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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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