strong> almost 30 years in the areas <strong>of</strong><br />
public relations, media buying, on-line, event management,<br />
marketing and promotions <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>ering an integrated service to<br />
SMEs and corporates. Donogh has been with the company<br />
since 2007, joining from 96fm, whilst Judy joined the family<br />
business in 2010 from SensL and One Digital/Carat Group.<br />
Niamh rejoined the team earlier this year from Dublin PR agency<br />
BespokeWithDrection (Fáilte Ireland, RTÉ, Denny) and Michael<br />
Flatley.<br />
Mark Hopkins, (front) with newly appointed directors Judy Hopkins, Niamh Sullivan and<br />
Donogh O'Herlihy.<br />
18
• Barbara-Anne Richardson, Marketing & Commercial Services Manager<br />
e: barbara-anne@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530140<br />
Members News<br />
Good News for City Centre Traders… and<br />
for Bosses!<br />
In planning their Christmas Party menus, Café Bar Deli carried<br />
out a survey to see what <strong>Cork</strong> people really think <strong>of</strong> and want<br />
from work Christmas parties, and some interesting results were<br />
revealed. A staggering 94% <strong>of</strong> survey respondents said they<br />
would prefer to have their party in a city centre location, which<br />
is good news for city traders and 65% indicated a weekend night<br />
is their preferred. It is a toss-up between an organised Christmas<br />
Party Night and a meal out in a restaurant for people’s ideal<br />
Christmas party. A very positive result, despite the economic<br />
downturn, is that companies are very generous with almost<br />
55% <strong>of</strong> Christmas parties being funded totally by the company.<br />
Perhaps, as a result <strong>of</strong> this generosity, almost ¾ <strong>of</strong> respondents<br />
are happy for their boss to attend. The main message is that the<br />
Christmas party is alive and well, and seems to be recession pro<strong>of</strong>!<br />
Mike McGrath, supply.ie with Pr<strong>of</strong> Anita Maguire, VP for Research & Innovation and Dick<br />
Lehane, Chairman, Ignite Advisory Board.<br />
Sparking Awards at UCC Ignite Night<br />
Launched just one year ago, in partnership with <strong>Cork</strong> City and<br />
County Enterprise Boards, the IGNITE programme has shown<br />
itself to be a hugely beneficial environment for entrepreneurial<br />
graduates to launch their own businesses. Mike McGrath,<br />
founder <strong>of</strong> supply.ie emerged as the principal winner at the<br />
inaugural awards ceremony <strong>of</strong> UCC’s IGNITE programme. As<br />
well as receiving the “Most Collegial” award as nominated by<br />
his peers on the Programme, Supply.ie won the Best Company<br />
award. Receiving his awards, Mike McGrath commented “We are<br />
delighted to win this inaugural award plus the recognition from<br />
our peers. IGNITE is a great programme for start-ups with a most<br />
impressive line-up <strong>of</strong> mentors and advisers. Starting a business is<br />
not easy so it is great to have access to successful individuals such<br />
as Liam Casey. We look forward to a long association with IGNITE<br />
and continue to learn from their expansive network.”<br />
Geraldine Mackey, receives the keys from James Cogan, Cogans Toyota also in photo are<br />
Lifeimi Mafi and Tomás O'Leary from Munster Rugby.<br />
And the lucky winner is!<br />
The Friends <strong>of</strong> Marymount Hospice voluntary group are<br />
celebrating after being drawn as the winner <strong>of</strong> a Toyota Auris<br />
for 2012 at Cogan’s Toyota. Tomás O’Leary and Lifeimi Mafi<br />
from Munster Rugby were on hand to draw the winning ticket.<br />
Announcing the winner, James Cogan said the draw was the<br />
culmination <strong>of</strong> a year <strong>of</strong> celebrations marking Cogan’s 75<br />
years in the motor business. He went on to say “This has been<br />
a very special year for Cogan's and I am truly grateful to our<br />
extraordinary customers who have helped to make it possible.<br />
These are difficult times but we should not forget that there are<br />
over 100,000 new vehicles registered in Ireland this year and there<br />
is tremendous value in the market for cars and servicing. Together<br />
with our partners in Toyota Ireland I look forward to 2012 and the<br />
next chapter <strong>of</strong> the Cogan’s story."<br />
Pension Trustees obliged to do training<br />
Jim Connolly, Head <strong>of</strong> Pensions, Standard Life was the guest<br />
speaker at the City Life Wealth Advisors Briefing on trustee<br />
obligations in <strong>Cork</strong> recently. City Life Wealth Advisors, a leading<br />
provider <strong>of</strong> financial services, is highlighting the introduction<br />
<strong>of</strong> new legislation, which requires that trustees <strong>of</strong> company<br />
pension schemes must undergo training for their role as trustees.<br />
“All company, executive and group pension schemes are<br />
written under trust and as such require a Trustee. Until recently<br />
the company director <strong>of</strong> the scheme has acted as the Trustee<br />
probably without realising it. However recent changes to the<br />
legislation now obliges that all Trustees undertake training. Many<br />
owner managers may not be aware <strong>of</strong> their obligations as trustees<br />
and run the risk <strong>of</strong> non-compliance with the new legislation. At<br />
City Life, we are anxious to provide information and the required<br />
training for business owners and managers to ensure they meet<br />
these new legal obligations”, explained Eamon Dwyer, Managing<br />
Director, City Life Wealth Advisors. Every Trustee is under an<br />
obligation to satisfy the new requirements by February 1st 2012.<br />
works for your business<br />
19
<strong>Chamber</strong> Link<br />
promotion<br />
Michael & Kathleen Barry, Barry & Fitzwilliam and Deputy Lord Mayor, Kenneth O'Flynn.<br />
It’s a wrap<br />
At the Closing Gala <strong>of</strong> the 2011 Corona <strong>Cork</strong> Film Festival Deputy<br />
Lord Mayor Kenneth O’Flynn thanked Michael Barry, Barry and<br />
Fitzwilliam (distributors <strong>of</strong> Corona Extra) for his sponsorship<br />
<strong>of</strong> this iconic festival on behalf <strong>of</strong> all 31 city council members.<br />
The Corona <strong>Cork</strong> Film festival is a major showcase for Irish and<br />
international film production and has always been held in high<br />
regard on a local, national and international level and this year<br />
was no different. Work is already underway for next year’s festival.<br />
Brendan Keating, CEO Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> and Gary McGuigan, Arkady Feed with An Taoiseach,<br />
Enda Kenny and Simon Coveney T.D., Minister for Agriculture.<br />
Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> Announces Major Investment<br />
The Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> Company is delighted to announce that Arkady<br />
Feed Ltd has chosen Ringaskiddy as the location for significant<br />
investment. An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny T.D. and Minister Simon<br />
Coveney T.D. helped start construction on Arkady Feed’s 110,000<br />
square foot bulk feed store at the Port <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong>’s Deep-water berth<br />
in Ringaskiddy, Co. <strong>Cork</strong>. Arkady Feed Ltd is a leading player in the<br />
importation and trading <strong>of</strong> feedstuffs for the animal feed sector in<br />
Ireland. The animal feed sector is a vital link in Ireland’s €8bn agrifood<br />
sector. The construction <strong>of</strong> this new store by Arkady Feed is<br />
a vote <strong>of</strong> confidence in the animal feed and agri-food sectors by<br />
the company. BAM contractors have been awarded the contract<br />
to build the facility.<br />
Munster Rugby players Ronan O’Gara, Donncha O'Callaghan, Denis Leamy with The<br />
Overtones - Darren, Mike, Mark, Lachie and Timmy.<br />
Brown Thomas welcomes Munster Rugby<br />
As the <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong>icial formal wear partner to the Munster Rugby Team,<br />
Brown Thomas <strong>Cork</strong> was delighted to welcome Ronan O’Gara,<br />
Denis Leamy and Donncha O'Callaghan to the store for a special<br />
customer event. Fans were thrilled to meet their heroes and<br />
enjoy a question and answer session. The evening <strong>of</strong> fun and<br />
celebration in the run up to Christmas included a visit from Santa<br />
and musical entertainment by UK based vocal harmony group<br />
The Overtones.<br />
Are You Winter Ready<br />
Do you know how to turn <strong><strong>of</strong>f</strong> the water supply in the event <strong>of</strong> a major leak<br />
Are you liable if you clear snow from footpaths<br />
What gear helps avoid wheel-spin when driving on snow or ice<br />
How do you avoid your pipes freezing this winter<br />
These questions and many more are answered in the new Winter-<br />
Ready Information Booklet launched recently. Bernard McNamee <strong>of</strong><br />
CosyHomeStore.ie has reviewed this document and gives it the thumbs<br />
up. He states, “Only 16-pages, the booklet is packed with practical advice<br />
on what to do before and during severe weather episodes. It also lists<br />
contact details <strong>of</strong> organisations and agencies that can provide guidance<br />
and assistance.” It can be viewed in the ‘Energy Saving Tips’ section or<br />
downloaded at www.cosyhomestore.ie<br />
KPMG host Budget Breakfast Briefing - KPMG Partners Michael Lynch, Eoghan Quigley and<br />
Barrie O’Connell at the KPMG Budget 2012 Breakfast Briefing in the Maryborough House<br />
Hotel.<br />
Bernard McNamee, cosyhomestore.ie<br />
20
• To submit articles for Members News to e: imelda@corkchamber.ie<br />
Dr Michael Murphy, UCC President (centre) with UCC Alumni Achievement Awards 2011<br />
recipients Patrick Coveney; Pr<strong>of</strong> Seamus Davis; Sr. Miriam Duggan; Michael J. Dowling<br />
and Kieran Nestor.<br />
Distinguished UCC Graduates Honoured<br />
Outstanding achievers in business, medicine and science were<br />
honoured by UCC at the recent 2011 Alumni Achievement<br />
Awards Ceremony: , Michael J Dowling, President and CEO <strong>of</strong> the<br />
North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System; Patrick Coveney,<br />
CEO <strong>of</strong> Greencore Group plc; Sr Miriam Duggan who was Medical<br />
Superintendent at St Francis’ Hospital, Nsambya, Kampala<br />
in Uganda; Pr<strong>of</strong>essor Séamus Davis, JG White Distinguished<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>essor <strong>of</strong> Physical Sciences at Cornell University and Senior<br />
Physicist at the Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York. On<br />
the night, UCC also honoured Kieran Nestor with the Alumnus<br />
Award for Voluntary Service to UCC.<br />
Rebecca Cantwell, Winner Name the Dish Competition with Niall Smith, CIT; Greg<br />
Johnson, NASA Astronaut and Rory Fitzpatrick ,National Space Centre.<br />
The Big Dish named<br />
At the National Space Centre, <strong>Cork</strong>, a huge 32m dish has been<br />
activated to begin its new life as a Deep Space Radio Telescope.<br />
The dish was originally constructed in 1984 to take transatlantic<br />
telephone calls from Europe to the US, but was retired from use in<br />
the mid 1990s when the underground transatlantic cables were<br />
laid. There are only a handful <strong>of</strong> these dishes worldwide, so this is<br />
an amazing opportunity for future Irish space scientists. As part <strong>of</strong><br />
National Science Week: “The Chemistry <strong>of</strong> Life, and in association<br />
with NASA, the Big Dish was activated by NASA astronaut Greg<br />
Johnson along with ‘Name the Big Dish’ competition winner<br />
Rebecca Cantwell (13) from Regina Mundi College <strong>Cork</strong>. The Big<br />
Dish project will benefit education and skills training, and will<br />
be a test-bed for engineering and science projects from primary<br />
through to PhD research, while also being available to researchers<br />
across Ireland and beyond.<br />
Tim Lombard, <strong>Cork</strong> County Mayor making the presentation to Russell Quigley, Nixatel with<br />
Martin Riordan, <strong>Cork</strong> County Manager; Denis Collins Chairman it@cork and Ian O'Flynn,<br />
Bord Gáis.<br />
Nixatel heading west<br />
Following the recent launch <strong>of</strong> the “Innovation that Matters”<br />
initiative it@cork, Bord Gáis Networks and <strong>Cork</strong> County Council<br />
recently selected Russell Quigley, CEO, Nixatel to participate in<br />
the <strong>Cork</strong> County Council IT trade mission to Chicago in early 2012.<br />
Russell Quigley, Nixatel, “Our innovative s<strong>of</strong>tware application can<br />
tell you which taxis are available, you then tap on the taxi you<br />
want, before being presented with a window showing the drivers<br />
photograph, their PSV licence, languages spoken, vehicle type<br />
and accepted payment methods. In light <strong>of</strong> recent controversy<br />
surrounding taxi driver regulation in Ireland, Pickacab will<br />
serve to protect both the user and the taxi driver because our<br />
application is traceable.” The Chicago trade mission is a unique<br />
opportunity to meet with decision makers, potential partners and<br />
future customers in the US and ideally will present Nixatel with an<br />
opportunity to further develop their innovative idea.<br />
Sinead Brady and Brian Cassidy from PepsiCo with Challenge Science students.<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> students challenge science<br />
Challenge Science, PepsiCo and Junior Achievement’s annual<br />
science event, took place in NMCI Ringaskiddy recently. The event<br />
unleashed a world <strong>of</strong> fun, learning and amazement to more than<br />
150 <strong>Cork</strong> secondary students. Developed by Junior Achievement,<br />
Challenge Science is supported in <strong>Cork</strong> by PepsiCo. The students,<br />
assisted by business volunteers from PepsiCo participated in<br />
hands-on workshops on forensic science, energy and careers in<br />
science, technology and engineering as well as a tour <strong>of</strong> the NMCI<br />
campus. In its seventh year, Challenge Science is supported by<br />
the science, biotechnology and engineering industries nationally<br />
as part <strong>of</strong> the push towards a knowledge-based economy.<br />
21
media<br />
• Lucy O’Donoghue, Membership & PR Manager<br />
e: lucy@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530145<br />
What the media covered<br />
<strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> featured in the media on a<br />
number <strong>of</strong> issues including:<br />
• AIB membership programme for start-ups<br />
• City Centre speed limits<br />
• inaugural <strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin Dinner<br />
• Excellence in Local Government Awards<br />
• flooding in city in 2009<br />
• proposed VAT increase<br />
• sale <strong>of</strong> Annual Dinner tickets,<br />
• School Science Awards<br />
• Shop Local Campaign<br />
“The Chief Executive <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Commerce</strong> says there’s widespread concern in<br />
local business circle about plans to increase<br />
VAT in the budget next month. Conor Healy was<br />
speaking ahead <strong>of</strong> the event organised by the<br />
chamber in Dublin tonight to celebrate business<br />
links between <strong>Cork</strong> and the capital city. "<br />
(On <strong>Cork</strong> 96FM news, 22 nd November)<br />
Media Sources<br />
96FM, Business <strong>Cork</strong>, Council Review,<br />
InBusiness, Irish Examiner, <strong>Cork</strong> Independent,<br />
Evening Echo, Waterford News, Vale Star,<br />
Bishopstown Today, Mallow Star, The <strong>Cork</strong><br />
News, East <strong>Cork</strong> Journal, The Irish Times<br />
Midleton & District News and RedFM<br />
Press Releases<br />
8 Nov <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> & Boston Scientific<br />
encourage <strong>Cork</strong> Students to take an<br />
active interest in Science<br />
9 Nov <strong>Chamber</strong> pays tribute to President<br />
10 Nov <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> congratulates City<br />
Council on Award Success<br />
18 Nov <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> reiterates concerns<br />
on second anniversary <strong>of</strong> <strong>Cork</strong><br />
flooding<br />
22 Nov Inaugural <strong>Cork</strong>-Dublin Dinner<br />
23 Nov Advisory Group on Small Business:<br />
<strong>Chamber</strong>s Ireland Calls for Focus on<br />
Implementation<br />
25 Nov <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> Calls for Reform<br />
25 Nov <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> calls for Support <strong>of</strong><br />
Local Business in run up to Christmas<br />
Press Releases and News Stories are posted on<br />
Twitter & LinkedIn and are also available on<br />
www.corkchamber.ie<br />
22
Link in now!<br />
...make social media part <strong>of</strong> your<br />
marketing strategy for 2012<br />
works<br />
for your business<br />
policy training events promotion international<br />
The <strong>Cork</strong> <strong>Chamber</strong> LinkedIn Group is made up more than<br />
1,020 individuals from member companies who share news<br />
and discuss issues affecting their businesses. So join now,<br />
increase your visibility and expand your contact base online.<br />
To join email lucy@corkchamber.ie<br />
www.corkchamber.ie<br />
find us on
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