COVER STORY
The future shines bright The Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner returned on Tuesday 21st November to celebrate the collaborative spirit between Cork and Dublin and the importance of this synergy to the success of Ireland Inc. Held in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY, the keynote was delivered by An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD to more than 600 people from across Ireland’s business, political and diplomatic landscape. In his keynote address, An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD said “The Government and I strongly believe that more balanced regional development is good for the country as whole. Cork, as a city-region, has a population approaching six hundred thousand people which is similar to that of Galway, Limerick and Waterford combined. Cork City and County can lead the way with Government in generating economic and population growth. We will be there to ensure it succeeds through increased investment in infrastructure like rail, roads, housing, school, hospitals, universities, energy and water.” “Cork and Dublin showcase a remarkable synergy. One that resonates on the global stage. We have consistently demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to attract substantial foreign direct investment to our island and equally to maintain an economic environment that can serve as a launchpad for Irish private enterprises eager to scale and make their mark on the international stage,” said Ronan Murray, Cork Chamber President.
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An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar TD Picture: Finbar O’Rourke
Speaking at the event Frank O’Keeffe Managing Partner at EY Ireland said “For Ireland to thrive both Cork and Dublin need to thrive individually and collectively. For us in EY, there are so many great business reasons why we continue to invest and grow our own presence in Cork. The future has never ever looked brighter.” Mr Murray spoke positively about the future for Cork and Ireland to harness the opportunity to develop economically and socially, by ensuring private ambition is supported to enhance our resilience and sustainable growth. “Sitting in this enviable position on the edge of the Atlantic, we have the potential to emerge as a renewable energy powerhouse. Our commitment to delivering on this is critical to achieving energy security and future resilience. Paving the way for energy independence will not only enhance our appeal to investors but it will also elevate the quality of life in Ireland which ultimately will create a more secure legacy for the generations to come,” said Mr Murray in conclusion stating “That is the prize for our City regions, for Dublin and Cork to be the changemakers and deliver that legacy for the next generation. Ní neart go cur le chéile.”
