InBUSINESS Yearbook 2015 by Ashville Media Group

InBUSINESS CONNECTING IRISH BUSINESS

THE

REAL DEAL

THE YEAR AHEAD FOR THE IRISH COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE MARKET

2015 YEARBOOK

BRINGING BRIGHTER POSSIBILITIES A look at the global work of

ESB International

QUESTION

Trust

Head of AIB Private Banking PATRICK FARRELL on building meaningful..... client relationships

BUILDING

ON RECOVERY

CHAMBERS IRELAND CEO ON MAKING GREAT STRIDES IN

2015 a2.70

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Editor: Joseph O’Connor Managing Editor: Mary Connaughton Editorial Assistant: Amy Woods Commercial Editor: Conor Forrest

WE WANT TO BE KNOWN FOR GIVING PEOPLE THE BEST BANKING EXPERIENCE ON THE ISLAND OF IRELAND. IT’S AS SIMPLE AS THAT.”

Question A

TRUST of

Art Director: Alan McArthur

PATRICK FARRELL, HEAD OF PRIVATE BANKING AT AIB, IS LEADING AN EXPERIENCED TEAM THAT PROVIDES A HIGHLY PERSONALISED BANKING AND ADVISORY SERVICE TO ITS CUSTOMERS. InBUSINESS SPOKE WITH HIM ABOUT PLANS TO EXPAND THE DIVISION AND WHY TRUST IS KEY IN BUILDING MEANINGFUL AND LASTING CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS.

Front Cover Photography: Colm McDermott

Sales Director: Paul Clemenson Managing Director: Diarmaid Lennon

Published by: Ashville Media Group, Old Stone Building, Blackhall Green, Dublin 7 Tel: +353 1 432 2200 Email: info@ashville.com Web: www.ashville.com On behalf of: Chambers Ireland, 3rd Floor, Newmount House, 22 - 24 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2 Tel: +353 1 400 4300 Email: info@chambers.ie Web: www.chambers.ie All articles © Ashville Media Group 2015. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Opinion and comments expressed herein are not necessarily those of Ashville Media or Chambers Ireland. ISSN 20093934

44 48

Colm McDermott

Production Manager: Mary Connaughton Production Executive: Nicole Ennis

[CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015] 06 Foreword 11 About Chambers Ireland 12 Chamber Membership 14 Policy Update 17 Chamber HR 97 Directory

COVER STORY

atrick Farrell has been in the business of private banking for five years now. Establishing a private banking division at the height of the downturn may not have seemed like a viable move, but that’s exactly what Farrell did at his former employer back in 2010. Such was his success that AIB approached him in 2013 to bring his expertise to their wealth solutions division. Twenty months on and AIB Private Banking is in a very healthy position. They grew their customer base by 70 per cent last year with 27 per cent of new customers coming from outside the bank. This year they plan to expand their current team of 53 to 66 and expect to further increase their customer base by around 30 per cent. “It probably wasn’t the ideal time to start a private bank considering everyone had lost a lot of money,” says Farrell reflecting on his bold move. “But we looked at it differently. What the other private banks were doing at that time was very investment product-focused and that hadn’t always worked out well for banks or clients. So I looked at other bank models abroad, ones which were known as traditional private banks. They believed in getting day to day banking right, getting to know you and your family. So I implemented that model and went back to the basics.” It was this approach which attracted the attention of AIB who wanted Farrell to evolve the concept even further. 45

A Question of Trust

Patrick Farrell, Head of Private Banking at AIB speaks to InBUSINESS about why trust is key in building meaningful and lasting client relationships.

[CHAMBERS NEWS] 18 CSR in SMEs 20 Mediation: Good for Business 23 Engaging with LEOs 24 The Next Chapter on Trade for SMEs 26 Down to Business in Brussels 28 Chamber on a Global Stage 33 The Alternative Lender 35 Broadband Briefs 36 Giving Some Local Love 40 The Year in Pictures 59 CSR Awards 2014 65 Local Government Awards 2014

Marie Hunt, Head of Research at CBRE Ireland, forecasts a strong performing year ahead for the Irish commercial real estate market.

Global Leader in Climate Change

BAM has delivered many of the country’s flagship building and infrastructural projects and has been doing it in a socially and environmentally responsible way.

Bringing Brighter Possibilities to The World

The Customer Focused Insurer

Brazil: The Time Is Now

The Real Deal

Four decades on from its inception, ESB International continues to support utility companies and governments around the world.

Brazil offers a vast range of exciting opportunities to potential investors and now is the perfect time to explore the market.

Risk management remains a key focus for Zurich and its customers in 2015.

GO TO CHAMBERS.IE FOR THE ONLINE EDITION

THE

REAL

2015 YEARBOOK

BRINGING BRIGHTER POSSIBILITIES

QUESTION THE

THE

REAL

2015 YEARBOOK

BRINGING BRIGHTER POSSIBILITIES

QUESTION

Trust

BUILDING

ON RECOVERY

2015

BUILDING ON

2015

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 CHAMBER LOCATIONS

North Kildare

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 FOREWORD

If Ireland can capitalise on its economic recovery we can expect great strides to be made in 2015, writes Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland.

Building on

RECO ERY 014 has been a good year for Ireland and for business in Ireland. While it may not go down as the most memorable year on record, it certainly exceeded expectations. Our recovery continued to move along steadily, unemployment decreased and new company start-ups were at a seven year high. And 2015 seems to have started very well too. The ECB approach on quantitative easing followed by the decrease in value of the euro in January, together with the significant recent oil price reduction are also very positive for a whole range of businesses. There have been a number of other positive indicators that we are on the right track and Chambers Ireland will do everything in our power to support businesses to ensure we continue in this vein. However, this does not mean that now is the time to get carried away. If we are to build on our recovery we need to remain competitive. A recent flurry of media coverage and union statements about pay increases

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across the board seem premature. Our priority as a nation is surely to continue to get back to full employment and employers with some extra financial capacity should be encouraged to invest discretely in their business and hire more staff rather than focus on pay increases all round. We should bear in mind that inflation has been completely benign since the start of the recession. We also have to accept that many of the changes required over the last 6 years in wage/salary levels and productivity were necessary structural reforms, not temporary arrangements to be reversed at the first signs of economic growth. Of all the things we should have learnt over the last few years, the need for accountability and responsibility by all actors on the economic stage is key. These lessons cannot be forgotten – in the words of philosopher George Santayana: “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” The OECD has named Ireland as having the most progressive tax system in the EU and amongst the most progressive in the

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 FOREWORD

world. This is a remarkable achievement and one which is rarely appreciated or recognised by interest groups for whom the message doesn’t suit. However, there are still major issues with our tax system. We must now work to eliminate the remaining inequities, not least making work pay over welfare but also rewarding entrepreneurial behaviour rather than loading inequitable counterproductive taxes onto our risk-takers and job creators. We must also recognise that our rates are now high, particularly the points of entry to higher rates of tax. Appropriate moves towards broadening our tax base by introducing more “user pays”, rather than income related taxes, should in due course lead to a reduction in the income tax burden. This will also assist our competitiveness. Reducing the tax burden on all can be done without impacting the progressiveness of the system. Capital taxes also need a serious review to ensure they encourage rather than deter entrepreneurship. Another problem that remains is the rapidly increasing cost of housing in some

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“OUR

PRIORITY AS A NATION IS SURELY TO CONTINUE TO

GET BACK TO FULL EMPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYERS WITH SOME EXTRA FINANCIAL CAPACITY SHOULD BE

ENCOURAGED

TO INVEST DISCRETELY IN THEIR BUSINESS”

parts of the country. There are growing fears that rising house prices will lead to a new property bubble. The Central Bank has introduced a series of measures to tackle this, but the impact of these measures on the market needs to be monitored closely. House prices are rising in many areas because demand is currently greater than supply. This can only be rectified through Government initiatives to recast the regulatory environment and to facilitate appropriate levels of new development. There needs to be a clear focus on creating affordable housing rather than calling for pay rises in line with rising house prices. We have worked closely with the Government on this issue and will continue to do so in 2015. While it will be a long time before we revert to spending levels seen at the height of the boom, the Government must make some investment in our future by discrete investment in infrastructure. Capital expenditure has been an easy target during the recession but is now well below normal levels and will result in severe bottlenecks

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 FOREWORD

if we do not invest more. Having the infrastructure in place to support increased economic output and activities is critical to our future. Furthermore, an increase in capital expenditure will support employment in a number of sectors. At local level, a positive change which will lead to increased efficiencies was the enactment of the Local Government Reform Bill during the 2014 local elections. Town councils have been subsumed into their city and county councils while Limerick and Tipperary Councils are both now fully merged. We will continue to support the mergers of further councils, particularly of Cork City and County which is currently under review. We will also continue to work very closely with the newly established Local Enterprise Offices to ensure they deliver a compatible range of services with our Chambers around the country. At European level, quantitative easing has the potential to support those countries coming out of recession, promote growth and build a stronger Eurozone. It will also have benefits for Ireland in raising inflation modestly towards the ECB target of close to 2 per cent which will in turn assist in improving our critical debt/GDP ratio. If quantitative easing helps to revive the eurozone, it will also have knock on benefits for Irish exporters. The almost inevitable likelihood of a more competitive euro exchange rate will help those looking to export to non-euro markets such as the UK and the US. And our tourism market should also receive a boost from those same markets. While all of this is good news for Irish business, our position can only be strengthened by the advancement of the EU/ US Trade Agreement negotiations which, if delivered, is expected to add up to â&#x201A;Ź187 billion to the European economy and at least 1 per cent growth in GDP in Ireland. This is just a trade deal, not a new EU Treaty and we need to get it done with minimum fuss. You can read more about the importance of this later on in the yearbook. On a global level, Chambers Ireland has joined our colleagues in the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to take part in the B20 engagements under the chairmanship of Turkey this year. The B20 is the business arm of the G20, providing a channel for

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Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

businesses worldwide to support the G20 agenda. Chambers Ireland remains at the forefront of promoting the best for business at local, national and international level. Attending the launch in Istanbul in December, what struck me most was that the range of global issues being discussed such as competitiveness, debt, and free trade are identical to our own issues. The Irish situation is not unique and it is important to look at and work with our global counterparts for the best options to move on from these problems. In fact our flexibility and the nature of our small, open economy is what is helping to facilitate our current progress. By this time next year, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inevitable that a general election will be a hot topic, although whether it will already have taken place or will be looming on the horizon is impossible to predict. Chambers Ireland will be launching our own manifesto ensuring that what is best for business does not get lost among the issues. It is important that the difficult steps we have made towards our recovery are built upon rather than wasted in the horse trading and pork barrel politics that can manifest themselves in the run up to a general election. It is vitally important that Budget 2016, to be delivered in October 2015, reflects economic realities, not election politics. Ultimately, what we need from Government is stability. Government needs to capitalise on our recovery and have the authority and mandate to keep driving forward the reform agenda. I confidently expect this foreword next year to be dedicated to the great strides that Ireland has made in 2015.

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 SPONSORS

SPONSORS Chambers Ireland wishes to thank its sponsors for their continued support.

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Action Focused Mentoring

Workshops

Business Impact

Regional Delivery

Drive Efficiency Strategic Networking High Performance

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 ABOUT CHAMBERS IRELAND

DRIVING

Creating the best possible environment for innovation and encouraging smarter business practices is the cornerstone of Chambers Ireland’s activities.

DEVELOPMENT CEO FORUM PA FORUM POLICY COUNCILS

CHAMBERS IRELAND BOARD

REGIONAL CHAMBERS

NATIONAL ADVISORY BOARD CORPORATE PARTNERS CORPORATE PATRONS

LOCAL AFFILIATED CHAMBERS AS THE LARGEST BUSINESS NETWORK in Ireland, Chambers Ireland works to create the best environment for members locally, regionally and nationally. Chambers Ireland acts as one voice for business in Ireland while also promoting the social and economic development of local communities. One of the key functions of Chambers Ireland is to represent the views of Irish business to Government. This is achieved through effective research and lobbying along with representation on a range of policy-making boards and councils that inform and influence Government. At its core, Chambers Ireland’s mission is to represent the interests of member companies, promote business competitiveness in Ireland and enable the development of the Chamber movement in Ireland. As illustrated by the diagram below, Chambers Ireland is a

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“CHAMBERS IRELAND ACTS

AS ONE VOICE FOR BUSINESS IN IRELAND WHILE ALSO

PROMOTING THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES”

bottom up organisation with a wide regional spread across the country. It is made up of local affiliated Chambers and regional Chambers, governed by a board of directors. It is complemented by a number of elements including; policy councils, a public affairs forum, a chief executives forum, the national advisory board and corporate partners and patrons. Chambers Ireland is Ireland’s representative in the global Chamber Network and is a member of Eurochambres, the association of European Chambers, and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the largest business representative organisation in the world. It acts as the Irish national committee of the ICC which allows it to communicate its views on international trade on behalf of its members to the international organisations that legislate on international trade.

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 MEMBERSHIP

MAKING MEMBERSHIP

WORK THE CHAMBER NETWORK IS IRELAND’S largest business representative organisation. With 49 accredited Chambers around Ireland, businesses in the Chamber network are widely representative across the country. The Chamber Network promotes the economic and social development of communities in order to make them a better place to work, live and do business. Chambers are aware of the challenges that face businesses in cities, towns and rural areas of Ireland. It is the Chamber Network’s first priority to try and address those issues on a local and national level. The strength of the local economy is crucial to the success of any business. Local economic development is one of the Chamber Network’s core policy priorities. Chambers work to encourage and promote local economic development for their communities which has significant results for their members. NETWORKING By joining a local Chamber, members are invited to many networking events. This opens up opportunities for members to do business with other companies in their Chamber’s network. It has been recorded that 60 per cent of members do business at Chamber events.

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“LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IS ONE OF THE CHAMBER NETWORK’S CORE POLICY PRIORITIES. CHAMBERS WORK TO

ENCOURAGE AND PROMOTE LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR THEIR COMMUNITIES

WHICH HAS SIGNIFICANT RESULTS FOR THEIR MEMBERS.”

With local economic development at the core of the Chamber Network’s mission, membership for any business can have a real effect on its bottom line. InBUSINESS looks at how you, as a member, can reap the benefits.

SUPPORT Chambers provide their members with support in a variety of areas. This includes, but is not limited to, business development, dealing with Local Authorities on business’s behalf and offering knowledge and skills to members on issues that might be affecting their business. Chambers also act as a business advisor to businesses in their network whether they are early stages start-ups or established enterprises. REPRESENTATION AND LOBBYING Chambers around Ireland represent their members at meetings with Local Authorities and politicians and during events throughout the year. Chambers lobby their Local Authorities on many issues that need to be addressed for their members. Chamber members are also represented on a national level by being a member of the Chamber Network. Chambers Ireland lobbies the Government on behalf of Chambers on national issues that affect businesses across Ireland. Chambers Ireland is an active member of Eurochambres and the International Chamber of Commerce. Through these organisations, the Chamber Network is also represented on a global level. EVENTS By joining a local Chamber, members are

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 MEMBERSHIP

Chambers Ireland’s National Advisory Board meet with then Minister of Transport Leo Varadkar

Ian Kehoe, Business Editor, Sunday Business Post; Cliff Taylor, Then Editor, Sunday Business Post; Helen Downes, Chief Executive, Shannon Chamber and Pat Leahy, Deputy Editor, Sunday Business Post

invited to the many events that their local Chambers organise throughout the year. Chambers are fully committed to planning successful events whether they are workshops, informative seminars or award ceremonies. PROMOTION AND REFERRALS Chamber members have the benefit of the Chamber President, CEO, board and staff promoting their business. At networking events Chamber personnel always keep their members in mind when they are speaking to other business owners whether they are national or international companies. Chambers also become an information centre to businesses that may or may not be members. This means that businesses tend to ring local Chambers and ask for advice on where to go for a specific product or service. Chambers will always recommend Chamber members to businesses that fit the requirements. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Chambers offer their members a number of different products and services. Exclusive services that Chambers provide to their members include; Chamber HR, discounted business services from member to member and access to their membership directory. Some Chambers offer training and courses and translation services to their members.

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“CHAMBERS

LOBBY THEIR LOCAL AUTHORITIES

ON MANY ISSUES THAT NEED TO BE ADDRESSED FOR THEIR MEMBERS. CHAMBER MEMBERS ARE ALSO REPRESENTED

ON A NATIONAL LEVEL BY BEING A MEMBER OF THE CHAMBER NETWORK.”

Minister for Small Business Ged Nash meets with Chamber executives from around the country at the CEO Forum in November 2014

OTHER REASONS TO JOIN YOUR LOCAL CHAMBER F IND NEW SALES TARGETS

Chambers believe that people do business with people that they know. By joining your local Chamber you are making new business connections with contacts you can trust.

N ATIONAL CHAMBER MOVEMENT

Chambers lobbying can be local, regional, national or international as appropriate.

S OCIAL NETWORKING

Chamber members can participate in members only groups for updates.

WEBSITE

Chamber members can use their Chamber’s website to announce special offers or other business announcements.

A TRUSTED THIRD PARTY

Chambers are a facilitator of business.

R EPRESENT YOUR BUSINESS INTERESTS

Chambers promote the competitiveness of business with Government.

P ERIODIC BULLETINS

Chambers keep their members up-to-date on what they are doing.

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 POLICY

POLICY

PRIORITIES THE YEAR 2014 MARKED A MILESTONE in Ireland’s economic recovery. Businesses and households alike experienced the benefits of job creation and economic growth following five years of retrenchment and can now look more positively towards the future. At Chambers Ireland we believe that 2015 will be a critical year for cementing this improving economic performance. Our policy priorities for the coming year will therefore focus on just that: ongoing economic growth, accelerating job creation, and ensuring Irish SMEs and entrepreneurs can also benefit from the recovery. In economic terms, the previous year has exceeded all reasonable expectations: unemployment figures have fallen to a five year low, Irish GDP growth rates are now the highest in the EU, and year-end Exchequer returns were well ahead of target. At Chambers Ireland we believe that these positive trends can continue, but that businesses must be supported in their efforts to grow and create jobs. While we have witnessed remarkable progress, the priority for 2015 must be to

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“AT CHAMBERS IRELAND WE

BELIEVE THAT THESE POSITIVE TRENDS CAN CONTINUE, BUT THAT

BUSINESSES MUST BE SUPPORTED IN THEIR EFFORTS TO GROW AND CREATE JOBS.”

Chambers Ireland has set out a policy programme for 2015 targeting the key issues impacting the Irish business community and Ireland’s economic development. Mark O’Mahoney, Director of Policy and Communications, outlines the Chamber Network’s policy priorities. maintain focus on what remains to be done to ensure this recovery is sustainable. The economic success of 2014 did not happen in a vacuum. On the contrary, it was years of difficult work by entrepreneurs and businesses that culminated in the highest level of job creation since 2008. Nevertheless, there are still steps that need to be taken for the economy to continue to grow and for unemployment levels to be further reduced. Consequently, Chambers Ireland has set out a policy programme for 2015 targeting what we believe to be the key issues impacting the Irish business community and Ireland’s economic development. First and foremost, we must ensure that the economic recovery is felt in communities throughout Ireland. Improved economic indicators matter little to those who are without work or business owners who are struggling to keep their company afloat. We believe that the best way to create opportunities for people is to encourage and support the growth of our indigenous SMEs. Not only do indigenous industries create jobs throughout the country, they also play a

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 POLICY

major role in protecting Ireland’s long-term economic sustainability by broadening the portfolio of employers in the State. By doing so, Ireland will be better protected against future economic downturns and external economic shocks outside our control. Supporting our home-grown industries will thus be at the forefront of Chambers Ireland’s 2015 work programme. We also believe that the current tax structures do not support entrepreneurship. We welcome the Government’s commitment to support entrepreneurship but this must be reflected by an appropriately structured tax code. By putting in place the right tax incentives, we believe that we can create an environment in which many more indigenous entrepreneurs will emerge, providing many more jobs and ultimately generating greater tax revenues. Not enough has been done to support SMEs and entrepreneurs. Capital Gains taxes – particularly for active investors in business – are too high, which creates a disincentive to invest. In addition, the higher rates of USC payable by owner-directors seem punitive given the lack of a social welfare safety net available to them if their business windsup. At Chambers Ireland we will continue to advocate that the taxation regime is reformed to reward those willing to take the risk of establishing a company and creating jobs. A significant concern for SMEs at the moment is the cost of labour. A high cost of labour provides a challenge for Irish businesses as they make investment decisions for 2015. Can they afford to take on more employees if there is the potential for increased wage demands in 2015? Government has announced that it will review the minimum wage in 2015. A flexible labour force and manageable labour costs are not only good for business; they also lead to long-term job security for many workers. An increase in the minimum wage could prove to be counterproductive and ultimately result in reduced employment growth. Ireland is a small open economy and Irish businesses must remain competitive relative to our international competitors. We cannot lose sight of this fact and in 2015 Chambers Ireland will be a voice for business in this important debate. We believe that Government focus should instead be

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Mark O’Mahoney, Director of Policy and Communications, Chambers Ireland

“2015 WILL BE AN IMPORTANT YEAR FOR IRISH BUSINESS, AND CHAMBERS IRELAND AND THE CHAMBER NETWORK

WILL WORK TO ACHIEVE THE BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOMES FOR OUR MEMBERS AND THE IRISH ECONOMY.”

on reducing some of the high living costs faced by workers, particularly childcare costs. 2015 will be also be an important year for Local Government and local economic development. The business community is a major contributor to the funding of local authorities, and Chambers Ireland aims to ensure that Local Government is effective, efficient and provides value for money. The essential services and infrastructure for businesses to grow and create jobs must be provided to the highest standards, and efforts must be made to revitalise town and city centres that have suffered from underoccupancy. Local authorities are becoming an increasingly important player in local economic development, and Chambers Ireland aims to keep Chambers and their members at the heart of this process. If Ireland is to maintain its positive economic trajectory, investment in the infrastructure necessary for sustainable development must take place now. At a time of historically low interest rates and with financing available through the European Investment Fund, Chambers Ireland will encourage Government to seize this opportunity to make the required investments. Not only will an upgrade of our key infrastructure benefit businesses today; it will also assist in promoting regional economic development and attract further inward investments. In the coming year we will strive to ensure that Government maintains focus on developing our economic infrastructure in order for Ireland to remain a highly attractive place to live and work in years to come. 2015 will be an important year for Irish business, and Chambers Ireland and the Chamber Network will work to achieve the best possible outcomes for our members and the Irish economy.

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Intel Ireland is looking to the future Ireland is home to Intelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most technologically advanced manufacturing location in Europe where we produce latest generation silicon microprocessors which power the systems that make the world tick. intel.ie

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CHAMBERS IRELAND 2015 HR

GETTING THE

MOST FROM

YOUR EMPLOYEES in 2015

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs) are a measurable way of assessing an employee’s performance. Setting KPIs allows for employers to tangibly set and measure targets for staff, aiding employers in forecasting and maximising the potential of their workforce. As such, it is always advisable for an employer to revisit the matter of KPIs early in the New Year. Before introducing the topic of KPIs to staff you should ensure that you have decided upon a set of targets which are achievable, measurable and realistic. Trying to introduce targets which are unachievable and unmeasureable is likely to produce the opposite result to what you are aiming for; it could result in employees not agreeing to work under them as they know they cannot be achieved. You should talk to your employees and tell them what you are planning to introduce. You can do this in writing, by letter or email, as well as verbally and personally talking to them about your plans. You should consult with staff and let them discuss the introduction of KPIs with you. If you let the employees know the reasons for introducing these then they could come up with other suitable suggestions or methods that you haven’t considered before. If alternatives are put forward by the employees then you should take these into consideration

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Using KPIs to assess an employee’s performance allows for employers to set and measure realistic targets for staff.

“SETTING KPIS

ALLOWS FOR EMPLOYERS TO TANGIBLY SET AND MEASURE TARGETS FOR STAFF,

AIDING EMPLOYERS IN FORECASTING AND MAXIMISING

THE POTENTIAL OF THEIR WORKFORCE.”

during the introduction process. You should make your employees aware that, even though you are introducing set KPIs, they will be reviewed and updated constantly. Introducing a performance management system such as this could be deemed a changing of the terms and conditions of existing staff and, as such, should you unilaterally enforce this without their consent the staff could resist and it could give rise to potential litigation. However, there would not be the same concern with regards introducing this with new hires as there would be no changes to their terms of employment. Putting targets in to practice may apply at certain points of the year but may become invalid or ineffective after a set time, for example, if you implement sales target KPIs then these might be affected during slow trade periods. When introducing KPIs, you should put thought into how you will take action if employees do not achieve them. You should consider each employee’s circumstances for not reaching their targets individually; their reasons might differ and if you apply the same principles to everyone this could be deemed to be unfair. If you need any clarification on introducing KPIs into your workplace please contact Peninsula Business Services on 1890 252 923.

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CHAMBERS NEWS CSR

CSR in

SMES While CSR has become a mainstream business activity for most larger companies in Ireland, many smaller firms have yet to take the plunge. Chambers Ireland is working to inform and educate SMEs on how they are uniquely suited to embrace CSR, as Amy Woods, Communications and Events Executive at Chambers Ireland, explains.

ust a few years ago, I would have started an article on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) with an explanation of what it was and extolling the virtues of why more businesses should get involved. At the beginning of 2015, it’s clear that we’re past that stage. 2014 was a banner year for CSR and it’s no exaggeration to say that it’s now a mainstream business activity. While a number of organisations and companies have been blowing the CSR trumpet over the years, the Government had yet to step in with a clear policy. In 2014, that changed. In April last year, the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation launched a two year national plan on corporate social responsibility, ‘Good for Business, Good for the Community’. Part of this ambitious plan was the establishment of a stakeholder forum on CSR which sees experts in the field, business organisations (including Chambers Ireland) and public sector bodies work together to promote CSR in Ireland. A key part of the forum is working to get more SMEs involved in CSR, something that is a core part of Chambers Ireland’s own CSR strategy. We have reached a stage in Ireland now where most larger companies, particularly multinationals, have a CSR strategy and consider CSR to be a core part of their business. However, many smaller

018 InBusiness YB 2015_CSR.indd 18

“A KEY PART OF OUR CSR STRATEGY IN 2015 IS TO

EDUCATE AND SUPPORT SMES TO EMBRACE CSR. WHILE THE WORK OF THE CSR STAKEHOLDER FORUM WILL SUPPORT THIS,

CHAMBERS IRELAND WILL CONTINUE TO REACH OUT TO SMES ACROSS THE COUNTRY THROUGH THE CHAMBER NETWORK.”

businesses are yet to take the plunge. There’s often a fear factor among SMEs that CSR is too big, too expensive or too time consuming. The reality is that SMEs are actually uniquely suited to CSR in that they are more flexible than larger companies, are naturally innovative and often have a strong relationship with their staff. CSR doesn’t mean big money and a lot of SMEs are already engaged in CSR projects – they just don’t label them as such. A key part of our CSR strategy in 2015 is to educate and support SMEs to embrace CSR. While the work of the CSR stakeholder forum will support this, Chambers Ireland will continue to reach out to SMEs across the country through the Chamber Network. For those looking for immediate advice, there are a range of supports available on our website. In particular, there is a checklist to help businesses get started where they can evaluate their current CSR status and see what areas they can get involved in. Also this year, Chambers Ireland’s rich tradition of promoting best practice in CSR will continue as the annual CSR Awards enter their twelfth year. A host of awards will be handed out at the event including the awards for Best SME and Outstanding Achievement in CSR. 2015 promises to be another great year for CSR and Chambers Ireland intend to do all we can to support that goal. InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:24

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To find out more contact Patrick Farrell, Head of AIB Private Banking: Telephone 01-641 7634 or email patrick.a.farrell@aib.ie www.aib.ie/privatebanking Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

234389_1C_AIB_CMD_CIBYB.indd 1

24/02/2015 15:29

CHAMBERS NEWS MEDIATION

MEDIATION: Good for Business More and more businesses are choosing mediation as a means to resolve commercial disputes in a sensible and cost-effective manner.

he high cost and lengthy delays commonly associated with commercial litigation can make conflict particularly unpalatable for business. Considering the large costs often attached to litigation, it is important that the business community becomes ‘dispute-wise’ and examines alternatives to court. With this in mind, Chambers Ireland promotes the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as a possible option for business when approaching disputes. One such alternative to litigation is the use of mediation, which is defined as a “facilitative and confidential process in which a mediator assists parties to a dispute in an attempt, on a voluntary basis, to reach a mutually acceptable and voluntary agreement to resolve their dispute.” Mediation offers a flexible and accessible mechanism for parties in a dispute, (or those who want to prevent a dispute from arising) to constructively manage their situation. It recognises the conflict is more 20

020 InBusiness YB 2015_Mediation.indd 20

“CONSIDERING THE LARGE COSTS OFTEN ATTACHED TO LITIGATION, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE

BUSINESS COMMUNITY

BECOMES ‘DISPUTEWISE’ AND EXAMINES ALTERNATIVES TO COURT.”

likely to be solved amicably when both parties are directly involved in the process. The appointed mediator supports the parties in indentifying their issues, explores how these needs can be addressed and ultimately facilitates an agreement. A significant benefit offered by mediation in consumer and commercial disputes is the cost-effective access to justice. Many consumer and commercial complaints are likely to be for relatively small sums of money and thus parties may not wish to spend large amounts in an attempt to resolve them. It is precisely for this reason that mediation can be so beneficial to business, particularly SMEs, who often don’t have the same resources for legal expenses as larger corporations. While it is commonly acknowledged that the cost of litigation can be very high, it might come as news just how high litigation costs are in Ireland when compared to ADR processes such as mediation. The European Parliament Review (2014) from the Directorate-General for Internal Policies recently reported some interesting findings on the workings of the Mediation Directive. The average cost of commercial litigation is 15,606 in Ireland compared with an average cost 1,250 for mediation. In addition, the average amount of time spent in litigation InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:25

CHAMBERS NEWS MEDIATION

is 650 days with the average length of time spent in mediation being 30 days. These figures show that by considering alternatives, there is a lot to be gained in terms of cost savings and increased efficiency. Mediation is still not used in Ireland as widely as it could be, particularly when compared with other European countries. For example, France, Slovenia and Luxembourg have chosen to require attendance at mediation information sessions for certain types of cases. The Czech Republic Mediation Act proposal provides that if parties do not participate in an introductory mediation information session, they may be ineligible to receive an award for costs in a later trial. Most significantly, mediation is mandatory for a range of civil and commercial disputes in Italy. This regulatory change has seen a dramatic increase in the use of mediation, rising from less than 4,000 mediations a year to over 200,000. While the draft Mediation Bill should go some way to increasing the use of mediation in commercial cases, more needs to be done to inform both the business community and the judiciary of the benefits of mediation, particularly with regard to cost savings, increased efficiency and the preservation of good relations. The continued competitiveness of Irish business is vital and InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

020 InBusiness YB 2015_Mediation.indd 21

“MANY

CONSUMER

AND COMMERCIAL COMPLAINTS ARE LIKELY

TO BE FOR RELATIVELY SMALL SUMS OF

MONEY AND THUS PARTIES

MAY NOT WISH TO SPEND LARGE AMOUNTS

IN AN ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE THEM.“

the use of mediation can go a long way to ensure this. For this reason, Chambers Ireland is working with Eurochambres (the European Chamber of Commerce) and the European Association of Judges for Mediation to develop a pilot mediation scheme to promote mediation in commercial cases. The project, ‘Mediation Meets Judges’ aims to encourage mediation as an alternative to litigation in the hope of getting the message out, to SMEs in particular, that mediation should be their first option in a commercial dispute. Although in the early stages, it is hoped that the pilot scheme will bring about a much greater engagement with ADR in the future, to the benefit of both business and the courts. This publication has been produced with the financial support of the Civil Justice Programme of the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of Chambers Ireland and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Commission.

25/02/2015 15:25

Working Together for a brighter tomorrow

Transparency st

Leadership st

Service

Commitment

96%

m8m

Over

As Ireland’s only indigenous mutual insurer and wholly Irish-owned general insurance company, we are focused on delivering excellent value and service for our clients within our core public sector, not-forprofit, education and healthcare markets. We believe that by being commercially successful, we have a responsibility to all our stakeholders to make a real difference in meeting their needs, from our Members through to wider Irish society. That is why IPB Insurance is now one of Ireland’s leading corporate donors, helping to build a better Ireland for our people and our society.

company in Ireland to publish a combined stakeholder & annual report.

company in Ireland to formally adopt a system of allocating a dividend to society.

customer satisfaction rating among Members in 2014.*

in social dividends allocated since 2012. This funds our Corporate Social Engagement (CSE) framework through diaspora, sport, community, education and business innovation.

people directly impacted by our initiatives.

Engagement

120,000

†

* IPB Member Satisfaction Survey 2014, conducted by Red C Research & Marketing Ltd.

† Figures estimated from IPB Insurance project completion reports received as at 11/12/2014.

Working to make a difference | www.ipb.ie Irish Public Bodies Mutual Insurances Ltd. trading as IPB Insurance is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

234196_1C_IPB_JR_BIYB.indd 1

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19/02/2015 17:50

CHAMBERS NEWS LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICES

Engaging with

LEOS A seminar has addressed how Chambers can effectively engage and develop a strong working relationship with Local Enterprise Offices.

n Thursday November 13th 2014 Chambers Ireland held a seminar on how Chambers can effectively engage with their Local Enterprise Offices. Chambers Ireland arranged for expert speakers to address the attendees on a range of topics related to local economic development and local enterprise support. The goal of the seminar was to ensure that Chambers have the information they require to build and maintain productive partnerships with local authorities and Local Enterprise Offices. Chamber CEOs, presidents and staff members from across Ireland participated in the seminar. Denis Conlon, Principal Officer in the Local Government Division in the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government addressed the seminar on a range of reforms in local Government and how these reforms will affect Chambers and local businesses. The discussion also dealt with wider roles that local authorities are undertaking to support the development of their local economy. Tony Lambert of Fingal Dublin Chamber chaired a debate about how Chambers can effectively engage with LEOs. Lambert had a positive outlook on LEOs and how Chambers across Ireland can develop InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

023 InBusiness YB 2015_LEO.indd 23

a good working relationship with them. Tony Byron from Microfinance Ireland gave a presentation on Microfinance Ireland’s lending model and how they work in conjunction with LEOs. Danny McLoughlin, Chair of the County and City Management Association focused on how Chambers and local authorities should work together to improve their local business environment. The discussion provided many examples of how Chambers can work effectively with local authorities. McLoughlin also provided an insight into what LEO’s role is in local economic development and how they benefit the local economy. Tom Hayes from Enterprise Ireland spoke about how Enterprise Ireland supports entrepreneurs and businesses and how LEOs can work to benefit the local economy. The final speaker of the day was from Chambers Ireland. Mark O’Mahoney, Director of Policy, outlined Chambers Ireland’s core themes on the policy agenda for 2015 and how Chambers can contribute to the development of policy documents. The seminar proved to be a success with Chambers from across Ireland in attendance. The diversity of speakers at the event gave Chambers information that they need to navigate the changing local authority landscape and work with their Local Enterprise Offices to support small businesses.

“THE GOAL OF THE SEMINAR WAS TO

ENSURE THAT CHAMBERS HAVE THE INFORMATION THEY REQUIRE TO BUILD

AND MAINTAIN

PRODUCTIVE PARTNERSHIPS WITH LOCAL

AUTHORITIES

AND LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICES.”

25/02/2015 15:25

CHAMBERS NEWS TTIP

The Next Chapter on

TRADE FOR SMES The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, a freetrade agreement currently being negotiated between the EU and US, will present a significant opportunity for the SME sector in Ireland.

he past number of years has seen European business come under increasing pressure due to a combination of factors, including increased competition from emerging markets and slow rates of growth. If the European economy is to be strengthened and if its SMEs in particular are to remain competitive, it is imperative that the trade strategy of European business takes on a global dimension. Irish companies in particular can no longer afford to focus solely on the domestic market. If they wish to grow, they must take steps towards trading internationally. The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) will present a significant opportunity for the SME sector in Ireland. The TTIP is a free-trade agreement currently being negotiated between the EU and US. The agreement has three main strands; improved market access; improved regulatory

024 InBusiness YB 2015_TTIP.indd 24

coherence; and improved co-operation when it comes to setting international standards. The Department for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation has reported that owing to the State’s already strong trade links with the US, Ireland could benefit from TTIP more than double the European average. Current projections estimate that more than 1.1 per cent could be added to Irish GDP. SME exporters, when compared to larger firms, suffer from higher export costs and challenges due to having relatively lower levels of resources to dedicate to export and customs procedures. For example, non-tariff measures (NTMs) affect SMEs disproportionately due to fixed compliance costs that do not vary with the amount traded and the inability of SMEs to spread these costs over large export values. SMEs can also be faced with complex customs procedures and export controls which may act as a further barrier to exporting outside of the EU. For SMEs to properly benefit from trade, EU and US partners must make efforts to create an environment that enables the easy access and exchange of information on trade regulations, access to finance and tips on increasing competitiveness. In response to this need, it was agreed that the TTIP will include what is referred to as an ‘SME Chapter’; a segment of the trade agreement

“FOR

SMES TO PROPERLY BENEFIT FROM TRADE, EU AND US PARTNERS MUST MAKE

EFFORTS TO CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT THAT

ENABLES THE EASY ACCESS AND EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION ON TRADE REGULATIONS,

ACCESS TO FINANCE AND TIPS ON INCREASING COMPETITIVENESS.”

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:26

CHAMBERS NEWS TTIP

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

024 InBusiness YB 2015_TTIP.indd 25

TTIP- JUST THE FACTS

dedicated entirely to SME issues. The goal of such a chapter would be to establish mechanisms to facilitate SMEs’ participation in transatlantic trade after TTIP takes effect. In order to make the trade talks more transparent, the European Commission has committed to making a range of the EU TTIP negotiating texts available to the public. With this in mind, the Commission published a draft of the SME chapter in January of this year. The chapter details a range of measures that will facilitate the exchange of information and increase transatlantic linkages and business opportunities between regional innovation clusters. The draft SME Chapter also commits to establishing a Point of Single Contact, free of charge, which would enable exporters on both sides of the Atlantic to easily access useful information of this kind. At present, information on trade that is available to SME exporters is not targeted enough. If the objectives listed in the draft SME chapter are successfully implemented, SMEs would now be able to easily consult on how to access and operate within the US and EU markets. The publication comes at a time when there needs to be continued dialogue on how to increase SME participation in international trade. A trade-supporting SME chapter can make a real difference to both the new and existing exporters who are hoping to benefit from TTIP. A f187 billion increase in trade is predicted as a result of this very ambitious trade partnership. As negotiations progress, it is crucial that the needs of SMEs are properly taken into account, so that they can also share in the benefits. Chambers Ireland is represented on the Advisory Group to the European Commission on TTIP by Eurochambres, the European Chamber of Commerce. Chambers Ireland is working with Eurochambres to ensure that SMEs can fully benefit from TTIP.

TRADE BARRIERS Customs duties at the US border are relatively low, but given the massive trade flows – some a2bn daily – even small reductions in customs duties can have enormous economic leverage. Furthermore, in the US there are customs duties for areas in which EU firms are particularly competitive, such as textiles, ceramics and processed agricultural products.

H ARMONISATION OF STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS On either side of the Atlantic there are often different (and sometimes duplicate) regulatory structures and traditions. The result is that it can be very burdensome and time-consuming for firms to enter the other market, particularly SMEs. According to estimates, these bureaucratic hurdles alone are equivalent to customs duties of 10-20 per cent. The trade partnership aims to harmonise these regulations in order to minimise the bureaucracy and expense.

PUBLIC PROCUREMENT A key objective of the TTIP negotiations will be to push for better access to public procurement markets. For example, it would be very important for many EU firms to be able to take part in calls for tender in the US. Here, TTIP represents an important chance to create equality of opportunity for SMEs in particular hoping to expand their operations into the US.

PUBLIC SERVICES The European Commission has clarified that publicly-funded health and social services, publiclyfunded education, water collection, purification, distribution and management services and film, TV and other audiovisual services would be excluded from the discussions.

CONSUMER PROTECTION The EU will be discussing standards and regulations with the US on one strict condition: that the current levels of protection we have in Europe will remain intact and will not be

diluted. That goes for health and the environment as well as for consumer protection. Hormone-treated beef is not allowed in the EU, for example, and the planned trade agreement will not change that.

I NVESTOR TO STATE DISPUTE SETTLEMENT Investment is an essential element of a developed economy. In order to have a predictable environment investors need to know that they will be treated fairly and not unfairly discriminated against compared to domestic firms. Since the late 1960s, EU countries have signed 1,400 investment protection agreements, including many with developed countries. Although these agreements have generally worked well, the system needs some improvement, as sometimes results have been controversial. As part of the TTIP negotiations, the EU will be endeavouring to improve the rules on investment protection, confirming a government’s right to regulate in the public interest. The EU also hopes to improve how ISDS works in practice by making the system more transparent, by introducing safeguards and by setting up an appeals system. The EU has already introduced these measures in its trade agreement with Canada and is negotiating similar improvements in trade agreements with other countries.

TRANSPARENCY Transparency is vital to the successful negotiation of the trade partnership. The Commission has committed to carrying out an intensive dialogue with civil society and through public consultations. In addition, democratic control of the TTIP negotiations will be particularly strong at the end of the process when the text negotiated by the Commission has to be approved by the EU’s member states in the Council and ratified by the European Parliament. Depending on the policy areas covered in the final agreement, the 28 national parliaments of the EU’s member states might also have to approve the deal.

25/02/2015 15:26

CHAMBERS NEWS EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT OF ENTERPRISES

Down to Business

IN BRUSSELS Now in its eighth year, the European Parliament of Enterprises continues to welcome Irish businesses to Brussels to gain an insight into the real impact the EU can have on the business community.

he European Parliament of Enterprises (EPE) is an initiative developed by Eurochambres, the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The first event took place in 2008 to mark the 50th anniversary of Eurochambres. The event allows business people from all over Europe to become Members of the European Parliament of Enterprises (MEPEs) for one day and get a unique look at how one of the most powerful bodies in the world goes about their decision-making process. The idea behind the concept is to bridge the gap in knowledge of both the business community and the European Parliament about what the other does. There is a feeling among the business community that European legislators do not take into account the concerns of entrepreneurs, for example, with regards to excessive red tape and gold plating of directives. On the other hand, businesses are largely unfamiliar with the exact role of the Parliament and the significance that the institution’s decisions can have on their day-to-day business activities. The EPE is an opportunity for both parties to learn in a collaborative environment. WHAT HAPPENS AT THE EPE? 751 entrepreneurs, or MEPEs, from EU countries, gather in the symbolic location of the Hemicycle of the European Parliament. The composition of the EPE reflects the number of Members of the European Parliament per

026 InBusiness YB 2015_EPE.indd 26

Kevin Murray, Deputy President, Chambers Ireland at the EPE

member state. Additionally, 53 seats have been allocated for entrepreneurs coming from the 18 non-EU Eurochambres members. The EPE recreates a parliamentary session and gives the floor to European entrepreneurs. This highlights the “economic democracy” of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry through their representation and their structure. On the day, MEPEs will hear a range of presentations from key EU personnel and take InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:27

CHAMBERS NEWS EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT OF ENTERPRISES

part in debates on topics of significance to the business community. This year, the major topics are internationalisation, skills, finance and energy. There will also be voting sessions which will allow participants to vote on issues and see the decision-making process first hand. WHY IS THE EPE SO IMPORTANT? The EPE offers a unique opportunity for business people to step away from their everyday role for a day and see what it’s like on the other side. Decisions are made at EU level everyday which can have a direct effect on your business but there is little understanding among the business community about the real impact the EU can have. Participants will gain a real understanding of both the importance of these decisions and how they are made. HOW IS IRELAND INVOLVED IN THE EPE? Chambers Ireland, as the EPE National Coordinator for Ireland, brought a delegation of Irish business representatives to last year’s EPE event which took place on Thursday October 16th in the Hemicycle of the European Parliament in Brussels. We also hosted a special breakfast meeting for Irish participants on the morning of the EPE where delegates had the opportunity to meet with Irish MEPs and air the current concerns of businesses in Ireland. InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

026 InBusiness YB 2015_EPE.indd 27

Speaking at the event, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland said: “EU regulation and legislation has a significant impact on SMEs, however, the majority of small businesses know very little about how these regulations are developed. The European Parliament of Enterprises gives SMEs a unique opportunity to experience firsthand how important decisions are made at the highest level and to raise any concerns they may have. The Irish delegation raised the importance of EU investment for energy and infrastructure programmes and highlighted the potential Ireland had to be at the forefront of the development of the energy sector.”

Top: Richard Weber, President, Eurochambres addressing delegates. Bottom: David McCarthy, Acting Director of Policy and Communications, Cork Chamber.

25/02/2015 15:27

CHAMBERS NEWS ICC

Chamber on a

GLOBAL STAGE This year, the ICC will continue to act as a steadfast rallying point for those who believe that strengthening commercial ties among nations is not only good for business, but good for global living standards and good for peace.

he International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) is a global organisation based in Paris of which Chambers Ireland is a member. The ICC provides a forum for businesses and other organisations to examine and better comprehend the nature and significance of the major shifts taking place in the world economy. The ICC’s key areas of work include policy advocacy, promoting international trade and investment and working to fight corruption and piracy throughout the world economy. The ICC is a steadfast rallying point for those who believe that strengthening commercial ties among nations is not only good for business but good for global living standards and good for peace. As the umbrella body for Chambers of Commerce in Ireland, Chambers Ireland acts as the Irish National Committee of the ICC, or ICC Ireland. The ICC provides us with valuable information throughout the year,

028 InBusiness YB 2015_ICC.indd 28

“THE ICC’S KEY

AREAS OF WORK

INCLUDE POLICY ADVOCACY, PROMOTING INTERNATIONAL

TRADE AND INVESTMENT AND WORKING TO FIGHT CORRUPTION AND PIRACY THROUGHOUT

THE WORLD ECONOMY.“

including the results of the World Economic Survey which measures economic outlook and expectations in the Eurozone. At present, ICC Ireland is actively involved in seven areas it has identified as being of importance to Irish businesses and the wider Irish economy; these are arbitration, customs and trade, taxation, digital economy, environment and energy, and corporate responsibility and anti-corruption. COMMISSION ON CUSTOMS AND TRADE REGULATIONS The central objective of the Committee on Customs and Trade Regulations is to overcome practical obstacles to the free flow of goods, services and investment across borders in particular those related to customs policies and procedures. ICC Ireland is involved to ensure that the liberalisation of global trade and investment has a positive impact at the level of the Irish companies engaged in import and export. The goals for 2015 include making progress on the implementation of the World Trade InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:28

CHAMBERS NEWS ICC

Terrence O’Keeffe, Dublin City Council and Chartered Institute of Arbitrators; David Barnville, Senior Counsel; Shraddha Bhosale, Deputy Manager, International Centre for ADR, International Chamber of Commerce and Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland at the launch of the ICC Mediation Rules.

Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement and progress on a robust WTO post-Bali trade and investment policy agenda. COMMISSION ON TAXATION The Commission on Taxation promotes an international tax system that eliminates tax obstacles to cross-border trade and investment. Its primary goal is to promote transparent and non-discriminatory treatment of foreign investment and earnings that eliminate tax obstacles to cross-border trade and investment. Key to these goals will be the making of a substantive contribution to the G20/OECD’s Base Erosion and Profit Shifting Project, in cooperation with the Business and Industry Advisory Committee to the OECD. COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY The Environment and Energy Commission makes recommendations for business on significant regulatory and market issues concerning energy and environment. The Commission helps ICC act as business’s primary interlocutor and partner in key intergovernmental negotiations and dialogue, including at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the UN Commission on Sustainable Development, and the UN Environment Programme. InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

028 InBusiness YB 2015_ICC.indd 29

“ICC IRELAND IS

ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN SEVEN AREAS IT HAS IDENTIFIED AS BEING OF

IMPORTANCE TO IRISH BUSINESSES AND THE WIDER IRISH ECONOMY; THESE ARE ARBITRATION, CUSTOMS AND TRADE, TAXATION, DIGITAL ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY, AND CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY AND ANTICORRUPTION.”

The launch of the new ICC Charter for Sustainable Development this year will help businesses of all sectors to shape their sustainability toolkit and facilitate adoption and implementation through the ICC global network. COMMISSION ON CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY AND ANTI-CORRUPTION A growing number of companies across the world increasingly recognise that doing business with integrity is the only right way of doing business. The ICC is at the forefront in the development of ethics, anti-corruption and corporate responsibility advocacy codes and guidelines, providing a lead voice for the business community in this rapidly changing field. The Commission on Corporate Responsibility and Anti-corruption works closely with other ICC commissions to combine expertise on a number of current issues, including: • a nti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing (banking law and practice) • responsible sourcing and supply chain management •p ublic procurement and anti-corruption clauses in model contracts (commercial law and policy) The work of this Commission complements the work of Chambers Ireland in CSR, in particular its annual CSR Awards. The ICC 29

25/02/2015 15:28

CHAMBERS NEWS ICC

hopes to finalise and launch ICC training based on the ICC Ethics and Compliance Training Handbook. This book will be a useful tool of reference for managers, compliance officers, lawyers and anyone concerned with stamping out corruption and other anti-competitive practices, whether working in an SME in an emerging country or in a large corporate operating on different continents. COMMISSION ON DIGITAL ECONOMY The Commission on the Digital Economy seeks to realise the full potential of e-commerce by developing policy and practical tools that encourage competition, growth, predictability, compliance and the secured, free flow of information in crossborder trade, via the internet and information and communication technologies. As part of the Commission’s efforts for 2015, the ICC hopes to develop cyber-security guidelines for companies and governments. COMMISSION ON ARBITRATION AND ADR The Commission on Arbitration and ADR is ICC’s rule-making body and unique think tank in the field of international dispute resolution. The commission drafts and revises the various ICC rules for dispute resolution, including the ICC Rules of Arbitration, the ICC ADR Rules, the ICC Dispute Board Rules, and the ICC Rules for Expertise. In its research capacity, it proposes new policies in the interest of efficient and costeffective dispute resolution and provides useful tools for the conduct of dispute resolution. It also produces reports and guidelines on legal, procedural and practical aspects of dispute resolution. The Commission hopes to launch the new ICC Expert Rules in 2015. These rules will set out new parameters for ICC’s expert services, clarifying how parties can use experts and neutrals to help resolve their cross-border disputes at each step of the way. COMMISSION ON MARKETING AND ADVERTISING The Commission examines major marketing and advertising-related policy issues of interest to world business via issues-specific task forces and working groups. Its mandate is to promote high ethical standards in marketing by business self-regulation through ICC international marketing codes. 30

028 InBusiness YB 2015_ICC.indd 30

“ICC IRELAND IS ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN SEVEN AREAS IT HAS IDENTIFIED AS BEING OF

IMPORTANCE TO IRISH BUSINESSES AND THE WIDER IRISH ECONOMY; THESE ARE:

ARBITRATION

CUSTOMS AND TRADE

The Commission will continue to work with a number of stakeholders throughout 2015 to contribute global business perspectives and advocate awareness of the Consolidated ICC Code of Advertising and Marketing Communications Practice as a global selfregulatory instrument to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and UN member states through the revision of the UN Guidelines on Consumer Protection. FOCUS FOR 2015 The ICC has recently published its priorities for 2015. Key to its goals for the year ahead is the strengthening of the B20 as an effective platform for policy advocacy. The B20 is an intermediary group to the G20 that represents the international business community, bringing together business leaders from across the globe. The ICC will also continue to lead global business representation in major international forums where key business issues are being discussed, such as the: • Internet Governance Forum • Global climate change negotiations •U N post-2015 development agenda

TAXATION

DIGITAL ECONOMY

ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY

ANTICORRUPTION

NINTH WORLD CHAMBERS CONFERENCE, TURIN The World Chambers Congress (WCC) is organised by the ICC World Chambers Federation. The conference is held every two years in a different region of the world, and the Congress is the only international forum for chamber leaders and professionals to share best practices, exchange insights, develop networks, address the latest business issues affecting their communities, and learn about new areas of innovation from chambers around the world. The Congress will be held on 10-12 June 2015 in Turin, Italy under the theme ‘Community, Identity, Vision’ and will unite chamber leaders from more than 120 countries to strengthen partnerships and discover new innovative ideas and projects. It is hoped that a number of Irish Chambers of Commerce will be in attendance for the Chambers World Chambers Competition, which will bring to stage the most innovative chamber projects from around the world. Competition categories will include corporate social responsibility, business development, policy advocacy initiatives and unconventional projects. InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:28

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CHAMBERS NEWS MICROFINANCE IRELAND

THE ALTERNATIVE

LENDER

icrofinance Ireland (MFI) is aiming to support 1,000 jobs in 2015 through providing finance to micro-enterprises who have been unable to secure funding elsewhere. Since its inception in October 2012, more than 1,000 jobs have been supported by Microfinance Ireland through its lending to businesses which have ten employees or less and a turnover of less than a2 million per annum. The Government provided funding of a10m as part of the Action Plan for Jobs to enable Microfinance Ireland to provide loan finance to micro-enterprises who have not been able to access loans elsewhere. Now, after its second full year of trading, Microfinance Ireland has doubled its previously approved lending. Microfinance Ireland’s portfolio of approved loans now stands at over a6m. Over 75 per cent of lending by Microfinance Ireland has been to businesses located outside Dublin and the average loan size is around a15,000. To date, some 430 micro-enterprises have benefited from Microfinance Ireland loans. Businesses from any sector can qualify for Microfinance Ireland funding as long as they have less than ten employees and a turnover of less than a2m per annum. Three-quarters of the 1,000 jobs supported by Microfinance Ireland-funded projects are outside of Dublin. Speaking about Microfinance Ireland’s success to date, Chief Executive Michael Johnson said: “We plan to expand during 2015 and have an ambition to support a further 1,000 jobs, provided the economy continues to grow at the predicted rate of approximately three per cent. The cost per job ratio and social impact represent an excellent return both on a social and economic basis. Our ambition

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

033 InBusiness YB 2015_Microfinance.indd 33

To date, some 430 micro-enterprises have benefited from Microfinance Ireland loans. Now, the organisation’s ambition is to double its loan portfolio and approve lending of a further a6 million in 2015.

is to double our loan portfolio and approve lending of a further a6m in 2015, which would bring total approved lending to a12m. We believe this is achievable as the recovery gains pace. Already, 75 per cent of the existing customers we surveyed expect to hire additional staff in 2015.” During 2015, Microfinance Ireland will be working closely with the Local Enterprise Offices to promote the availability of funding to small businesses and to maximise the impact and reach of the organisation. Michael Johnson, Chief Executive, Microfinance Ireland Microfinance Ireland also accept direct applications and are working closely with the pillar banks in making it easier for people “75 PER declined by the mainstream banks to engage CENT OF THE with Microfinance Ireland. EXISTING Microfinance Ireland is a 100 per cent CUSTOMERS owned subsidiary company of the Social WE SURVEYED Finance Foundation and is a private not-forEXPECT TO profit entity which has been mandated by Government to deliver its statutory-based HIRE Microfinance Loan Fund. ADDITIONAL The EPMF fund from the EIF covers some of STAFF IN the risk by providing a partial guarantee against 2015” its portfolio of lending. The EPMF (European Progress Microfinance Fund) is a Europe-wide fund that underwrites some of the risk taken on by organisations like Microfinance Ireland. 33

25/02/2015 15:28

Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market leader for accounts and payroll software

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234660_1C_Sage_CMD_CIBYB.indd 1

19/02/2015 17:53

CHAMBERS NEWS eircom

BROADBAND

BRIEFS

uperfast broadband is a must for SMEs and eircom is genuinely committed to offering business customers fast, reliable and competitively priced products. eircom and Chambers have a partnership briefing local businesses on the benefits of superfast fibre broadband. Representatives from eircom have attended a series of local Chamber meetings to brief Chambers around the country on the company’s national fibre rollout plan. Briefings have taken place in Tullamore, Cavan, Mullingar, North Kildare, Bray, Navan, Westport, Galway, Drogheda, Sligo, Tralee and Kilkenny. eircom already operates the largest fibre network in Ireland with more than one million homes and businesses on its route. eircom are

“EIRCOM ARE

BRINGING OVER 10,000

ADDITIONAL PREMISES ONLINE EACH WEEK, AND THE COMPANY IS ADDING

MORE THAN 15KM OF FIBRE EVERY WORKING DAY TO THE NETWORK.”

eircom has been briefing Chambers around the country on the company’s national fibre rollout plan.

bringing over 10,000 additional premises online each week, and the company is adding more than 15km of fibre every working day to the network. When completed in 2016, the network will reach 1.6 million homes and businesses across Ireland, representing 70 per cent of all homes and businesses in the country. eFibre products currently provide speeds of up to 100Mb per second, with a trial already underway to bring superfast one gigabit connectivity to 66 communities around the country. Customers using the eFibre network have already seen a six to ten-times improvement in their current broadband download speeds, transforming their online experience. For further information on eircom’s eFibre products and services, business customers should log onto www.eircom.ie/business/efibre or call 1800 303 499. Tralee Chamber Alliance Board of Directors with Paul Bradley, Director of Corporate Affairs, eircom

Paul Bradley, Director of Corporate Affairs, eircom with Ian Gavin, President, Mullingar Chamber

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

035 InBusiness YB 2015_eircom.indd 35

Fingal Chamber Board of Directors being briefed by eircom on the rollout of broadband in the area

25/02/2015 15:29

GIVING SOME

LOCAL LOVE

Chambers across Ireland launched numerous shop local initiatives throughout 2014 aimed at strengthening the local economy. Many of these took place over the Christmas period, while others ran throughout the year. InBUSINESS provides a snapshot of some of the projects that encouraged shoppers to stay local.

CAVAN

KELLS

CAVAN CHAMBER SHOP LOCAL INITIATIVE

GIFT VOUCHER SCHEME

Cavan Chamber of Commerce is constantly looking for new ways to promote its Shop Local campaign in an effort to reinforce the message that shopping local is good for both business and community. Our Chamber Voucher Scheme has been growing successfully for years and the free parking arranged with Cavan County Council during the Christmas period was also a great incentive for shoppers to stay local.

The Kells Gift Voucher Scheme started in 2008. Initially it was restricted to Chamber members but it is now open to all retailers and businesses. Each year before the Christmas shopping season begins, Kells Chamber re-launches the Gift Voucher Scheme. The Chamber also runs a free customer draw, with the overall winner receiving gift vouchers. Each retail business conducts an in-house draw, which encourages shoppers to come to the town.

AGE FRIENDLY BUSINESS In May 2014 Cavan Chamber launched the Age Friendly Business Recognition Scheme in conjunction with the Age Friendly Alliance. This initiative encourages businesses to think about their older customers and to make ‘Age Friendly’ changes in their services. Such changes include providing customer seating, making toilets available to customers, clearer signage, smaller food portions or special offers for older customers.

HAY FESTIVAL

Hugh O’Connor, Age Friendly Ireland; Superintendent Jimmy Coen; Lyn Sharkey (Centre), Cavan Chamber President; Declan Coyle, Andec Communications; Jack Keyes, Cavan Age Friendly along with some local businesses displaying their Age Friendly Charter.

036 InBusiness YB 2015_Shop Local.indd 36

Kells Chamber are also the driving force behind the annual Hay Festival. The festival is a literary and cultural event which runs over a four to five-day period. During the festival Kells Chamber encourages businesses to market their services and take advantage of the large numbers of visitors to the town. In 2014 approximately 17,000 people were in Kells for the event. Businesses take advantage of this marketing opportunity and design window displays with a literary theme.

25/02/2015 15:31

CHAMBERS NEWS SHOP LOCAL

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON

TRALEE

TWO-HOUR FREE PARKING FOR CHRISTMAS SHOPPERS AND RETAILERS Carrick-on-Shannon Chamber of Commerce were involved in securing two hours free parking for shoppers in the town for the Christmas period from December 1st until January 6th. This initiative proved to be of great benefit to both shoppers and businesses alike.

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON CHRISTMAS FUNDRAISER Carrick-on-Shannon Chamber of Commerce raises funds each year for the Christmas lights by running a table quiz and through contributions from the local business community. Christmas in Carrick-onShannon starts with Santa turning on the Christmas lights at the Market Yard where stalls and markets are held for the month of December.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Carrick-on-Shannon Chamber organises the St. Patrick’s Day Parade each year which provides a window for local businesses and retailers to showcase what they have to offer.

Rose of Tralee 2014 Maria Walsh turns on the Christmas lights in Tralee with Mayor of Tralee Cllr Jim Finucane and Una O’Gara from the Rose of Tralee Festival

CHRISTMAS SPRAOI The Tralee Chamber Alliance ran a month-long promotion throughout the month of December called Christmas Spraoi in Tralee. As part of the initiative, free parking was made available from 1pm each day, which encouraged people to come to Tralee to do their Christmas shopping. Along with the free parking promotion, the Tralee Chamber organised radio ads, print ads, 10,000 ﬂyers and other activities to promote the Christmas Spraoi in Tralee programme. Additionally, there was a Christmas parade which ended with the year’s Rose of Tralee turning on the Christmas lights. Other fundraising events took place such as office chair racing, Santa 5k run, Candle Spectacular, Christmas Day swim, 10k walk and a buggy push.

DROGHEDA

FAIR TRADE WEEK Carrick-on-Shannon Chamber is also involved with Fair Trade Week and organises a parade in the town, generating awareness of fair trade among the business community and shoppers alike.

Fireworks over the Scotch Hall Shopping Centre as part of the Drogheda Christmas Bonanza

Carrick-on-Shannon Christmas lights

DROGHEDA CHRISTMAS BONANZA Drogheda Christmas Bonanza returned in 2014 for its fourth consecutive year. The objective of the retail-based festival was to launch the festive season in Drogheda and to encourage people to shop local. The Bonanza committee, led by Drogheda and District Chamber, retail and community representatives, held a weekend full of fun for families from November 28th to December 1st. Local businesses were invited to give ﬁnancial support as well as their involvement through special offers, late opening and other resources.

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25/02/2015 15:31

CHAMBERS NEWS SHOP LOCAL

WATERFORD

WEXFORD

SHOP LOCAL

WEXFORD WINTERLAND

A shop local campaign has featured high on the Waterford Chamber agenda over the past 12 months, with a number of schemes and initiatives in place to boost the local economy. The Waterford Gift Voucher Scheme has been a huge success since it was launched 14 months ago by Waterford Chamber, in association with the Waterford Business Group. In excess of a175,000 worth of vouchers have been sold to date, all of which is spent locally. The initiative is supported by over 110 businesses.

Wexford County Council in association with Wexford Chamber and the Wexford Retail Group developed an effective six-week programme to support retail businesses in the town and promote Wexford as a premier shopping destination in the run up to Christmas 2014. This new initiative saw the launch of the Wexford Winterland Festival on November 29th, a 45-day extravaganza of Christmasthemed events and attractions throughout Wexford town. RTÉ’s Nationwide devoted an entire show to the festival.

HARVEST FESTIVAL Both Waterford Chamber and Waterford Chamber Skillnet played a key role in a number of events that took place during the Harvest Festival in September 2014. Commenting on these events, Dr Derek O’Byrne, Chamber President said: “We were delighted to support the GROW HQ Kitchen event in collaboration with GIY Ireland, whose headquarters are here in Waterford”.

LOCAL CURRENCY VOUCHERS In a bid to further support the retail sector and help money earned in Wexford to stay in Wexford, Wexford Chamber in association with local newspaper The Wexford People produced beautifully designed local currency vouchers in denominations of a10, a25 and a50. Vouchers can be spent in over 100 participating shops, offering a wide choice of purchases and services ranging from clothing, jewellery, beauty, hospitality, car and household fuel and much more.

BALLINA

THE BIG TASTE

FROSTY SALMON FESTIVAL 2014

Waterford Chamber Skillnet ran The Big Taste marquee in John Roberts Square during the Harvest Festival, which provided an opportunity for local artisan food and craft start-up businesses to trade. Waterford Chamber also acted as one of the sponsors for Summer in the City, which was an entertainment programme featuring everything from music to dance, and home-grown talent to visiting artists. The programme was designed to attract more shoppers into the city centre on Friday afternoons and proved a huge boost for retailers during the summer months.

Ballina’s annual Frosty Salmon Festival is a festive programme of events which took place between December 6th-23rd. Ballina Chamber called on all businesses to help in building a positive atmosphere by decorating their premises for the Christmas festivities.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny at the Grow HQ Launch

036 InBusiness YB 2015_Shop Local.indd 38

SHOPFRONT COMPETITION Ballina Town Council kindly put forward a prize fund of d2,500, which amounted to 20 d100 prizes and one grand prize of d500 for the best decorated shopfront. This initiative was for all businesses and helped turn Ballina into a winter wonderland for the festival season.

CHRISTMAS CRACKER GIVEAWAY Ballina Chamber asked local businesses to donate d100 worth of vouchers for their business with the aim of having a d10,000 Christmas Cracker Draw, generating excitement and atmosphere in the lead up to Christmas. It was also aimed at encouraging people to shop locally while boosting the retail sector and generating a real feel-good factor around the town. In order to enter, participants had to buy something from a participating shop. The competition ran from December 6th-23rd.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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CHAMBERS NEWS SHOP LOCAL

LETTERKENNY

LIMERICK

SHOP LK

RETAIL PILOT CITY

Shop LK is an initiative of Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce. Letterkenny has always been a commercial town and is now considered to be the commercial centre of Donegal. In 2004 Letterkenny Chamber, in partnership with retailers, devised Shop LK which is a branding initiative aimed at supporting local shops and protecting local jobs. The Shop LK vouchers were introduced in 2006 and since then they have gone from strength to strength, with the scheme achieving its target of a1 million worth of sales in 2012.

Limerick City Business Association (LCBA) came under the umbrella of the Limerick Chamber in 2012 in an agreement aimed at enhancing the cooperation between the two organisations to their mutual benefit and the benefit of the city. This arrangement allowed for both organisations to co-ordinate their efforts to ensure that Limerick city is being strongly represented. As a result of this initiative Limerick was successful in its bid to become Retail Excellence Ireland’s pilot city as part of a national effort by the organisation to revive Ireland’s towns and cities. Retail Excellence Ireland and its national partners awarded the honour to Limerick city out of 36 towns and cities across Ireland that applied for pilot status.

Launch of 10 Day ShopLK Summer Shopping Spree

What’s on your

You’re not alone When it comes to coping www.turn2me.org

Forums, group support, 1to1 counselling, iphone enabled Turn2me Advert half page.indd 2

036 InBusiness YB 2015_Shop Local.indd 39

23/11/2011 15:07:58

25/02/2015 15:31

CHAMBERS NEWS THE YEAR IN PICTURES

CORK

THE YEAR IN PICTURES

2014 was a busy year for the Chamber Network. InBUSINESS highlights some of the great events that took place around the country.

Pictured at the announcement of Hibernia Networks’ transatlantic connection, Express, which will provide Tier 1 fibre connectivity from Cork to the US and UK, were: Alma Murnane, Director of Policy and External Relations, Cork Chamber; Conor Healy, CEO, Cork Chamber; Simon Coveney, Minister for Agriculture, Food, the Marine and Defence; Gillian Keating, President, Cork Chamber; Derek Bullock, SVP Project Development, Hibernia Networks.

DÚN LAOGHAIRE RATHDOWN

DUNDALK

Intercompany Challenge event organised by Dundalk Chamber.

DUBLIN Chamber President Dr Josephine Browne and winners of Envirocom Awards, which were held in the Radisson St. Helen’s on November 12th 2014.

BALLINA A re-enactment of the 1798 Rebellion in Mayo that took place on Pearse Street, Ballina, planned, manned and organised by Ballina Chamber of Tourism and Commerce in June 2014.

040 InBusiness YB 2015_Year in Pictures.indd 40

Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Dublin Chamber of Commerce CEO Gina Quin, former Manchester United manager and keynote speaker Sir Alex Ferguson and 2014 Dublin Chamber of Commerce President Martin Murphy at the Annual Dinner 2014.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:32

CHAMBERS NEWS THE YEAR IN PICTURES

LIMERICK Pictured at the Limerick Chamber President’s Dinner and Regional Business Awards were Liam Woulfe, Managing Director, Grassland Agro, winner of the 2014 Overall Business of the Year Award, along with Cathal Treacy, Limerick Chamber President; Dr Órlaith Borthwick, Limerick Chamber Interim CEO; Pat Kearney, Past President of Limerick Chamber; Des O’Malley, recipient of the President’s Award and Dr Fergal Barry, Past President of Limerick Chamber.

KILKENNY

Martin Costello, Kilkenny Chamber President; Brian Dunlop, Brian Dunlop Architects and Overall Business of the Year Award Winner and Siobhán Talbot, Group Managing Director of Glanbia at the Glanbia Kilkenny Business Awards 2014 held on Saturday November 15th at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny.

LETTERKENNY

Toni Forrester, Letterkenny Chamber CEO with Taoiseach Enda Kenny on a visit to Letterkenny Institute of Technology.

GALWAY Padraic Brennan, Ronan Daly Jermyn; Maeve Joyce, Galway Chamber; Joe Schmidt, Head Coach of the Irish rugby team and Frank Greene, President, Galway Chamber at an evening with Joe Schmidt presented by Ronan Daly, Jermyn Solicitors and Galway Chamber.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

040 InBusiness YB 2015_Year in Pictures.indd 41

25/02/2015 15:32

CHAMBERS NEWS THE YEAR IN PICTURES

NAVAN

In 2014 Navan Chamber introduced and implemented free WiFi to Navan in association with Meath County Council and other major sponsors. Pictured: Paul McGlynn, outgoing President 2014; Eddie Byrne, incoming Vice President; Donna Farrell, incoming President 2015; Alan Byrne, Treasurer; and Frank Harrington, outgoing Vice President.

NORTH KILDARE

MALLOW

William Doyle, CEO, Newbridge Silverware with North Kildare Chamber President Niall Browne. William Doyle was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Business in Kildare Award 2014 at the Chamber Kildare Business Awards held at The K Club in November 2014.

NEWBRIDGE

Mallow Chamber President Kevin O’Keeffe presents the lifetime achievement award to Brian Wall at the Mallow Chamber Ball on Saturday November 29th.

040 InBusiness YB 2015_Year in Pictures.indd 42

Newbridge Chamber’s Ready Steady Go business start-up competition winners Robert and Louise Doyle of Irepak Ltd. with Ivan Yates, keynote speaker at the Enterprise Expo, November 2015.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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CHAMBERS NEWS THE YEAR IN PICTURES SLIGO

SOUTH DUBLIN

On Thursday May 15th Sligo Chamber made a presentation to the Sligo Leitrim Oireachtas members and Sligo Dublin Business Community in Leinster House. The presentation centred on a detailed document, Invest Sligo, which outlines the business case for Sligo as a location for services industries.

WATERFORD

Pictured at Waterford Chamber’s Golf Classic were, back row (l-r): Nick Donnelly, Waterford Chamber CEO; Tom Walsh, House of Waterford Crystal; Gary O’Keeffe and Peter Mulvaney, Arachas; David McCoy, House of Waterford Crystal. Front row (l-r): 1st place MK Brazil team: Karl Heffernan, Alex Kennedy, Jim Grant and Liam Dalton.

Following on from a successful trade mission to Manchester in May 2014 the Greater Dublin Chamber held a Breakfast Briefing with British Ambassador Dominick Chilcott on ‘Exporting to the UK and Northern Ireland’. Pictured are Josephine Browne, President, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Chamber; British Ambassador Dominick Chilcott; Siobhan Kinsella, President, Fingal Dublin Chamber; Sherri Brennan, President, South Dublin Chamber.

SHANNON

Taoiseach Enda Kenny, keynote speaker at Shannon Chamber president’s lunch in Dromoland Castle Hotel with (l-r): Kevin Thompstone, President, Shannon Chamber; Tony Brazil, Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau; Rose Hynes, Chairperson, Shannon Group plc; Helen Downes, Chief Executive, Shannon Chamber; Tom McInerney, Chief Executive, Genworth Financial Inc; Bob Brannock, President, International Protection, Genworth. The Mayor of Clare, John Crowe; Pat Breen TD; Kieran Mulvey, Chief Executive, Labour Relations Committee and members of the business community also attended.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

040 InBusiness YB 2015_Year in Pictures.indd 43

25/02/2015 15:32

WE WANT TO BE KNOWN FOR GIVING PEOPLE THE BEST BANKING EXPERIENCE ON THE ISLAND OF IRELAND. IT’S AS SIMPLE AS THAT.”

044 InBusiness YB 2015_Cover Story.indd 44

25/02/2015 15:36

COVER STORY

Question A

TRUST of

Colm McDermott

044 InBusiness YB 2015_Cover Story.indd 45

25/02/2015 15:36

CV: Patrick Farrell ROLE: Head of AIB Private Banking LIVES: Dublin FAMILY: Married to wife Louise, with two children, Emily and Sophie. CURRENTLY READING: Red Blooded by Alan Quinlan FAVOURITE FILM: Pulp Fiction HOBBIES: Golf, rugby, GAA and NFL

044 InBusiness YB 2015_Cover Story.indd 46

RANGE OF SERVICES AIB’s private banking business is twenty years in operation this year and Farrell says the value of their latest service lies with its three key offerings: Making banking easy, supporting clients with big decisions and helping them plan for the future. As part of the core service, each client’s financial needs are taken care of by a dedicated relationship manager who delivers a bespoke banking experience, focused around high levels of client service and efficiency. They help the client manage their daily banking transactions and finances to help them achieve their goals, freeing up time for their career, their family, as well as their interests and passions. Each relationship manager is supported by an expert banking team to ensure a responsive service where the client takes priority. AIB describe their advisory services as being impartial and rooted in a deep understanding of their clients’ financial situation. The client’s financial arrangements and goals are analysed and an expert and impartial wealth planning team provide in-depth analysis to help them make smart choices to secure their future. Meanwhile, investment

advice is based on prudent, process driven strategies that are designed for the long-term and tailored to the client’s personal circumstances. All this is provided in a highly transparent manner. Farrell, a Cork native who began his career in a family-run agribusiness and who now boasts over 17 years’ experience in the financial services industry, stresses that the service comes at no cost to the client. It is a two-way relationship where both bank and client benefit. “If we look after clients well, they’ll do more business with us and ultimately it will be a mutually beneficial relationship,” he says. “Similarly, if we make sure we’re looking out for the client all the time, then they will benefit in the long run. So we are very much focused on the long-term game, we’re not in the short-term game.” A RELATIONSHIP BUILT ON TRUST So who is AIB Private Banking’s typical client? The minimum income threshold for a client is a250,000 or a1 million of investable assets outside their home. That can be cash, shares or liquid assets. According to Farrell, the service is largely aimed at people who are wealthy but time-poor. And given the large sums of money or assets being deposited, they require a provider who they can trust. “These clients have complex financial needs and it’s important that they can trust us and we can trust them,” he says. “From that, we build a relationship and give our clients access to expert and impartial guidance to help them make informed financial choices. Everything within the team is kept highly confidential. We’re very lucky to be able to look after these clients and we don’t take that lightly. We need to have their trust to guard their affairs with the utmost security.” This is largely where the role of the relationship manager comes in. Allowing the customer to InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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“WE’VE HAD A VERY GOOD LAST 18 MONTHS AND WE CAN CONTINUE TO SEE THAT IMPROVING. WE’RE OFFERING SOMETHING DIFFERENT IN THE MARKET, WE’RE TAKING A DIFFERENT STRATEGIC ROUTE TO OUR COMPETITORS. WE BELIEVE IT WILL WIN OUT IN THE LONG-TERM.” deal with one person for all their financial needs helps strengthen the relationship between the bank and client, more in line with traditional banking and something which has been absent from banking services in recent times. “We know our clients very well in the private banking side,” asserts Farrell. “We know who they are, what they need, how they like to be communicated with, what their interests are. We’re constantly getting to know them better in order to help them more. But it’s that level of personal service that is key to us being successful. “Even coming up to Christmas we were meeting clients at ten o’clock at night. Our job in the bank is to look after our clients really well. We do sleep but we can meet you from seven in the morning until 11 at night. We’ll go to your office, your home, or any other location that suits you because a lot of the people we deal with don’t have time during the working day.” APPETITE FOR RISK Given Farrell’s experience of running a private banking service during the downturn, he is well positioned to expand AIB’s private banking operations in 2015 having seen positive economic signs last year. “There is money in the system now and risk appetite is returning,” he says. “For a few years there was a lot of money just left on deposit and people were getting a decent return. That return is coming down now so people are looking to invest more. We’re also seeing money that may have left Ireland during the crisis now come back. I’ve definitely seen general confidence and activity up over the last 12-15 months.” InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

044 InBusiness YB 2015_Cover Story.indd 47

AIB Private Banking division already has offices in Dublin and Cork as well as operating closely with colleagues in London and Belfast. According to Farrell, there is plenty of scope for growth. “We have big plans for 2015. We hope to double our business over the next three years and we’re well on track for doing that. We’ve had a very good last 18 months and we can continue to see that improving. We’re offering something different in the market, we’re taking a different strategic route to our competitors. We believe it will win out in the long-term.” And those words are prevalent in Farrell’s commentary. Everything he and his team does considers the long-term effect. “We’re focused on the entire cycle of your life rather than trying to make the most money now,” he says. “We want to be known for giving people the best banking experience on the island of Ireland. It’s as simple as that. At the moment we provide an excellent service but we are always looking to see how we can get better, not just in an Irish context but internationally. We give a longer term vision of the relationship, have a big focus on service and look after clients really well so that both sides benefit over the long-term.” It’s not only the client who Farrell is determined to please. He believes having a satisfied team is part of the process of delivering a best in class service. “We want to offer the best banking experience in Ireland. But we also want to have fun doing it. We’re focused on making sure we build a good environment for staff internally because if staff are happy, clients are happy, and that’s the way we look at it.”

What The Customers Have Said...

“I have a great relationship manager and find them easy to communicate with, with a great back-up team. I received excellent advice on how to maximise my pension, and on gifting to my children. When I was looking to invest they organised extremely knowledgeable advice. I think their people service is fabulous.”

“I feel that AIB Private Banking offers a very professional and courteous service. I have dealt with them for many years. In the context of the recent financial hurricane that has affected this country, I have found AIB Private Banking very pro-active and I was very appreciative of their support.”

“When time is limited, having a personal manager who responds when necessary and understands my time constraints and sense of urgency makes completing transactions simple and takes a lot of stress out of doing personal business. Having this service provides great peace of mind.”

25/02/2015 15:37

PARTNER PROFILE CBRE

Hotels & Licensed

Industrial

Offices

Investment

SOLD Development

Retail

UTLOOK POSITIVE for COMMERICAL

REAL ESTATE

Marie Hunt, Head of Research at CBRE Ireland, forecasts a strong performing year ahead for the Irish commercial real estate market.

he Irish commercial real estate market is firmly in the midst of a remarkable recovery boosted in no small part by improving domestic economic conditions. This became increasingly evident during 2014 with commercial transaction volumes and property value improvements exceeding all expectations over the last 12 months. Indeed, Irish property was one of the best performing asset classes in the world during 2014. However, it is important to remember that recent value increases are coming off a low base following an exceptionally severe crash and values still remain considerably below peak levels in all sectors. Although 2014 passed quickly in a haze of high-profile asset and loan portfolio sales as bank deleveraging continued in earnest, there were a number of significant market developments during the 12 month period, not least the announcement by the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA) of an accelerated timeline for the disposal of remaining assets and loans in its portfolio. By

048 InBusiness YB 2015_CBRE.indd 48

pooling larger portfolios together, NAMA and various other financial institutions were able to capitalise on continued strong volumes of demand from domestic and overseas investors, which in turn boosted investment transaction volumes during the last year. The ending of the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) waiver on December 31st 2014 added to the pressure to have transactions completed by year-end resulting in a flurry of activity in December. Another notable development during 2014 was the formal adoption of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) in Dublin Docklands, which will deliver significant supply to the Dublin market over the next decade. Investment during 2014 emanated from a range of different entities and combinations of buyers. Irish REIT vehicles, domestic institutions and retail funds were particularly active in the purchase of assets while many of the large private equity firms were dominant in the purchase of loan portfolios. In addition to strengthening economic fundamentals, investors cited the depth of underlying occupier activity and superior rental growth expectations as key to their focus on

opportunities in Ireland. Over recent years, most real estate investors were solely focused on core investment opportunities, primarily in the Dublin market. One of the biggest changes observed in 2014 was an increase in the volume of investment in secondary markets as investors began to move up the risk curve and get more comfortable with investing in suburban and provincial properties. Another key trend in 2014 was an increased focus on investment in the retail sector with several retail parks and shopping centres that

Marie Hunt, Head of Research, CBRE

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:39

PARTNER PROFILE CBRE

were offered for sale around the country attracting good interest and achieving strong prices over the course of the 12 month period. This was clearly supported by recovery in the retail occupier sector which became increasingly solid towards the end of the year. Record volumes of transactional activity were also recorded in the hotel and licensed sector of the market during 2014 with a key trend being a move towards portfolio sales over the course of the year as deleveraging picked up pace in this sector. Activity was also brisk in the development land sector last year with a significant increase in transactional activity, particularly for office and residential development opportunities. Severe supply shortages now exist in some sectors of the Irish real estate sector as a result of a complete cessation of development over recent years. However, the speed of the necessary supply response has been curtailed by the extent that values fell in the most recent cycle which adversely affected the feasibility of development. This began to reverse in 2014 as sizeable rental and capital value increases rendered development once again feasible in some instances. Considering the domestic economic backdrop, underlying volumes of activity in each of the occupier markets and the volume of deleveraging that has yet to occur in the Irish market, another strong year, in line with the phenomenal one just experienced, is anticipated in the Irish commercial real estate market in 2015. However, despite the fact that Irish Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to grow by more than 3.5 per cent this year, it is important to remember that Europe remains in the midst of a prolonged period of economic stagnation and that there will be pressure on the European Central Bank (ECB) to roll out full blown Quantitative Easing (QE) during 2015. While the macroeconomic backdrop is the biggest threat to the performance of InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

048 InBusiness YB 2015_CBRE.indd 49

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sale of prestigious 5 star hotel and golf resort on 766 acres

the real estate sector in the year ahead, ironically the poor outlook for the Eurozone economy will see interest rates remaining at, or close to, all-time lows that will in turn continue to boost the relative attractiveness of real estate. The relative yield arbitrage offered by real estate investment will remain, even if prime yields contract further over the course of the year as anticipated. We expect to see further strong volumes of deleveraging occurring in the Irish market over the course of the next 12 months. However, sourcing value propositions will become trickier as the market moves from being an opportunistic play to a core value play. In addition, the publication of the ECBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Asset Quality Review towards the end of last year is expected to lead to an acceleration of loan sales in many other jurisdictions in 2015, which may well detract some attention from Ireland which has been a dominant player in the loan sale market in recent years. Since the downturn in 2007/2008, the Irish real estate sector has effectively transformed from a debtbased model to an equity based model with a range of new players â&#x20AC;&#x201C; many of whom are overseas entities. We expect to see some further new entrants to the market this year, particularly if large portfolios are offered for sale

considering the appetite of many investors for scale. Others will focus on intensive asset management strategies in order to retain and enhance the value of properties purchased. In some cases, this will involve re-development or refurbishment programmes but will also include a combination of re-gearing existing leases, reducing vacancy and negotiating new lettings. Delayed capital expenditure on assets such as retail parks and shopping centres over recent years will also give rise to opportunities for many of the investors who are focused on acquiring retail assets. We expect to see renewed focus on new development over the course of the next 12 months, particularly in the Dublin office and Dublin housing markets where supply is severely constrained. We may well see the emergence of some forward-funding to support this. Another key trend in 2015 is likely to be the emergence of an improvement in rental and capital values in suburban and provincial locations with most of the recovery experienced over the last few years largely confined to Dublin. We expect an increasing number of investors to look outside the capital for opportunities over the next 12 months. 49

25/02/2015 15:39

PARTNER PROFILE BAM

A GLOBAL LEADER IN

Operating for almost 60 years in Ireland, BAM has delivered many of the country’s flagship building and infrastructural projects and has been doing it in a socially and environmentally responsible way.

CLIMATE CHANGE

oyal BAM Group has been recognised as a global leader in tackling climate change, having been ranked on the ‘A List’ of the CDP Climate Performance Leadership Index. BAM has been recognised for its actions to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the business risks of climate change. Sponsor of the Chambers Ireland CSR Awards for the past three years, BAM Ireland is the country’s leading construction company with operations spanning the entire spectrum of construction activity, from hightech bio-pharma facilities and clean rooms to state-of-the-art iconic buildings. Operating successfully for almost 60 years and employing over 2,000 people across Ireland, BAM has delivered many of the country’s flagship building and infrastructural projects. In Ireland BAM has reduced its total CO2 emissions by 33 per cent since 2010, far exceeding its target of 10 per cent, and has played an integral part in the group’s sustainability drive with initiatives including: 50

050 InBusiness YB 2015_BAM.indd 50

• Energy management workshops, in cooperation with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, which provided training and guidance on measures to reduce energy consumption. • A fleet renewal system that replaces vehicles over five years old with low emission diesel vehicles. • Procurement of 100 per cent green electricity for BAM offices and direct supplied sites. • The implementation of improved energy measurement and recording systems including SMART meters and Building Management Systems (BMS). • Reusing all available materials including high quality rock and soils, resulting in less waste to landfill and significant fuel savings. • Participation in the Bike to Work Scheme, which almost one third of BAM Group Ireland’s workforce has joined. CDP is an international notfor-profit organisation that drives sustainable economies and provides a global system for companies and

cities to measure, disclose, manage and share vital environmental information. This information is used by institutional investors and stakeholders to evaluate and track corporate efforts to mitigate climate change. Commenting on the achievement, Theo Cullinane, CEO of BAM Ireland says: “We are very proud of our inclusion in the Climate Performance Leadership Index and the role which BAM Ireland has played in reducing our carbon footprint. Increasing our environmental awareness inspires new and innovative engineering and methodologies, which we implement across our projects. BAM has been focusing significantly on reducing our emissions since 2009 and it’s a major priority for us and our clients. Cutting edge energy-efficient solutions are used on all our projects from demanding, intensive civil engineering projects to high-tech, complex developments. We believe that our position on the CDP A list is recognition of our efforts to reduce emissions and the positive impact that we have realised so far.” 187 companies globally are registered on the Index’s A List, with information provided by nearly 2,000 listed companies InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:41

PARTNER PROFILE BAM

City Gate Park in Cork, built by BAM

independently assessed against CDP’s scoring methodology. The index has been produced at the request of 767 investors who represent more than one third of the world’s invested capital. BAM continues to deliver major social and infrastructural projects that support the development of the Irish economy, as well as large private sector projects. BAM has directly invested in PPP projects such as the Schools Bundle 3 and 4 and Newlands Cross/ N11 roadworks and is involved in many other projects across Ireland including the Clinical Research Facility and Translational Research Facility at NUI Galway, redevelopment at Ulster Hospital, Glanbia ‘Project Purple’, National Children’s Detention Centre, the Science Building refurbishment and extension at Sligo IT, and the Human Biology Building at NUI Galway. BAM is progressing a new office development at Albert Quay, Cork, which is a joint development with John Cleary Developments. This follows on from the successful delivery of the 45,000 sq m office at City Gate Park with the same developer. Internationally, BAM Ireland is active in partnership with its sister companies on projects including the New Port of Aqaba in Jordan, a new stadium and hotel development at Al Ain (UAE), the Coleraine to Derry Track Renewal in Northern Ireland and railway works in Scotland. Speaking about the future outlook, Cullinane said: “While general construction activity remains challenged, there is an increase in private sector investment particularly InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

050 InBusiness YB 2015_BAM.indd 51

Theo Cullinane, CEO of BAM

in the office sector, driven by FDI demand. Public capital spending needs to rise to a sustainable figure, as a percentage of GNP, in order to bring real stability to the industry. The PPP stimulus package of a2.2 billion now approaching construction stage offers a positive outlook and should bring more confidence within the sector. “There has been very little credit available but as we’re part of a large plc, we are able to access funds to invest in major projects and BAM Ireland is a significant player in the PPP market. We were involved in a number of large infrastructural projects during the downturn which helped to sustain the business.” BAM’s strategy is to continue to grow revenue from private sector activity, combined with public and PPP investments. “We’re very well positioned to play a major role in the construction of more offices and facilities for FDI organisations. For the past few years there has been little office building activity and there is a shortage in Dublin and Cork particularly. International companies are looking for energy efficient, open design, innovative office space and BAM has particular expertise in this area.” Sustainability is at the core of BAM’s business. The company

is a pioneer of Building Information Modelling (BIM), an innovative process which generates a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building before any concrete is even poured. This virtual, model-based approach is not just impressive technology – it improves efficiency, reduces energy consumption through design, allows our clients to experience their facilities before they are constructed, and reduces costs. Every project managed by BAM, whether small or large, benefits from this cutting-edge technology. “We live and work in a world that has finite resources and our strategy as industry leaders should be to grow our business in a responsible and sustainable way, constantly striving to strike a balance between short term objectives and long term legacy,” says Cullinane. “We believe that CSR and sustainability creates value for a business, improves efficiency, develops client and supply chain relationships, helps to attract and retain talent and improves decision making processes. We build the facilities that society needs, such as offices, hospitals, schools, retail, leisure, industrial, housing, transport services, utilities, and infrastructure. When we add to the built environment, we have a responsibility to keep our impact on society and the natural environment to a minimum.” 51

25/02/2015 15:41

PARTNER PROFILE ESB INTERNATIONAL

BRINGING BRIGHTER POSSIBILITIES TO THE WORLD

e’re extremely lucky in Ireland in that we can take a reliable and dependable electricity supply for granted. But in countless regions of the world, a consistent electricity source can only be dreamed of, and outages can be measured in months rather than hours. This is the backdrop against which ESB International was born back in 1975. Having successfully tackled the challenge of bringing electricity to communities across Ireland, ESB had a pool of available expertise that could be harnessed to support utility companies and governments around the world. ESB International’s first project was to provide training for the staff of an Egyptian utility, who travelled to Ireland to attend ESB’s training school in Portlaoise. The company’s first overseas assignment came the following year with the Bahrain State Electricity Directorate, who sought assistance with the development of Bahrain’s electricity system. 52

052 InBusiness YB 2015_ESB.indd 52

Over 50 people – engineers, accountants, technicians, instructors and managers – subsequently travelled to Bahrain with their families to share their knowledge and experience with their Bahraini counterparts. This co-operation extended across the full range of utility operations from commercial activities such as bill collection to planning and design of the distribution networks. Managing Director of ESB International, Ollie Brogan, recounts this pioneering approach with great pride, and since then the company has successfully completed projects in over 120 countries, drawing on Irish engineering experience to deliver high quality electricity supplies to clients around the world. Brogan explains the size of the challenges that the company faces by referencing a current project in Tanzania, where only 15 per cent of the population have access to the electricity network. SHARING PIONEERING VALUES As an organisation, ESB has always pushed the boundaries of technical innovation, breaking new

Four decades on from its inception, ESB International continues to support utility companies and governments around the world. ground as far back as 1927 with the development of the first-ever large scale hydroelectric power plant at Ardnacrusha, which at that time provided enough power to meet Ireland’s entire electricity demand. In response to the prosperity which electricity brought to towns and cities around Ireland, rural electrification followed. During this time ESB brought electricity to communities across Ireland – including offshore island communities – providing them with the same economic, commercial and social opportunities as the rest of the country. This process provided a blueprint which has since been replicated around the world. Today, Brogan explains, ESB International provides a wide range of services, including engineering, consultancy and management services, to help clients around the world in delivering modern, efficient and dependable energy systems which can transform the economies and the societies that they serve. The economic advantages of a 21st century energy supply speak for themselves, with increases in manufacturing output, greater InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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PARTNER PROFILE ESB INTERNATIONAL

investor confidence, and massive increases in productivity efficiencies. DRIVING SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC REVOLUTION Brogan is quick to point out that there’s also a parallel transformation in social terms. “Children can study by electric light, families can enjoy warmth and comfort, hospitals can cease from literally operating in the dark, and local communities can come to life with the added energy which ESB International help deliver,” he says. With reliable energy on tap, new technologies can be harnessed to drive social and community revolution at an even faster pace. The availability of broadband and access to the internet, for example, can only be achieved with a reliable power source. “In short”, says Brogan, “our everyday operations help narrow the gap between the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’ in our two-tier global energy society, where counties – and even regions within the same country – are separated by a vast world of opportunity and prosperity.” OPERATIONS IN PRACTICE ESB International offers services to utilities and governments spanning the entire project lifecycle, from initial audits and feasibility studies, to the specification and management of major capital projects. The starting point in all cases is to develop a deep understanding of the client’s needs, then finding the solution that works best for them, maximising value added to them and becoming co-creators in their energy strategies. Brogan stresses that this close collaboration is critical to success. “We work really closely with our global clients, and believe that this has been the key driver of spreading our business into 120 countries around the world,” he says. “And in the case of Bahrain, for example, we’ve been working with them for the past 39 years – proof positive of the power of our partnerships.” InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

052 InBusiness YB 2015_ESB.indd 53

Ollie Brogan, Managing Director, ESB International

Knowledge sharing and skills transfer are other key principles of ESB International, and the company commits to leaving client partners fully equipped to manage, maintain and improve their energy assets. And while the skills and expertise that ESB International bring to the table may be technical in nature, the vision behind it is very much a human one – to transform the lives of ordinary people and to share more equitably the opportunities that energy delivers. THE EXPERTISE LEFT BEHIND Brogan is very clear on the company’s attitude to long-term collaboration. “What has always distinguished ESB International is that we don’t simply sell a service – we work closely with clients to help them solve their unique challenges, and we work alongside them to build their skills in the energy sector over the long term. As one client summed it up, ESB International teaches, rather than lectures.” Ingenuity, invention and innovation are the building blocks on which ESB International built its international business, with an ability to find new solutions to the evermore complex challenges faced each year in myriad geographical regions of the world. According to Brogan,

“We constantly look to find newer and better ways of delivering results, and are always proactive in reframing the problem and developing the best possible outcomes.” ESB INTERNATIONAL’S FUTURE In summing up where ESB International is heading next, Brogan is clear and concise in his summation: “Knowledge sharing and skills transfer are not just part of our commercial blueprint – they are also central to our mission of empowering our clients. “Forty years is a long time in the life of a company, but for the global clients we serve, the shared leadership expertise that we leave behind and the impact of our involvement can be felt for generations after we have moved on.” 53

25/02/2015 15:43

PARTNER PROFILE ZURICH

THE CUSTOMER-FOCUSED INSURER

Risk management remains a key focus for Zurich and its customers in 2015, writes Conor Brennan, CEO of Zurich General Insurance Ireland.

nderstanding customers is the key to any business’s success. We know that the way today’s and tomorrow’s customers want to deal with us is very different to how they were looking to buy insurance ten years ago. We need to focus on getting to know our customers better, understanding what their needs are and then developing quality products and services we know they will come to us and stay with us for, even if that means paying a little more. We are so much more than a business who will pay claims when customers suffer a loss. At Zurich, we pride ourselves on working to help our customers understand and protect themselves from risks. This is of particular interest to small to medium-sized businesses. Recent research we undertook in the SME sector showed that they are

054 InBusiness YB 2015_Zurich.indd 54

Conor Brennan, CEO, Zurich General Insurance Ireland

becoming more aware of the risks they face. For example, concern about “cyber” risks has almost doubled across this sector in the past 12 months. Not surprisingly, given the increasingly extreme but still unpredictable weather events in Ireland in recent years, that same

research shows that the number of SMEs worried about the threat to their business due to natural catastrophes increased by a third. However, while businesses are becoming more aware of the risks and the potential severity of the impact of such catastrophes, there is still a lot of work to be done in ensuring they develop clear plans to address how they would deal with such threats should the worst happen. Failure to act has significant consequences beyond the obvious disruptions to the livelihoods of business owners, their employees and the customers and communities who may rely on them. Failure to prepare for and mitigate losses has an inevitable impact on claims costs, which can lead to premium increases which have a wider economic effect on the businesses themselves. I therefore believe it’s our responsibility to help customers, whatever type of insurance product InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:44

PARTNER PROFILE ZURICH

they are buying to understand their risks and implement the measures needed to minimise the potential for losses. That might mean something as simple as making sure water tanks and pipes are insulated, or, at the other end of the scale, developing comprehensive business plans, identifying risks and mitigation measures which could include support from local authorities or even national agencies. Above all, with predictions that increased frequency and severity of catastrophes is here to stay, we must develop premium models for the industry as a whole that achieve the necessary balance between immediate competitiveness and longer-term sustainability. For our customers, predictability of future pricing is as important, in many respects, as outright cost. Back to the point about ease of doing business with us, we have pioneered a number of innovative approaches, including an improved SME online quoting tool and a more easily navigated Zurich Broker Hub, along with online access to forms or documentation needed for renewals. But it’s not just about making it easier to buy insurance from us: we’ve also focused on delivering for our customers when it matters to them most – when they suffer a loss. We’re proud to say that we’re the only insurer in Ireland with a major incident claims response team, with the sole purpose of getting our customers back on their feet as quickly as possible. In a separate initiative, we’re also paying a great deal more attention to the agribusiness sector, in which we’ve grown significantly after just two years in the market. With the abolition of the milk quota system this year, the dairy industry in particular is facing a period of unprecedented opportunity. It will be important that farmers are in a position to respond to this new potential for growth and, like any business, they have the right risk InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

054 InBusiness YB 2015_Zurich.indd 55

“WE ARE

MUCH MORE THAN A BUSINESS WHO WILL PAY CLAIMS WHEN CUSTOMERS SUFFER A LOSS. AT ZURICH,

WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON WORKING

HELP OUR

CUSTOMERS UNDERSTAND AND PROTECT

THEMSELVES

FROM RISKS.”

mitigation procedures in place, including the right insurance. Today’s generation of up-andcoming agribusiness professionals are risk-aware and looking for carefully tailored, competitivelypriced insurance products and services. Given the opportunities now opening up to them worldwide – and in particular in Europe and the US – we are determined to further develop our support for this important sector within Ireland’s economy. To this end, we have widened our product portfolio and increased our activities in support of this sector – for example through increased participation at regional farm marts, the National Ploughing Championship and our sponsorship of the Farmer of the Year competition. Looking to the future, we have ambitious plans for Zurich’s business here in Ireland, in both the personal and commercial insurance space. To fuel future profitable growth, I want to keep brokers and customers at the heart of everything we do. It is this unwavering focus that has established Zurich as a provider of market-leading products and services to its customers. I firmly believe we are very good at what we do, but we are not complacent: our ongoing commitment to service excellence, which has been acknowledged in various industry award wins, remains a key priority for me as CEO. Conor Brennan was appointed CEO of Zurich General Insurance Ireland in July 2014. He joined the company in February 2008 as Director of Broker Distribution. He was also Chief Administrative Officer for a time of Zurich’s Europe, MiddleEast & Africa (EMEA) region, based in Dublin’s IFSC. Conor has a good grasp of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Ireland today, having been Deputy CEO of Chambers Ireland between 2004 and 2008 and a director of two SMEs during his business career.

ZURICH IN IRELAND Zurich Insurance is one of Ireland’s leading general insurance companies and offers a wide range of products including private motor, home and farm insurance, commercial property, business and professional indemnity insurance. Zurich Insurance employs over 400 people in Ireland across its locations in Dublin and Wexford. Zurich in Ireland is part of Zurich Insurance Group, a leading multi-line insurer that serves its customers in global and local markets. With more than 55,000 employees, it provides a wide range of general insurance and life insurance products and services. Zurich’s customers include individuals, small businesses, and mid-sized and large companies, including multinational corporations, in more than 170 countries. The group is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, where it was founded in 1872.

25/02/2015 15:44

CROKE pARK te lega e D Day te from p* p Ra

€40

With Croke park’s heritage and reputation, it’s no surprise that our conference and event centre offers visitors an unmatchable experience. With over 80 meeting rooms and 8 function suites, we’re one of Ireland’s leading event centres. Complimentary Car parking Great Value Rates Flexible Event Spaces The 4 star Croke park Hotel – City Hotel of the Year 2014 Award Winning Event Specialists to help you every step of the way

Book your next event at Croke park. Call us on 01 819 2300, email events@crokepark.ie Or visit crokepark.ie/conference-centre *Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply. Quote Business Ireland.

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19/02/2015 17:55

PARTNER PROFILE EMBASSY OF BRAZIL

BRAZIL: THE TIME IS NOW Brazil offers a vast range of exciting opportunities to potential investors and now is the perfect time to explore the market, according to Counsellor André Baker, Head of the Trade Promotion and Investment Section, Embassy of Brazil, Dublin.

he economy of Brazil has grown rapidly in recent years and now is a great time to do business with this vibrant country. The Embassy of Brazil in Dublin works hard to promote the vast range of exciting opportunities available to investors. Below are just some of the key facts you should know about this emerging market.

STABILITY Brazil’s impressive economic performance is driven by robust foreign reserves, a stable financial system and a sustainable labour market that ensures dynamic domestic demand and significant social gains. Great strides have been made in the past decade, with 20m jobs created between 2003 and 2013. This has gone a long way to reducing unemployment and social inequality.

ECONOMIC MIGHT Brazil is the seventh largest economy in the world, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$2.4 trillion, accounting for nearly half the worth of the Latin American economy. With a rapidly expanding consumer market, comprising of 201 million people, GDP has increased by 41 per cent in the years between 2003 and 2012, with wages increasing by 65 per cent and domestic retail sales by 119 per cent.

LOW RISK The Government has kept inflation relatively low, repurchased all sovereign debt originated in the 1990s, improved the risk profile of its government bonds and substantially increased the level of foreign reserves. The Central Bank currently has over US$378 billion in international reserves, which can be used to address any turbulence in the financial markets.

LOCATION Ideally located in central and eastern South America and sharing a border with most South American countries, companies can easily access both Latin American and African markets. InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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Logistics Investment Programme, which aims to modernise the country’s infrastructure. In recent years, the country’s demand for transport infrastructure has increased sharply. For example, air traffic grew by 182.5 per cent from 2002 to 2012. The Brazilian Government will promote concession auctions for large transport projects, such as highways (7,500 km), railways (10,000 km), airports and ports. This programme will also include a concession auction for the operation of the first high-speed railway in Brazil. If you would like to learn more about Brazil and its business and investment opportunities, contact the Embassy of Brazil in Dublin’s Trade Promotion and Investment Section (secom.dublin@itamaraty.gov.br) and visit www.brasilexport.gov.br.

INVESTMENT Brazil is at the onset of a new investment cycle, based on concessions, private financing and the participation of banks and investment funds. In 2012, the Brazilian government launched the 57

25/02/2015 15:45

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Contact us for a quote today on 01 960 7216 or email Corporate@GloHealth.ie GloHealth Financial Services Ltd trading as GloHealth is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. GloHealth health insurance policies are underwritten by Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK) Plc. Great Lakes Reinsurance (UK) Plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Terms and conditions apply. GLO-70049-14_Rev1

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19/02/2015 17:54

CSR AWARDS WINNERS 2014

BEST IN Class CSR The eleventh Chambers Ireland CSR Awards showed how companies and their employees continue to get ever more creative to run their businesses in a sustainable and responsible way.

arks and Spencer Ireland won the Outstanding Achievement in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award at the 2014 Chambers Ireland CSR Awards, held in Dublin on September 18th. The judging panel selected Marks and Spencer Ireland for the sustained excellence of their CSR programmes. The eleventh annual awards were partnered by Business in the Community Ireland, run in association with the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government and kindly sponsored by BAM Group Ireland and the Environmental Protection Agency. Each winner was presented with a specially

commissioned trophy designed by Tipperary Crystal. Speaking at the event, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland, said: “Every year we need to come up with new superlatives to describe the dedication and commitment shown by Irish businesses as they embrace CSR. Companies and their employees continue to get ever more creative to run their businesses in a sustainable way and consider their impact on the local community, the environment and their stakeholders. We are privileged to have the opportunity to recognise the best Irish companies have to offer as they embrace CSR.”

OTHER AWARDS PRESENTED ON THE NIGHT EXCELLENCE IN INTERNATIONAL CSR n Arthur Cox The Zambia Project EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENT - LIC Sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency n ESB - Ardnacrusha Station Sustainable Generation Initiative EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENT - MNC (Joint Winners) Sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency n AbbVie Ireland - AbbVie Ireland Operations Reducing, Reusing and Recycling n Abbott Ireland - Abbott Ireland’s Waste, Water & Energy Programme (2009-2013) EXCELLENCE IN CSR BY AN SME n The Carmabola Ltd - Carambola Kidz Foundation-sponsored Library at St Thomas’ SNS, Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin EXCELLENCE IN CSR COMMUNICATION n Intel - Stakeholder Communications project

059 InBusiness YB 2015_CSR.indd 59

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERING - LIC n A&L Goodbody Volunteering for Step Up – A&L Goodbody’s Community Programme EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERING - MNC n Oracle - Leadership in Society (LIS) EXCELLENCE IN WORKPLACE - LIC n ESB - Positive Mental Health Promotion among ESB Staff EXCELLENCE IN WORKPLACE - MNC n Enterprise Rent-A-Car Enterprise Founding Values - Workplace Diversity and Inclusion EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP WITH CHARITY - LIC n eircom - eircom & Special Olympics Ireland (SOI) The Partnership

n Lidl Ireland - Lidl and Crosscare – Partnering to create Ireland’s first structured food donation programme

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP WITH CHARITY - MNC

n Abbott Ireland - Abbott Nutrition Hospital to Home programme

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

n Citi - Access Outreach Programmes at UCD Access Centre and DCU Access Office

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY - COMMUNITY PROGRAMME - LIC

EXCELLENCE IN MARKETPLACE CSR

Marks & Spencer, Winner of Outstanding Achievement in CSR

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY - COMMUNITY PROGRAMME - MNC

n Vodafone - Vodafone Ireland & Young Social Innovators ‘Go Do’ Partnership

*LIC: Large Indigenous Company | *MNC: Multinational Company

25/02/2015 15:47

CSR AWARDS WINNERS 2014

EXCELLENCE IN INTERNATIONAL CSR: ARTHUR COX

for their Zambia Project

The Zambia Project is a trainee pioneered initiative designed to raise standards of living in rural regions of Zambia, by developing and investing in health, agriculture and education infrastructure, hand in hand with local communities. The project transformed one of the most dilapidated rural health clinics in south western Zambia into the leading rural clinic.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Amelia Walsh, Associate, Arthur Cox; Conor McDonnell, Partner, Arthur Cox; Ryan Ferry, Associate, Arthur Cox and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENT AWARD – MULTINATIONAL COMPANY – JOINT WINNER: ABBOTT IRELAND

Abbott Ireland is deeply committed to positively influencing the environment and communities in which they work. Safeguarding the Environment is a key strategic priority for Abbott which is led by their EHS teams. They continuously strive for improvement, seeking additional reductions in water, waste and energy.

for their Waste, Water & Energy Programme (2009-2013)

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Alan McGovern – Site Director, Abbott Ireland Nutrition Division, Cootehill; Pat McLoughlin, Operations Director, Abbott Ireland Vascular Division, Clonmel; Nigel Hickey, EHS Coordinator, Abbott Ireland Vascular Division, Clonmel; Veronica Reilly – EHS Manager, Abbott Ireland Diagnostic Division, Longford; Aoife Conway, EHS Manager, Abbott Ireland Diagnostic Division, Sligo; Karen Craig, EHS Coordinator, Abbott Ireland Diagnostic Division, Sligo; Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government; and Shane Colgan, Environmental Protection Agency.

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EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENT AWARD – LARGE INDIGENOUS COMPANY : ESB

for Ardnacrusha Station Sustainable Generation Initiative

Ardnacrusha station, Ireland’s first hydrogeneration station has changed how it manages its scheduling of energy generation, with consequent achievements in terms of efficient water usage and offsetting of Ireland’s CO2 emissions. The changes have also improved station performance and positively impacted on ESB’s renewable energy output.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Alan Bane, Senan Colleran, Billy Condon, ESB Generation and Wholesale Markets; Shane Colgan, Environmental Protection Agency and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

EXCELLENCE IN ENVIRONMENT AWARD – MULTINATIONAL COMPANY – JOINT WINNER: ABBVIE IRELAND

AbbVie’s environmental health initiatives in Cork and Sligo are based on three principles – reduce, reuse and recycle. The company implemented cutting edge waste and energy management technologies to stand by its corporate responsibility to people, communities and the environment.

for AbbVie Ireland Operations - Reducing, Reusing and Recycling

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Justin Ryan, Mairead Dunne, Michael Tuohy, Emmet Wrafter, AbbVie Ireland; Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government; and Shane Colgan, Environmental Protection Agency.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:47

CSR AWARDS WINNERS 2014

EXCELLENCE IN WORKPLACE CSR AWARD – LARGE INDIGENOUS COMPANY : ESB for Positive Mental Health Promotion among ESB Staff

Positive mental health promotion among staff is a key priority for the health and wellbeing team within ESB. To that end, a range of supports have been developed to encourage self-awareness, develop coping strategies and, where necessary, provide access to more acute intervention routes.

Enterprise Founding Values – Workplace Diversity and Inclusion

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Louise Murphy, Martina Mannix, Kathleen McDonnell, ESB Health & Wellbeing; and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

EXCELLENCE IN CSR BY AN SME AWARD: THE CARAMBOLA LTD for the Carambola

Kidz Foundation sponsored Library at St Thomas’ SNS, Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin

Carambola Kidz Foundation, the charitable arm of Carambola.ie – Ireland’s leading supplier of bespoke healthy school lunches to disadvantaged schools – provided the seed capital and formed a team that helped create a library in St Thomas’s Senior National School in Jobstown, Tallaght, Co Dublin. The library, formerly a dowdy computer room, was transformed into a bright, colourful space.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Eithne O’Shea, Principal of St Thomas SNS; Jean Webster, Libraries Consultant; Audrey Hennessy, Carambola Dublin; Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government; and Colm O’Brien, Founder and MD, Carambola.ie.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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EXCELLENCE IN WORKPLACE CSR AWARD – MULTINATIONAL COMPANY : ENTERPRISE RENT-A-CAR for

Enterprise Rent-A-Car has followed a simple philosophy for more than 50 years – put your customers and employees first and business success will inevitably follow. Workplace diversity and inclusion is central to this philosophy and Enterprise is fully committed to creating a diverse and culturally aware workforce and a culturally competent organisation that mirrors the makeup of the communities it serves.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Leslee O’Loughlin, Group Human Resource Manager, Enterprise RentA-Car; George O’Connor, Managing Director, Enterprise Rent-A-Car; and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNICATION AWARD: INTEL for their

Stakeholder Communications project

Communication is intrinsic to all of Intel Ireland’s corporate responsibility activities. It allows the company to maintain an open dialogue with stakeholders which is fundamental to building positive and constructive relationships within the community and beyond.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Lisa Harlow, External Relations Manager, Intel Ireland; Sarah Sexton, Communications Manager, Intel Ireland and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

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CSR AWARDS WINNERS 2014

EXCELLENCE IN MARKETPLACE CSR AWARD: ABBOTT IRELAND for Abbott Nutrition Hospital to Home programme

The Abbott Nutrition Hospital to Home service was first established in 1998. This free service offers comprehensive bespoke education and support services for health care professionals (HCPS), careers and patients to support the transition of tube fed, vulnerable patients from hospital back to the community.

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY – PARTNERSHIP WITH CHARITY – LARGE INDIGENOUS COMPANY: EIRCOM for eircom &

Special Olympics Ireland (SOI) - The Partnership

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Bindu Nair, Senior Product Manager, Abbott Nutrition Ireland; Fiona Burke, Abbott Nutrition Ireland, Country Manager and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY – PARTNERSHIP WITH CHARITY – MULTINATIONAL COMPANY: VODAFONE

for Vodafone Ireland & Young Social Innovators ‘Go Do’ Partnership

The Vodafone Ireland Foundation believes in the power of the young people of Ireland to bring about change in their communities and wider society. In choosing Young Social Innovators as a strategic CSR partner, the company set the challenge of engaging 100,000 young social innovators by 2015 – students who have grown up in the midst of a recession.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Natalie Hodgess, Manager, Vodafone Foundation; Rachel Collier, CEO, Young Social Innovators; Sarah Pritchard, Marketing Communications Manager, Vodafone and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

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The latest eircom agreement with SOI is a four year contract, which covers all the support and assistance eircom give to SOI, leading up to and including the World Games taking place in Los Angeles in 2015. At its simplest, eircom supports OSI in four principal ways: An annual financial contribution, technical support, marketing support for initiatives throughout the year and employee engagement and volunteering.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Carolan Lennon, MD, eircom Wholesale; Sarah Boyne, Special Olympics Volunteer; Pamela Kavanagh, Special Olympics Ireland; Glenda Wright, Special Olympics Ireland and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY – VOLUNTEERING – LARGE INDIGENOUS COMPANY: A&L GOODBODY

for Volunteering for Step Up – A&L Goodbody’s Community Programme

Step Up gives everyone at A&L Goodbody an opportunity to make a difference in the local community. To achieve this, A&L created a number of community programmes in key focus areas; education, enterprise, and pro bono. The firm is also heavily involved in the organisation of the Calcutta Run, a legal fundraiser in aid of Peter McVerry Trust and GOAL.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Sinéad Smith, Corporate Responsibility Manager, A&L Goodbody; and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:47

CSR AWARDS WINNERS 2014

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY – VOLUNTEERING – MULTINATIONAL COMPANY: ORACLE for Leadership in Society (LIS)

Oracle’s Leadership in Society (LIS) programme is committed to using its technology and resources to advance education in innovative ways, protect the environment, promote diversity and enrich community life. This programme supports employee volunteerism and works in partnership with non-profit organisations.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Patrick Nwaokorie, Community, Social & Sports Leader, Oracle Ireland; Conor Gleeson, V.P., Oracle Direct; Ronnie Kane, Sales Director, Oracle Direct and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY – COMMUNITY PROGRAMME – MULTINATIONAL COMPANY: CITI or Access Outreach

The Citi Foundation funds two innovative outreach programmes for the access services at UCD and DCU. The Access service in third level colleges aims to empower and support students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds to progress to third level.

Programmes at UCD Access Centre and DCU Access Office

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Colin Moreland, Treasurer & Country Head, Treasury and Trade Solutions, Citi; Tara O’Reilly, Public Affairs Officer, Citi; and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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EXCELLENCE IN COMMUNITY – COMMUNITY PROGRAMME – LARGE INDIGENOUS COMPANY: LIDL IRELAND for Lidl

and Crosscare – Partnering to create Ireland’s first structured food donation programme Diversity and Inclusion

There is a huge focus on food poverty in Ireland with over 10 per cent of people affected. As a retailer, Lidl has a substantial amount of food waste due to the high quality standards they have in place for fresh goods. To this end, they saw an opportunity to partner with a mobile food bank who would collect surplus food and non-food product and distribute to charities working with those most in need.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Caitriona McCarry, Senior Communications Manager, Lidl Ireland; Michael McDonagh, Senior Manager, Crosscare; Aoife Clarke, Head of Communications, Lidl Ireland and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: MARKS AND SPENCER IRELAND

Marks and Spencer Ireland took home the award for Outstanding Achievement in CSR at the 2014 awards for their continued commitment to sustainability at all levels of the business. All encompassing programmes such as ‘Plan A’ have been the hallmark of Marks and Spencer’s CSR strategy over the last number of years.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Carmel Breheny, Marketing Manager, Marks & Spencer Ireland; Peggie Moore, Plan A Champion & Marks & Spencer Dundrum Store Manager; Theo Cullinane, Chief Executive, BAM Group Ireland; Liz Yeates, Director of Public Affairs, Marie Keating Foundation and Alan Kelly, Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government.

25/02/2015 15:47

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24/02/2015 15:28

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AWARDS

LOCAL

WINNERS 2014

LEADERS RECOGNISED

LIMERICK CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL SCOOPS TOP ACCOLADE AT THE 2014 EXCELLENCE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AWARDS. Limerick City and County Council received the overall Excellence in Local Government Award 2014 last November. They also scooped another two awards for their Smarter Travel sponsored by AECOM and Local Authority Innovations sponsored by AIB for Limerick County and City Council merging together, creating a new agile public governance model. Speaking during the event, Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive said: “While 2014 has been a year of hugely challenging change and transformation for local Government, local authorities have embraced this opportunity to innovate and develop new approaches to sustaining and supporting their communities. It is an honour for us to host these awards and recognise the hard work that goes on at the heart of our communities on a daily basis. I want to congratulate not just the winners and shortlisted organisations, but just as importantly, the people who made all these projects and activities happen.”

THE WINNERS Local Authority of the Year sponsored by AECOM Limerick City and County Council Supporting Active Communities sponsored by EirGrid Wexford County Council - On Our Own Ground: Wexford’s Treasures, Parish by Parish Joint Local Authority Initiative sponsored by Zurich Fingal County Council National Building Control Management System (BCMS) Smarter Travel sponsored by AECOM Limerick City and County Council - Limerick Smarter Travel Supporting Tourism sponsored by Fáilte Ireland Galway County Council - Stone Wall Workshop Féile na gCloch, Inis Oírr

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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Supporting the Local Economy sponsored by EirGrid Cork County Council ‘Taste Cork’ Regional Food Marketing Initiative Health & Wellbeing sponsored by Healthy Ireland Cork City Council Functional Zone @ LeisureWorld Sustainable Environment sponsored by the European Recycling Platform Cavan County Council - Citizen Engagement Strategy for the Domestic Wastewater Assessments (DWWA)

Best Library Service sponsored by CBRE Mayo County Council Mayo Musical Instrument Lending Scheme

Local Authority Innovation sponsored by AIB Limerick City and County Council Creating a new agile public governance model through the merger of Limerick City Council and Limerick County Council

Best Practice in Citizen Engagement sponsored by ESB Waterford County Council - Waterford County Comhairle na nÓg

Sustaining the Arts sponsored by An Post Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council - Musical Memories

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LOCAL GOVERNMENT AWARDS WINNERS 2014 Just a few months after they officially merged to form one local authority, Limerick City and County Council took home the award for Local Authority of the Year for all the behind the scenes work undertaken in preparation for this change. Limerick City and County Council can be held up as an example of a very successful merger, a template which should be followed by all merging local authorities. During this time, the council continued to uphold high levels of service as evidenced by their win in the Smart Travel category.

LOCAL AUTHORITY BEST PRACTICE OF THE YEAR: IN CITIZEN LIMERICK CITY ENGAGEMENT: AND COUNTY WATERFORD COUNCIL COUNTY COUNCIL SPONSORED BY AECOM

Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland; Conn Murray, Chief Executive of Limerick City and County Council; Cllr Kevin Sheahan, Mayor of Limerick City and County Council; Elaine Brick, Associate Director, AECOM; Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Alan Kelly, TD.

SUPPORTING BEST PRACTICE ACTIVE IN CITIZEN COMMUNITIES: ENGAGEMENT: WEXFORD COUNTY WATERFORD COUNCIL COUNTY COUNCIL SPONSORED BY EIRGRID

Communities throughout County Wexford’s 47 parishes have worked together to produce a comprehensive record of local man-made and natural places of interest, parish by parish. The resulting resource is informing every aspect of local development. Co-ordinated by Wexford County Council’s public libraries service, parish boundaries have been agreed and drawn; maps have been produced electronically and distributed locally on A3 sheets. Places and features of interest have been located, identified, photographed and described. The project template is structured to offer access to information common to all parishes. To date, 18 full and five part-parishes are published in a book. Each parish also has its own off-print ‘chapter’ in magazine form. Two more volumes are planned. This total resource is also being made available electronically via website, social media, smartphone and QR code technology.

JOINT LOCAL BEST PRACTICE AUTHORITY IN CITIZEN INITIATIVE: ENGAGEMENT: FINGAL COUNTY WATERFORD COUNCIL COUNTY COUNCIL SPONSORED BY ZURICH

Ian Talbot, CEO, Chambers Ireland; Cllr Anthony Lavin; Mags Murray, County Mayor; Gerry Fitzpatrick, Zurich Insurances; Mairéad Phelan, Fingal CoCo; Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Alan Kelly, TD; Paul Read, Chief Executive, Fingal CoCo Cllr Grainne Maguire; Ted Leddy, Deputy County Manager.

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Fingal County Council and the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) jointly launched an online National Building Control Management System (BCMS). The BCMS represents the first local government service designed

and built through the collaboration of a number of local authorities and the LGMA. The project also involved the collaboration with professional bodies in the building industry, such as the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland, Engineers Ireland and the Construction Industry Federation. It provides architects (designers), surveyors and building owners with a facility to record and upload commencement notices, seven-day notices and supporting documentation. Over 80 per cent of new building notifications have been made to local authorities in a completely electronic format since its launch.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:53

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AWARDS WINNERS 2014

SMARTER TRAVEL: BEST PRACTICE IN CITIZENCITY AND LIMERICK ENGAGEMENT: COUNTY COUNCIL WATERFORD SPONSORED BY AECOM COUNTY COUNCIL

SUPPORTING BEST PRACTICE IN CITIZEN TOURISM: ENGAGEMENT: GALWAY COUNTY WATERFORD COUNCIL COUNTY COUNCIL SPONSORED BY FÁILTE IRELAND

BEST LIBRARY PRACTICE IN CITIZEN SERVICE: ENGAGEMENT: MAYO COUNTY WATERFORD COUNCIL COUNTY SPONSOREDCOUNCIL BY CBRE

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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The Limerick Smarter Travel bid was a joint initiative by Limerick City Council and Limerick County Council in partnership with the University of Limerick. The main objective of the Limerick Smarter Travel (LST) Project is to connect the four key hubs of Limerick City and suburbs by the development and promotion of sustainable modes of transport for those living, working and studying in these areas. Mobility within and between hubs is hugely dependent on the car as the primary mode of transport. The LST initiative hopes to get people from these hubs travelling in a more sustainable manner, by encouraging modal shift, which is possible with investment in alternative modes of transport and supporting infrastructure developments. The initiative is as much about behavioural change as it is infrastructural by working with campuses, schools, workplaces and communities to encourage and promote sustainable travel planning.

Féile na gCloch workshop is an annual event held at Inis Oírr on the fourth weekend of September. The event attracts 65 participants from all over the world. The numerous workshops held include a stone wall workshop, stone carving and stone lettering workshops. These events showcase an insight into how the soil was made on the island, how the walls are made and managed and their importance in the everyday life of the island for shelter, crops, animals and the homes of the island. The aim of this project is to create a sustainable heritage tourism initiative in partnership with the local community. With this project, participants receive a unique living heritage experience by engaging directly with local people and experts from across the world. Participants are able get an insight into how life was lived in the past and how life is lived now on the island.

The project allows any citizen of County Mayo, aged 18 or under, to borrow a musical instrument from any library in the county. The Mayo Musical Instrument Lending Scheme involved the establishment of a county wide instrument bank of over 400 instruments which can be borrowed through the county library service. The borrower simply pays a refundable deposit and a small rental fee and can then borrow an instrument for a six-month period. The project began in June 2013 and to date demand has exceeded supply for many instruments. The project also set up major music resources in Mayo’s two main towns, Ballina and Castlebar. These comprise instruction books, scores, DVDs, CDs and software on all aspects of music, from how to play to the history of the various genres of music. Access to these resources are available to all library branches in the county through the library inter lending scheme.

25/02/2015 15:53

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AWARDS WINNERS 2014

BEST PRACTICE IN CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT: WATERFORD COUNTY COUNCIL SPONSORED BY ESB

SUPPORTING THE BEST PRACTICE IN CITIZEN LOCAL ECONOMY: ENGAGEMENT: CORK COUNTY WATERFORD COUNCIL COUNTY COUNCIL

SPONSORED BY AIB

Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland; Mihai Bilauca, Limerick City and County Council; Cllr Kevin Sheahan, Mayor of Limerick City and County; Annette O’Donoghue, Head of SME Market Engagement, AIB; Brian Kennedy, Limerick City and County Council; Conn Murray, Chief Executive, LCCC; Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government, Alan Kelly, TD; Carmel Kirby, Limerick City and County Council.

Limerick City and County Council are creating a new active public governance model to provide opportunity for public sector innovation, through the merger of Limerick City Council and Limerick County Council. They are not just merging

SUSTAINING THE BEST PRACTICE IN CITIZEN ARTS: ENGAGEMENT: DUN LAOGHAIRE WATERFORDCOUNTY RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCILCOUNCIL SPONSORED BY AN POST Ian Talbot, CEO, Chambers Ireland; Kenneth Redmond, County Arts Officer, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council; Angus Laverty, Director of Public Affairs, An Post; Cllr Marie Baker, Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council; Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government Alan Kelly.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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The Musical Memories choirs are open to all older people but are specifically supportive and welcoming to people affected by dementia. They are led by a professional choral director and take place on a weekly basis in community settings.

than ‘good’ status and maintaining water quality that is given a ‘good’ and ‘high’ status is the overall environmental strategy in terms of water quality for Cavan County Council. Projects and campaigns such as this citizen engagement strategy highlight the importance of having a properly functioning system which is regularly maintained. The more systems that are working correctly and are maintained regularly, the greater the likelihood of Cavan County Council achieving the targets set out in the Water Framework Directive. To date, 93 per cent of systems have been registered in County Cavan.

but creating a new organisation for local government using an innovative portfolio that will change the design and delivery of local government services for the future. The strategic objectives of this merger include: empowering the citizen to participate in the development of their community both rural and urban, a new model of local governance and service delivery, and an environment for real economic development and job creation. The overall aim seeks to support the people of Limerick with a professional, proactive and accessible local government structure that is at the centre of a wider public service.

The project is managed and funded by the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s/HSE Arts and Health Partnership and the Living Well with Dementia Project – Stillorgan/Blackrock. The main purpose of the choirs is to give people an opportunity to come together in a relaxed environment and mix socially through music. Music and singing help to lift mood, provide cognitive stimulation and support social interaction. The choirs are open to all older people. Family members and carers are encouraged to stay and are supported by a group of volunteers. Choir members and volunteers are from the local community and are sited in two community settings.

25/02/2015 15:53

IB SURVEY INTEL IRELAND

Intel IN IRELAND It’s what’s inside that counts at Intel Ireland.

reland is Intel’s centre of manufacturing excellence in Europe. Since 1989, Intel has invested $12.5 billion, turning 360 acres of the Collinstown Industrial Park into the most advanced industrial campus in Europe. Over the past two decades Intel in Ireland has come to represent a diversity of activities across the spectrum of Intel business from advanced manufacturing to cutting edge research and design. Today, Intel has 5,200 employees across the island of Ireland. Over 4,500 of Intel’s Irish workforce are based at the highvolume, advanced manufacturing facilities in Leixlip, Co Kildare, which is currently preparing to produce 14nm process technology with full production beginning this year. This space has been operational since the early 1990s, and has produced a number of process technologies since.

INTEL SHANNON Since its beginning in 2000, Shannon has been a core European R&D site for Intel’s Communications and Intelligent Systems businesses. These businesses are quickly evolving from fixed function and isolated embedded applications towards new categories like intelligent systems and software defined infrastructure (SDI). The three main focus areas on the Shannon campus are the Communications and Storage Infrastructure group, the Automotive Solutions Division and the Retail Solutions Division. The Shannon campus itself comprises two buildings and accommodates a current population of approximately 250 employees.

INTEL BELFAST A further 100 people are employed at Intel Belfast which, following the acquisition by Intel in 2013 of leading Northern Ireland company

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Aepona, has become a centre of excellence for the Network Products and Services group. The team at Intel Belfast has built a market-leading API Monetisation Platform (AMP) that is used by many of the world’s leading communications service providers (CSPs) to drive innovation, create new services and monetise their significant network resources.

OTHER INTEL OPERATIONS IN IRELAND Other Intel operations in Ireland include McAfee, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Intel and which has had significant operations in Cork since 2004 where today it employs 347 people. Dublin headquartered games technologies company Havok is also an Intel company with 120 employees who are focussed on servicing the most demanding technical requirements for leading customers in the commercial games and entertainment industry.

RESEARCH IS AT THE HEART OF INTEL IRELAND The core of advanced manufacturing capability which Intel has developed in Ireland is a key enabler for numerous research and development initiatives that are carried out across the country. There is a dedicated team of employees involved in Silicon Nanoelectronics Research who collaborate extensively with

research institutes such as the CRANN Nanoscience Research Centre in Trinity College Dublin and the Tyndall National Research Institute in Cork. The team also collaborates with universities and other companies from across Ireland and Europe. Also located at the Leixlip campus is the Innovation Open Lab – Ireland. The lab is home to a research team which facilitates and engages in open research and innovation opportunities in Europe that can ultimately lead to value-driven technology solutions. The lab, which is a member and network leader of Intel Labs Europe, is focused on energy and sustainability, and dependable cloud and services research.

A DESIGN HUB FOR THE INTERNET OF THINGS In September 2013, Intel announced a new family of products called Quark, designed for the Internet of Things (IoT) and Wearable computing space. In October the first Quark solution was launched, called Galileo, targeted at education and maker communities. In November Quark based solutions were announced for IoT in industry, energy and transportation. These technologies were designed in Ireland by a team of 70 people based at the Leixlip campus. The Leixlip team continues to grow playing an integral role in both Intel’s Quark Solutions division and Internet of Things group. InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 15:57

IB SURVEY CCPC

New Era, NEW MISSION Having been established last October, the newly formed Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has already set about its task of enforcing consumer and competition law.

he Competition and Consumer Protection Commission was established on 31 October 2014 following the amalgamation of the Competition Authority and the National Consumer Agency. The Commission has a dual mandate to enforce competition and consumer protection law. The Commission’s vision is for open and competitive markets where consumers are protected and empowered and businesses actively compete.

POWERS The Commission has a broad remit which includes: • Investigating and challenging practices that are damaging to consumers and/or the wider economy. • Bringing anti-competitive behaviour and practices that are harmful to consumers to an end, where necessary via court actions. • Providing information to consumers to help them make informed decisions. We have a specific role in this regard relating to financial services. • Examining certain mergers and acquisitions to ensure that there is not a substantial lessening of competition in Ireland. • Advising policy-makers in relation to consumer protection and competition matters • Promoting compliance with a new regulatory regime in the grocery sector aimed at ensuring balance and transparency in commercial relationships. • Responsibility for market surveillance in relation to the safety of products InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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covered by a number of EU Directives. We have responsibility for monitoring and processing non-food product recalls in Ireland. In addition to retaining the responsibilities and powers of the legacy organisation, our enforcement powers in respect of serious competition offences, such as price-fixing or bid-rigging, have been strengthened. We will also be responsible for ensuring compliance with new regulations in the grocery sector which are aimed at ensuring balance and predictability in the relationships among the various parties operating in this sector. New merger control procedures will enable us to focus more on transactions which have an impact on competition within the State.

RESEARCH One of the first pieces of work the Commission undertook was a comprehensive study of consumer detriment in Ireland. The insights revealed in this study together with the intelligence we gain from consumers who contact our helpline and from our other sources of information give us an economy-wide understanding of the problems faced by consumers in Ireland. The results of this study will be used to help us to allocate our resources in 2015 to those areas most in need of our attention and our focus will be on mitigating the greatest amount of detriment over the long term. The Commission listens to the concerns of business and supports them in complying with consumer

Isolde Goggin, Chairperson, Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

The Commission listens to the concerns of business and supports them in complying with consumer and competition law. and competition law. As part of this, at the end of 2014 the Commission published new guidelines to help SMEs understand, in practical terms, how they can come together to form consortia to bid for contracts, without falling foul of competition law. For more information on the work of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission see www.ccpc.ie. We also have a dedicated consumer information site www.consumerhelp.ie or consumers can call our helpline on 1890 432 432.

25/02/2015 15:58

FĂĄilte Ireland â&#x20AC;&#x201C; partnering with businesses and communities along the Wild Atlantic Way to grow tourism in a sustainable manner.

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24/02/2015 14:23

IB SURVEY FÁILTE IRELAND

The Route TO SUCCESS We spoke with Fiona Monaghan, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Wild Atlantic Way, to discuss the success and impact of the Wild Atlantic Way. Q: Did the Wild Atlantic Way initiative have its intended impact in 2014?

A: The impact was very significant and far greater than we had anticipated for year one. The big achievement in 2014 was firstly the signing of the coastal route but more importantly the positive levels of engagement by communities and tourism businesses with the project. The long term success of the Wild Atlantic Way will come having engaged with enthusiastic communities and tourism businesses who will bring it to life for visitors. I think it’s been a big welcome addition and an opportunity for the whole of the west coast to work together under one singular marketing umbrella, to be able to put the west of Ireland in the international shop window as a must-see visitor destination. Q: As we move further into 2015, what’s the next step in the process?

A: We’re very adamant to get the point across that 2014 was just the start, year one of a long term strategic project. The programme for this year is to start sharing the stories of the Wild Atlantic Way and bringing them to life. That will be done

through an interpretation and branding programme at all of the 188 discovery points along the west coast. Of those 188, 15 have been elevated as signature discovery points, where there is a big story to tell, or a very dramatic landscape, and we are looking to develop those. In addition, we are looking to work with the tourism businesses and the communities to develop what we’re calling hero tourism experiences, or signature tourism experiences that will encourage people to visit different parts of the Wild Atlantic Way.

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Q: The Wild Atlantic Way has received award recognition over the past few months, including the InBusiness Editor’s Choice award for Best Tourist Attraction, and the LAMA National Impact Award. Is this proof for you that the Wild Atlantic Way is on the right track?

A: Absolutely. We were somewhat taken by surprise but we were deeply pleased to receive these awards, to acknowledge that the project is being embraced, and that it has the potential to become a significant

economic driver for businesses in the west of Ireland.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

A: The big message is that firstly, it’s way more than 2,500km of a driving route, it’s about a mechanism with which to encourage overseas visitors to engage with the people, the communities, the landscape and the heritage of the west of Ireland. Secondly, it wasn’t just about 2014, it’s a long term development project and 2014 was just the very first year.

25/02/2015 15:59

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IB SURVEY EVERSHEDS

DATA PROTECTION

IN 2015

As the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has had its funding doubled for 2015, on what areas do we expect to see the new commissioner concentrating and what can business owners do to prepare? Kate Colleary, privacy expert and head of the Intellectual Property and Data Protection Groups with Eversheds solicitors, looks into her crystal ball for the year ahead.

he first ‘hot topic’ for 2015 must be surveillance: following the Snowden revelations about the widespread surveillance of citizens by national authorities, the Commissioner has said publicly that surveillance is an issue that should be addressed by legislation. Currently it does not fall neatly within the scope of the European Data Protection Directive and it is arguable that it should. This will be a matter for political discussion at European level, perhaps as part of the discussions surrounding the draft Data Protection Regulation.

EVERSHEDS & DATA PROTECTION

Kate Colleary, privacy expert and head of the Intellectual Property and Data Protection Groups with Eversheds

DRAFT DATA PROTECTION REGULATION

AUDITS

The draft Data Protection Regulation has been a topic of discussion for the past number of years. The most recent amended proposal moves away from the idea of a ‘one stop shop’ where one regulator regulates all EUwide activity for companies who are established in that state. The current proposal instead suggests that a lead regulator’s decision must be accepted by all EU data protection regulators. If a unanimous position cannot be agreed, any EU State could exercise a veto on the decision. The issue would then be referred to a European data protection board, which would deliver a final decision. This seems to depart significantly from the ‘one stop shop’ principle that was one of the key issues that the draft Regulation sought to address. Further discussion on this is likely in 2015 with a final draft of the Regulation slated for Q4 2015/Q1 2016.

The ODPC’s increased funding is likely to result in more data protection audits across the business spectrum. While we have read about the high profile audit of Facebook, the ODPC also carries out audits on SMEs, public bodies and businesses generally. The Commissioner has indicated that she will be using her increased resources to continue with her audits of social media companies based in Ireland, such as Yahoo. I also anticipate that she will increase audits across the board, with indigenous Irish companies also being targeted. It is a good idea for businesses to carry out an annual internal data protection review so that any issues can be dealt with by the company before an ODPC audit. I am happy to share a ‘Data Protection – Annual Review’ checklist with readers of InBUSINESS. For a copy, please contact me using the details on the right.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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Kate Colleary heads up Eversheds’ data protection group. She is a consultant to the Law Society where she lectures on intellectual property, technology and media law. She has spoken on privacy matters at client seminars, conferences and on national radio. Kate provides specialised advice on a wide range of data protection issues, with a strong focus on finding practical solutions. Her clients include public and private sector bodies, IT companies, financial institutions, private companies, pension funds and insurance companies. Most recently she has, in conjunction with our offices throughout Europe, conducted a pan-European review of data protection policies and notifications for one of the world’s largest banks. Chambers Europe describes Kate as “technically outstanding” and ”tenacious with a great business understanding”. Legal 500 describes Kate as “a consummate professional” and “very pragmatic, informal but as clever as you can imagine.” To contact Kate, email katecolleary@eversheds.ie, phone 086 242 0455, on Twitter: @maddenista or LinkedIn: ie.linkedin.com/in/katecolleary

25/02/2015 15:59

Know Quality When You See It Quality in education and training is no abstract concept. Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) promotes the continuous enhancement of quality in Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s further and higher education and training system and its qualifications, enabling learners and other stakeholders to know quality when they see it.

www.QQI.ie Quality for all to see

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IB SURVEY QQI

Promoting the Enhancement

OF QUALITY EDUCATION Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) is calling on employers to engage more with the education sector. Barbara Kelly, Head of Industry and External Partnerships at QQI tells InBUSINESS how the new body plans to help with bridging the existing gap.

QI was established in 2012 in response to the need for a more unified approach to quality assurance and qualifications in further and higher education and training in Ireland. This saw the amalgamation of four organisations – the Further Education and Training Council (FETAC), the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC), the Irish Universities Quality Board (IUQB) and the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI). QQI has also been given the additional function of authorising the use of an International Education Mark (IEM) for education providers. Comprising around 80 staff members, QQI is an independent state agency body responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of quality assurance in further and higher education – this covers anything from universities to the education and training boards (formerly VECs). Mainstream primary and secondary schools are the only bodies excluded. QQI aims to be learner-centred and to focus on the quality of the qualifications they receive, ensuring that where they are vocationallyoriented, they meet the student’s needs. The focus for these qualifications is on employability and with this in mind, the new body sets out to collaborate with all stakeholders for the improvement of the system – from learners and programme providers to employers. Barbara Kelly is Head of Industry and External Partnerships at QQI. Prior to the establishment of QQI, it was recognised that while higher and InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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Barbara Kelly, Head of Industry and External Partnerships, QQI

further education are the meeting point between education and employment, a gap existed. Namely, employers had little engagement with, and input into, the current education system. Subsequently, Kelly’s role was created in an effort to get employers more engaged in developing occupational and award standards, to better inform them about the system and to make that information more accessible. “What employers know is mainly from their own children going through the system,” she says. They generally know what level they’re recruiting at with benchmarks for Leaving Cert. That’s based on my experience of talking to them.” The streamlining of four entities into one cohesive group should serve to improve things. “Previously employers were asked by FETAC, HETAC and other bodies to do multiple things at once,” explains Kelly. “Now we have a single entity for quality and qualifications across the further and

higher education sectors. It should make engagement with employers more efficient and effective, rather than diluting their engagement. But they need to be involved with providers. It enriches the programmes. It makes the learners more employment ready.” QQI is also undertaking biannual national employer surveys, and the latest research has revealed a 60 to 65 per cent recognition of the National Framework of Qualifications. In September 2014, QQI published Education and Employers, which details the organisation’s strategic approach to employer engagement, outlining the aims and activities for better involving employers in the education and training system. The document invites employers to play a bigger role in external quality assurance with the view that by working together to improve the link between education outcomes and employer needs, the current and future workplace will benefit. With time such a precious commodity in business, it’s been a challenge getting some people involved, however Kelly has found that once employers are on board, they enjoy being part of the education system. “There’s a willingness to engage once they’re informed,” she says. Kelly concludes with a call for all stakeholders to engage with QQI to establish a more systematic and unified approach, starting with Education and Employers. “Everybody is looking at our approach in different ways. Some may think that it’s an ignored space, but it’s not. There’s a lot of work to be done, but I think this document will have significant impact.”

25/02/2015 16:00

IB SURVEY STELJES

Straight to THE SUMMIT Effective businesses employ effective methods of communication and collaboration, ensuring that their people make the most of their creativity. Enter Steljes Ireland, which provides a 4th dimension collaborative concept that will transform the way in which you do business. GET INSPIRED. IMPROVE COLLABORATION. BE PRODUCTIVE Imagine what your business could achieve if your employees were able to collaborate more effectively. Most collaboration sessions are passive. People connect and communicate through audio and video conferencing and screen sharing tools. And while there is the ability to hear, see and share files, true collaboration needs to be active. People need to interact in a way that stimulates creativity. Collaboration needs another dimension.

CONTRIBUTING TO SOMETHING GREATER SMART’s 4th dimension concept is where people can collaborate in a dynamic and shared digital space, spontaneously annotate over documents and build on each other’s ideas to create something new and powerful, wherever they are. This 4th dimension opens up a world where people not only hear, see and share data with each other, but where everyone can create and interact with content, contributing to something greater.

PRODUCTS THAT TRANSFORM COLLABORATION Discover the touch-enabled interactive displays and powerful software applications that will take your organisation to the 4th dimension of collaboration. Most companies use audio conferencing, video conferencing and screen sharing tools to communicate and interact. But the experience is passive – there’s something missing. • 1st dimension: Talk and hear each other through high quality sound • 2nd dimension: See each other in Full HD (up to 5 streams simultaneously), and welcome remote participants from anywhere using any device or operating system •3 rd dimension: Share content of the desktops of all participants whether they are in the meeting room or working remotely

4TH DIMENSION: SMART VISUAL COLLABORATION SOLUTIONS Supporting rich interactivity, teams can view, share and collaborate

with documents on a large format display; together with SMART’s business software, it is easy to share information, capture ideas and determine next steps. With unlimited digital whiteboard space, the ability to write notes over any application, options for saving work and integration with Microsoft® Exchange to instantly email session notes to all attendees, you can easily connect with dispersed teams and individuals wherever they are located, enabling colleagues to fully participate in collaboration sessions from virtually anywhere. The result is inspired collaboration. Teams are fully engaged, building on each other’s ideas and creating something new and powerful, together.

IMPROVE YOUR PRODUCTIVITY Over the past five years, maximising efficiency and productivity has been pushed even higher as a priority for senior managers, driven by turbulent economic conditions and industry competition. In attempting to address these challenges, a plethora of technologies have emerged –

SMART’S 4TH DIMENSION CONCEPT IS WHERE PEOPLE CAN COLLABORATE IN A DYNAMIC AND SHARED DIGITAL SPACE, SPONTANEOUSLY ANNOTATE OVER DOCUMENTS AND BUILD ON EACH OTHER’S IDEAS TO CREATE SOMETHING NEW AND POWERFUL, WHEREVER THEY ARE.

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IB SURVEY STELJES

everything from smartphones to Skype to full teleconferencing systems. So how can companies cut through the amount of information available and source the technologies that will help them maximise efficiency and improve their productivity? Steljes Ireland offer a broad range of audio visual and unified communication solutions that increase and improve work efficiencies that help companies to save money. Steljes Ireland works with only the very best vendors and partners to ensure customers receive the best service and solution for their business. We have a large portfolio of solutions to offer, such as Projectors, Video walls, Touch panels, Digital signage, video conferencing and collaboration tools from well-known brands like SMART, Christie, SMART, NEC, Epson and Spinetix – everything in fact to help companies provide a collaborative working environment enabling them to compete in today’s digitally connected and socially networked business world. Many large multinational companies have already implemented our SMART collaboration solutions, thus enabling them to present and interact with data, in real-time, over multiple locations, without the need for costly international travel. We also offer the SMART Room System™ for Microsoft® Lync® and Office 365. This conferencing solution is designed InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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STELJES IRELAND OFFER A BROAD RANGE OF AUDIO VISUAL AND UNIFIED COMMUNICATION SOLUTIONS THAT INCREASE AND IMPROVE WORK EFFICIENCIES THAT HELP COMPANIES TO SAVE MONEY. to work “right out of the box”, with little setup time and contains all you need to have a truly engaging, interactive and productive meeting, without the need to leave your office. It gives its users freedom to interact, without being restricted by a mouse or keyboard, while its multitouch capabilities allow for natural interaction with any application, letting users easily collaborate using familiar programmes. Since the addition of SMART Meeting Pro PE, the latest collaboration software, notes can now be made onto any software aplication including Microsoft Word, Excxel and PDF files. Let Steljes Ireland show you how to inspire collaboration and improve productivity in your organisation. Call us today and arrange a demonstration at our SMART briefing centre in Dublin.

ABOUT US Steljes has been demonstrating its passion for identifying the latest in technology to excite, disrupt and change our way of living and working since its inception in 1987. As a growing company, Steljes understands that commercial success doesn’t just happen. It requires know-how and dedication, combined with a lot of spirit! With strong links throughout the UK and Ireland, and global links and connections to the whole of Europe, Steljes is well positioned to understand the passions that drive technology advances and the physical reach to deliver.

25/02/2015 16:00

Commencement of New Companies Act 2014 The Companies Act 2014 will commence on 1st June 2015 This Act will replace the Companies Acts 1963 -2013 Why is the new Act being introduced: • It will modernise and simplify company law • Reduce administrative burden on business • Ensure good corporate governance From 1st June 2015 new processes will be introduced for conversions, re-registration, strike-off and mortgages.

Nothing is changing before then. Companies should use the time before commencement to get prepared for the new changes. For information on the Companies Act 2014 and on draft forms/leaflets please go to www.cro.ie

AN OIFIG UN CHLÁRÚ CUIDEACHTAÍ Oifig Poiblí: Teach Pharnell, 14 Cearnóg Pharnell, Baile Átha Cliath 1 Fiosruithe: Bóthar Uí Bhriain, Ceatharlach

COMPANIES REGISTRATION OFFICE Public Office: Parnell House, 14 Parnell Square, Dublin 1 Postal Enquiries: O’Brien Road, Carlow

Lóghlao: 1890 220 226 Fón: +353 1 804 5200 Faics: +353 1 804 5222 Ríomhphost: info@cro.ie Láithreán: www.cro.ie

Lo Call: 1890 220 226 Tel: +353 1 804 5200 Fax: +353 1 804 5222 Email: info@cro.ie Web: www.cro.ie

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IB SURVEY COMPANIES REGISTRATION OFFICE

COMPANIES

URGED TO ACT Companies and their directors need to examine the implications of the new Companies Act and how they can prepare for it. Harry Lester, Assistant Registrar at the Companies Registration Office, outlines the key changes taking place under the new legislation which will come into effect in June.

he Companies Registration Office (CRO) is the central repository of public statutory information on Irish companies and business names. The CRO has a number of core functions including the incorporation of companies, the registration of business names, the receipt and registration of post incorporation documents, and making information available to the public. The Companies Act 2014 consolidates the existing Companies Acts 1963-2013 into a logical legal code with the most common company type (private limited by shares) placed at the centre. It also introduces some significant reforms which are outlined below.

of the new company types. They must notify the CRO through filing the relevant documents, a process which will be free of charge. Upon conversion the CRO will electronically issue a new certificate of incorporation. During the transition period and before conversion - all private limited by shares companies will operate under the rules applying to a DAC.

CONVERSION

ANNUAL RETURNS

All private limited (by shares) companies must convert into one of two new company types:

The audit exemption criteria has been widened with companies only having to meet two of the three size criteria to qualify as a small company. Guarantee and group companies will also be able to qualify and audit exemption will be available to dormant companies.

• Limited (LTD): Simplified company structure which will operate under a one document constitution (no objects) and it may have only one company director and convene through written AGMs. • Designated Activity Company (DAC): Will operate under a two document constitution (with objects).

NAME CHANGE REQUIREMENT During the transition period some companies will need to change their name to fulfil the requirement under the Act to specify their company type at the end of their name.

DIRECTORS Directors duties have now been codified and set out in Part 5 of the new Act. Every director and secretary must be aged 18 or over.

MORTGAGES The Act specifies an 18-month transition period (beginning upon commencement) within which these companies must ‘convert’ into one InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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The priority of a charge registered with CRO will be established by date and time of receipt of a fully completed submission to the CRO – the date of

creation of the deed of charge will no longer determine the priority. See draft information leaflet 27.

VOLUNTARY STRIKE OFF The current administrative regime has been set out in statute. See draft information leaflet 28.

NEW SUMMARY APPROVAL PROCEDURE This will allow companies to carry out certain activities by means of a director’s declaration and a shareholder’s resolution for activities which, under the current law, would require High Court approval.

CRO COMMUNICATION CAMPAIGN The CRO’s main source of information on the Companies Act 2014 is www.cro.ie. The CRO is updating all content including forms and information leaflets (some are currently available in draft form). The ODCE are also updating all of their key publications and expect to have a range of new information books available in the coming months. The CRO ran an advertisement campaign in January on the broad purpose of the Act. It will do so again in April and June to communicate additional key messages. CRO will also issue a printed flyer to all directors on the register setting out the main changes involved. The CRO provides an information telephone service and staff are available to answer queries on the Companies Act 2014. The CRO will continue to issue ezines (to sign up - visit ‘newsletter’ on www.cro. ie) and tweet (@cro_ie) regarding the changes. It will also continue to engage with its stakeholder groups through presenting at their events and contributing to publications.

25/02/2015 16:01

g r a l & m u i ed m , l l a m s n i Available ations ital public Follow Us

@AshvilleTeam

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24/02/2015 14:30

IB SURVEY IPB INSURANCE

A New Way of DOING BUSINESS Following what was an extremely successful year for IPB Insurance, Chief Executive Ronan Foley continues to integrate a unique social engagement model as a core strategy for business. He tells InBUSINESS that a successful company is one that delivers both commercially and socially.

hat a difference a year makes. That can certainly be said for IPB Insurance, the mutual general insurance company which has been in operation since 1926 and which has grown to become one of the largest liability insurers in the Irish market. The company has just come out of a busy 2014 which saw significant developments for a firm operating in a challenging environment. These developments brought with them impressive results in a customer satisfaction survey as well as a number of prestigious accolades. 2014 also saw IPB move to a new state-of-the-art office space in the Dublin Docklands area as part of its commitment to deliver innovative, world-class business practices, while serving the needs of its stakeholders. It was also the year that ratings agency Standard & Poor’s raised the credit and financial strength ratings on IPB from ‘BBB+’ to ‘A-’, reflecting the view that IPB’s financial strength provides resilience and stability. Meanwhile, IPB continued to build on its strong Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) record and was listed in Ireland’s top 50 CSR-minded companies by Business & Finance Magazine. These significant developments all came under the management of Chief Executive Ronan Foley. Since joining IPB Insurance over three years ago, Foley has introduced a range of strategic and operational changes, including the social dividend of a5 million to Irish society on behalf of IPB’s local authority members, a corporate first for a company within InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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Since we launched this Social Dividend model and CSE framework as a core strategy we’ve enjoyed the best results on record over the past three years. Part of that is because customers are looking for different things now; they don’t just want to buy from us, they want to buy into us. an Irish context. This social dividend funds IPB’s programme of Corporate Social Engagement (CSE), making the company one of the leading corporate donors in Ireland today. Foley has held various leadership roles in the insurance industry, at home and abroad, and is a proven strategic leader with high-level experience of change management and driving profitable and sustainable business growth. To top a fantastic year for IPB, Foley was named InBUSINESS Editor’s Choice Businessman of the Year, recognising his achievements in transforming and growing business, as well as his innovative thought leadership in the area of next generation business strategy and CSR. Foley’s business leadership skills and philanthropy have been further recognised by his appointment as Chairman of The Ireland Funds in Ireland in January 2015. Speaking to InBUSINESS, Foley explained how adopting CSE as a core strategy has changed IPB’s business. “Since we launched this Social Dividend model and CSE

Ronan Foley, Chief Executive, IPB Insurance

framework as a core strategy we’ve enjoyed the best results on record over the past three years,” he says. “Part of that is because customers are looking for different things now; they don’t just want to buy from us, they want to buy into us. The CSE element redefines the company.” With this approach, it appears that being good is good for business and IPB will build on that strategy throughout 2015. “From our own perspective we have recorded the best results in each of the past three years in tandem with a new strategic approach that anchors our members at the centre of the business and places society at the heart of our wider corporate goals,” he concludes.

25/02/2015 16:14

IB SURVEY 360 TURBINES

POWERING THE WORLD Operating from Mitchelstown, Co Cork, Irish company 360 Turbines is steadily extending its reach and influence across the globe. Managing Director Denis McGrath speaks to InBUSINESS about his own background, growth and expansion at the company, and what 360 Turbines is all about. Q: Can you tell us about your educational and business background?

A: I spent 23 years working with SpS International in Shannon, a role which prepared me in many ways for life as a company director. I started there as a machine operator in March 1984 and in the following 23 years became a set-up man, supervisor, lean coordinator, business unit manager and operations manager. With the support of SpS management I studied Continuous Improvement and Lean Principles in the US, supervisory management in the National College of Ireland, Mechanical Engineering in LIT and Lean Six Sigma black belt with the PCC Employee Development Program. I was lucky to work under and alongside some great people and mentors such as Jack Tangney, an old school foreman whose words of wisdom and coaching are as relevant now as they were back in 1984. Joining PAS Technologies in 2007 was my introduction to the power generation world. The positions held with that company – GM, MD and VP of Global Industrial Gas Turbines further prepared me for the day in 2011 I 84

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would incorporate my own company IGTSP Limited trading as 360 Turbines.

Q: What is it that you offer as a company?

A: 360 Turbines is primarily concerned with the provision of power generation solutions for its client base. We source pre-owned and new power plants and match them to our client’s requirements. Whether our clients are looking for a 25KW generator or a 1000MW power station, 360 Turbines provides tailor-made solutions to support

“EVEN THOUGH WE NOW HAVE A STRONG INTERNATIONAL DIMENSION TO OUR COMPANY WE WILL CONTINUE TO BE AN IRISH COMPANY AND MITCHELSTOWN WILL CONTINUE TO BE 360 TURBINES’ HEAD OFFICE.”

their request. From a ‘simple’ outright sale to a full turnkey project, we can materialise their requirements. We can supply power generation packages covering the following fuel sources: diesel, natural gas, HFO and bio-mass. 360 Turbines is your ultimate partner in power generation. Design, financing, procurement, rental, leasing, logistics, installation, commissioning, service, maintenance, upgrades, selling your equipment, de-commissioning and reinstallation are all services

Denis McGrath at the opening of a new trading office in Sharjah, UAE

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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IB SURVEY 360 TURBINES

we can provide. My vision for the company is the same now as it was when I started the company; it is the vision of 360 Turbines being the preferred provider of high quality services to the oil, gas and power generation industry. Our commitment to our customer is to deliver our services with enthusiasm, honesty and integrity while being mindful of legal, ethical and environmental considerations.

Q: What kind of growth has the organisation experienced over the last number of years? Do you think 2015 will be a positive year for the company, and why?

A: We have focused very heavily in growing our presence in the international market and most recently our latest sub office has been incorporated in Nigeria. With offices and representatives already in China, India, Venezuela, Canada, Jordan, UAE, Iraq, Yemen, Libya and the US, we are growing our global footprint and will continue that mindset in 2015. I firmly believe that sustainable business is built on good relationships which can only be developed in face-to-face meetings. Teleconference calls, email, text, skype and social media are all very valuable business communication tools but there is still no substitute for a face-to-face meeting and a business dinner where the client can become comfortable with the person and company with which they are going to enter into a very significant contract.

Q: Explain the lean strategy

Q: Your head office is in

employed at 360 Turbines, and why this is an important facet.

Mitchelstown, will this continue to be the case for the foreseeable future? Do you intend 360 Turbines to remain an Irish company with an international focus, and is this an important factor for you, personally?

A: Coming from a manufacturing background and understanding the cost and cash flow pressures on Irish businesses, I firmly believe that only businesses who employ lean strategies will survive in the postCeltic Tiger era. Remaining competitive on the global stage means increasing output while maintaining or reducing current cost. I am in a unique position in this respect. I am a lean six sigma black belt and have studied lean manufacturing and employed lean strategies in facilities Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve managed. I have walked the walk and bring that experience to my own company and others.

Q: In your opinion, what factor separates 360 Turbines from any of its competitors?

A: In the industrial gas turbine power generation world, it is difficult to find a company that can supply new and used turbines and power plants. 360 Turbines will not only do that, but together with our associate companies we supply, install, commission and offer them with warranty and a long term service agreement. We can generally offer power solutions in a greatly reduced lead time due to our very flat managerial structure. At different levels we have representation agreements with some very large companies such as Mitsubishi Power Systems Europe, and supply service components to many large companies across the world.

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A: Mitchelstown is a good base for 360 Turbines. We spend a lot of time in the air travelling to business meetings and negotiating new contracts. Dublin airport is 2.5 hours, Cork is 45 minutes and Shannon is 1.5 hours. Office and warehouse space is relatively cheap and in less than five minutes you are on the M8 from the centre of town. We frequently travel to a lot of different countries where power generation requirements are growing; Nigeria, Libya, India, Pakistan, Iraq, Egypt, the Middle East, Asia and South America. Being an Irish company and holding an Irish passport certainly makes it easier to travel through these countries unhindered. Even though we now have a strong international dimension to our company, we will continue to be an Irish company and Mitchelstown will continue to be 360 Turbinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; head office. There is a great sense of pride when you travel to one of these countries and upon entering the parking lot of the company you are visiting, the first thing you notice is the Irish tricolour flying proudly and, inside, your company name on the welcome board. I think Irish people are recognised as being open, friendly and hard working and for those reasons keeping my company Irish with a strong

international focus is very important.

Q: What is your vision for 360 Turbines, not just for 2015, but long term?

A: Our plans for 2015 are to continue on the path we have set for the company, and to continue to develop relationships with existing and new clients. In the past we have focused on supplying turbines and power plants to our client base. Going forward we will continue to do this but also offer full turnkey solutions. We will focus heavily on the North African and Middle East markets where we now have a strong presence. The move from gas fired to coal fired power generation in India and China has opened many power plant acquisitions opportunities for 360 Turbines where we are currently actively involved on a number of fronts. Q: If you had one message for any potential customers, what would that be?

A: 360 Turbines is a young and energetic company that prides itself on being responsive to our customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; requirements. As a relatively small company we can move quickly when offering power solutions. With so many turbines and power plants at our disposal we can provide new or used core engines, generators, complete power plants and full EPC solutions in a fraction of the time offered by larger companies. We are very optimistic about the future and can assure our customers that they will receive a personal and professional service when dealing with 360 Turbines staff. 85

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IB SURVEY ECCLESIASTICAL INSURANCE

OUR HERITAGE FOR

FUTURE GENERATIONS If you are the owner or occupier of a protected structure, you are legally obliged to prevent it becoming endangered. That can be an onerous challenge for any business and the insurance implications can be complicated. John Devitt of Ecclesiastical Insurance, explains how, with a little bit of advance work, the risk of unexpected cost can be minimised.

or many people a heritage risk can prove difficult to define or even to visualise. Yet every village, town and city in Ireland has a multitude of examples. Every local authority in Ireland maintains a register of protected structures (RPS) and in total there are over 40,000 such structures of historic and national interest. If one looks at buildings located between the canals in Dublin, it is estimated that as many as 25 per cent are listed as protected structures. These buildings can have a protected facade, interior or even a listed floor. As a general rule of thumb, heritage buildings are more than 100 years old and of significant community and social importance. While some insurers may avoid buildings of this age, this is a core area of expertise for Ecclesiastical Insurance. We write some of the most noted heritage risks across the Republic Of Ireland and Northern Ireland. From tourist attractions to listed buildings and historic premises steeped in tradition

and folklore, for example Christ Church, St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Abbey Theatre and many more. The key piece of law to be aware of regarding heritage buildings is the requirements under the Planning & Development Act 2000. A common issue is identifying the correct building valuation as older buildings require specific building materials to reinstate themselves after loss. It is important to note that a valuation is not the market value of the property but instead, the actual cost of reinstating or rebuilding it to required standards. If a valuation is incorrect, insurers have what’s known as an ‘average clause’ on their policies which means if a building is only insured for 70 per cent of its true rebuilding cost, then just 70 per cent of any loss occurring will be paid. As a specialist insurer in this area, Ecclesiastical are very aware of this issue and can provide valuations to our customers and, if accepted by the client, our average clause is deleted. This provides confidence in the event

of a loss and avoids unnecessary confusion and conflict in reaching settlement. As noted earlier, the Planning and Development Act 2000 is the framework legislation that places duties of care on those who own/ occupy them to ensure their historic features are preserved for future generations to enjoy. It is important to note that a protected structure is a structure that a planning authority considers to be of special interest from an architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social or technical point of view. If you are the owner or occupier of a protected structure, you are legally obliged to prevent it becoming endangered, whether through damage or neglect. Ecclesiastical Insurance has over 125 years’ experience in providing bespoke insurance products to the heritage sector in both Ireland and the UK. As a specialist insurer in this sector we have developed a very strong technical knowledge in heritage buildings; their particular insurance requirements, planning and duties of care, claims handling, and risk management. We ensure that when a loss occurs, our client and the local authority requirements are fully met and can guide property owners and their brokers through the complex issues in heritage property insurance. If you would like to talk to us or need advice about insuring a heritage or listed building you can do so by calling 01 619 0300 or emailing Ireland@ecclesiastical.com

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ACCOMMODATION IN THE HEART OF THE CITY At the Dublin Citi Hotel we are poised to offer you the best in Irish hospitality with an ideal location near key shopping districts, the lively Temple Bar and top Dublin tourist attractions. The 27 bedrooms in the Dublin Citi Hotel have been designed with comfort, warmth and convenience for the valued guest. Our well appointed guest rooms are comfortable and cosy with everything you need for a pleasant stay.

T: (0)1 679 4455 • F: (0)1 679 4496 •

/TrinityBarVenueDublin

/TrinityBarVenue • #TrinityBar Venue E: reservations@dublincitihotel.com • www.dublincitihotel.com

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IB SURVEY DUBLIN CITI HOTEL

Location, Location,

LOCATION Nestled in the city’s pulsating centre, the Dublin Citi Hotel boasts a warm welcome, comfortable cosy rooms, fine dining and entertainment with a world of exploration on your doorstep.

ou’ve heard it before, the repetitive mantra of business people the world over; ‘location, location, location’. Whether you happen to be a craft jeweller, a high-street retail chain or a producer of organic foods, your locale will reveal a multitude about who you are and what you strive to be. Dublin Citi Hotel is no different; sited on historic Dame Street in the pulsating heart of the nation’s capital, location really is everything, and embodies the hotel’s core values and its raison d’être. In the shadow of Ireland’s former Houses of Parliament, only metres from the hallowed halls of Trinity College, the Alma Mater of Beckett, Swift, Wilde and Stoker, and rubbing shoulders with the capital’s cultural quarter at Temple Bar, the Dublin Citi Hotel makes for the perfect launching ground to capture the city’s vibrant essence. Perfect for business meetings, romantic weekends, city sightseeing tours, concerts and the theatre, the hotel’s 27 cosily appointed rooms (doubles, triples and singles), designed for comfort, warmth and convenience, bring everything you desire close to hand. For dining, The Trinity Bar located on the hotel’s ground floor regularly receives a plethora of well-deserved plaudits for the consistently highquality of its bar and dinner menus. Its chefs have continually strived to create a ‘gastro-pub’ style menu

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which is both creative and hearty, while maintaining a goal of providing flavour and superb value for money. Tastefully decorated in warm woods and luxurious fabrics, The Trinity Bar is the perfect location for birthday celebrations, corporate events, goingaway send-offs, Christmas parties, small weddings and more. With live music seven nights a week, The Trinity Bar is guaranteed to be a lively and fun-fuelled setting for your city night out; but it doesn’t have to end once the lights come on. At weekends and bank holidays the party people are drawn back time and again to The Underground nightclub where you can dance the night away happy in the knowledge that your comfortable bed awaits only a lift-ride away. Through reviews and personal messages of thanks, our whole team are widely regarded as being some of the most professional, welcoming and courteous to be found anywhere in the city, and beyond. Only minutes from Dublin’s central shopping thoroughfare, Grafton Street, The Dublin Citi Hotel is a shopper’s

dream. Long days spent pounding the pavement can be interspersed with a relaxing siesta in the comfort of your city centre room, or a cocktail in the bar or terrace. Dublin, with its long and proud history, has something to satisfy all manner of tastes, and all within walking distance of your favourite city centre hotel. Dublin Castle, the National Museum, the Natural History Museum, Christ Church Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green and Bewley’s world-famous Oriental Café are right on your doorstep, waiting to be discovered. History, art, culture and fashion, and the famous warmth of the ever-welcoming Irish pub wait around each and every corner and every bustling backstreet longing to be explored and enjoyed. Strike up a conversation with a stranger in the haunts of Ireland’s literary giants, Behan and Kavanagh, over a pint of the ‘black stuff ’ and soon you’ll realise just how wise you were to choose the Dublin Citi Hotel as the base camp for your voyage of discovery in Ireland’s beguiling capital.

25/02/2015 16:11

IB SURVEY DBS

Springboard TO SUCCESS InBUSINESS spoke with the CEO of Dublin Business School, Gerry Muldowney, who outlines the wide range of opportunities students can avail of at DBS. Q: What distinguishes DBS from other colleges?

A: DBS is the Irish division of Kaplan, which delivers education and training programmes in over 100 countries. We are 40 years old in 2015, and planning to celebrate the milestone this year. Over the last 40 years DBS has established an excellent reputation in Ireland. It is the largest independent higher education institution in Ireland, with a student population of approximately 9,000. Its success is attributable to its focus on students, the quality of its teaching and staff, the recognition and reputation which it has achieved, responsiveness to market needs and the range of programmes it offers. Q: What postgraduate and professional programmes is DBS offering?

A: DBS offers a range of postgraduate and professional programmes in the areas of arts and business. Since 1975 DBS students have achieved thousands of prizes on a national and worldwide basis in the professional accountancy examinations. In 2014, 37 of our students were awarded places and prizes in the examinations, including 13 first places in Ireland, and one joint first 90

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further five years, and the launch of new programmes in computing (BSc in Computing) and psychology, with the validation of our MSc in Applied Psychology.

in the world. As DBS has grown and developed, it has designed and launched approximately 20 masters programmes in a variety of disciples, leading to MBA, MSc and MA awards.

Q: In what way does DBS Q: What Government

continue to engage with Irish businesses?

initiatives are DBS involved in and what are the benefits?

A: Since 2011, DBS has been involved in a number of Government initiatives such as Springboard, ICT Skills Programme and Momentum. These are aimed at upskilling and retraining individuals for the emerging future growth areas of the economy. To date, DBS has retrained and upskilled over 3,000 learners in the areas of ICT, digital marketing, international financial services and project management. One of the most significant initiatives in this area has been our graduate conversion course in computing. Graduates of the programme have achieved an 80 per cent fulltime employment outcome. Q: How was last year for DBS?

A: There were many highlights for the college in 2014. On the international front the launch of our programme in Malaysia

Gerry Muldowney, CEO, DBS

To date, DBS has retrained and upskilled over 3,000 learners in the areas of ICT, digital marketing, international financial services and project management in conjunction with the Malaysian Government was a highlight. The programme was formally approved and validated by both the Irish and Malaysian regulatory bodies in May 2014, and from a standing start we recruited 170 students. 2014 also saw 40 of our Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) programmes be successfully revalidated through a programmatic review process for a

A: DBS works very closely with industry in the development, design and delivery of all of its programmes. We have an ‘industry-led’ approach in our programme design. In the last year we successfully developed a cloud sales programme with Microsoft Ireland and its employer network, and had significant input into our new BSc in Computing from Version 1 – one of the rising indigenous stars of the Irish tech sector. These are just some of the examples of the industry liaison our programmes have had, but we should note that all our programmes have had considerable input from employers over the last number of years. The range of input includes content, skills for the workplace and personal development skills. These areas are now a standard design and content feature of all of our programmes. We at DBS feel strongly that this is one of our unique USPs.

InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 16:11

IB SURVEY ŠKODA

Shepherding in the

ŠKODA SHERPA The Škoda Yeti Sherpa has landed on Irish shores, available from just a17,911.

koda has recently released its first commercial model in 15 years with the arrival of the new Škoda Yeti Sherpa. With the noticeable improvements in the economy and with Škoda making inroads in the fleet market in recent years with the Octavia and Superb models, the natural progression was to re-enter the light commercial vehicle market. Škoda is offering the Yeti Sherpa from just a17,911 ex. VAT, with a four-wheel drive upgrade available from only a1,300, and is now available in local Škoda dealerships nationwide. “Since we launched the Yeti a number of years ago there has always been a steady stream of requests from a variety of occupations such as carpenters, plumbers, sales reps and even florists for a commercial version,” said Škoda Product Manager Hugh Delaney. “We haven’t had a commercial model since the Felicia pickup, so we are delighted to be able to offer a practical version of the Yeti for small business users. With the small price increase for the four-wheel drive option and a towing capacity of up to 2.2-tones, we expect this to appeal to farmers and vets,” Delaney added. Specific to the Yeti Sherpa is the presence of only two seats. Behind these, you’ll find a 10” bulkhead and six secure points for tying down cargo. The Yeti Sherpa comes with a choice of 2.0-litre TDI 110bhp in two and four-wheel drive, or a 2.0-litre 140bhp DSG. There are three trim levels; Active, Ambition and Outdoor with Active models including items such as 16” Dolomite alloy wheels, climatic air conditioning, front fog InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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lamps, black roof rails and Swing Radio with CD and MP3 playback. The Ambition model adds items including silver roof rails, chrome inner door handles, 17” Scudo alloy wheels, LED rear lights, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth phone kit, a multifunctional leather steering wheel, leather handbrake handle and gear knob. The Outdoor specification adds over a1,100 worth of equipment for just a a548 price walk, adding a Bolero touch-screen sound system, 17” Erebus alloy wheels, cruise control, sunset windows and front and rear parking sensors. In addition, the Škoda Yeti beats its competitors not only in terms of dynamics, but also leaves them trailing with excellent fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions. The Yeti Sherpa Commercial is one of the most environmentally friendly compact SUV models on the market delivering 5.1L/100km on the combined cycle. Even when combined with 4x4 technologies the Yeti delivers excellent fuel economy consuming just 5.5 l/100km on the combined cycle.

MAIN FEATURES · O ff-road system in 4x4 vehicles for difficult terrain · High mounted headlights in all versions · Large luggage compartment with flat floor 10” bulkhead · Six secure points for tying down cargo · Fuel economy – 5L/100km · CO2 – 134g/km

With the noticeable improvements in the economy and with Škoda making inroads in the fleet market in recent years with the Octavia and Superb models, the natural progression was to re-enter the light commercial vehicle market.

Let the Yeti Sherpa take you for a drive.

25/02/2015 16:10

By supporting Trócaire, your business expresses its values and vision. With over 40 years’ experience working in some of the world’s poorest countries, we understand the importance of tackling both the symptoms and roots causes of poverty.

Trócaire is providing emergency food and services at temporary camps for South Sudanese who fled the deadly violence which erupted in December 2013. Photo: Faith Kasina, Trócaire.

OUR VALUES

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Solidarity Courage Participation Perseverence Accountability

Last year, we supported 3.4 million men, women and children to stand up for their rights, live in dignity and earn a living. We strive to ensure maximum impact in our work and keep costs as low as possible. 91% of our funds are spent directly on charitable purposes. Find out more about partnering Frances Haworth, Company Giving Officer T: 01-6549149 E: frances.haworth@trocaire.org

www.trocaire.org 08/01/2015 14:16

19/02/2015 18:01

IB SURVEY LEGAL COSTS SEMINAR

Assessing Legal Costs

IN GENERAL LITIGATION An expert panel of speakers addressed a packed hall at the recent Legal Costs Seminar where a mix of accountants, legal cost accountants, solicitors, barristers and in-house counsel engaged in lively debate.

ponsored by Behan & Associates, the Legal Costs Seminar took place on December 3rd 2014 in Dublin. An informative, stimulating programme looked at all areas of legal costs, including the rules governing legal costs in arbitral proceedings and the principles governing the taxation of costs. Expert contributors tackled the effects that recent changes have had on legal practitioners and best practice when it comes to preparing for future changes as envisaged by the provisions of the draft Legal Services Bill. The seminar was opened by Noel Guiden, Managing Partner at Behan & Associates who chaired the event with David Barniville, Chairman of the Bar Council first up to the podium. Mr Barniville focused on the legal costs provisions of the Legal Services Regulation Bill 2011 and was followed by Shane Galligan, also a Partner in Behan’s, who provided delegates with a lively, participative session on party and party costs, taxation and fees of expert witnesses. Bruno Herbots, a partner in Beauchamps Solicitors, was tasked with talking about the general principles in relation to mediation/ conciliation or fact finding commissioner and how they may assist the resolution of legal costs disputes. Senior Counsel Ercus Stewart wrapped up the seminar with another animated presentation InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

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on legal costs awards in arbitral proceedings and issues relating to the discretion of the arbitrator in assessing the level of legal fees. An extremely informative and content-rich programme provided delegates with the knowledge they’ll need when it comes to understanding how legal costs are assessed. According to Shane Galligan, Partner at Behan & Associates: “The whole area of legal costs has seen some wonderful advancement in recent years thanks to some sterling work on the part of the Institute of the Legal Costs Accountants and with the appointment of Taxing Master O’Neill, the first legal costs accountant to hold that office. That said, times are certainly changing with the possible establishment of an office of Legal Costs Adjudicators, to replace the office of the Taxing Master, and the introduction of mediation to the legal costs world. I think – or certainly hope – that the seminar provided a good insight

The whole area of legal costs has seen some wonderful advancement in recent years thanks to some sterling work on the part of the Institute of the Legal Costs Accountants and with the appointment of Taxing Master O’Neill, the first legal costs accountant to hold that office. into the current practice of assessing legal costs in general litigation and arbitration matters and also provided a good understanding of what is envisaged by the costs proposals in the current draft of the Legal Services Bill, including that relating to mediation. We are very grateful to Denise Maguire, organiser, for all her excellent work and of course to David Barniville, SC, Ercus Stewart, SC and Bruno Herbots, Solicitor for their wonderfully insightful contributions.”

25/02/2015 16:08

IB SURVEY CROKE PARK

CROKE PARK –

Unmatched in all Ireland Croke Park provides an unrivalled experience to the highest standards.

ith its heritage and reputation for delivering world-class gatherings and events, Croke Park delivers a spectacular venue for those in search of a unique conferencing and event experience. The renowned venue provides free car parking, great value rates and four star accommodation at The Croke Park Hotel, City Hotel of the Year 2014. The venue is also renowned for its best-in-class sustainability credentials including zero waste to landfill! Croke Park can accommodate up to 800 delegates theatre-style and up to 350 classroom-style, with banqueting for up to 600 guests and receptions for up to 2,000. Suites offer natural daylight, complete with blackout facilities, ceiling-mounted multimedia projectors, three-phase power and lighting hanging points. Large foyer areas overlooking the pitch are ideal for drinks receptions, conference registration, exhibitions and refreshments. Flexible spaces are offered for major conferences, private dinners, awards ceremonies and even exams.

SUCCESS Croke Park boasts a string of international conference and event hosting successes. It recently hosted functions for the One World Summit and the UNESCO Symposium on Youth Civic Engagement and Leadership. Other notable international events include the Interpol Conference and the Cluster Munitions Conference, said to be the largest and most historic conference ever hosted by the Irish government. The famous venue has also hosted state visits and welcomes foreign

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dignataries on an ongoing basis. Croke Park has attracted a slew of industry awards, is ISO20121 and OHSAS 18001 certified and is also a Green Awards winner. Extensive testimonials praise everything from the quality of conferencing facilities to the professionalism of staff and the catering. The high-tech requirements of today’s event organisers are ably met by a mix of in-house facilities and outside providers. These include web streaming and interactive voting systems. “The expectation is that all the smaller areas come self-sufficient with projectors and screens,” said Sinead Heneghan, head of sales. “The larger conference areas are expected to be fully equipped but more of a blank canvas to build their own branded events. A recent comment from a regular was how they love how neutral our event space is as the talking point should be the conference content.” Conference organisers can stage an event with a difference at Croke Park and take time out to add special

extras like a stadium tour or the Etihad Skyline rooftop tour. Events can be organised to incorporate various aspects of the venue campus including the GAA Museum, the Players’ Lounge or the dressing rooms. Newly introduced for conference groups in 2014 were the unique Skydium tours - combining the stadium and roof top tours and these have proved very successful. Exciting investment plans for the year ahead are in the pipeline with spaces being enhanced and made even more flexible. The Croke Park team work with event organisers to design unique events for their clients and customers and the stadium complex allows creativity in putting these ideas together. Team building events can be staged in the warm-up areas. Delegates can network over a drinks reception in the Players’ Lounge or simply soak up the inspirational backdrop of any of one of the event suites. Visit crokepark.ie/conference-centre or call us on 01 819 2300. InBUSINESS | YEARBOOK 2015

25/02/2015 16:15

IB SURVEY KILDARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Kildare addressing flood risk county wide Kildare County Council (KCC) has reacted to recent flood events and perceived changes in climatic conditions.

ver the past decade there have been numerous storm events across the Leinster region that have caused serious flooding in Kildare. With effected towns and areas within each of the five municipal districts within the county, a united approach was required. In 2009, delivering an agreed Flood Alleviation Capital Programme for Kildare became a key objective of KCC. To achieve this, the council sourced dedicated engineering and administrative staff who in turn developed an excellent working relationship with the OPW, the lead authority. With their assistance, the

council committed to an investment programme in the region of a15 million. This level of funding is achieved through the council’s own resources and through the OPW’s flood alleviation capital budget, subject to a strict cost benefit analysis prior to investment. To-date, KCC and the OPW have invested nearly a10m in flood alleviation measures across the county, leading to a cost benefit of nearly a20m. KCC’s corporate plan for the next three years provides for further investment in the programme as follows: •M orrell River Flood Alleviation Scheme ................ a4.5m • Dara Park, Newbridge, Drainage Improvement Scheme............. a0.5m • Hazelhatch Flood Alleviation Scheme................. a0.8m

Ariel view of Sallins following flood event of 27th November 2009

The delivery of these schemes will see the completion of a successful investment programme in Kildare and will see a total cost benefit of between a25-30m for the county.

KILDARE COUNTY COUNCIL Making Kildare the place to live, to learn, to work, to visit and do business

Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas • Tel: (045) 980200 Fax: (045) 980240 • www.kildarecountycouncil.ie Email: customercare@kildarecoco.ie /kildarecoco • @kildarecoco

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Kildare County Council will endeavour to deliver a high quality of service in all areas of activity.

20/02/2015 14:24

25/02/2015 16:06

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07/01/2015 17:22

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