The business of belonging

Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2025, proudly sponsored by AIB.

Cork stands at a unique juncture, poised to lead Ireland into a future that balances economic growth, sustainability and cultural vibrancy. This was the central message delivered at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2025, where Chamber President Rob Horgan set out a vision for an ambitious and dynamic future for the region.

The flagship event, proudly sponsored by AIB in City Hall on Friday 7th February brought together nearly 1,000 distinguished guests including representatives from the business and political communities. It featured a keynote address by Taoiseach Micheál Martin, his first major address to a business audience since his election as Taoiseach with the evening reaffirming Cork’s leadership in shaping a sustainable, innovative and inclusive business environment.

In his address, Cork Chamber President, Rob Horgan, set out an ambitious vision for Cork, “it is clear that our city and county stand at a unique juncture. Poised to lead Ireland into a future that balances economic growth, sustainability and cultural vibrancy.”

Speaking on the energy opportunity for Cork, Mr Horgan said, “At our fingertips is the opportunity for Cork Harbour to be Ireland’s first energy park. With the ambition, will and the right action taken, we can harness the assets that we have to ensure that they are fit for the energy revolution.

“If we don’t make a priority of aligning the policies and funding, the ambition and the action, the greatest opportunity of our generation will be lost.”

Mr Horgan outlined the ‘enabling infrastructure’ essential for Cork to power Ireland’s future prosperity as port infrastructure, grid capacity, energy storage solutions, a skills hub and centre of excellence.

He went on to acknowledge the broader constraints that are holding back economic growth. “Our housing supply, our water infrastructure, our cultural, educational and childcare services and our transport infrastructure”, the chamber president implored the newly formed government to act decisively to harness the opportunities for Cork and Ireland.

As a strong advocate for the enhancement and rejuvenation of Cork’s urban landscapes, Mr Horgan continued “Investing in these spaces is essential to making Cork a place where people and businesses want to be. “Safe, green, accessible and vibrant spaces enhance quality of life, attract talent and importantly, they fuel economic growth.”

The Cork Chamber President also called for a continued commitment to fostering an environment where businesses and communities thrive through inclusivity and connection. Mr Horgan outlined that despite shifts in global landscape, it is hugely important to maintain focus on sustainability, inclusivity and collaboration.

Delivering the keynote address, Taoiseach Micheál Martin acknowledged the great value in the collaboration among the Cork region’s business community. Speaking ahead of the dinner, the Taoiseach said, “Tonight’s gathering is a testament to the fortitude and collaborative spirit that exists in Cork’s business community. The ambition and determination to drive the region’s growth is evident in the many successes across sectors. This government is committed to providing the best possible platform on which those ambitions can be realised. I thank Cork Chamber for their continued open engagement.”

Colin Hunt, Chief Executive of AIB, sponsors of the event, said “As everyone here tonight knows, Cork Chamber works tirelessly on your behalf, and has done so for businesses for over 200 years. Their vision is to lead a transforming and ambitious Cork City and County. They are one of Ireland’s most active regional advocacy groups, a pioneer in sustainability and a hub of connectivity for global business engagement.”

In closing, Mr Horgan reaffirmed Cork Chamber’s commitment to shaping a vibrant and sustainable future for the region, “Cork is more than just a place to live and work, it is a city of opportunity, connection and belonging. We have the talent, the ambition and the drive to create a thriving future. But it requires strong leadership, collaboration and an unwavering determination to deliver.”