Cork Chamber link - Cork Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBERlinkGetting in Touch with theChamber TeamConor HealyChief ExecutiveT: (021) 450 9044 or E: conor@corkchamber.ieLisa HuntExecutive AssistantT: (021) 453 0131 or E: lisa@corkchamber.ieLucy O'DonoghueMembership Development & PR ManagerT: (021) 453 0145 or E: lucy@corkchamber.ieLeigh GillenEvents ManagerT: (021) 453 0133 or E: leigh@corkchamber.ieImelda MulcahyExport Documentation ManagerT: (021) 453 0130 or E: imelda@corkchamber.ieMargaret GoodAccounts AdministratorT: (021) 453 0134 or E: accounts@corkchamber.ieKatherine FitzpatrickEU, Trade & Innovation Services ManagerT: (021) 453 0137 or E: katherine@corkchamber.ieSiobhan HoranEU, Trade & Innovation Services ExecutiveT: (021) 453 0138 or E: siobhan@corkchamber.ieAlma MurnanePolicy & Research ManagerT: (021) 453 0147 or E: alma@corkchamber.ieSean O’LearyPolicy & Research ExecutiveT: (021) 453 0143 or E: sean@corkchamber.ieDavid BennettPolicy & Research AssistantT: (021) 4530 144 or E: david@corkchamberEmma WalshTraining Services ManagerT: (021) 453 0142 or E: emma@corkchamber.ieTara MullallyBiznetcork Network AdministratorT: (021) 453 0141 or E: tara@corkchamber.ieAisling HynesMunster Finuas Network AdministratorT: (021) 453 0148 or E: aisling@corkchamber.ieCork Chamber,Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, CorkT: (021) 4509044F: (021) 4508568E: info@corkchamber.ieW: www.corkchamber.ieRegistered in Ireland no. 13918Join usFollow us onDear Chamber MemberThe Chamber through 2010 has placed a particualar focus ondeveloping international relationships and market opportunities forthe Cork business community. Our primary strategy is to maximisethe relationships which currently exist with our sister cities in SanFrancisco and Shanghai. As a continuation of this strategy thisyears Chamber Annual Conference on November 4th titled “NewReality / Big Opportunities” will explore with the benefit of industryexpertise from a local, national and international perspective theopportunities and challenges that exist and point a way forward forthe Cork region. All businesses in the region from SMEs to MNCs areencouraged to attend and contribute to what will be an interestingand stimulating half day conference.Recent weeks have also seen the Chamber complete and submitto Government our 2011 Pre Budget Submission which placesparticular emphasis on the need for economic stimulus throughtargeted measures in the areas of taxation, public sector reform andfocused infrastructural development. In additon we launched theresults of our Q3 Economic Trends Survey which highlighted a fallin business confidence levels and deterioration in confidence in theGovernments handling of the economy.Recent Chamber events show a continued appetite for networkingamong members and I would encourage you to check out ourupcoming events schedule and to book your place online.Best regards,ConorConor HealyChief ExecutiveCONTENTS2 Connect with New Members3 Influencing Decisions5 International Trade6 Press Clippings7 Appointments at Cork Chamber8 Industry - Education links9 News Story - The search is on for Cork Company of the Year10 Cover Story - Chamber Annual Conference11 What’s on?13 Training Services14 Networking Events16 Promote your business17 Marketing Cork18 On the move19 Members NewsFront Cover: Launching the Cork ChamberAnnual Conference 2010 “New Reality /Big Opportunities - Two Way Traffic Eastand West” , sponsored by HSBC are IvanYates, Conference Facilitator; ProfessorFan Hong, Director of the Irish Institute ofChines Studies and Alan Duffy, Head ofHSBC Corporate Banking Ireland.Chamberlink is sponsored by:Chamberlink is published by Cork Chamber and is a monthly publication exclusive to members. Theopinons expressed in Chamberlink are not necessarily those of Cork Chamber, neither do they accept anyresponsibility or liability for any legal implications arising there from.CHAMBERlinkOctober 2010 I Issue 9Cover FeatureChamber Annual Conferencesponsored by HSBCNews StoryCork Company of the YearWhat’s on?Upcoming Training Courses & NetworkingEventsMembers NewsAnnouncements & News

CONNECT with new membersWe welcome the following New members. To maximise yourMembership remember to do business with fellow Members.Computers / HardwareCompunetI.T assistance to small & mediumcommercial clients. We providededicated on-site engineering supportas requiredContact: Bill MaherT: (021) 431 1033E: bill@compunet.ieW: www.compunet.ieEducation / Training /LanguagesTSS LtdTraining and developmentorganisation with offices in Cork andDublin. Specialise in the developmentof Managers, Supervisors, SalesPeople and Customer Service staff byoffering a range of interactive skillsdevelopment programmesContact: Paula MulcahyT: (087) 650 0996E: paula@tss.ieW: www.tss.ieHealth / SafetyAll Ireland Air AmbulanceRegistered Charity dedicated to theprovision of helicopter services for thepeople of IrelandContact: Ellen MillerT: (066) 710 2000E: ellenmarymiller@gmail.comW: www.aiaa.ieSafety 4UHealth & Safety Counsellingand Training / E-Training / AssetManagetment & MaintenanceContact: Noel DunneT: (01) 892 8030E: info@safety4u.ieW: www.safety4u.ieManagement ConsultantsCygnus SolutionsAdvice in all aspects of researchmanagement including developmentof research strategy, market researchand business care analysis, conceptdesign, project planning, intellectualproperty management, team buildingand delivery of innovative resultsContact: Jenny PattersonT: (021) 482 3020E: jenny@cygnussolutions.ieW: www.cygnussolutions.ieManufacturersGraepel Perforators & WeaversManufacture & fabricate products fromsheet steel & wireContact: Fred GraepelT: (021) 477 2105E: fred@graepel.ieW: www.graepel.iePublic RelationsProfile CommunicationsA full service marketing firm, providingoutsourced marketing solutionsto businesses, as well as branding,corporate identity, marketingcampaigns, online marketing andmedia relationsContact: Renate MurphyT: (021) 432 0067E: renate@profilecommunications.ieW: www.profilecommunications.ieRecruitment / Executive SearchGrafton RecruitmentRecruitment ConsultantsContact: Niall HarrisT: (021) 425 0653E: nharris@graftonrecruitment.comW: www.graftonrecruitment.comServicesCork Air Park ServicesCar Valeting, Car Servicing, Car Storagewith courtesy transport to and from theAirport TerminalContact: Mark MurphyT: (021) 432 1944E: mark@corkairparkservices.ieW: www.corkairparkservices.ieTransportSprint Logistics Ltd t/a DPDNext day parcel delivery throughoutIreland with 38 regionally-baseddepots, also offering a range ofservices to Great Britain, Europe andInternationalContact: Aidan MurnaneT: (021) 500 5400E: aidan.murnane@dpd.ieW: www.dpd.ieTelecommunicationsMuskerry Satellite SystemsProviding satellite systems aroundIreland. Main retailer for Sky in Ireland.Activities encompass sales andinstillationsContact: Ray MulroyT: (021) 421 4965E: ray@satellitestore.ieW: www.muskerrysatellitesystems.comWaste Management / RecyclingLehane Environmental @IndustrialServices LtdHazardous Waste Disposal, Pipe & TankCleaning, Tank Decommissioning,Interceptor Cleaning, Drain Cleaning,Spills, Soil Redemption, SludgeDewatering, Chemical Cleaning &Passivation, CCTV SurveyingContact: Martin LehaneT: (021) 435 1020E: martin@lehaneenvironmental.comW: www.lehaneenvironmental.com2CHAMBERlinkNight at the Dogs - Charity RaceThe Cork Independent in conjunction with Curraheen Park, EazyCork andProfile Communications, is to hold a charity race night at Curraheen Park onThursday 4 November. With the aim of raising funds for the poorest in Haiti,the night will include a full dinner with wine sponsored by Tindal Wines.Ticket prices range from €10 (entry only) and €50 for dinner with wine, tofull corporate sponsorship packages including branding and promotionalopportunities, priced at €550 and including dinner for four people. With anumber of corporate sponsors already secured, this will be a valuable businessnetworking opportunity, with some added fun. Why not make it your staff nightout? To book tickets or for further information please contact:Deirdre O’Shaughnessy (editor@corkindependent.com)or Renate Murphy (renate@profilecommunications.ie)

INFLUENCING decisionsFor more information on any of the issues in this section please contact Alma,Sean or DavidChamber Pre-Budget Submission 2011Cork Chamber has outlined our Pre-Budget priorities inadvance of Budget 2011. The submission outlines theChamber’s proposed measures aimed at promotinginnovation and entrepreneurship, removing unnecessaryred tape and protecting existing levels of economicactivity both nationally and in the local Cork economy.Whilst the Chamber recognises the difficulties in fundinga stimulus for the economy, feedback from Chambermembers indicates that support for the struggling SMEsector is vital to kick start growth in the Irish economy.We believe that this can be achieved through targetedmeasures in the areas of taxation, pensions’ reform,local government reform and focused infrastructuraldevelopment.The tax changes we have recommended take accountof the reality that the Government has limited resourcesavailable to grant new tax reliefs. Therefore our proposalsshould not result in a significant loss of tax receipts. Inparticular, our proposals are aimed at stimulating andfostering an entrepreneurial spirit in the economy. Onemeans of doing this is through the introduction of anentrepreneurs’ relief which would reduce the effectiveCapital Gains Tax from 25% to 12.5% for “qualifyingdisposals”. Experience of a similar scheme in the UK hasbeen positive to date and we feel that this relief wouldincentivise entrepreneurs to grow the value of theirbusinesses in a way that will create employment andstimulate economic growth.The Chamber has also proposed the introduction of anew round of applications for the employment subsidyscheme to assist companies who can demonstrate arealistic possibility of survival. We have also made specificrecommendations regarding taxation support for R&D,the expansion of Seed Capital and BES relief and theintroduction of a tax regime to attract key executives anddecision makers to Ireland. We have also welcomed theproposed introduction of a Universal Social Contributionthat would merge PRSI, the health levy and incomelevy into a single contribution, thereby reducing theadministrative burden on businesses and the Government,in addition to broadening the tax base.The Chamber has sought Government support for a rangeof infrastructural projects that will stimulate economicactivity in the Cork region. These include the longawaitedupgrade of the N28 Cork – Ringaskiddy route, theprovision of enabling infrastructure in the Docklands andthe development of a modern public transport system forCork.We also stated that it is imperative that the Governmentuses December’s budget to clearly indicate its views onthe project and commit to the necessary funding andtargeted fiscal stimuli. The Chamber believes that anotheryear of speculation on the future prospects of the projectis unsustainable and it will seriously damage the economicprospects of the Docklands, the City and the Region.Cork Chamber also highlighted the need to implementthe recommendations of the recent Local GovernmentEfficiency Review Group and to pass the resultants savingsonto businesses in the form of reduced commercial ratesand service charges.A comprehensive summary of the measures containedin the Chamber’s Pre-Budget Submission for 2011 can befound in this month’s Q3 Economic Bulletin.For a copy of the Chamber’s Pre-Budget Submission for2011, please contact alma@corkchamber.ieQ3 Survey Results Indicate thatChallenges RemainThe Chamber’s Economic Trends survey records a drop inconfidence amongst members in Quarter Three, bringingto an end five successive quarters of increasing optimism.Although 70% of members say they are still confidentabout the future of their business, this is down 5% fromthe second quarter.The survey also shows a deterioration in confidencein the Government’s handling of the economy. Morethan two-thirds say they are no longer confident in theGovernment’s management of the banking crisis (upfrom 57% in the last quarter) and over half of respondentsare not confident in the Government’s budgetary policy.According to the survey, 79% of members are notconfident in the Government’s handling of the issue ofpublic sector pay.Public sector reform is identified as the issue memberswish to see the Government tackle first, those sayingthe Government must make this its number one priorityincreased 8% to 35.83%. The survey gives a clear messageregarding December’s budget. When asked what thebudget must focus on, members identified two clearpriorities: Investment in Stimuli (prioritised by 39.5%of respondents) and Expenditure Reductions (37.82%).Less than 2% felt further increases in taxation could beconsidered. The Chamber’s recommendations on how toimplement such policies are detailed in our Pre-BudgetSubmission.In relation to local government members present a starkmessage. Commercial rates are jeopardising the viability of40% of businesses, according to the survey while just 4%of respondents believe they are getting value for moneyfrom the rates they pay. While support for domestic watercharging has increased to 55%, a majority (57%) stilloppose an annual property tax.A detailed analysis of Cork Chamber’s Q3 EconomicTrends Survey can be found in this month’s Chamber Q3Economic Bulletin.3CHAMBERlink

INFLUENCING decisions4CHAMBERlinkQ3 Economic BulletinDuring October, all members of the Chamber will receivethe fourth issue of the Chamber’s Quarterly EconomicBulletin. This service aims to provide you with importantand relevant information on the national and regionaleconomy, in addition to outlining the Chamber’s positionon key issues, which we are representing your interests onboth locally and nationally. We hope that you will find thisservice of benefit to you and your business.Chamber meets with AviationStakeholdersA Cork Chamber delegation recently met withrepresentatives of the Dublin Airport Authority to discussthe ongoing development of Cork Airport and othergeneral issues regarding the aviation sector in Ireland.The Chamber outlined the positive findings of our recentBusiness Air Travel Survey and raised a number of concernsthat our members have with regards to services at CorkAirport.The Chamber also met with Aer Lingus CEO ChristophMueller to discuss ways in which the Chamber can be ofassistance to Aer Lingus services in Cork, in addition to theairline’s future plans for development in the region.Cork Chamber believes that Cork Airport is intrinsicto the economic development of the Cork and widerSouthwestern region and we look forward to working withall stakeholders to ensure that the Airport provides a widerrange of routes and services for business users.Chamber submission to Draft Guidelinesfor Planning Authorities on SpatialPlanning and National RoadsThe Chamber recently made a submission to theDepartment of Environment, Heritage and LocalGovernment regarding the Draft Guidelines for PlanningAuthorities on Spatial Planning and National Roads.Cork Chamber acknowledged the interdependencybetween transportation and land use planning and therequirement for integrated land use and transportationplanning in local development plans. Similarly, wewelcomed the reaffirmation in these guidelines of thestrategic role of the national road network and theprotection and safeguarding of that function.The Chamber stated our belief that the primary purpose ofthe national road infrastructure is to support and facilitatethe economic development of the state in line withnational, regional and local policies. In addition, we alsoreinforced the importance of the strategic role the nationalroad network plays in facilitating the movement of exportgoods to the State’s external transport hubs.Government launches integrated planfor trade, tourism and investmentThe Taoiseach, Brian Cowen TD, has launched an ambitiousfive-year integrated Government plan for trade, tourismand investment aimed at generating 300,000 jobs andboosting exports by one third. The new plan, ‘Tradingand Investing in a Smart Economy’, is the first integratedstrategy to promote overseas trade, tourism andinvestment.The plan aims to:• Create over 150,000 direct new jobs in manufacturing,tourism and internationally trading services, withanother 150,000 spin-off jobs• Increase the value of Irish exports by indigenousagency-assisted firms by one third• Increase the number of overseas visitors to Ireland toeight million• Attract an extra 780 foreign investment projectsthrough IDA IrelandThe Government will set up a new Foreign Trade Councilcomprising all relevant Departments and agencies toimplement the five-year plan.The Foreign Trade Council will:• Devise new common ‘brand Ireland’ initiatives• Exploit marketing platforms such as St Patrick’s Dayand trade missions• Open new markets for Irish SMEs• Align our visa policy with strategic business interests• Maximise the effectiveness of our overseas diplomaticand agency representatives in key marketsFor further information on the “Trading and Investing in aSmart Economy”, please visit the Department of Enterprise,Trade and Innovation website – www.deti.ieForfás launches report on future ofEnterprise in IrelandForfás recently published a report entitled “Making itHappen - Growing Enterprise for Ireland”. The reportoutlines a coherent narrative for enterprise policy withinthe context of the Smart Economy. It highlights the actionsneeded to ensure a competitive, sustainable enterprisebase that will deliver growth and jobs within the mediumtermto 2015.The report indicates that growth and jobs within Ireland’senterprise base will be driven by four complementarycritical success factors: innovation, productivity, costcompetitiveness and a strong enterprise mix (expandingupon Ireland’s existing strengths in sectors and markets).The report’s recommendations focus on the essential areasof education and skills, R&D and innovation, managementdevelopment, public procurement, access to finance,infrastructure priorities, the regulatory environmentand competition policies, which are relevant to all firms.Creating this optimum environment requires coordinatedaction across the whole of Government. For a copy of thereport, please visit the Forfás website - www.forfas.ie

INTERNATIONAL tradeGer O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber and Zhang Bilai, President Hangzhou Federation of Industry & Commerce signing the Memorandum of Understanding.Cork Chamber leads business delegation to ShanghaiCork Chamber led a delegation to Shanghai from 5-12September 2010. The Chamber delegation made up partof an overall delegation of approximately 50 people fromCork who travelled out to China the same week, includingrepresentatives of University College Cork, Cork Institute ofTechnology, Cork City Council and Culture Ireland as wellas TRASNA and the Cork Music Ensemble.The Chamber programme included a day at ShanghaiEXPO, where all Cork organisations collaborated to host areception to promote Cork to key business, governmentand educational organisations from Shanghai and beyond.The Chamber delegation met with two sister Chambersin Shanghai and signed an MOU with the HangzhouChamber of Industry and Commerce.There were several business-matching events with theChambers and also with the Enterprise Europe Network-Central China. Furthermore, the delegation met key peoplefrom the Irish state agencies in Shanghai (EnterpriseIreland, IDA, Tourism Ireland, Bord Bia) who advised andinformed the group about the current economic climatein China and trade relations between Ireland and China.Over the course of the week, the delegation also had theopportunity to meet and network with members of theIrish business community in Shanghai.If you would like further information about doing businesswith China or if you would like further information aboutthe Chamber’s contacts in China then please contactkatherine@corkchamber.ie.The International Chamber of Commerce has launched thelatest revision of its internationally-recognised trade termsIncoterms® 2010. The rules are used by companies all overthe world in countless business transactions. The new ruleswill come into effect on 1 January 2011.Short for ‘international commercial terms’, the Incoterms®rules – were first created by International Chamberof Commerce (ICC) in 1936 to help traders avoidmisunderstandings by clarifying the costs, risks, andresponsibilities of both buyers and sellers in the deliveryof goods. Representing a radically new concept in anindustry regulated by local rules of law, the rules caused asensation in the international business world when ICC firstintroduced them. They were the first real attempt to bringlegal certainty to business transactions while simplifyingthe drafting of international contracts.The introduction of Incoterms ®2010 means Irishbusinesses will need to alter their commercial practices inorder to incorporate a number of key revisions in relationto domestic and international contracts of sale. Companiesshould have their processes altered and be ready to ‘hit theground running’ on the 1st January without any delays totheir export or contract procedures.Chambers Ireland, sponsored by Ulster Bank, is hosting aseries of seminars in order to assist businesses prepare forthese changes. These seminars will take place in Dublin,Galway and Cork, on the 9th, 10th, 11th of November. Formore information, to purchase a copy of Incoterms® 2010or to register for the seminar, please email mary.meehan@chambers.ie or mark.omahoney@chambers.ie5CHAMBERlink

PRESS clippingsFor more information in relation to Chamber PR please contact Lucy(lucy@corkchamber.ie)6CHAMBERlinkCork Chamber outlines Budget PrioritiesCork Chamber has highlighted the priorities containedin their Pre-Budget Submission for Budget 2011. Thesubmission outlines the Chamber’s proposed measuresaimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship,removing unnecessary red tape and protecting existinglevels of economic activity both nationally and in the localCork economy.Commenting on the submission, Cork Chamber PresidentGer O’Mahoney stated that, “While the Chamberrecognises the difficulties in funding a stimulus for theeconomy, feedback from Chamber members indicatesthat support for the struggling SME sector is vital to kickstart growth in the Irish economy. We believe that this canbe achieved through targeted measures in the areas oftaxation, pensions’ reform, local government reform andfocused infrastructural development”.Economic Trends Survey Shows Drop inConfidence and Increased Dissatisfactionwith Government Economic PolicyCork Chamber’s economic trends survey for quarterthree records a drop in confidence amongst Cork’sbusiness community, bringing to an end five successivequarters of increasing optimism. This is combined witha sharp increase in dissatisfaction with central and localgovernment.Discussing the results, Cork Chamber Chief ExecutiveConor Healy said, “Although 70% of business peoplein Cork say they are still confident about the futureof their business, worryingly it is down 5% from thesecond quarter of 2010. The survey also reveals a markeddeterioration in confidence in the Government’s handlingof the economy. 70% of Cork’s business communitysay they are no longer confident in the Government’smanagement of the banking crisis (up from 57% in thesecond quarter). In addition, over half of respondents(52% up from 38.51%) say they are not confident in theGovernment’s budgetary policy. 79% of respondents arenot confident in the Government’s handling of the issue ofpublic sector pay”.Cork Chamber Provides Funded TrainingOpportunitiesMr Billy Kelleher, TD, Minister for Trade and Commerce,launched the Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster FinuasNetwork Autumn training schedules. Both trainingnetworks are promoted by Cork Chamber and fundedby member companies and the Training NetworksProgramme (TNP) and the Finuas Networks Programmerespectively, managed by Skillnets Ltd. and funded fromthe National Training Fund through the Department ofEducation and Skills.The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN)Supports Ireland’s Largest BusinessNetworking EventThe Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) in Cork Chamber isencouraging businesses to sign up for CORKMEET 2010,in order to take advantage of the excellent opportunity itoffers for networking and making business contacts.Katherine Fitzpatrick, Manager of the EEN in Cork says,“Our network is dedicated to assisting companies to findsuitable business partners, and this is the whole ideabehind CORKMEET 2010. With pre-arranged, one-to-onemeetings, CORKMEET presents a fantastic opportunity forIrish businesses to unlock opportunities with potentialclients and suppliers throughout the country andinternationally. It is a must attend event for businessesthis year”.Katherine went on to say, “The Enterprise EuropeNetwork has a strong network worldwide and an indepthknowledge of the European markets. We have asignificant role in educating and assisting local businessesto generate new trading alliances between Ireland andthe rest of Europe, as well as answering many types ofbusiness enquiries. Staff from the Enterprise EuropeNetwork centres country-wide will be on hand atCORKMEET 2010 to answer queries on European projects,funding opportunities and doing business abroad.Companies who sign up to CORKMEET will also have theopportunity to arrange a one-to-one meeting with EENexperts in technology transfer, licensing and innovation,in order to gain specialised advice in these areas”.

APPOINTMENTS at Cork ChamberBarrie O’Connell new Honorary TreasurerThe Chamber is delighted to announce Barrie O’Connell as the new HonoraryTreasurer. Barrie was appointed Partner in KPMG Cork in November 2007and leads the Cork Audit Practice within KPMG with particular focus on theFinancial Services sector. Barrie has over 14 years experience providing Auditand Advisory services across the Private Irish Business, Financial Services andMultinational sectors under Irish GAAP, IFRS and US GAAP. Barrie holds aBachelor of Commerce degree from University College Cork and is a member ofthe Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland having completed his trainingarticles with Arthur Andersen. He is a current Board member of Cork Chamberand outgoing Chairperson of the Cork Chamber Working Group on FinancialServices. Barrie is also a member of the IRFU National Referee Panel.Barrie O’Connell, Honorary TreasurerNew appointments to the Chamber TeamSeán O’Leary, Policy & ResearchExecutiveKatherine Fitzpatrick, EU, Trade & InnovationServices ManagerSiobhan Horan, EU, Trade & InnovationExecutiveSeán O’Leary has been appointed asPolicy & Research Executive, joiningan expanded Policy & ResearchDepartment which engages in arange of policy areas and representsmembers’ interests to governmentand key decision makers. Prior tojoining Cork Chamber Seán workedas Policy and CommunicationsOfficer with Irish Rural Link, thenational network of rural communitygroups. There he gained significantexperience in advocacy and publicaffairs. Seán started his career inlocal and community development,working with Blanchardstown AreaPartnership amongst others. He holdsa BSc in Government and PublicPolicy and a Masters in Planningand Sustainable Development fromUniversity College Cork.Katherine Fitzpatrick was recentlyappointed to the position of EU, Trade& Innovation Services Manager in CorkChamber. Having worked for nearlyfour years in the assistant position tothis role, she is now responsible forEU queries, international trade andinnovation services at Cork Chamber.A key aspect of this work is themanagement of the Enterprise EuropeNetwork centre. Other areas of workinclude organising trade missions,market information seminars &running various EU projects. Katherineholds a Certificate in InternationalTrade Practice (FETAC 5), a BA inEuropean Studies (UCC) and an MA inItalian Translation (NUI Galway). Shespeaks Italian and French and recentlycompleted a Certificate in ChineseLanguage (UCC).Siobhan Horan recently joined CorkChamber as EU, Trade & InnovationServices Executive. She is responsiblefor assisting the Enterprise EuropeNetwork Manager with the EU, tradeand innovation activities at CorkChamber. This includes answeringenquiries and providing assistance tocompanies looking for information onEU and trade issues, as well asassisting with EU projects. Siobhanholds a BA in Economics and German(UCC), a Postgraduate Certificate inInternational Marketing Practices (MII)and a CPD PG Diploma in InternationalBusiness Development (DIT). She hasrecently completed an MA in GermanStudies (UCC) and before joining theChamber was working for Lidl Ireland.7CHAMBERlink

INDUSTRY - EDUCATION linkS8CHAMBERlinkCollaboration for mutual benefitEarlier this year, the Chamber led a delegation to Brusselsto meet with key representatives of the EuropeanCommission. One of the Commission’s key targets in termsof creating a culture of Entrepreneurship and Innovationthroughout Europe, is to encourage and highlight theimportance of collaboration between industry andeducation providers.Cork Chamber is happy to support both UCC and CIT inthe work that is being done by both institutions to placestudents in companies throughout Cork, as an integralpart of their third-level courses. Approximately 3500students from the two third-level institutions completeplacements each year, from all disciplines ranging fromhumanities to science and engineering, right up to Mastersand PhD level. Furthermore, international students onplacement, such as Chinese students, can bring additionalbenefits to companies who are interested in new markets.Some of the benefits of work placements to employers:• Students can undertake projects or other work atpeak times of year when permanent staff are onholidays.• Participation in a placement programme is an idealopportunity for employers to screen potential fulltimeemployees in the most reliable way, i.e. in their ownenvironment and over an extended period.• Work placement can lead to closer interactionbetween the Higher Education Institutions andIndustry, to benefit both parties.• Companies can improve their profile on campus,which can be of benefit to employers who regularlyrecruit graduates each year• The placement allows enough time for a studentto settle into their role and give value back to thecompany in the work they completeWhat the Companies say:“HR Locker is a small Cork-based software company. Wewere looking to enter the Chinese market with our onlinehuman resource application. We didn’t have any Chinesestaff in house so we were delighted to hear that we could gettwo Chinese student programmers from UCC to work withus for a couple of months. After about two months workingin our office the students had fully localised our applicationinto Chinese. They proved invaluable in giving us a Chineseperspective on our software... I was delighted with ourengagement with UCC and the staff in the work placementdepartment were a pleasure to work with.”John Dennehy, HR Locker“Taking advantage of the CIT student placement project hasenabled our company to benefit from the injection of freshopinion and talent as well as allowing us to free up valuabletime and resources for new and existing projects. Thecandidates all have a wide range of theoretical and practicalknowledge so they are able to fit into any role well. I woulduse the program again and would highly recommend it toany other company.”Gareth Cuddy, DirectEbooksThe Chamber would like to encourage companies whomay not have done so before, to avail of the opportunitiesthat work placements can offer their business.For more information on student placement programmesin UCC and CIT please contact: Clodagh Kerr (c.kerr@ucc.ie) or Sharon Burke (sharon.burke@cit.ie)

NEWS storyThe search is on for Cork Company of the YearCork Chamber is delighted to announce its partnershipwith Vodafone for Cork Company of the Year.Entrants from all business sectors and company sizes arewelcome in the following award categories:• Cork Large Company of the Year (>100 employees)• Cork SME of the Year (

COVER storyChamber Annual Conference 2010New Reality / Big OpportunitiesTwo Way Traffic East and WestCork Chamber will hold its Annual Business Conference sponsored by HSBCon Thursday 4th November 2010 in the Rochestown Park Hotel, 12.30pm to 5.30pm.The focus of the 2010 Chamber Conference is the opportunity which exists for Cork to benefit fromstrengthening relationships with the United States, China and India with particular focus on Cork’stwo sister cities, San Francisco and Shanghai. This conference will explore, with the benefit of industryexpertise from a local, national and international perspective, the opportunities and challenges thatexist and point a way forward for the Cork Region and businesses in Cork.Conference speakers include:• Sean O’Driscoll (Chief Executive, Glen Dimplex)• Alan Duffy (Head of HSBC Corporate Banking Ireland)• Jim Herlihy (Cork/San Francisco Business Initiative & San Francisco-Shanghai Sister CityCommittee)• Professor Fan Hong (Director of the Irish Institute of Chinese Studies, UCC)• Frank Ryan (Chief Executive, Enterprise Ireland)• Mr D Ramamoorthy (Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of India)• Barry O’Leary (Chief Executive, IDA Ireland)An interactive Q&A Forum facilitated by skilled interviewer and businessman Ivan Yates.Who should attend:CHAMBERlink• Executives and Owner Managersof Cork Businesses• Indigenous Manufacturing andServices Enterprises• Multinational Manufacturing andServices Organisations• State Agencies• 3rd Level Institutions• Tourism & Hospitality Interests• Professional Services• Media Organisations• Community/Local AuthorityRepresentatives10

WHATS on?Book Now on www.corkchamber.ieUpcoming EventsMaximising your MembershipThursday 14th October7.30am – 9.00amClarion HotelPlease register your place atwww.corkchamber.ieThis event has been created so that you can learn moreabout how to “Maximise your Membership” throughnetworking, events, training, doing business with otherChamber members and utilising the wealth of knowledgeand expertise within the Chamber team. This is youropportunity to see exactly how your membership can workbest for you and how to avail of all the tailor-made andgeneral services that are provided. As always, we encouragemembers to bring business cards as there will be plenty ofopportunity to network with your fellow members beforeand after the event.Business After Hours in association withWednesday 20th October6.00pm – 8.00pmNational Software CentreThis event is FREE for CorkChamber members, but youmust register your place atwww.corkchamber.ieThe National Software Centre is a multi tenanted, purposebuilt business environment with flexibility and scalabilityin mind. The NSC offers superior business solutions for alltypes and sizes of companies, providing the most advancedtechnology and office services. There will be an opportunityto learn more about the National Software Centre,networking opportunities and a chance to win 2 tickets toone of the hottest events at the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival.Business Breakfast in association withwith Guest SpeakerJim Costello,CEO of SouthWesternThursday 21st October7.30am– 9.00amImperial Hotel€20 members / €35 nonmembersJim Costello is the CEO of SouthWestern and has workedwith the company since 2003. Previously he spent 15 yearsin the Information Technology and Outsourcing Sectorsin Ireland and Internationally. He joined SouthWestern asthe company moved from IT processing in Departmentof Agriculture into a full Business Process Outsourcingcompany. As always, there will be opportunity for you tonetwork at this event, please be there in time and bringplenty of business cards.Cork Chamber Annual Conference 2010 sponsored byNew Reality/Big OpportunitiesTwo Way Traffic East and WestThursday 4th November12.30pm – 5.30pmRochestown Park Hotel€75 members / 2 places for €125The focus of the Conference is the opportunity which existsfor Cork to benefit from strengthening relationships with theUSA, China and India with particular focus on Cork’s sistercities, San Francisco and Shanghai. This conference willexplore, with the benefit of industry expertise from a local,national and international perspective, the opportunitiesand challenges that exist and point a way forward for theCork Region.Cork Regional Chambers Breakfast in association withESB Networks Five YearPlan in CorkThursday 11th November7.30am – 9.00amGresham Metropole HotelFREE for Regional Chambermembers. Please register yourplace at www.corkchamber.ieCork Regional Chambers will host a business breakfaston ESB Networks in the Cork Metropolitan and Regionalarea. The presentation will cover a range of areas includingESB Network’s five year investment plan for the electricityinfrastructure in Ireland and how it will support the nationalsustainability strategy, as well as information on the smartmetering initiative. Join with your fellow Regional Chambermembers for an informative morning session and as always,there will be plenty of opportunity to network and meetnew business contacts at this event.CHAMBERlink11

CHAMBERlink12WHATS on?Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie/trainingUp-coming Training CoursesLimited FREE places for unemployed on all courses.Complete Presentation Skills (incl. Powerpoint)Tuesday 12 th & Wednesday 13 th October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €300This course will help the participant understand presentationtechniques and how to effectively use various visual aidsincluding PowerPoint. A practical hands-on approach istaken, allowing participants to practice and deliver theirpresentations a number of times throughout the 2 days.Practical Employment Law for SME’sThursday 14 th October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €120Learn about contracts of employment, employee handbooks,NERA requirements, employment law and the legalframework around disciplinary issues.Bid to Win! Effective TenderingTuesday 19 th Oct, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €185This one day course aims to equip course participants withthe tools and techniques to find, qualify and win tenderopportunities.Train the Trainer - FETAC Level 6Tuesday 19 th , Wednesday 20 th October & Tuesday 2 ndNovember, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €550The programme will help participants to gain the skills todesign, deliver and evaluate training programmes.Diversity & Equality AwarenessThursday 21 st October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €110This course is designed to create awareness of the broadspectrum of diversity and equality issues. The programmewill explore diversity in a workplace context and will examinecurrent equality legislation. This course is ideal for currentand prospective FETAC centres.Mastering MS Word 2003 (Intermediate)Thursday 21 st October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €100Some of the topics covered on this course include creatingbasic headers & footers, setting up different sets of headers,footers & page numbering, effective document layout andusing tables within the document.E-mail and Business Letter Writing for MAC UsersWednesday 3 rd November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €120Good business writing is as important as ever. Beingable to recognise and correct problems and define yourcommunication goals are all critical factors for effectivebusiness writing.Mastering MS Excel 2003 (Intermediate)Wednesday 3 rd November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €100This course will cover the following topics: working with andlinking multiple worksheets, creating charts, managing lists(Sorting & AutoFilter) among some other options.Training from€100 per day!Mastering MS Powerpoint 2003Thursday 4 th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €110This course is suitable for anyone who would like to produceand run professional looking slide shows. No previousexperience of MS PowerPoint is required; however, it isimportant that those attending have a good workingknowledge of other Microsoft applications e.g. MS Word orExcel.What Effective Managers Really DoThursday 4 th & Thursday 11 th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €225This programme has been designed to strengthen the skills ofnewly/recently-appointed managers, supervisors and teamleaders to meet the challenges facing their organisation. Itaddresses the importance of communication; setting cleardirection and building trust. It also covers the benefits oftraining and developing the team.MS Excel Expert 2003 (Advanced)Tuesday 9 th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €100A large proportion of the course is dedicated to using theDatabase Features in MS Excel – this is a very powerful side toExcel that not many people utilise to its fullest potential. It ishighly recommended that you firstly attend Mastering Excel2003 (Intermediate) prior to attending this course.Finance for Non-Financial ManagersTuesday 9 th & Wednesday 10 th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €190A highly participative workshop providing practical andenduring knowledge of financial statements, how theyare used to assess business performance and how they areshaped by everyday business decisions and events.Business English incl. TOEIC exam (20 hours)Tuesday 9 th November, 5 – 7 pm. Tuesdays & Thursdays,5.00 – 7.00 pm for 5 weeksMember rate: €250This 20 hour course is aimed at intermediate or abovestudents wishing to improve both language and businessknowledge. This course includes TOEIC exam.Project Management ProfessionalTuesday 16 th , Wednesday 17 th & Thursday 18 th November,9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €370Project Management Professional is designed to establisha detailed understanding of Project Management terms,concepts and methodologies.Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie/training - Courses arebeing added to the schedule regularly. If your company’straining needs are not addressed by the courses above, weare happy to work with you to organise training tailoredto your company’s needs at significantly discounted rates.Contact a member of the team to discuss how we cansupport your company’s training needs.

TRAINING servicesEmma Walsh, Cork Chamber; Minister for Trade & Commerce, Billy Kelleher T.D.and Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber.BiznetCork Skillnet and Munster FinuasNetwork Autumn launchRecently Mr Billy Kelleher, TD, Minister for Trade andCommerce, launched the Biznetcork Skillnet and MunsterFinuas Network Autumn training schedules at a wellattendedevent in the Rochestown Park Hotel. The Ministerspoke of the importance of continuing to invest in trainingin order to “help firms enhance productivity by focusing onthe importance of continuous professional development,reskilling and training in the workplace.”Speaking at the event, Ms. Avril Kelly, Managing Directorof Citco Fund Services, who provide a full range of fundadministration services from sixteen strategic centresglobally, spoke of their considerable engagement with theMunster Finuas Network, and explained how a companybased in Cork and operating in such a specialised area canbenefit from being involved with a training network suchas the Munster Finuas Network.Mr. Alan Nuzum, CEO of Skillnets Ltd., complimented bothnetworks and Cork Chamber for their continuing effortsin what have become very competitive and challengingtimes. “Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Networkfunded and trained over 730 participants on over 70training courses during 2009, and the Autumn trainingschedule indicates that the networks will continue toprovide quality, cost-effective training for their membercompanies in the coming months”.Through Cork Chamber’s State-funded training networks,you can avail of significant discounts on training foryour team. Skillnets funding allows us to organise morecost-effective, locally-delivered, needs-specific training forcompanies across all industry sectors.Don’t delay - Contact the Training team in CorkChamber to discuss how we can help you continueto invest in training to help increase productivity,competitiveness and morale in your business.Please see p12 for a list of up-coming training courses. Forfull details, please visit www.corkchamber.ie/training orcontact a member of the Training team.Munster Finuas Network trainingscheduleThe dates for Munster Finuas Network courses are beingfinalised at present. Courses include:• Advanced Derivatives• US GAAP Compliant Financial Reporting• IFRS Compliant Financial Reporting• Regulatory Requirements for Irish Domiciled funds• Irish Stock Exchange Listing – ContinuingRequirements• Current Market Developments – Equity / FixedIncome Products / Commodities• Hedge Fund Industry Developments – Guide toSound Practices• Credit & Liquidity Risks and How they Impact the NAVIf you are interested in attending any of these courses,please contact Aisling Hynes, e: aisling@corkchamber.ie ort: (021) 4530148. Limited free places will also be availableon the above courses for those who are unemployed.FREE training places for JobSeekers onCork Chamber trainingBoth Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network havea limited number of FREE places available on all of theiropen training courses for those who are unemployed. Forsomeone who is looking for a new position, participationon our courses can provide the ideal opportunity toremain networked to the workplace while adding marketrelevantskills to their skillset.We would appreciate the assistance of Chamber membersto promote this initiative by mentioning it to friends,family and colleagues (past and present).Please visit www.corkchamber.ie/trainingunemployed orcontact any member of Training team for further details.Contacting the Training TeamFor further information on Cork Chamber’s BiznetcorkSkillnet and Munster Finuas Network, please visit ourwebsite www.corkchamber.ie or contact one of theTraining Team:Emma WalshTraining Services ManagerT: (021) 4530142E: emma@corkchamber.ieTara MullallyBiznetcork Skillnet AdministratorT: (021) 4530141E: tara@corkchamber.ieAisling HynesMunster Finuas Network AdministratorT: (021) 4530148E: aisling@corkchamber.ieCHAMBERlink13

NETWORKING eventsBill Walshe, CEO Doyle Collection (centre) guest speaker at the Business Breakfast in association with Irish Examiner with Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber;Ruairi O’Connor, General Manager The River Lee Hotel; Mairead Maher, Irish Examiner and Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber.Business Breakfast with Bill Walshe, CEOof Doyle CollectionBill Walshe addressed an audience of Cork Chambermembers on 23rd September in the River Lee Hotel.Bill joined The Doyle Collection (formerly Jurys DoyleHotel Group) as Chief Executive Officer in July 2007. In hisfirst 18 months, he steered the group through a massive€200million refurbishment programme, which culminatedin the rebranding to the Doyle Collection towards the endof last year.Bill joined the Group from the Dubai luxury hotel groupJumeirah where he was a senior member of the Board andheld the role of Chief Marketing and Business InnovationOfficer. Jumeirah Group has revenues in excess of €1bn andowns the seven star Burj-Al-Arab hotel, one of its flagshipproperties.Chamber members heard about the significant investmentthe Doyle Collection had made recently in upgrading theirhotels, both from a branding and IT perspective, as well asthe key role of the team in relation to customer satisfactionand the importance of training and development.Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2011Key dates for your diaryThe Cork Chamber Annual Dinner will take place on Friday 4th February 2011 in City HallCork. The Annual Dinner is a “must attend” event, giving you the opportunity to network withalmost 1000 local and national businesses and is the largest business event held in Cork.Tickets go on sale at10.00am on Friday 19th November 2010on www.corkchamber.ieCHAMBERlinkBook early to avoid disappointment as tickets for this event are very popular and sell out early.Mark the date in your diary and remember to book online.14

Business After Hours Event in associationwith O’Donovan’s Off LicencesCork Chamber held its October Business After HoursEvent in the Clarion Hotel, which was run in associationwith O’Donovan’s Off Licences and included a winefair, educating guests on wines from around the world.Chamber members had the opportunity of tasting winesfrom France, Spain, Italy and Australia as well as wines fromthe New World, including Chile, Argentina, New Zealandand South Africa, as well as a selection of champagnes andsparkling wines.Almost 100 people attended the event signifying astrong return for Chamber members into the networkingseason. Chamber CEO Conor Healy congratulated CorkIndependent on their 5th year anniversary and also recentChamber members Otterbox on the announcement oftheir expansion leading to new jobs in Cork. O’Donovan’skindly sponsored a crate of Thomond Reserve wine whichwas won by Paud O’Mahony of Wilson Architecture –congratulations! O’Donovans also offered discounts on allwines on show exclusively for Chamber members.Lucas Korepta, Gary O’Donovan and Joe Murphy from O’Donovan’s Off Licences.(Ger McCarthy Photography)Caroline McAdoo and Deirdre Roberts from RobertsCommunications.Peter De Monfort and Micheal Burke from Bloxham with Mary Daly,Mary Daly & Associates.Andrea Kennedy, Vivian O’Brien and Deirdre O’Callaghan from Shipping and TransportCork Ltd.Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber welcomes Terence O’Sullivan, Terence J.O’Sullivan Solicitors and new member Paul McGonigle, Supplies Team.Kate Slattery, Matt Clark and Rhona Cashman from Otterbox.CHAMBERlink15

PROMOTE your businessAvail of Advertising Opportunities in the2011 Diary & Membership DirectoryThe 2011 edition of the Cork Chamber Diary & MembershipDirectory will be published in November 2010 and we aredelighted to offer you the opportunity to advertise in thisedition.The Directory:• Contains a detailed guide to Chamber services• Acts as an excellent reference tool for members• Enables you to market your products and/or servicesdirectly your 1000 fellow members companies• Allows you to promote your business to keymanagement executives and top decisions makerswithin the Cork business community• Is a means to source products and servicesfrom fellow membersThe Directory is sent to all members, partner organisationsand given to visiting business delegations.For advertising rates further details on this opportunityplease contact:Paul ClemensonSales DirectorAshville Media GroupTel: (01) 432 2200Email: paul.clemenson@ashville.comCHAMBERlink16Vodafone launches innovative ControlUK tariff for SMEsDespite the recent turbulence in the economy, Irishbusinesses are continuing to maximise growthopportunities and develop new markets both at home andabroad. While there is still considerable focus on managingoperating costs, businesses are benefiting from increasedvalue offered by service providers to make the most of theopportunities that come their way.Given their close proximity to Ireland, the UK and NorthernIreland are very important markets for Irish businesses,across every sector. In 2009 alone, the value of Irishexports to those markets totalled €13,441.2 million. The9,954,850 passengers that travelled to the UK throughIreland’s three airports in 2009 is indicative of its popularityas a destination for business travellers.“The UK is the number one destination for our businesscustomers who use their mobile abroad, some 57% of SMEcustomers do so on a monthly basis”, said Anne O’Leary,business and enterprise director with Vodafone Ireland.“We consistently work with our customers to createpropositions that best meet their needs and we haveextended our popular Vodafone Control UK allows Irishcustomers to maximise business opportunities on bothsides of the water without having to worry about what itcosts”Vodafone Control UK is a new business price plan offeringcustomers unlimited calls to Irish mobiles and landlines,unlimited calls to the UK, and unlimited calls home andto UK numbers when travelling in the UK. The innovativeprice plan will allow executives focus on business withouthaving to worry about costs. With Vodafone Control UKcompanies pay just €30 per mobile per month, plus a fixedmonthly fee of €250 .“Irish customers who call the UK or Northern Irelandregularly or whose business takes them to either or bothlocations, will really benefit from the added value offeredby Control UK. However, SMEs who have employees thatfrequently travel to these locations for business purposesand also those customers located along the border withNorthern Ireland will also benefit from the additionalvalue.”Businesses that tend to make a number of internationalcalls, other than to the UK or Northern Ireland, on themobile can opt for an International Voice Add On thatallows unlimited calls to Europe, USA, Canada, Australiaand New Zealand. Business users who have a high demandfor text messages can also opt for an unlimited NationalText Add On. Each Add On costs €10 per user per month.For further information on Vodafone Control UK pleasevisit www.vodafone.ie/business

MARKETING corkSupplied by Cork Marketing Partnership & Cork Convention BureauCork Autumn FestivalsCork Autumn Festivals are worth checking out “CorkFestival Calendar” on www.cometocork.comCongratulations to the Cork Folk Festival on the success oftheir festival and the Céilí Mór last month.Still to come are:• Kinsale Gourmet Festival - October 8-10 th• Guinness Cork Jazz Festival – October 22-25 th• Corona Cork Film Festival – November 7 – 14 th• A Christmas Celebration on Grand Parade – Dates TBCCork Convention Bureau and Fáilte Ireland Super Fam Group at a dinner in CorkCity Gaol during their Cork tour.Cork gives a Business Class welcome toTop International Conference BuyersA group of top international conference buyers from theUS, Great Britain, Mainland Europe and South Africa werein Cork last month as part of a familiarisation trip of theSouth West region, prior to the official opening of theConvention Centre Dublin (CCD).Fiona Buckley, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Operations in theSouth West said: “These buyers represent up to €500million worth of potential business for Ireland over thenext three years. A range of tours and information eventswere planned by Fáilte Ireland, ensuring that the groupenjoyed the full Irish experience in the South West.”Christmas in Cork.ieCork Marketing Partnership has recently published the2010 www.christmasincork.ie website. All Cork Christmasevent organisers, promoting carol concerts, pantomimes,Christmas charity events, etc. are invited to submit detailsby email to: steve@corkmarketingpartnership.ieThe group enjoyed a tour of Cork City before experiencingVertigo in the County Hall, where they were given apresentation on Cork. Cork City Gaol was the unusualsetting for dinner, followed by an evening of fun withsome traditional Cork entertainment! Among the manyattractions of Cork, the group visited the coastal village ofCrosshaven, including a visit to Crosshaven House and theRoyal Cork Yacht Club, the world’s oldest yacht club, wherethey boarded a boat to Kinsale and surrounding area.The Christmas in Cork website is an important seasonalpromotional tool for Cork, driving strong interestnationally and internationally in Cork’s Christmas offer.Last year the Christmas in Cork website and onlinenewsletters where promoted by tour operators andtourism organisations in UK, France and US.Better Buildings 2010The 2010 Cork Better Building Awards will be announcedby the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Michael O’Connell onTuesday, November 2 nd , 7.30am, venue to be confirmed.For information Cork Marketing Partnership on t: (021)4317895.‘International Student HairdressingChampionships’ coming to CorkSt. John’s college in Cork has successfully secured theinternational student hairdressing championships forCork in 2011. Three committee members from Iceland,Norway and Sweden visited Cork on the 16 th Septemberto view facilities, hotels and venues for the event in April.Cork Convention Bureau (CCB),working closely with AnitaKirby head of hairdressing at the college, put together anitinerary for the site inspection to ensure the internationalcommittee members got to see all that Cork has to offer.It is expected that up to 200 international students willattend the event in 2011.Cork Marketing Partnership, established in 2007, is an initiative that brings together Cork City Council, Cork County Council, Cork Chamber, Irish Hotel Federation - Cork,Cork Business Association, Port of Cork, Cork Airport Authority and Fáilte ireland South West Region to undertake marketing initiatives, develop and promote business tourismwith the establishment of the Cork Convention Bureau and assist in promoting economic development in the Cork region. For more information contact T: (021) 4317895CHAMBERlink17

ON the moveLeading Cork Marketing and PR agencyannounces new appointmentsH+A Marketing + PR in Cork is growing its PR team withthe announcement of the appointments of Jill Collins asAccount Director for Consumer and Corporate PR andLorraine Kelleher as Account Executive, at the Cork-basedmarketing and PR agency.Kevin Burke, Head Chef, Castlemartyr ResortJill Collins, Account Director for Consumer and Corporate PR H+A Marketing + PRJill comes to H+A from Dublin PR company O’HerlihyCommunications, where she was Director of Corporateand Public Affairs, working across a range of clientsin the financial services, pharmaceutical, hospitality,construction, transport and social affairs sectors. Herclients included ITMAC, the Irish Tobacco Manufacturers’Advisory Committee, 3 Mobile, Ireland’s first electric car,Greenaer’s REVAi, and the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel Group.Jill has a strong background in national and internationalmedia relations, public relations practice and politicalexperience at the highest national level. Formerly, aspolitical adviser to the Government Chief Whip in theDepartment of An Taoiseach and she was also in LeinsterHouse for three years prior to that, working with TDsand MEPs. Jill holds a HDip in Business Studies from theMichael Smurfit Business School and an Honours BA inEnglish and History from University College Dublin.New Head Chef at Castlemartyr ResortCastlemartyr Resort in East Cork is delighted to announcethe appointment of Kevin Burke to the role of Head Chef.Originally hailing from Bandon in Cork, Kevin returnedto Cork in 2009 from London where he spent four yearsworking for Michelin-starred restaurant, Foliage, in TheMandarin Oriental. He was promoted to the role of HeadChef at Castlemartyr from the position of Senior SousChef, which he’s held at the hotel since February 2009.Prior to joining Castlemartyr, Kevin held a number of keypositions in award-winning kitchens in London includingthe celebrated French restaurant, 1 Lombard Streetand the Michelin-star restaurant, Foliage at the MandarinOriental. Kevin’s career began in Ireland where he workedin the kitchens of The Kingsley Hotel in Cork City andDromoland Castle Hotel & Country Estate.Veronica Murphy, Partner, The Discovery PartnershipCHAMBERlink18Lorraine Kelleher, Account Executive H+A Marketing + PRH+A has also recently welcomed new Account ExecutiveLorraine Kelleher on board. Originally from Cork, Lorraineholds an Honours BA in Marketing from WaterfordInstitute of Technology and a Bachelor of Business inTourism from Tralee Institute of Technology. Lorraine isactively furthering her qualifications by completing a parttimeHigher Diploma in Arts in Public Relations at CorkInstitute of Technology.Veronica joins The Discovery PartnershipVeronica Murphy has recently joined The DiscoveryPartnership, a network of Professional ManagementConsultants and Business Advisers as a Partner. She isa Commerce Graduate from University College Corkand subsequently completed an MBA in StrategicManagement and Strategic HRM. Veronica was thePrincipal of Effective Solutions, a company that providedOrganisational consultancy, training and developmentas well as Mediation Services to private clients and semistate organisations. She has worked in the Medical Device,Pharmaceutical, Technology, Retail and Banking sectorsand has also held senior management level positions inOperations, Human Resources, International Supply Chain& Business Information Systems.

MEMBERS newsTo submit Members News send to Imelda (imelda@corkchamber.ie)For more Members News go to www.corkchamber.ieDeirdre O’Shaughnessy, Cork Independent with Raymond Kelleher and LiamSheehan.Cork Independent celebrates 5 th birthdayThe Cork Independent, Cork’s leading free weeklynewspaper, celebrated its fifth birthday in style recentlywith a coffee morning in aid of Marymount Hospice at theRiver Lee Hotel. The coffee morning was well attendedby clients and readers of the Cork Independent, as wellas local dignitaries. According to the newspaper’s editor,Deirdre O’Shaughnessy, “The newspaper has been goingfrom strength to strength in recent times, and has justrecorded a boost in circulation to 56386, making it thehighest circulating weekly free newspaper in Cork andIreland. We felt it was fitting to celebrate our birthday in away that gives something back to the paper’s loyal clientsand readers, and Marymount is one of Cork’s worthiestcauses. “Here’s to the next five!”JobFit to launch in CorkNational Learning Network, in partnership with TBGLearning, is pleased to announce the roll out of theJobFit training programme in Cork. JobFit, a newinitiative to help people who are unemployed to retrain,upskill and improve their chances of getting a job hasjust commenced with the opening of a new centre inBlackpool Retail Park. JobFit provides participants withfree training, work placements with local employers, jobsearch support and access to a variety of job vacanciesfrom employers. It is available to people who have beenunemployed and in receipt of benefits for three monthsor more and who have a Junior Cert level of education orbelow. The official launch of JobFit will take place in theTBG Centre in the Atrium Business Centre, Blackpool, onTuesday 19 October, 5 pm-7pm. For more informationCall Cork JobFit on 1800 303 356 or email cork@jobfit.ie orsimply log onto www.jobfit.ieBarry Group opens new €1.5m centraldistribution baseBarry Group has opened a new €1.5 million extension toits state-of-the-art Central Distribution Base in Mallow. Thenew 145,000 sq ft central distribution will help acceleratethe Barry Group’s ambitious three year growth planswhich includes opening another eight new Buy Lo storesbefore the end of 2010, bringing the total number of BuyLo stores to ten. The company also plans to double thenumber of Carry Out specialist off licence stores by 2012.The Cork team made a special appearance with the Sam Maguire Cup to helplaunch the Marymount Hospice Ball at a reception in Heineken Ireland.Marymount Hospice BallDetails of the forthcoming Marymount Hospice Ball wereannounced recently. Similar to last year, the five star GalaFundraising Dinner is being held at the Radisson BluHotel, Ditchley House, Little Island, which has proven tobe a wonderful venue for the ball, with over 400 patronsattending previous events. This year’s ball will take placeon Friday 3rd December 2010 and is co-sponsored byHeineken Ireland, BAM Contractors and Keanes Jewellers.This is the fourth year of the Marymount Hospice Ball andfunds in excess of €250,000 have been raised. To supportthis very worthy cause and to enjoy a night of great stylewith lots of fun, book your tickets from any member of theorganising committee now. Tables of ten cost €1,500 pertable. Individual tickets may be bought at €150 each. moreinfo Marion Bradley t: (021) 4514302Children attending Primary School in Somalia.Trocaire launch Global Gift listWhy not send a child to school in Somalia for a year for€80? The Gift of an Education is one of nine life-changinggifts for you to choose from our Global Gift list thisChristmas. Each gift has been carefully selected to make along lasting difference to the world’s poorest families. Allgifts are practical, ethical and locally sourced, helping tofuel the development of entire communities. Corporategifts are also available. Call to Trócaire’s Office on 9, CookStreet Cork to purchase gifts or t: (021) 4275622 or logonto www.trocaire.org/globalgiftCHAMBERlink19

MEMBERS newsTo submit Members News send to Imelda (imelda@corkchamber.ie)For more Members News go to www.corkchamber.ieSupport Action on Disability!Enable Ireland has launched their 2010 Christmas Cardcollection. This year the collection features a selection oftraditional Christmas images, contemporary designs andhistorical Cork scenes. Enable Ireland provides a range offree services for adults and children with disabilities andtheir families. All proceeds from the sale of these cardswhich are produced locally will go directly to EnableIreland Cork. To order cards or request samples contactAnn or Edel T: (021) 429 4434Kerli Estnurm, Kate O’Donovan and Sarah Lamb at the launch of the new seasonat The Cornstore.New season launch at The CornstoreThe Cornstore hosted a reception to announce details ofits new Autumn Menu and upcoming events. This season’sAutumn menu includes an fantastic selection of monkfishand sea bass, wild venison and pork belly. Forthcomingevents include a ‘Gourmet Evening’ with leading winewriter Mary Dowey and Gilbeys of Ireland on Thursday14th October. The evening will celebrate the best of Frenchfood and wine with a special 6 course tasting menu,(€59 to include accompanying wines). The Cornstore’sThanksgiving Dinner, will take place on Thursday 18thNovember with a special ‘one-night-only’ menu, (€35, exwine). Bookings for events and general enquiries t: (021)4274777 or e: reservations@cornstorecork.com.Otterbox plans EMEA HQ in CorkOtterBox, an innovator of protective solutions for leadingglobal handheld manufacturers, wireless carriers anddistributors, is establishing its Europe, Middle Eastand Africa (EMEA) HQ in Cork, creating up to 50 jobsover 2 years. The activities to be carried out from theCork site will include in-house sales, customer service,accounting, engineering, public relations, marketing,web design, graphics, supply chain, human resources andwarehousing. Speaking about the announcement MattClark, Managing Director OtterBox EMEA, said “This hasbeen a very exciting year for OtterBox with the opening ofthe EMEA office here in Cork and also OtterBox’s inclusionon the INC 500 list of fastest growing companies in theUnited States. As the company expands, we are looking tofirmly establish our presence in the EMEA market and Corkis the perfect location for that with its access to Europe,the Middle East and Africa as well as our headquarters inColorado.”Breffni Ingerton and Cara Fuller from INEC Killarney receiving the award fromAndy Carroll, Monte Carlo Entertainment (Award sponsor)CHAMBERlink20INEC wins Aviva Events Industry AwardThe INEC, Killarney was awarded the highly coveted BestIn-House Event Team at the Aviva Events Industry Awardsheld recently for its handling of the Google EMEA SalesConference. The events team, under the direction ofBreffni Ingerton, at the INEC, Killarney wowed their targetaudience as in excess of 2,500 delegates attended theGoogle Conference which took place across three days.Festive Print Buying Guide out now!Designing.ie@Printing.com has launched a ChristmasPrint Buying Guide 2010. Just like them, it’s jam packedwith great print ideas. Inside you’ll find a selection of highquality and cost effective ways to give your business theedge this festive period. From Promo Diaries and festivemenus to party posters and calendars. For your free guideand samples contact E: corkcentral@printing.com and getyour festive promotions all wrapped up.Richard Coughlan, Quality Manager and Gerard O’Leary, Managing DirectorWinthrop Engineering with Sam Glenn, NQA UK & Ireland, (centre).Quality Standard for WinthropWinthrop Engineering was recently awarded accreditationto ISO:9001:2008 by National Quality Assurance – (NQA) fortheir Quality Management System. Winthrop Engineeringis one of Ireland’s leading Mechanical and ElectricalContracting companies. Established in 1995, Winthrop hasoffices in Dublin, Cork, Waterford and recently opened anoffice in London where they have commenced a numberof new contracts. “This accreditation is a significantmilestone in our ongoing development,’’ says Ger O’Leary,Managing Director of Winthrop Engineering, “It willprovide a management system to continually improveour performance and productivity and a template toachieve Business Excellence. This is an important step inconsolidating our position and underpinning our plans forfuture growth and success.’’

ec.europa.eu/enterprise-europe-networkGofurther,fasterEA-32-09-208-EN-PEnterprise Europe NetworkThe routeto new marketsEuropean CommissionEnterprise and Industry

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