First port of call

InBusiness caught up with Emma Dunphy, CEO of County Wexford Chamber to discuss latest developments in the region.

Q: How is business sentiment in Co Wexford?

A: Spirits are high at present as Co Wexford has been chosen to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 (from 4 to 11 August). This could see up to 700,000 people descend on the county and be worth up to €60m to the local economy. It is fantastic news for Co Wexford, with the business community committed to ensuring the success of the event. Elsewhere, the large attendances at our networking events this year tell us that businesses are out and about, promoting their business and attracting new clients.

Q: What are the burning issues facing your members?

A: The lack of available talent driven by the lack of affordable and appropriate housing is a significant challenge. Another is the very tight labour market – employers across all sectors are finding it difficult to fill vacant positions. Many businesses will soon have the added difficultly of filling seasonal positions as summer approaches. With this in mind, County Wexford Chamber, supported by Wexford County Council, is holding a Jobs Fest on 26 April to match employers with potential talent. We have had a tremendous response from employers, ranging from pharma to manufacturing, hospitality, transport, tech and more.

Q: How are things going with the Rosslare Europort project?

A: The recent wind energy agreement between Rosslare Europort (with Iarnród Éireann as the port authority) and ESB is a significant step forward for the region. Rosslare Europort is progressing plans to establish the port as Ireland’s offshore renewables hub while ESB is developing a portfolio of offshore wind farms. The Rosslare Europort project has the potential to transform the economy of the South East and create up to 2,000 jobs. In addition, there will be spin-off investment and commercial opportunities arising from the growth of the port.

"Spirits are high at present as Co Wexford has been chosen to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024."

Q: Any other developments you would like to highlight?

A: The sod has been turned at the Trinity Wharf project, a new urban quarter comprising a hotel, apartments, office space, retail outlets, a multistorey car park and a 64-berth marina with an urban greenway and boardwalk link to Paul Quay. The development will position Wexford as a superior location to work and live in and visit. The headquarters of the new national Maritime Area Regulatory Authority will be based in Trinity Wharf.

Q: Can you tell us about the County Wexford Chamber Business Awards?

A: It is the most important awards programme across our region, where we celebrate the outstanding successes and resilience of Co Wexford businesses. The awards will be held on 5 May with over 230 business applications received. It is a wonderful opportunity for any company to share how they have excelled, innovated and contributed to our thriving business region.