Chamberlink - January 2011

A positive start to

CHAMBERlink January 2011 I Issue 1

Cover Feature Looking ahead to 2011

What’s on?

Upcoming Networking Events

News Story Cork Company of the Year Shortlist

Members News Announcements & News

Refer & Win Your membership is a valuable tool in enhancing the profile of your business and provides opportunities to source potential suppliers and customers. It also offers a place to voice your concerns and opinons to key decision makers whilst keeping your business abreast of local and national developments.

Do you have friend or business contact that would also benefit from membership if so please contact Lucy with the details and you could win a delicious Taster Menu for 4 at Augustine’s Restaurant in the Clarion Hotel.

Contact Lucy O’Donoghue Membership Development & PR Manager e: lucy@corkchamber.ie t: (021) 4530145

CHAMBERlink Getting in Touch with the Chamber Team Conor Healy Chief Executive T: (021) 450 9044 or E: conor@corkchamber.ie Lisa Hunt Executive Assistant T: (021) 453 0131 or E: lisa@corkchamber.ie Lucy O’Donoghue Membership Development & PR Manager T: (021) 453 0145 or E: lucy@corkchamber.ie Barbara-Anne Richardson Marketing & Commercial Services Manager T: (021) 4530140 or E: barbara-anne@corkchamber.ie Leigh Gillen Events Manager T: (021) 453 0133 or E: leigh@corkchamber.ie Imelda Mulcahy Export Documentation Manager T: (021) 453 0130 or E: imelda@corkchamber.ie Margaret Good Accounts Administrator T: (021) 453 0134 or E: accounts@corkchamber.ie Katherine Fitzpatrick EU, Trade & Innovation Services Manager T: (021) 453 0137 or E: katherine@corkchamber.ie

Dear Chamber Member Welcome to the first edition of Chamberlink for 2011.

The past couple of years have been challenging for all businesses in the Cork region but there are strong foundations for stabilisation and growth for 2011 and beyond. These have been summarised and highlighted by our President and we hope that you will spread this positive news through your networks.

To support you through these difficult time the Chamber is committed to providing our members with a full range of business development services as well as continuing to strengthen our activities in lobbying, representation and policy development. We are confident that with your continued support and all of Cork organisations working together that the business outlook will continue to improve through the year.

The Chamber Annual Dinner is fast approaching on February 4th and as a sellout event, with 900 people attending, we are confident that this will be a success once again. We thank you and our sponsors for helping to make this the key event in the Cork business calendar and we will do our utmost, to facilitate an evening where business and pleasure are mixed to the benefit of all.

With New Year’s resolutions fresh in your minds we encourage you to maximise the full value of your membership by engaging fully with us - attending events, sending your latest offers and advising us of the key issues that are key to your business.

Siobhan Horan EU, Trade & Innovation Services Executive T: (021) 453 0138 or E: siobhan@corkchamber.ie

The Chamber team looks forward to meeting with you and working on your behalf throughout the year.

Alma Murnane Policy & Research Manager T: (021) 453 0147 or E: alma@corkchamber.ie

Best regards,

Sean O’Leary Policy & Research Executive T: (021) 453 0143 or E: sean@corkchamber.ie

Conor Healy Chief Executive

David Bennett Policy & Research Assistant T: (021) 4530 144 or E: david@corkchamber Emma Walsh Training Services Manager T: (021) 453 0142 or E: emma@corkchamber.ie

Cork Chamber, Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, Cork T: (021) 4509044 F: (021) 4508568 E: info@corkchamber.ie W: www.corkchamber.ie Registered in Ireland no. 13918

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Chamberlink is published by Cork Chamber and is a monthly publication exclusive to members. The opinons expressed in Chamberlink are not necessarily those of Cork Chamber, neither do they accept any responsibility or liability for any legal implications arising there from.

Conor

CONTENTS 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18

Connect with New Members Maximise Your Membership Press Releases News Story - Cork Company of the Year Shortlist Cover Feature - Looking Ahead to 2011 Influencing Decisions Export Services - Advice & Certification International Trade Industry + Education Links What’s On? Business Breakfasts New Members event Networking After Hours Training Services Marketing Cork Members News Chamberlink is sponsored by:

CONNECT

with new members

We welcome the following New Members, remember to do business with your fellow Members to maximise all Memberships.

Building Contractors/Providers

Event Management

Charity

Food/Drink

NColl Construction Construction company working for both public & private sector - industrial, residential, civil engineering & architectural restoration.

Contact: Neil Collins T: (021) 4217449 E: info@ncoll.ie W: www.ncoll.ie

ISPCC Children’s charity, aiming to see an Ireland where children are heard and valued and can develop free from abuse, provide a range of independent and unique tailored therapeutic services.

Contact: Lloyd Byrne T: (021) 4509588 E: llbyrne@ispcc.ie W: www.ispcc.ie

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Munster Agricultural Society Organises the Annual Cork Summer Show, family orientated 3 day show bringing urban & rural communities together.

Contact: Gerard Murphy T: (021) 4315772 E: corkshowgrounds@eircom.net W: www.munsteragriculturalsociety. com

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Corporate Audio Visual Services (CAVS) Ltd Supply audio visual equipment & services to the corporate sector for events.

Contact: Mark Corless T: (021) 4322920 E: cavscork@cavs.ie W: www.cavs.ie

O’Crualaoi Feoi Teo Deli, Butchers & Party Catering.

Contact: Francis Twohig T: (021) 4870315 E: linda@ballyburden.com

Fuel/Energy

Dalkia Services include Energy & Utilities management, Mechanical, Electrical & Technical Services & Facilities Management.

Contact: Alan Fairman T: (021) 2409267 E: alan.fairman@dalkia.ie W: www.dalkia.ie

Media/Publishing

Radiant Ireland Provides enabling technology for the implementation of Digital Media Networks with a focus on multimedia digital signage and information displays.

Contact: Padraig O’Neill T: (021) 4928900 E: padraig@radiant-ireland.com W: www.radiant-ireland.com

Telecommunications

ODG Technologies Develops accessory products for the public safety radio communications market.

Contact: Enda O’Dowd T: (021) 4928922 E: eodowd@odgtechnologies.com W: www.odgtechnologies.com

Waste Management/Recycling

Faaltech Presently commercialising wireless and online water pollution sensors that can act as pollution alarms protecting water sources.

Contact: Pat O’Leary T: (021) 4928944 E: pat.oleary@faaltech.com W: www.dalkia.ie

MAXIMISE

your membership

Network

International Support

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Leverage the network and buying power of 1000 businesses with over 80,000 employees in the Region Expand your business contacts, essential for sales and lead generation Exchange of business information and ideas Access to a database of members Attend over 50 events a year

Training • • •

Attend subsidised, market-led training Learn more, develop and innovate for business Upskilling and management development to help build your career and business

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Export documentation and certification service available Specialist advice and consultancy on international business opportunities Participate in international Chamber trade missions Access to Enterprise Europe Network

Influence Decisions • • • •

Ensure your business interests are represented regionally & nationally Contribute to business policy in the Region through government (local & national) submissions and lobbying Participate on committees and think-tanks to progress business in the Region Be part of the representative and collective business voice

Promotion

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Communicate your message via trusted Chamber publications including Chamberlink (readership 5,000+) and eBulletin (2,800+ contacts) Position your business effectively in the region Increase brand visibility & build awareness of your products and services B2B promotion opportunities Online networking & promotion through Cork Chamber LinkedIn Group (members only access) Exclusive listing in Membership Directory & Diary

Cost Savings • • • • •

Member to Member discounts Discounted entry for all events Subsidised training for Chamber members Advice on how to access EU funding and business opportunities Cost effective promotional opportunities

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PRESS

clippings

For more information in relation to Chamber PR please contact Lucy (lucy@corkchamber.ie)

Press releases recently issued include:

Cork Chamber responds to Cork City and County Council Budgets

Cork Chamber welcomed the decision by Cork City Council and Cork County Council not to increase commercial rates and local authority charges in 2011 and acknowledged both local authorities’ cognisance of the inability of Cork’s business community to finance any increased levels of expenditure, but warned that current government policies are jeopardising local government and placing an unfair burden on the business community.

Cork Chamber Chief Executive Mr Conor Healy said, “Cork Chamber recognises the hard decisions taken by both Councils in preparing balanced budgets given the current difficulties the economy finds itself in. The move by both Councils to ring fence 1 per cent of rates income, equivalent to over €1.5 million for an economic development fund for the first time is very much welcomed by the Chamber. This is something we have been actively lobbying for and it is our hope that the percentage to be ring fenced can be increased in the coming years. We also welcome Cork County Council’s decision to reduce water delivery charges by 3% in 2011 and their foresight in reducing development contribution charges by up to 42% effective from January 1st 2011 in an effort to stimulate job creation and development”.

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“It is however extremely disappointing that the Council’s were not in a position to pass on the benefits of their reductions in expenditure and enhanced efficiencies through a reduction in commercial rates to the business community. It is important to state that this is largely as a result of incessant reductions in the Local Government Fund grant from central government. Cork Chamber has continually pointed out that it is critical we create strong local government models, which are properly resourced to foster regional economic development. If this does not occur, central government runs the risk of being the catalyst in the deterioration of local government services”, Mr Healy went on to say.

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“In 2011, central government needs to implement cost containment initiatives in areas where additional costs are being placed on local authorities on an ongoing basis. This is crucial if we are to see a decrease in the dependence of local authorities on the business community as their primary income source in the near future. For example, if for the duration of the National Recovery Plan 2010 – 2014, the impact on Local Government of additional regulatory requirements and legislative impacts such as planning and waste policy could be frozen, this would be a proactive first step. We also need the commercial rates system to be able to respond to the radically different economic situation we are in. Appropriate legislative changes to rating law is urgently required to enable a flexible response to the challenges faced by the SME sector, multinationals and new business start ups”, concluded Mr Healy.

Chamber Q.4 Economic Trends Survey Reveals Strong Foundations for Growth

Cork Chamber has welcomed the increase in business confidence evident in their economic trends survey for the fourth quarter of 2010. However, the survey shows that Cork’s business community is not convinced that the Four Year Plan and Budget will be sufficient to secure recovery. Chamber members’ also believe that some default/restructuring of Ireland’s bank related debt will be necessary to restore the country’s finances to a sustainable footing.

Discussing the results Cork Chamber Chief Executive Conor Healy said, “The survey captures the difficulties faced by the regional economy in 2010 but it also shows that there are strong foundations for growth in 2011. There has been an increase in business confidence and 75% of respondents now say they are confident about the future of their business, up nearly 5% on the Q.3 figure. Over 80% of responding companies do not anticipate staff reductions in 2011, with 41% of respondents actually expecting to increase employee numbers in the year ahead.”

According to Mr Healy, “Cork’s business community is not convinced that the four year recovery plan and the Budget do enough on a number of key issues. Just 12% of respondents believe the steps taken to date have resolved the banking crisis and paved the way for a return to a normal banking system, with nearly 70% believing they will prove insufficient. 78% believe that some restructuring/ default of Ireland’s bank related debt will be required to ensure the country’s sustainable economic recovery.”

Mr Healy continued, “Access to credit remains an issue. In the survey 44% disagree with the Credit Review Office’s recent statement that the situation regarding bank lending to business was ‘continually improving’. When asked what they would consider the most effective way to ensure access to finance for businesses, 67% said stricter monitoring to ensure banks lend to businesses would be effective or very effective, while 65% said a new enterprise bank would be effective or very effective. New and imaginative ways to enable businesses to access credit also need to be implemented, including ways to encourage people to invest the money currently held on deposit”.

Discussing Local Authority finance Mr Healy explained, “There has been an increase in support for an annual property tax and for domestic water charging. 69% of respondents now support domestic water charging (a 13% increase on the Q3 figure). Though support for an annual property or site value tax has increased by 20.6% with 46% now supporting such a measure, it remains finely balanced and 45% still disagree with such a tax. Importantly there is a strong opinion that the revenue generated from any such charges should be ring fenced for local government, with 80% saying the government must commit to keeping this locally raised revenue for local spending. This is particularly important in the context of the reducing central Government contribution to the Local Government Fund.”

NEWS

story

Leading companies shortlisted for Cork Company of the Year Awards Cork Chamber, in partnership with Vodafone, has announced the companies shortlisted for the Cork Company of the Year Awards.

“Against the challenges of today’s economic background, it is more important than ever that we recognise businesses for their achievements, contributions and entrepreneurial spirit. Judging by the exceptionally high standard of entries this year, it is easy to see why Cork is flourishing with business talent. It was a tough challenge to choose the shortlisted companies and we are very excited about announcing the overall winners shortly”, commented Conor Healy, Chief Executive of Cork Chamber.

Three companies have been shortlisted in each of the categories as follows:

Large Company (more than 100 employees) • • •

Carbery Group, dairy and food ingredients manufacturer based in Ballineen, Co Cork Trend Micro, an independent content security company in the multinational sector in Cork city Barry Group, retail grocery franchise and wholesale supplier based in Mallow

SME Company (less than 100 employees) • • •

PT Technologies, producers of specialist surface cleaning chemicals and lubricants based in Watergrasshill, Co Cork Barry & Fitzwilliam Ltd, independent drinks importer based in Cork City O’Crualaoi Butchers, who operate butchers and delicatessens across Cork county

• • •

Fastnet Line, operators of the Swansea to Cork car ferry Brook Catering, catering and event management company from Glanmire, Co Cork HR Locker, a web based service aimed at reducing HR administration costs based at Webworks in Cork city

Anne O’Leary, enterprise director, Vodafone Ireland went on to say, “It is extremely encouraging to see that companies are innovating, diversifying and adapting to overcome the challenges businesses are currently facing and I’m delighted we have the opportunity to acknowledge this great work. The shortlisted companies have demonstrated great strategic vision and I wish them every success for 2011”.

The winner in each category as well as the overall winner will be announced at the Chamber Annual Dinner on Friday, 4th February at City Hall. Cork.

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Emerging Company (less than 5 years in business)

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COVER feature Looking ahead to 2011

The previous few years have proven extremely challenging for businesses in the Cork region but there are strong foundations for national economic consolidation and growth for 2011 and beyond. The Irish economy has many strengths and the budgetary framework set out in the four year plan provides a road map to recovery. We all know times are very challenging, but it is important for us all to recognise that in working towards recovery, Ireland is starting from a position of strength.

In the midst of such tough times, determination to succeed and looking to the positives, many of which have not been highlighted enough is essential. Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight all of the positives and successes that exist and ask that when you have a chance, to start spreading this positivity.

Confidence

Cork Chamber’s economic trends survey for the fourth quarter of 2010 shows signs for optimism • An increase in confidence, 75% of members saying they are now confident about the future of their business, up nearly 5% on the Q 3 figure.

• Over 80% of responding companies do not anticipate staff reductions in 2011 • 41% of respondents actually expecting to increase employee numbers in 2011

Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber.

Exports

Last year saw the value of Irish exports reach €161bn, which is the highest figure for export sales ever recorded.

• According to the Irish Exporters Association’s year end review for 2010, overall exports of goods and services grew by 6.7% in the year.

• Exports to the US grew by 18% and to Canada by 27%.

• Irish exporters increased sales to Germany by 42%.

• Exports to Brazil, Russia, India and China, which were up 12%, are expected to continue to underpin growth and new opportunities for Irish exporters.

Economy

CSO Figures published in December show that the Irish economy expanded in the third quarter of last year, with both gross domestic product (GDP) and gross national product (GNP) growing.

• This is the first time since 2007 that both measures of economic activity increased simultaneously.

• In the third quarter, GDP rose by 0.5 per cent compared to the previous quarter. This rate of growth was marginally ahead of the average for the euro zone, which stood at 0.4 per cent. GDP was up 1.7 per cent from its recessionary low-point, registered in the final quarter of 2009.

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Savings

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CSO figures show that savings by households more than tripled in one year, with households saving almost oneeighth of their disposable income in 2009.

• We now have more than €14billion in domestic deposits, more than at the height of the SSIA scheme in 2006.

• The net savings rate of 12.3 per cent represents a massive increase on 2008, when just 3.9 per cent of disposable income was saved.

• This suggests that if consumers became more confident, a large increase in spending could result, accelerating the rate of economic growth.

Retail Sales

Even with the high savings rates, the volume of retail sales increased by 0.9% in November 2010 when compared with November 2009.

Jobs & Inward Investment

The current economic situation has not had a negative impact on the flow of companies investing in Ireland.

• In fact IDA Ireland’s End of Year Statement highlights the continued strengths of Ireland’s economy and shows that Ireland remains an attractive location for investment with Foreign Direct Investment increasing in 2010 compared to 2009.

• IDA client companies created almost 11,000 new jobs in 2010, well in excess of 2009’s outcome of 4,615 jobs.

• Last year IBM’s 2010 Global Locations Trends report ranked Ireland 1st globally for jobs by inward investment per capita. The IBM report also enhanced Ireland’s position with top 10 global rankings for both jobs in R&D and jobs in business support services.

• Also in 2010, the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook of key measures influencing Foreign Direct Investment, ranked Ireland;

- 1st for corporate taxes

- 4th for the availability of skilled labour

- 4th for being open to new ideas

- 6th for labour productivity

- 7th for the availability of financial skills

- 7th for the flexibility and adaptability of people

Indeed from 2004 to 2008 Ireland’s net immigration was 100,000 per year and for the 12 months to April 2010 net emigration from Ireland was 34,500

According to the latest Department of Finance data, tax receipts for 2010 were over €700 million ahead of projections, at €31.7 billion.

• This is encouraging following large tax shortfalls in both 2008 and 2009 and the surplus was primarily driven by a solid performance from corporation tax.

• The year-on-year rate of decline in tax revenues in 2010 was 3.9%. By contrast, in 2008 it was 14% and in 2009 it was 19%.

Manufacturing

Irish manufacturing activity grew for the third month in a row in December 2010 according to the NCB Purchasing Managers’ Index.

• The PMI rose from 51.2 in November to 52.2 in December, keeping the index above the 50 point mark separating growth from contraction.

• The December figure, the highest since May, was boosted by strong output growth and new orders.

• Employment also grew in the sector, for the first time in seven months.

Employment

The Government supported Work Placement Programme (WPP) that brings employers and the unemployed together for a work experience placement for a maximum duration of nine months, without any monetary outlay for businesses is a very welcome development.

• The programme allows the unemployed to apply their skills and gain valuable experience in a workplace setting and employers benefit from having someone contribute to their business, whilst also enhancing the skills and career prospects of the individual.

Business Costs

In 2010 business costs, including energy, rents, services and labour all became more competitive.

Cork’s Strengths

Cork’s knowledge economy has attracted many major companies to the Cork Region over the course of 2010.

• This includes significant recent investments by global leaders in a range of sectors such as United Technologies Corporation, McAfee, PAS Technologies, Texas Instruments, Eli Lilly, Rockwell Automation, Danone, Otterbox and Yves Rocher.

The move by both Cork City Council and Cork County Council to ring fence 1 per cent of rates income, equivalent to over €1.5 million for an economic development fund for the first time is very much welcomed by the Chamber.

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It is our hope that the percentage to be ring fenced can be increased in the coming years and can be harnessed to make Cork an attractive place to do business and has the potential to benefit all enterprises in the region.

The recent announcements of infrastructural enhancements on the South Ring Road have been welcomed by all members.

The ever increasing population of undergraduates and postgraduates at both UCC and CIT provide welcome economic injections to our local economy whilst providing quality graduates for inward investment.

All of these factors will contribute to a sustainable marketplace for businesses nationally and in the Cork region. The Chamber will continue to represent members and provide your business with the necessary tools, support and resources to grow, promote and develop your business regionally, nationally and internationally.

Ger O’Mahoney President

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Tax Receipts

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INFLUENCING decisions For more information on any of the issues in this section please contact Alma, Sean or David

General Election Manifesto

Cork Chamber will once again produce a ‘manifesto’ for Cork’s business community in the run up to the General Election which is due to take place in the coming months.

The manifesto will outline the core issues facing Cork businesses and will enable the Chamber to represent these concerns during the election period. In order to have the manifesto completed in advance of the election we would be grateful if you could let us know your suggestions or comments by Friday 11th February.

Q4 Economic Survey Draw Winner

Congratulations to the winner of the Q4 Economic Survey draw, George Ballard of George C. Ballard (Motor Assessors) Ltd who receives one night’s stay for two at the Maryborough Hotel & Spa. We would like to thank all those who completed the survey which captured the difficulties faced by the economy last year while showing that there are strong foundations for growth in 2011. The press release discussing the survey findings is featured on p6 and further analysis is contained in the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Bulletin.

Carrigaline Local Area Plan Submisson

The Chamber recently made a submission to the Draft Carrigaline LEA Local Area Plan. The Chamber welcomed the revised approach to zoning outlined in the LAPs. The introduction of the new ‘business’ use zoning to replace ‘commercial’ and based on a wider set of definitions recognises the changed and evolving nature of enterprise and commercial activity. Cork Chamber views the Carrigaline Electoral Area as integral to the regional and national economy. The presence of a significant cluster of Bio-Pharmaceutical industries in Ringaskiddy and both existing and potential port-related developments in the lower harbour, in addition to its proximity to Cork International Airport makes the area one which is critical to the future development of the economy.

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Given its existing assets (such as the National Maritime College of Ireland) and as the location for the proposed MERC campus, the Electoral Area also has a significant role in harnessing the potential of the maritime and energy sectors which offer unique opportunities for significant investment and growth. Therefore the Chamber wishes to ensure that the views of our members are reflected in the preparation of this important local area plan.

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The draft plan’s recognition of the importance of the N28 Cork to Ringaskiddy road scheme is welcome, as is the acknowledgement that it is critical that the N28 project be finalised as quickly as possible in order to bring certainty and assurance of commitment to existing and future investment in the Ringaskiddy area.

In addition to these issues, the Chamber’s submission also focused on the Draft Plan’s priorities for: • Port Relocation; • Cork Airport and Airport Business Park; • Ringaskiddy; • Public Transport Priorities; • Additional Critical Infrastructure Requirements;

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Tourism Potential in the Lower Harbour & Science Technology and Innovation Park.

The Chamber will continue to work with members and Cork County Council to ensure that the interests of the business community are fully integrated into the final local area plans for the Cork region.

Government publishes National Strategy for Higher Education to 2030

The Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills, Mary Coughlan T.D. recently published a strategy that will see the transformation of Ireland’s higher education sector over the next two decades. The strategy, entitled The National Strategy for Higher Education to 2030, has been endorsed by the Government as the future blueprint for the sector and was developed by a High Level Group under the Chairmanship of Dr Colin Hunt.

The Strategy sets out changes for the sector that are aimed at providing for: • a more flexible system, with a greater choice of provision and modes of learning for an increasingly diverse cohort of students; • improvements in the quality of the student experience, the quality of teaching and learning and the relevance of learning outcomes; and • ensuring that higher education connects more effectively with wider social, economic and enterprise needs through its staff, the quality of its graduates, the relevance of its programmes, the quality of its research and its ability to translate that into high value jobs and real benefits for society.

The Strategy recommends a number of significant structural changes that are aimed at supporting these objectives, including: • having a smaller number of higher education institutions of greater strength, critical mass and governed according to international best practice; • providing for the establishment of Technological Universities; • restructuring and strengthening the Higher Education Authority; • providing for a sustainable system of funding to allow for further growth and development; • changing the funding model used to allocate resources to and within institutions to ensure all students, whether full-time or part-time, on-campus or off-campus, be supported equally; • ensuring that public funding is more aligned to national priorities and needs; • ensuring a more performance oriented system, with much more transparent flows of data; • requiring greater interaction between our higher education and enterprise sectors; and • ensuring much greater assessment of the wider outcomes and impacts of the higher education sector, together with strengthened accountability for institutions according to agreed performance contracts.

For a copy of the report go to www.education.ie

EXPORT services Advice & Certification Cork Chamber offers a wide range of services to businesses involved in international trade such as access to a fully licensed certification service for European & Arab Certificates of Origin, issuing ATA Carnets and certification of commecial documents.

We also provide up to date information on Export Regulations and Customs Requirements.

The Export Documentation Section can help your company with the issue and certification of export documents thereby ensuring your goods are exported with ease. To discuss your requirements or for further information please contact: Imelda Mulcahy, Export Documentation Manager at T: (021) 4530130 or E: imelda@corkchamber.ie

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European Certificates of Origin Arab-Irish Certificates of Origin ATA Carnets Invoices & Packing lists Certificates of Analysis Health Certs Veterinary Certs Phystosanitary Certs Licence Agreements Product Specifications Power of Attorney Memorandums & Articles, Board Minutes Certificates of Incorporation Letters of Accreditation (Chamber Members Only) Manifest Correctors

www.corkchamber.ie

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The Export Documentation Section can issue and certify:

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INTERNATIONAL trade Learn the Building BRICs of International Trade with the Enterprise Europe Network According to Goldman Sachs (who coined the acronym BRICs) the economies of Brazil, Russia, India and China have contributed to over a third of world GDP growth in the last 10 years and have grown from one sixth of the world economy to almost a quarter (in PPP terms) in the same period. In a report last May 2010, they predicted that this trend would continue and become even more pronounced in the new decade, anticipating that by 2020 the BRICs will account for a third of the global economy (in PPP terms) and contribute about 49% of global GDP growth.* The rise of the BRICs will be characterised by a significant increase in the global “middle class” population and the growth of wealth in these emerging economies will lead to greater demand for high value and luxury goods such as cars and new technologies, as well as increased competition for energy resources worldwide.

The Enterprise Europe Network at Cork Chamber is giving you the opportunity to learn more about the staggering growth of these emerging markets and to investigate the opportunities that may exist for your business in these regions in a series of events entitled The Building BRICs of International Trade.

Each event will provide the opportunity to network and talk to experts about the BRIC economies, as well as to learn from the experiences of Irish companies already operating there.

Save the date!

The first event in the series will focus on INDIA and will take place on Thursday 24 February, (for more details see p11) Watch this Space for events on Brazil, Russia and China later this year! *http://www2.goldmansachs.com/ideas/brics/brics-decade-doc.pdf

INDUSTRY + EDUCATION links Chamber Members Support Science & Engineering Students The Cork Chamber Bursary Scheme was launched four years ago by the Science, Research and Innovation Committee in response to national reports about the declining numbers of science and engineering graduates.

Since the scheme started, eight Chamber member companies have committed to funding an undergraduate student through their four year science or engineering course in UCC or CIT.

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Companies that have already sponsored a student include: Bord Gáis, Carbon Group, ConocoPhillips, Eli Lilly, EMC, FMC International, RPS Consulting Engineers and Millipore.

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The Chamber is looking for ongoing support for the Bursary Scheme. The requested commitment is as follows:

Cost

Companies interested in supporting the scheme are asked to contribute €1,500 per year for the duration of a four-year course (i.e. a total cost of €6,000 over the course of four years). Alternatively, companies can also share the cost of a bursary, with two parties committing €750 per year for four years (€3000 total).

Other commitments

It is hoped that sponsoring companies will also be able to facilitate a period of work experience for students during their third year of study.

Mutual Benefits

The scheme has been designed to benefit all parties involved: • The focus on science and engineering comes at a time when the Cork region needs to maintain the flow of graduates in these disciplines into the workforce • The scheme operates through the Access office in CIT and the UCC Plus office, and bursaries will be awarded to students that would usually have difficulty in accessing third-level education without financial assistance • Direct collaboration between Chamber member companies and the academic community of the higher education institutes in Cork strengthens existing linkages in a focused and visible manner • The important contribution made by contributing businesses is communicated widely in both the media and in Cork Chamber publications which gives great publicity and helps to raise awareness of your company’s CSR activities in the region For more information please contact katherine@ corkchamber.ie.

WHATS

on?

Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie Upcoming Events Business Breakfast in association with Tim Lucey was recently appointed Cork City Manager, having previously worked with the Cork County Council as Divisional Manager, Head of Corporate Affairs and Financial Accountant. While with Cork County Council he has held a number of Directorships including North Cork Enterprise Board, Ballyhoura Development Ltd., Avondhu Blackwater Development Ltd., and Cobh Heritage Trust.

He is currently a Director of the Cork City Enterprise Board and the Crawford Gallery and has extensive experience across all business areas of Local Government. with Guest Speaker Tim Lucey, Cork City Manager Thursday 10th February 2011 7.30am – 9.00am Imperial Hotel €20 members / €35 non members Please register your place at www.corkchamber.ie

Tim takes over at the helm of Cork City Council at a time of significant challenges for the City and in the Local Government sector generally.

This is a unique opportunity to understand his vision for the future of Cork based on his wealth of experience in the City Council, so we encourage you all to attend and also maximise your opportunity to meet new business contacts in your Cork Chamber network.

International Event - The Building BRICS of International Trade The Enterprise Europe Network at Cork Chamber brings you the first in a four-part series, entitled “The Building BRICs of International Trade” which will focus in turn on the emerging markets of India, Brazil, China and Russia.

Thursday 24th February 8.30am – 11.00am Clarion Hotel, Cork FREE for Cork Chamber members Please register your place at www.corkchamber.ie or contact katherine@corkchamber.ie if you would like more information.

The first in this series will kick off with an event focusing on India on Thursday 24th February at 8.00am in the Clarion Hotel, and will give Cork Chamber members a unique opportunity to learn more about the growth in this rapidly emerging economy as well as the potential for business and trade. Speakers will include Mr. Rajnish Kumar (CEO & Regional Head (U.K), State Bank of India) and Sean O’Sullivan (Managing Director, Seabrook Global Technologies Group). There will also be a delegation of Indian companies from the UK Confederation of Indian Industries [CII], who will be exploring business opportunities with Irish companies.

Business After Hours at Cork Independent Cork Chamber will run its March Business After Hours in the offices of the Cork Independent Newspaper. As always, this business after hours event will focus on networking for Chamber members, giving you the unique opportunity to network and create new business contacts.

Please register your place at www.corkchamber.ie

With a strong focus on its online presence, www.corkindependent. com was the only regional newspaper website to be shortlisted in the Irish Web Award along with The Irish Times, The Irish Independent and the Irish Examiner in 2010. It was also shortlisted for the eircom Golden Spider Awards in 2010.

Places for events are limited, please quote Purchase Order if required. Events Cancellation Policy: Cancellations will be accepted up to 72hrs before each event. After this all places will be charged. This policy applies to all events.

Events Contact: Leigh Gillen, t: (021)4530133

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Thursday 10th March 6pm – 8pm Cork Independent Headquarters North Point Business Park, Mallow Road FREE for Cork Chamber members

The Cork Independent is Cork City and County’s leading free newspaper, with a fully audited circulation unrivalled in Ireland.

Headquartered at Northpoint Business Park, the newspaper has built a reputation on its quality writing and wide circulation. The Cork Independent is delivered throughout Cork City and County every Thursday aka “Cork Independent Day” offering an unrivalled spread throughout Cork for all its advertising clients.

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BUSINESS

breakfasts

Business Breakfast with Oliver Coughlan in association with the Irish Examiner Oliver Coughlan is Vice President of European Operations with Big Fish Games and addressed an audience of Cork Chamber members on 16th December in the Clarion Hotel. Oliver spoke frankly about the challenges and experiences he faced when trying to bring Big Fish Games to Cork and how the company is thriving from their Citygate base.

Oliver Coughlan, Vice President of European Operations, Big Fish Games with Aidan Forde, Head of Advertising Irish Examiner and Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber. (Photograph: Denis Minihane)

Guest speaker Leslie Buckley (seated) with Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber; Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber and Mairead Maher, Interim Chief Executive Irish Examiner. (Photograph: Denis Scannell)

Business Breakfast with Leslie Buckley

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in association with the Irish Examiner

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Cork Chamber members came back in style for the New Year with over 150 members attending the Leslie Buckley Breakfast on 12th January in the Cork International Airport

Hotel. Leslie has a wealth of business experience and regaled guests with many stories from his business life as well as the inspiration behind the charity “Haven” and the fantastic work done in Haiti to help victims of the earthquake, which happened exactly one year ago.

members event

New Members Networking Breakfast Cork Chamber recently hosted a New Members’ Networking Breakfast in the Hayfield Manor Hotel. The event is primarily to welcome new members into the

Colm O’Connell and Bosco Creed from O’Connell Group and Tim Shanahan, G4S Secure Solutions.

David O’Connor, O’Connor & Co. and Sean Dwan, Speak for Success International with Anthony Cotter and Justin Cronin from JJ Alliance.

Barbara-Anne Richardson, Marketing & Commercial Services Manager Cork Chamber with John O’Keeffe, John O’Keeffe Solicitors and John O’Driscoll, Bankcheck Ireland.

.Lisa Curran, DeansHall Student Accommodation and Finbarr Pyne, Enva.

Chamber, highlight the benefits of membership to their company, encourage them to maximise membership and introduce the Chamber team. The event is also a great opportunity to meet fellow new members and give a one minute to business pitch to attendees.

Alma Kilmurray, Triskel Art Centre; John Keating, Cork Leeside Toastmasters and Emma Connolly, International Education Office, UCC.

Hazel Buckley, Amity Boutique; Mike McGrath, Supply.ie and Finbarr Ryan, Opestra.

Ken O’Neill, Cogans Toyota (centre) with Barry Hill and Theresa Connolly fromReal HR Solutions.

Sead Ni Mhaoilmhia, Cork Gas Centre.ie with Lucy O’Donoghue, Membership Development & PR Manager, Cork Chamber.

Eleanora Taylor, Taylor Solicitors and Mark Murphy, Cork Airport Services.

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NEW

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NETWORKING Festive Cheer at Heineken Always a seasonal favourite, Heineken Ireland hosted the festive business after hours in their hospitality suite “The Kiln” on Wednesday 15th December 2010 with almost 100 Chamber members and their guests in attendance. Cork

after hours Chamber President congratulated Heineken on the news of the development of a new “Brewery Quarter” on the Beamish and Crawford site, another positive step for Cork.

As always, there were prizes up for grabs as well as plenty of festive refreshments for all the guests.

Johnny Crowley, Heineken Ireland, George Ballard and Stephen Ballard, George C. Ballard (Motor Assessors) and Der Calnan, Satellite Taxis. (Photographs: John Sheehan Photography)

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Helen Murphy, Fota Island Resort (3rd from left) with Julie O’Leary, Fiona Hurley and Claire McCarthy from NASC - The Irish Immigrant Support Centre.

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Emer O’Sullivan and Vivienne Kelly, Lockdown Events & Model Management.

Robert Cogan and Margeret Murphy from Cogans Toyota with Aidan McCarthy, File One.

Over 50% of Members confirmed they do business at Chamber Networking Events and 65% felt that networking events achieved business results through lead generation and relationship building.*

*Statistics from Cork Chamber Annual Membership Survey 2010

TRAINING

services

Training Progammes We are in the process of finalising details of our 2011 funding for both Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network.

The next step is to publicly procure for all of our services, including training. Tender notice(s) will be published on www.e-tenders.gov.ie Only training providers approved via this process can be contracted to deliver training on behalf of Biznetcork Skillnet / Munster Finuas Network during 2011. Training providers approved during 2010 will need to re-apply for 2011.

We aim to have our training schedule available from early/ mid February 2011, details of which will be published on www.corkchamber.ie/.training

Smart phones driving flexible working practices

Flexible working has grown steadily amongst Irish businesses over the past number of years and will continue to rise as businesses realise the impact it can have on an organisation. A study commissioned by Vodafone Ireland has found that by 2014 39% of the Irish workforce will be working flexibly.

The growth in flexible working has been driven by a number of factors. The continued expansion of Ireland’s fixed broadband network is an obvious necessity but the evolving sophistication of smart phone devices has really impacted on how people work.

“The business telecoms market has changed significantly over the last five years which has led to greater opportunities for businesses to change working practices and has reduced the barriers of flexible working”,

Remember, our training networks are partly publiclyfunded which allows us to offer our members highly competitive rates along with the most experienced trainers. Contact us today to discuss how your company can benefit.

said Anne O’Leary, business and enterprise director with Vodafone Ireland. “Smart phone devices are the most popular flexible working tool and continue to represent the fastest growing mobile handset segment with demand for such devices growing month on month.”

The study highlighted that 68% of Irish business use smart phones and we can expect the continued growth in use of mobile applications by businesses to drive further adoption.

“With customers and employees expecting nothing less than continuous availability, it is vital that organisations can provide flexible workers devices that allow them to be as productive when they are out of the office. At the end of the day, business can’t stop just because someone is not sitting at their desk. The rules of the working day have changed and flexible working is the way forward,” concluded O’Leary.

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If you would like us to include your company’s training needs in our plans for 2011, please contact Emma Walsh, Training Services Manager on t: 021-4530142 or e: emma@ corkchamber.ie to discuss.

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MEMBERS

feature

Tell everyone about it!

Calling all Chamber members… do you have any good news items that you would like us to feature?

A new premises, an award, a big contract?

We’d love to hear from you and spread the good news to your fellow Cork Chamber members and beyond.

For further information on this new feature please contact Barbara-Anne Richardson, e: barbara-anne@corkchamber.ie or t: 021-4530140

The Brewery Quarter

A major planning application for the development of a new Brewery Quarter, on the site of the old Beamish & Crawford Brewery, was submitted to the City Council recently by a Joint Venture comprising Heineken Ireland and BAM Contactors.

Plans for the three year, €150m project have been shaped by a desire to integrate the new structures with the protected brewery Counting House building. The plan will contribute to the local environment by opening up a new North/South route in sympathy with the original Streets and Lanes, from Grand Parade across to the unique landmarks of St. Finbarre’s Cathedral, Elizabeth Fort, Crawford and Proby’s Quay. This sensitive and creative approach will lead to significant regeneration benefits for the area and will serve as a catalyst for further development in the South City / Parish area.

Titled The Brewery Quarter, the development comprises a mixed scheme of retail, student accommodation, viewing tower, cinemas, restaurants, and bars together with commercial live-work units. A key feature of the development will be a large Exhibition/Conference space within the old brewery building which will be used for displaying artefacts linked to the history and tradition of brewing in Cork and to the archaeological and historical nature of the site.

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At the heart of the regeneration project is a state of the art custom designed event centre, with a capacity to accommodate up to 6,000 patrons. Heineken Ireland and its development partner BAM Contractors have engaged extensively with Live Nation, the revolutionaries of the onstage event centre music industry and owners of the O2 Dublin, to ensure that the centre will be a world class performance venue.

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Commenting on the plans David Forde Managing Director Heineken Ireland, “We in Heineken Ireland have always been conscious of the need to draft appropriate plans that optimise the uniqueness of the Beamish and Crawford site and in doing so, being mindful of the historical importance of the site. I think that not only have we delivered on that, but have exceeded it. I have no doubt that the quarter will be an extraordinary and unique addition to the city’s townscape with significant regeneration benefit, whilst

David Forde, Managing Director of Heineken Ireland and Theo Cullinane, CEO of BAM Contractors, reviewing the ‘Brewery Quarter Scale Model’.

at the same time, providing a vibrant and dynamic hub designed to reflect the unique aspects of the City of Cork and offering a range of activities and services for the discerning visitor. I can’t wait for it to happen.”

Theo Cullinane, CEO of BAM Contractors remarked, “This scheme aims to meet and deliver on the aspirations of many, in bringing to Cork a tourist quarter with a much awaited event centre, which will offer the city a large, flexible space which can house art exhibitions, live performances, fairs, corporate events and touring shows.”

Heineken Ireland and BAM Contactors will have a model of the proposed development on public display in the foyer of Beamish & Crawford from mid January, which will provide the general public with a vision for the new development.

The plans themselves will be available for inspection at City Hall in Cork and on the City Council website.

MARKETING

cork

Supplied by Cork Marketing Partnership & Cork Convention Bureau

promoting Cork in Belfast Manx2.com the airline flying the Belfast to Cork route with twice daily services 6 days a week, is currently developing a series of promotions and advertisements in both Belfast and Cork over the next 3 months.

Cork Marketing Partnership are delighted to welcome and acknowledge Cork partners Castlemartyr Resort, Man Friday Restaurant, Kinsale’ and Avis Car Hire who together are offering a spectacular weekend in Cork to 2 lucky Belfast radio listners.

Airing on Belfast radio station U105 from January 20th – 28th a fun, interactive competition will tantalise listeners with Belfast - Cork return flights on Manx2 to a waiting Avis Car for the duration of their stay, luxury 5 star accommodation and dinner in the Castlemartyr Resort and a visit to gourmet Kinsale for a special night out at Man Friday Restaurant, Kinsale.

Cork Marketing Partnership is working with Manx2 and Cork partners on further promotions for the season ahead, businesses interested to work with us on these promotions please contact, Liz McAvoy at t: (021) 4317895 or e: liz@corkmarketingpartnership.ie

promoting Cork to the events and Meeting industry Cork Convention Bureau (CCB) attended EIBTM, the global meetings and events trade show in Barcelona recently.

CCB were part of the Failte Ireland ‘Meet in Ireland’ stand along with other Irish Trade partners representing hotels, conference organisers, DMC’s etc. The 3 day event meant CCB had over 20 pre-arranged, one to one appointments with international meeting, events and conference organisers who have specific interest in the Cork region.

Outside of this there was an opportunity to meet with some of the thousands of buyers who were hosted by the organisers of the show. 395 people from the meetings industry from all over the world visited the Ireland Stand to meet with the trade partners over the 3 days. The key focus for the event was to identify new leads for the Cork region and to highlight the fact that Ireland is very much open for business and that fantastic value is now available on the island.

The launch of the Cork Festivals Forum 2011 Calendar will take place on thursday February 3rd the Bodega, Cornmarket Street from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

The launch will be a great chance for local businesses to meet festival organisers, network and find out what’s on in Cork for 2011.

There will be light refreshments, entertainment and prizes on the night.

RSVP before Tuesday, 1st February admincorkandkerry@failteireland.ie

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“Manx2 is strongly committed to the Belfast - Cork route and with good access into the region critical to the growth of tourism in the region, this is indeed a welcome initiative”, said Michael Geary, Chairman, Cork Marketing Partnership.

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MEMBERS

news

To submit Members News send to Imelda (imelda@corkchamber.ie) For more Members News go to www.corkchamber.ie

Public Consultation for Rail Timetable

Iarnród Éireann has announced a new process for major rail schedule revisions which will ensure that customers have a say in timetable changes before they are formally adopted. The new process will see draft revisions posted online on this website, and provide a response form for customers to express opinions on changes proposed, or any other schedule issues they wish to see addressed.

Iarnród Éireann will endeavour to implement customers’ suggestions where possible. Draft schedules are now on www.irishrail.ie/contact_us/timetable_comments.asp Sinead Kavanagh and Brendan Keary, Kearys Lexus.

Preview of the new LEXUS CT200h

Award winning artist Cathy Davey gave an exclusive performance at Kearys Lexus Cork to celebrate the upcoming launch of the hybrid luxury compact car (to be launched in early 2011). Cathy’s unique style, great sound and exceptional performance skills are perfectly matched to the new luxurious Lexus CT. The invite only event included an evening of music, entertainment, luxury and a chance for guests to sneak a preview of the hybrid up close.

Augustine’s makes Top 5

John McKenna, co-author of the Bridgestone Guide 2011 has named Augustine’s Restaurant based in the Clarion Hotel, Lapps Quay as a restaurant that excels. Mr McKenna, highlighted the top restaurants in the country and Augustine’s was the only Cork restaurant in his top five restaurants for dining excellence. Delighted with these accolades Brendan Cashman, chef/owner said, “It’s fantastic to be recongised in this way. We respect and admire John and Sally’s tireless work for restaurants in Ireland with the Bridgestone Guide.” Since the New Year Augustine’s has re-launched their every popular tasting menu at a special price of €25.00 for six courses.

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Port of Cork Schools Initiative Goes Green for 2011

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The Port of Cork has launched their Schools Initiative for 2011 and is calling on all 5th class primary school teachers to get their class involved. This year’s initiative is based on the theme ‘Making Cork Harbour a Green Energy Hub for our Future’ and encourages school children to look at Cork harbour as an energy hub now and into the future.

The Port of Cork Schools Initiative will educate children about the harbour and how it could be used to harness energy such as wind, wave, gas, electricity and other forms of energy, while also giving school children the chance to be creative and futuristic about Cork harbour. Projects are to be presented in artwork format using paintings, models or photographs. Submitted projects will go on public display in Customs House for six weeks before the winner is announced in April 2011. Closing date for entries is 18th March 2011. For more information on this year’s schools project and how to get involved, please contact Captain Pat Murphy Tel: 021 4625312 or or visit www.portofcork.ie

New year, new online presence for westboro partners

Westboro Partners has unveiled their new website, www.westboro.ie, providing an invaluable resource with important financial and business information for individuals, businesses and corporates alike. The new site is easy to navigate and for the first time, it allows browsers to subscribe to the firm’s many added value services, including their specialist bulletins and newsletters.

Engaging with Westboro Partners has never been easier.

The new site provides contact points for all accountants, partners and managers, across a wide number of areas from corporate restructuring, forensic accounting and business grants and funding. The website offers profiles of each of Westboro’s key individuals, information about some of the firm’s areas of practice and update to date financial and business news. We invite you to visit our new site at www.westboro.ie and please contact us if we can be of assistance to you and your business in any way.

Three in a row!

O’Donovans Off Licences, Cork are delighted to announce that - for the third year in row - they have fought off strong opposition to be awarded Specialist Off Licence Group of the Year at the prestigious National Off Licence of the Year Awards in Dublin on Monday night. In addition, all 3 O’Donovan’s Finalists – including O’Donovan’s Off Licence outlets in Bishopstowon, Ballincollig and Shandon Street - were awarded certificates of either ‘Standard’, ‘Merit’ and ‘Excellence’ based on their performance. The awards are held by NOffLA annually to recognise those off-licences around the country that offer exceptional service to customers and demonstrate excellence in retail standards.

Maureen Forrest, CEO of The Hope Foundation; Joan O’Flynn, President of the Camogie Association; Jacqui Hurley, RTE; Aislinn Connolly, Galway; Elaine Alyward, Kilkenny and Evanne Ni Chuillin, RTE.

‘Camogie for HOPE’

HR Consult launches new website with Member offer

Donal Molloy, a local Cork based HR Consultant is delighted to announce the launch of his new website www.hrconsult. ie. HR Consult specialises in providing professional support to clients on people management issues. With over 20 years HR experience, Donal brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to local SME businesses providing the support of a HR Department without the costs. HR Consult provides clients with cost effective and flexible HR solutions especially in the areas of Recruitment, HR Compliance, Employee Relations, Performance Management and Cost Reduction and also provide customised training programmes for business owners and people managers.

To celebrate the launch of the new website HR Consult is offering the first 10 Chamber Members who contact them through Contact US section of the new website a free 1 hour consultation on any people management topics. Just include “Cork Chamber Offer” in the Subject Line.

Conor Counihan, Manager of the Cork Senior Football Team presents Mark Stout with the 2010 student of the year award, also pictured Noel Shannon, Area Manager National Learning Network.

Cork GAA Legend Presents Certificates

Manager of the Cork Senior GAA Football team, Conor Counihan, returned to his previous workplace when he visited the National Learning Network centre in Hollyhill to present a group of learners with certificates marking their achievements over the past year. A total of 120 students received certificates accredited by the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC), City and Guilds, and the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL).The Hollyhill and Model Farm Road centres, together with outreach centres in Mallow, Midleton, Carrigaline and Penrose Wharf, currently cater for close to 240 students.

The students are offered vocational programmes funded by FÁS and rehabilitative programmes funded by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and are supported in developing the skills that they need to build lasting careers in jobs that reflect their interests and abilities. Courses at National Learning Network are designed to meet the specific needs of each individual student and for this reason they offer a continuous intake throughout the year.

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Leading camogie stars and broadcasting personalities are uniting behind the efforts of an Irish charity, The Hope Foundation, to raise funds for the street and slum children of Calcutta. Galway sharp shooter Aislinn Connolly and Kilkenny’s Elaine Alyward joined RTÉ sports presenters Jacqui Hurley and Evanne Ni Chuilinn to launch the ‘Camogie for HOPE’ partnership at Croke Park last week with the President of the Camogie Association Joan O’Flynn and Maureen Forrest, Hon. Director of The Hope Foundation. The ‘Camogie for HOPE’ partnership will work to raise awareness of the work carried out by the charity and liaise on select fundraising initiatives including a charity ‘All Stars’ camogie match; details of which will be announced in January 2011. Furthermore, a fundraising run in Calcutta, the ‘Kolkata 10K’ is taking place in the Indian city in March, with further information available on www. hopefoundation.ie.

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MEMBERS

news

To submit Members News send to Imelda (imelda@corkchamber.ie) For more Members News go to www.corkchamber.ie

Barry Hill joins Real HR Solutions

Real HR Solutions is delighted to announce that Barry Hill has joined the Company as Partner and Senior HR Consultant. Barry has a wealth of experience having worked for over 30 years at a senior level both in Human Resources and Sales, as well as HR consultancy. Barry has worked with a number of large organisations including CMP Dairy, Dairygold and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). He is an IBEC representative and a Board member of the Cork City Partnership.

Graham Canty with Special Olympics Athlete Damien O’Donovan.

Running home to Bantry Bay

Duets participants Mikel Murfi, Conor Lovett, Julie Feeney, Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh and Raymond Scannell.

UCC School of Music and Theatre

University College Cork (UCC) celebrated the establishment of its new School of Music and Theatre with a special concert, Duets. Duets brought together some of the most innovative Irish theatre and music artists to herald the launch of the School and project its vision of cross-arts innovation in artistic practice, research and education. In addition, Duets presented a newly devised music-theatre piece created by actor and theatre director Mikel Murfi and singer-songwriter Julie Feeney. In 2011 the School of Music and Theatre will celebrate the legacy of one of the central figures in the history of Irish music, Seán Ó Riada with a series of special events, including the world premiere of Ó Riada Room, composed by concertina virtuoso Niall Vallely.

The 6th Annual Bantry Bay Run, a half Marathon which takes place on the May Bank Holiday weekend, Sunday, May 1st 2011 from the beautiful village of Glengarriff, along the coastal route to Bantry was recently launched. Cork Senior Football Captain Graham Canty and members of the Bay Run’s chosen charity, the Bantry Division of the Special Olympics were there in support of the initiative. Over 1,300 runners, joggers and walkers took part in Bay Run ’10 and amongst them were many well known celebrities and internationally renowned long distance runner Catherina McKiernan. Catherine has been the official starter of the Bantry Bay Run over the last number of years and will again commence the 13km race from Glengarriff to Bantry.

Registration at www.bayrun.ie

A New Year – A New Challenge

Do You Wish To Be A Confident Public Speaker?

If you are like most people, public speaking is not your favourite pastime. Yet survey after survey show that presentation skills are crucial to success. Public speaking is a skill, a skill which can be learnt and there is no more effective or fun place to learn that in a Toastmaster club.

Take the first step in becoming the strong, confident public speaker you wish to be by contacting John Keating on 085 7202 808 or email john.keating@gmx.com, and visit www. corkleeside.org

Innovation Week March 7th -11th 2011

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This year marks the 9th anniversary of the highly successful CIT Prize for Innovation Competition sponsored by the Cork County and City Enterprise Boards. The competition for CIT students has always been a two day event featuring an exhibition of innovation and enterprise at both second level and third level.

This year, to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship, CIT will host a week-long series of events across its five campus locations, including Blackrock Castle Observatory. The week (March 7th -11th inclusive) will celebrate and showcase innovation and entrepreneurial activity across CIT. The week will include events highlighting the entrepreneurship and innovation supports available to industry, through CIT’s specialist industry centres and the Rubicon Centre (www.rubiconcentre. ie).

During the week, there will be an opportunity for companies to visit CIT and learn how companies in the region use CIT as their innovation partner of choice. CIT will host guest speakers on the subjects of entrepreneurship and innovation and all events will be open to the public.

A schedule of events will be available next month so keep an eye on the CIT website www.cit.ie

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EA-32-09-208-EN-P

Go further, faster Enterprise Europe Network The route to new markets European Commission Enterprise and Industry

ec.europa.eu/enterprise-europe-network Affiche_A1.indd 2

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Vodafone. The home of the smartphone.

And the home of the BlackBerry® Torch™ 9800, with both touchscreen and full QWERTY keyboard – the best of both worlds for your business.

Just call in store or visit vodafone.ie

BlackBerry® Torch™ 9800

BlackBerry®, RIM®, Research in Motion®, SureType®, SurePress™ and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of Research in Motion Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries around the world. Used under license from Research in Motion Limited.

P26959 VO Smartphones BUSINESS CHAMBERLINK 297x210 JJ.indd 1

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