Inside Wexford Business - Issue 4

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann a Boost to County Wexford

Support for Energy Efficiency & Renewable Heating

New Restrictions on Employment Contracts

Top Security Tips for Businesses

SCARP: The Process Works

Supporting Businesses to Maximise the Full Potential of their Talent

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INTRODUCTION

2023 has started as 2022 finished with a very busy County Wexford Chamber. Our team has been very busy closing out 2022 and reconciling the record sales of Shop Local Vouchers, which are now the gift of choice for businesses to show their appreciation for the hard work and commitment of their employees.

Besides the regular routine administration, they have been busy organising B2B Networking Breakfasts, with exceptionally wellattended meetings having been held in the three districts in the first quarter of the year. It is really encouraging to see businesses from across the county attend the meetings in each venue.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Work is ongoing on the planning of our Jobs Fest which will be held on April 26. At the same time, our team is very busy organising our 2023 Annual Business Awards. The number of entries is significantly up on our very successful 2022 event so we look forward to the winners being announced on May 5.

The launch of our County Wexford Chamber Strategic Plan is imminent. This plan sets out the road map for Chamber activities for the next three years. I would like to thank in advance all of our key stakeholders who have contributed to this plan and we look forward to working with them to deliver on the key objectives over the next three years.

FLEADH CHEOIL NA HÉIREANN

I am particularly excited by the decision of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann to select Wexford to host the 2024 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, and likely again in 2025. The Board and Executive of County Wexford Chamber are delighted to have been able to offer support to the great work undertaken by the bid team. 2024 won’t be long coming around, so it’s vitally important that we now work with the business community firstly to ensure the success of the festival. It is essential that all businesses, especially those within the town centre, have a strong representative voice to ensure that all the necessary contingency arrangements are in place. The arrangements are needed to support those who will benefit from the festival and especially to support those enterprises that will suffer a degree of business disruption during the nine-day event.

NEW CEO OF CHAMBER

All of the above activities require strong and consistent leadership. It is with this in mind that the Board of County Wexford Chamber has appointed Ms. Emma Dunphy as the new CEO. Emma has been steering our organisation in an acting capacity for the past three years. The public face of County Wexford Chamber to many, she has been at the helm throughout the most difficult years for the Chamber and for the wider business community. A holder of a Commerce Degree from the former WIT (SETU), her career has seen her work in the clothing retail sector where she held a number of key management positions with a globally recognised American high-end retailer. Finally, I hope you enjoy and find this edition of our magazine informative and interesting.

Brendan Crowley President, County Wexford Chamber

CORPORATE PARTNERS 2023

INTRODUCTION

Our County Wexford Chamber Business Awards are back with 19 categories up for grabs plus the prestigious Overall Business of the Year award! We are beyond excited to celebrate our vibrant and innovative business community on May 5 with this year’s MC, comedian Neil Delamere.

BUSY START TO YEAR

The start of the year has been extremely busy from finalising our threeyear Strategic Plan, which is due to be launched at the end of April, and our networking mornings across the county. Our Shop Local vouchers have exceeded €1.5 million in sales; and representatives of the Chamber attended Chambers Ireland’s centenary dinner in Dublin Castle. In between, we saw the turning of the sod on Trinity Wharf and the fantastic news that Wexford will host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August 2024, an event that could see up to 700,000 people descend on the county and be worth up to €60 million to the local economy.

It has been encouraging to see such strong demand for our networking, training, and development. We will continue to deliver programmes designed to help you and your teams.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Our Jobs Fest 2023 returns on April 26 this year, with the success of last year and feedback from our members struggling to fill job vacancies. County Wexford Chamber, supported by Wexford County Council, is bringing top employers and talented employees together through informal chats and to forge a future filled with sustainable jobs in County Wexford.

As your Chamber, we are here to represent you and enhance County Wexford’s reputation as the best place to live, work, and play.

Emma Dunphy CEO, County Wexford Chamber

CHAMBER NEWS

Nolan Transport opens new

€12m hub

In January, Nolan Transport opened a major new €12 million warehousing facility in Wexford. The 150,000 cubic metre warehousing and logistics facility at Drinagh is in addition to the company’s main hub in New Ross.

Nolan Transport was founded 60 years ago by the late Jimmy and Joan Nolan. The venture began with a single

50 new jobs from Chevron College

Chevron College is set to create 50 new jobs in the coming years following its acquisition of a Dublin training company.

Oiliúna Training has provided state-funded further education for over 20 years in business, management and IT. Its acquisition adds these disciplines to the certified training programmes in healthcare, childcare, and renewable energy offered by Chevron College’s 100-plus staff to over 5,000 students every year.

Wind energy agreement between Rosslare Europort and ESB

Iarnród Éireann (Port Authority for Rosslare Europort) and ESB have signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to cooperate on the organisations’ respective development plans to support offshore wind projects in the Celtic and Irish Seas.

With Rosslare Europort progressing plans to establish the port as Ireland’s offshore renewables hub and ESB developing a portfolio of offshore wind farms, the joint initiative seeks to take advantage of their respective fields of expertise and knowledge. The MOU establishes a common goal of maximising the opportunities of each parties’ respective development plans.

In 2022, Rosslare Europort management announced plans to establish the port, its hinterland and the southeast region as Ireland’s Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub, with the potential to create up to 2,000 jobs.

truck and now has over 2,000 trailers and 700 trucks. One of the country’s largest transport companies, this development at the company’s Wexford Global Logistics Park will result in 30 new jobs.

Nolan Transport also has offices across the UK, France, Spain, and The Netherlands.

President Karl Fitzpatrick said the move was “an exciting growth opportunity” for Chevron College, which secured approval from Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) last year as a higher education provider.

The port is uniquely located within 60-100 nautical miles of most of the planned developments in the Irish and Celtic seas, including many of the portfolio of OWF projects being developed by ESB within Ireland.

Glenn Carr, Director Commercial Business Units for Iarnród Éireann, Port Authority Rosslare Europort, said: “Rosslare Europort is excited to work with ESB whose vision for the potential of ORE aligns with our own. We believe there are strong synergies to be achieved as we work together to place this renewable energy industry at the heart of Ireland’s decarbonised future.”

Tom Enright (left), Chief Executive, Wexford County Council, pictured with Noel Nolan, Managing Director of Nolan Transport’s warehousing division, at the opening of the company’s new facility at Drinagh.

French Honorary Consulate in Wexford

County Wexford Chamber welcomes the recent announcement that the French Embassy in Ireland is to establish an Honorary Consulate in Wexford.

“We look forward to working with H.E. Vincent Guérend and the team in the French Embassy throughout 2023,” said CEO Emma Dunphy. “We are delighted to see ties between Ireland (and notably Co. Wexford) and France getting stronger by the day and it seemed like a logical and strategic choice for H.E Vincent Guérend to establish a new Honorary Consulate in Wexford.”

Niamh’s new rule a success at Mrs Bee’s Healthy Options

Mrs Bee’s Healthy Options in Gorey has just celebrated one year under its new owner. The independently owned health store is now in the capable hands of Niamh Free. Niamh, who took over the reins in January 2022, is not a new face to the trade. She has worked in the popular shop on Clonattin Road for over 18 years. When the opportunity arose to take over from the previous owners, Niamh said “it was a blessing to have such an opportunity”

The changeover has been seamless to the customers and the business continues to grow in popularity. “I want to thank our customers and staff for their continued and unwavering support,” said Niamh.

Enjoy Enniscorthy launched

February saw the launch of the Enjoy Enniscorthy media hub. The culmination of months of hard work, it aims to strengthen the digital presence of the town, businesses and communities within the district.

“We’ve spent the last two months ramping up our R&D capabilities, creating a new media hub in Enniscorthy,” said Enjoy Enniscorthy’s Laura Callaghan. “We hope this hub will have a huge positive impact on the district as it is the gateway to the south of the region. In order for the area to flourish, we have to be able to connect the local community to digital platforms with world-class content.”

Laura added that she hoped the new hub would help entice more digital entrepreneurs to move to the Enniscorthy area.

Niamh Free, owner of Mrs Bee’s Healthy Options, Gorey.

The French Ambassador, H.E. Vincent Guérend, pictured with (left) County Wexford Chamber President Brendan Crowley and (right) County Wexford Chamber Vice President Lorcan Kinsella.

Pictured at the launch of the new Enjoy Enniscorthy media hub recently were (l-r): James Browne, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Justice; Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy; Claire Lawless, District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District; Verona Murphy, TD; and Senator Malcolm Byrne.

Top workplace awards for Scurri and Talbot Hotel

Wexford-based Scurri has been officially recognised as one of the Best Workplaces in Ireland in 2023. The company is a global software provider that connects and optimises the eCommerce ordering, shipping, and delivery process

This is Scurri’s fifth consecutive year to be named as a top Irish workplace, which is assessed through Great Place to Work’s robust ‘Trust Index©’ employee survey and a thorough ‘Culture Audit©’ assessment of their policies and practices. Scurri was recognised as the 24th Best Small Workplace in Ireland 2023 from a list of 40 companies.

“Our culture is a vital component of our business, and one that I am particularly proud of as we continue to navigate the ever-evolving eCommerce sector,” said Rory O’Connor, CEO and Founder of Scurri.

Great place to work

The Talbot Hotel Wexford has been certified as a Great Place to Work. The Great Place to Work certification is a prestigious award that is based on employee feedback, workplace culture, and other factors that contribute to a positive work environment.

“This achievement reflects our commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work,” said Robert Millar, Area Manager, The Talbot Collection, Wexford. “We would like to thank each and every one of our employees for their contributions to our organisation and for making this recognition possible. We will continue to work hard to maintain this high standard and to ensure that our workplace remains a great place to work for everyone.”

Chamber marks first flying of national flag

County Wexford Chamber was represented at a recent event to commemorate the first flying of the tricolour 175 years ago. Talks and other cultural events were held to mark the first flying of the Irish National Flag by Thomas Francis Meagher in his native city of Waterford. County Wexford Chamber was represented by Board member Willie Fitzharris, Fitzharris Construction Ltd, New Ross.

A Great Place to Work: Talbot Hotel Wexford.

Pictured at a talk to mark the 175th anniversary of the flying of the Irish national flag were (l-r): HE Vincent Guérend, French Ambassador to Ireland; County Wexford Chamber director Willie Fitzharris; Professor Veronica Campbell, SETU President; and HE Larysa Gerasko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Ireland.

The team at Scurri, one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces.

We have an exciting range of events lined up for the next few months. Visit www.countywexfordchamber.ie for more information or to book online.

County Wexford Business Awards

– Decision Time!

With over 220 businesses across County Wexford battling it out in this year’s County Wexford Chamber Business Awards, over 100 businesses from across County Wexford were shortlisted as finalists across 19 categories in this year’s Awards. The excitement is certainly building to find out who will walk away with this year’s awards. Interviews took place at end-March, with the winners to be announced at a gala event on May 5.

BENCHMARK FOR SUCCESS

Now in their second year, the prestigious event, which is organised by County Wexford Chamber with Wexford County Council as the headline sponsor, is widely seen as the benchmark for business success in the county.

CEO Emma Dunphy says: “We have received a record number of entries this year and we are delighted to see a broad range of diverse business applicants right across the county for this year’s Business Awards.

I know it has been a real challenge for judges to whittle down so many applications to the shortlist. The very best of luck to everyone, we have incredible businesses across the county and these awards are here to celebrate them all.”

GALA AWARDS CEREMONY

The winners will be announced at the black-tie gala awards ceremony in Clayton Whites Hotel on Friday, May 5. The upcoming Business Awards will be a marvellous opportunity to gather with local businesses across the county and celebrate the successes of the year. It will certainly be a sold-out event, with over 450 guests expected to attend the stylish awards ceremony dinner. The event will be hosted by comedian Neil Delamere, with music by Divine Invention.

Pictured at the launch of the 2023 County Wexford Business Awards were (l-r): CEO Emma Dunphy; Cllr George Lawlor, Chairperson, Wexford County Council; Rolf Fuhrmann, Mann Engineering Ltd, winner of the 2022 County Wexford Business of the Year Award; Chamber President Brendan Crowley; and Mary Fuhrmann, Mann Engineering.

Neil Delamere, who will host the Awards Ceremony on May 5.

Roll call for finalists of

County Wexford Business of the Year Award (1-20 Employees)

Sponsor: Danone Nutricia, Wexford

• Coatek

• Ferrybank Motors

• Harte Outdoor Lighting

• Kingfisher Fresh Ltd

• Niall M Byrne Architects

• Whizzy Internet

County Wexford Business of the Year Award (20-50 Employees)

Sponsor: Scurri

• K&K Windows Ltd

• Mann Engineering Ltd

• The Apex

County Wexford Business of the Year Award (50+ Employees)

Sponsor: PwC

• AirconMech

• Celtic Linen

• Kent Stainless

• Killowen Farm

• Mary Barry’s Seafood Bar & Restaurant

County Wexford Employee of the Year Award

Sponsor: Kent Stainless

• Advance Cleaners Ltd

• Alzheimer Society of Ireland

• Azure Health & Beauty

• Hidden Hearing Ltd

• Mann Engineering Ltd

• McGrath Quantity Surveyors

County Wexford Excellence in International Trade Award

Sponsor: Rosslare Europort

• All Ireland Foods

• Kent Stainless

• Kersia Group: Medentech

• Niall M Byrne Architects Ltd

County Wexford Excellence in Retail Award

Sponsor: Joyces Expert, Wexford

• Ferrybank Motors

• Hickeys Pharmacy

• Liz Collins Boutique Ltd

• School Books Ireland/The Treasury

• Sully & Juno

• The Clothesline Boutique

County Wexford Operational Excellence Award

Sponsor: Waters Technologies

• Kersia Group - Medentech

• McGrath Quantity Surveyors

• The Ultrasound Suite Ltd

County Wexford Excellence in Sustainability Award

Sponsor: Wexford Bus

• Maldron Hotel Wexford

• Profitsflow

• Slaney Farms Produce Ltd

• Wexford Arts Centre

County Wexford Family Business of the Year Award

Sponsor: Reynaers Aluminium

• Ferrybank Motors

• Gainfort Hair & Beauty Supplies Ltd

• Harte Outdoor Lighting

• K&K Windows Ltd

• Killowen Farm

• Mann Engineering Ltd

• Natural Health Store

• Trudies Kitchen Ltd

County Wexford Food and Beverage Producer of the Year Award

Sponsor: Irish Country Meats

• Bouquets & Buttercream

• Killowen Farm

• Ministry of Flavours

• Mór Taste

• Stafford Irish Spirits

• Trudies Kitchen Ltd

County Wexford Hospitality Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: Permanent tsb

• Clayton Whites Hotel

• La Cote Restaurant & The Cheeky Cod

• Mary Barry’s Seafood Bar & Restaurant

• 10 West Bistro & Cocktail Lounge

• Partridges Bistro

• Talbot Hotel Wexford

• The Cracked Teapot

County Wexford Online Business & Digital Marketing Award

Sponsor: AIB

• Candy Boutique

• Eoin O’Connor Gallery

• Kent Stainless

• Natural Health Store

• The Ultrasound Suite

County Wexford Operational Excellence Award

Sponsor: Waters Technologies

• Kersia Group - Medentech

• McGrath Quantity Surveyors

• The Ultrasound Suite Ltd

County Wexford Outstanding

Contribution to the Community Award

Sponsor: People News

• Altura Credit Union Ltd

• BASEGYM

• Clayton Whites Hotel

• Colour Her Way

• Wexford Arts Centre

County Wexford Service Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: Azets Ireland

• Denise’s Beauty & Skin Clinic

• Guardian Fire & Safety

• McGrath Quantity Surveyors

• Profitsflow

• Secret Valley Wildlife Park

• Whizzy Internet

County Wexford Start-Up

Business of the Year Award

Sponsor: Local Enterprise Office Wexford

• Earth Food

• Little Learning Steps

• Machinelab Ltd

• MK Aesthetics

• Mór Taste

• Pitcrew Barbecue

• Wipe Your Paws Dog Grooming

County Wexford Tourism Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: Zurich

• Hook Lighthouse (Hook Heritage CLG)

• International Outdoor Activity Centre - IOAC

• Kia Ora Mini Farm

• Talbot Hotel Wexford

• The Stables Fitness & Wellbeing

• Wexford Arts Centre

County Wexford Training Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: County Wexford Chamber Skillnet

• Gainfort Hair & Beauty

• Gorey Institute of Beauty

• Ignite Training & Consultancy

• Maldron Hotel, Wexford

• Sensible Safety Ltd

THREE AWARDS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON 5 MAY:

Lifetime Achievement Award

Sponsor: Clayton Whites Hotel

Ambassador of the Year

Sponsor: Monart Destination Spa

Overall County

Wexford Business of the Year

Sponsor: Wexford County Council

CHAMBER EVENTS WEXFORD

Events in Wexford ended on a high in 2022 with our Annual Christmas Lunch with a B2B Networking Morning kickstarting 2023.

Pictured at the Annual Christmas Lunch in the Newbay House Hotel were (l-r): Anslem Diaz and Naleem Ibrahim, Ministry of Flavours, Gorey.

Pictured at the B2B Networking Morning in the Maldron Hotel, Wexford, were (l-r): Elizabeth Whyte, Wexford Arts Centre, and Niall Reck, Graphedia.

Pictured at the Annual Christmas Lunch in the Newbay House Hotel were (l-r): Calodagh McCumiskey, Spiritual Earth; Eamonn Buttle, South East Radio; and Samantha Kelly, Social Media Marketing Specialist

Pictured at the B2B Networking Morning in the Maldron Hotel, Wexford, were (l-r): Ruth Gallagher, Creative Sound, and Nicki Dunphy, Sensible Safety.

Pictured at the Annual Christmas Lunch in the Newbay House Hotel were (l-r): Willie Fitzharris, Fitzharris Construction Ltd, New Ross; Emer Coleman, AIB; Verona Murphy, TD; Roisin Clancy, Manager, AIB Gorey; Lorcán Kinsella, Managing Director, Brand Nova Digital, New Ross.

Comedian Deirdre O’Kane at the Annual Christmas Lunch in the Newbay House Hotel.

CHAMBER EVENTS

GOREY & NEW ROSS

Membership of County Wexford Chamber includes strategic networking opportunities. We have hosted events recently in both Gorey and New Ross, facilitating businesspeople to make new contacts and to build on existing relationships.

Pictured at the After-Hours Networking Evening in New Ross Credit Union, in October were (l-r): Martin Lawlor, Coghlan Kelly Solicitors; Catherine Geoghegan, John G Flynn Solicitors; and Padraic Wafer, Coghlan Kelly Solicitors.

Pictured at the After-Hours Networking Evening in New Ross Credit Union, in October were Trudie Power, Trudie’s Kitchen (second from left), with Sandra Monahan, Debbie Fortune, and Aoife Crowe, New Ross Credit Union.

Pictured at the B2B Networking Morning in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, in February were (l-r): Anne Colgan, Everyone Can Sing; Marguerite Murphy, Bank of Ireland North Wexford Cluster Manager; and Claire Quigley, Bank of Ireland.

Pictured at the After-Hours Networking Evening in New Ross Credit Union, in October were (l-r): Walter O’Leary; County Wexford Chamber President Brendan Crowley; and Willie Fitzharris, Fitzharris Construction.

Pictured at the B2B Networking Morning in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, in February were (l-r): Bernadette Murphy, Sundara Self Care; Sarah Broughall, Whizzy Internet; Helen Byrne, Azure Beauty Salon; and Paula Ronan, Ronan Marketing.

Pictured at the B2B Networking Morning in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, in February were (l-r): Mags Boland Murphy, Bofin Consultancy; Breda Kearns, Rehab Group; Chris Vos, Innovate; and Conor O’Bracken, Bracken Interiors.

Pictured at the B2B Networking Morning in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, in February were (l-r): Dara O’Leary, Sunshyne Coaching, and Sean Kenny, Sonra ID Solutions.

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann a boost to County Wexford

Wexford town has been chosen to host the 2024 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, an event that could see up to 700,000 people descend on the town and be worth up to €60 million to the local economy. The Fleadh will run from August 4 - 11, 2024.

GEORGE LAWLOR

Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council PRO Comhaltas Craobh Loch Garman

The awarding of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Wexford following a competitive bid process over the past year can only be described as a huge injection of positivity and confidence in Wexford town, the entire county of Wexford, the local authorities of Wexford, and the business community within Wexford.

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is the biggest event of its kind in the world. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, some 700,000 people attended the event in Drogheda in 2019. It is our ambition that Fleadh 2024 will be the biggest ever held in the history of Fleadhanna.

As a town, structurally, Wexford is ideally placed to be the host venue for such an enormous event. Whilst no location in Ireland can comfortably accommodate the vast numbers that will descend on the town from all across the world, it is our belief that Wexford will step up to the mark, and ensure that all forms of accommodation will be utilised to the fullest. This includes hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, campsites, temporary campsites and, indeed, people inviting visitors into their homes.

Collaboration

The tender process involved a collaboration between the local Comhaltas branch, Craobh Loch Garman, and Wexford County Council. We believe this collaborative approach was the winning formula which saw Wexford given the nod over Belfast, which had put forward a substantial bid for the event.

The event itself will require a massive volunteer effort, and we will be working in cooperation with the Wexford Volunteer Centre to achieve the necessary numbers to assist in making this a very special and efficient event.

Economic benefits

The estimated return to the economy of Wexford is thought to be in the region of €60 million. However, if the numbers increase as we expect them to, then the return could indeed exceed this and many local businesses will see the reward for their support for this event on their bottom lines. From a Wexford County Council point of view, we believe that our underpinning and investment of this event will be very economically beneficial to the businesses of County Wexford.

Photo: Westmeath County Council

Allied to the obvious economic benefits will be the cultural legacy that hosting this event will leave. We believe that this investment in Irish culture, music, song, and dance will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. From a touristic point of view, we feel that the exposure County Wexford will receive will also have long-lasting impacts and will see return visits from many of those who will attend the Fleadh.

It will be a constant shoulder to the plough from the Fleadh Executive Committee, which is made up of people from right across the social, economic, and community spectrum of County Wexford for the next 15 months.

Roll on August 4, 2024, when we see the curtain rise on what we hope will be a spectacular Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

PADDY BERRY

President of Craobh Local Garman

I have attended over 60 Fleadh Cheoil in my time and I will now realise my dream of filling the streets of Wexford with Irish traditional music, culture, song, and dance in 2024. I know that the passion and enthusiasm of our Bid team, Wexford County Council, and our partners in the local community will make the Wexford Fleadh a huge success.”

BARBARA WALSH

Chairperson, Craobh Loch Garman Comhaltas

We are thrilled, honoured, and humbled by the successful vote we have received from the Ard Comhairle of Comhaltas, both for our town and in the members of our voluntary bid committee who have put in a huge amount of work to help us achieve this result today.

TOM ENRIGHT

Chief Executive, Wexford County Council

This announcement provides strong validation of the work the local Comhaltas branch, the Bid Team, and our wider partners have put into this effort. I would like to pay particular tribute to our local elected members, who voted unanimously to provide budgetary support from the Council towards this event which will generate over €50 million in the local economy each year.

BRENDAN CROWLEY

President, County Wexford Chamber

Everything within our gift will be dedicated to ensuring that the event will be an outstanding success, a positive experience for competitors, students, visitors, and the local communities of County Wexford and our neighbours both near and far.

Pictured (l-r): Paddy Berry, President, Craobh Loch Garman; Michael Murphy, Chairman, Wexford Comhaltas County Board; Cllr. George Lawlor; Cathaoirleach; Wexford County Council; Tom Enright, Chief Executive, Wexford County Council; and Barbara Walsh, Chairperson, Craobh Loch Garman.

Shop Local Vouchers sales top €.15m

County Wexford Chamber’s Shop Local Vouchers have been a resounding success. As of mid-March, sales have topped the €1.5 million mark for the first time since their introduction in 2020. Indeed, sales in 2022 were up by 25 per cent on the previous year.

County Wexford Chamber President Brendan Crowley said: “It’s fantastic to see so many new companies choosing our vouchers as a means of rewarding and thanking their staff. Also, there is a noticeable increase in the number of individual purchases by people choosing to use vouchers as personal gifts for their nearest and dearest.”

He said he was delighted to see the list and range of participating businesses accepting the vouchers growing across the county. “It is a real case of everybody donning the purple and gold jersey. While the vouchers are particularly popular around Christmas, it’s important to remind people that they are available for all special occasions and treats throughout the year.”

The Shop Local Vouchers can only be spent in County Wexford.

CEO of County Wexford Chamber Emma Dunphy said: “Over 270 businesses in Gorey, New Ross, and Wexford accept the vouchers, so the benefit to employment and the local economy is immense.”

Significantly, in last year’s budget, the Government extended the Small Benefit Exemption scheme. Now, employers can give €1,000 to workers by way of tax-free vouchers a year.

If any business wishes to sign up to accept County Wexford Shop Local Vouchers, please contact us. The list of over 270 businesses accepting the Shop Local Vouchers can be viewed on www.countywexfordchamber.ie

Purchases of Shop Local Vouchers by Waters Technology, Wexford, tipped sales over the €1 million mark before Christmas.

Partridges, Gorey, staff marking €1m sales in County Wexford Shop Local vouchers.

100 years of supporting the business community

Dublin Castle was the prestigious venue for the Chambers Ireland 100th-anniversary celebration in early March. County Wexford Chamber was proud to be a part of this gala event, and was represented by Chamber President Brendan Crowley, Vice President Lorcán Kinsella and CEO Emma Dunphy.

The evening was truly unforgettable, with dignitaries in attendance, including An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, former President of Ireland and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson, European Commissioner for Financial Services Mairead McGuinness, ministers, senators, and many other influential business leaders.

The event highlighted the achievements and contributions of Chambers Ireland and its member organisations in

advancing businesses and promoting commerce in Ireland for a century. County Wexford Chamber of Commerce has played a pivotal role in shaping the business landscape of the region and providing a platform for its members to thrive.

The occasion was an opportunity to reflect on the progress made so far and to look forward to the future with renewed vigour. As we celebrate this milestone, we are more determined than ever to continue our work in supporting the growth and prosperity of businesses in County Wexford and beyond.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to our success. With our commitment to promotion, collaboration, and innovation, we are confident that County Wexford Chamber will continue to be a driving force for businesses in the region for many years to come.

County Wexford Chamber President Brendan Crowley, Vice President Lorcán Kinsella, and CEO Emma Dunphy, pictured with European Commissioner for Financial Services Mairead McGuinness and Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland.

Mark Redmond, Chief Executive at the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland (left), pictured with County Wexford Chamber CEO Emma Dunphy, President Brendan Crowley and Vice President Lorcán Kinsella.

At the Chambers Ireland 100th anniversary celebration in Dublin Castle were SETU President Veronica Campbell with (l-r): County Wexford Vice President Lorcán Kinsella, CEO Emma Dunphy, and President Brendan Crowley.

26TH APRIL 2023

26TH APRIL 2023

TALBOT HOTEL, THE QUAY, WEXFORD

TALBOT HOTEL, THE QUAY, WEXFORD

a success rate of 92% in terms of all SCARP appointments overseen. This proves that the process can work.

WEDNESDAY 11am - 8pm

WEDNESDAY 11am - 8pm

trading conditions. Specialist sectors include construction, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, distribution, agri-business, and healthcare.

CREDITOR ENGAGEMENT

The engagement from creditors has been overwhelmingly positive to date. In many SCARP cases overseen by Azets Ireland, the creditors have voted in favour of rescue plans formulated. In addition, it is Azets

To register or take a stand, email info@countywexfordchamber.ie

To register or take a stand, email info@countywexfordchamber.ie

NEW RESTRICTIONS ON EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS

While some new or anticipated employment legislation has been well flagged in advance by the government, significant changes to the law were implemented shortly before Christmas with little fanfare or advance warning. The European Union (Transparent and Predictable Working Conditions) Regulations 2022, however, will have a significant impact on employment in a variety of sectors. Adrian Twomey, a partner with Jacob and Twomey Solicitors LLP in Enniscorthy, reviews the impact that this development will have on Chamber members and their employees.

The EU Directive on Transparent and Predictable Working Conditions (Directive 2019/1152) sought to guarantee a range of new rights for employees. Those rights included: a six-month limit on the length of probationary periods; the right to take up another (second) job with another employer; the right to be informed in advance when work will have to be done; the right to receive a written reply to any request for transfer to a more secure job; and the right to receive cost-free mandatory training related to the employee’s job.

All EU Member States were obliged to implement the Directive by 1 August 2022. In Ireland, the necessary Regulations were not signed into law by the then Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar, until 16 December 2022 and published in Iris Oifigiúil four days later. As a result, the introduction of the Regulations will have been missed by many people in the immediate run-up to Christmas, particularly in light of the absence of the fanfare that has accompanied other proposed changes to employment law in recent years.

PROBATION PERIODS

The Irish Regulations will have a significant impact. The first key change is the restriction that has been imposed on probation periods. Many existing employment contracts provide for probation periods of up to one year in duration. Now, under the Regulations, probation periods cannot normally exceed six months (save where the employee is a public servant). The Regulations do provide that probation periods can, on an exceptional basis, last for up to 12 months where that is “in the interest of the employee”. Quite what that means is yet to be clarified, but a reasonable interpretation might be that probation periods can be extended beyond six months to allow an employee to achieve targets linked to their probation period where the employee would otherwise be dismissed. However, we would advise that employers err on the side of caution and, (a) immediately restrict probation periods to six months; and (b) make definite decisions as to whether or not employees have passed probation during that period. Employers should note that where an employee’s contract of employment provides for a probation period of longer than six months, that probation period is now deemed to have expired if the employee has already completed six months of service.

OTHER EFFECTS

Employers should note that the Regulations have a series of other effects, including the following:

• Where employees are employed under fixed-term contracts, the length of any probation period must be proportional to the duration of the contract.

• Contracts can provide for the extension of probation periods by periods equivalent to the duration of any absence from work.

• Written statements of terms and conditions of employment, signed and dated by the employer, must be provided to employees within one month of their commencing employment (employers must retain proof of same).

• Very importantly, employers cannot prohibit employees from taking up employment with another employer, i.e. double-jobbing, save that the employer may, in limited circumstances, implement such a restriction where that is proportionate and objectively justifiable. The details of the objective reasons justifying any such restriction must be furnished to the employee in writing.

• The changes introduced by the Regulations are significant and employers are strongly advised to consider them carefully and revise their employment contracts to ensure that they are in accordance with the new law.

NEW MEMBER FOCUS

The Gaslamp Gallery - a haven of art in Gorey

The Gaslamp Gallery is an Independent Art Gallery and Bespoke Picture Framing Service and has been part of the landscape on Esmonde Street, Gorey for over 12 years. A unique, relaxed space, the gallery is a popular destination for discovering original affordable artworks and carefully selected limited edition prints from top publishing houses. Their aim is to make acquiring art an easy and enjoyable experience in a friendly and informal environment.

Spring is always a busy time in the gallery with many artists launching new works, explains Claire O’Connell, owner of The Gaslamp Gallery. Representing over 30 artists, stunning vibrant abstract works by artist and TV restaurateur Nick Munier sit happily alongside seascapes by award-winning artists Carl Strickland and Maria Dowling. Whimsical coastal and marine-themed paintings by Gary Walton are filled with detail and intrigue and glorious wildflower prints by Yvonne Coomber are always a source of joy.

2023 will see the return of solo exhibitions in the gallery for the first time since pre-pandemic with an exhibition by artist Jaanika Talts in October. Original works that range in style from passionate, dark, mystical and mysterious to stunning floral works with hidden depths and meaning, Jaanika’s last solo exhibition in 2018 sold out within days.

In addition, The Gaslamp Gallery is a member of the Fine Art Guild which is internationally recognised for having created the standards and guidelines for art and framing. The gallery’s on-site bespoke picture framing service is run by an experienced and qualified team of three, with a reputation for providing excellent quality and service. It is a busy space with the level of repeat business a testimony to their work.

The Gaslamp Gallery, 5 Esmonde Street, Gorey, Co. Wexford Y25 V0A6

Tel: 053 948 0486 Email: info@thegasampgallery.com www.thegaslampgallery.com

Fun, friendly, functional fitness for all at Urban Gym

Urban Gym, created by Andy and Marina Murphy, is the first boutique functional fitness facility in New Ross. It is a warm, welcoming, inclusive, friendly space where the owners pride themselves on their coaching product. They aim to show ordinary people with busy lives that it is possible to achieve extraordinary results by reverse engineering their goals and creating a sustainable plan to suit their lifestyle.

Head Coach Andy has over 20 years’ experience and his positivity and passion for fitness is infectious. Graphic designer Marina looks after all the digital marketing, branding, clothing ... and accounts!

Whether it’s through in-gym programmes, classes, online coaching or personal training, Andy and Marina’s mission for 2023 is to help more people. Over the past four years, the gym has grown from strength to strength, not just from word of mouth and their relentless consistency on social media but also through networking with other gyms across Ireland and the UK.

Fast becoming known for stand-out events, last year alone Urban Gym hosted events such as Men’s Day, Women’s

Day, informative and engaging talks, Fitness Games Days, and much more. Most recently, they collaborated with gyms from Cork, Dublin, and Omagh to create the ‘Urban Invitational’, right here in Wexford, which saw over 80 people take part in a noncompetitive fitness event, with ages varying from 18 to 65+, their motto ‘train for life’ really shining through.

Understanding that the first step through the door can be daunting, they have reinvested further in providing the very best private personal training service alonside their group fitness model. If you’re interested in starting UR Fitness journey and joining a community of like-minded people, then get in touch.

Urban Gym, Unit 15, Woodbine Business Park, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Y34 VK83

Email: info@urbangym.ie | www.urbangym.ie

NEW MEMBER FOCUS

Love Energy Ltd - right place, right time

Energy is on everyone’s mind these days, which means Scott Hayes and Love Energy Ltd are in the right place at the right time!

Love Energy Ltd is a commercial energy procurement company based in Blackwater. It sources the cheapest electricity and gas prices for business premises throughout the South East and beyond. Scott and the team also provide an energy monitoring service, installing devices to monitor your business energy data.

The renewables section of Love Energy Ltd focuses on small-scale wind turbines, targeted at farms and rural commercial properties. The company has partnered with Scottish firm SD Wind Energy Ltd to supply and install these turbines that can generate up to 35,000 kWh perannum (an average house is 4,400kWh). With no planning permission needed for these turbines, they are a great investment for your business.

Love Energy Ltd also supplies solar PV panels, diesel gensets, and battery energy storage systems for residential customers.

Scott and the team also advise customers on energy saving methods for all commercial property types; and teach people how to understand their energy bills. Their

Plan your financial future with Neiland Financial Services

Neiland Financial Services have a team of six Financial Advisers with over 150 years’ combined industry experience. The business which was set up in 1987 is based in the heart of Wexford town.

Neiland Financial Services provide advice on Retirement Planning, Post-Retirement Solutions, Savings and Investments, Life and Specified Serious Illness Cover, Income Protection, and Health Insurance.

The company is not a tied agent of any pension, investment, or insurance providers. It holds appointments with all the leading providers in Ireland, so where appropriate, its advisers can recommend and arrange the most suitable products for clients, based on their individual circumstances.

The team customises solutions to your specific needs, because everyone is different. They help you develop a Financial Plan, execute it, and maintain it. They bring the benefit of their professional expertise and experience to

qualified energy auditor from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) conducts free energy audits for businesses.

With over 200 customers based in Co. Wexford, Love Energy Ltd also has customers in Cork, Waterford, and Kilkenny.

Love Energy Ltd., Knocknasillogue, Blackwater, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Y21EH2

Tel: 053 900 6487/087 668 9443

Email: info@loveenergy.ie/sales@genny.ie

www.loveenergy.ie & www.genny.ie

meet your specific objectives.

To book your complimentary Financial Review contact: Neiland Financial Services, Carrig House, Roche’s Road, Wexford Y35 X06K

Tel: 053 914 6592 Email: info@nfs.ie

www.nfs.ie

Neiland Financial Services Limited trading as Neiland Financial Services, Ace Mortgage Solutions is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

10 TOP SECURITY TIPS FOR BUSINESSES

Security requires ongoing vigilance in every business. Sgt Eddie Wilde, Crime Prevention Officer for Co. Wexford, outlines tips to reduce crime in your enterprise.

1. EMPLOYEES

Employees are your best asset against crime. Spend time every week reinforcing their importance and how to deal with typical situations. Encourage involvement in security practices and the need for them. Build a secure environment as part of your overall Health and Safety Plan. Proactive security engagement will even help deter theft by rogue employees.

2. ENTRY TO SHOP

Ensure entry points to your premises are kept clear. A clean uncluttered premises shows control and engagement. And it is easier to see if items go missing. Staff should greet people as they enter the premises so customers realise they have been noticed.

3. CASH

Have robust cash handling procedures in place and train staff to identify counterfeit cash. Scams nearly always involve putting cashiers under pressure and rushing. Develop a practice that assistance is sought as soon as staff feel uncomfortable or rushed.

4. CCTV Highlight that CCTV is in use and clearly highlight that shoplifters will be prosecuted. Regularly check your CCTV is working and make sure cameras are clean and focused in the right direction. Keep the hard drive secure.

5. STOCK

Don’t put high-value goods near entrances or exits. Consider only displaying the packaging or small amounts that are in display cases.

Note patterns in thefts such as times and days. These are often repeated and you can plan for more staff or focus on particular areas of the shop at those times.

6. EXITS

Don’t over-clutter exits and keep them visible to staff on the floor and tills. Ensure unused tills are always blocked off whenever they are not in use. Don’t give options for exits, ensure that people have to walk past staff and tills with good camera coverage if possible.

7. THREATS

Never accept threats and violence from anyone towards you or your staff. This is a very serious offence and should not be dismissed. Dial 999 immediately.

8. IDENTIFICATION

All information that can identify offenders should be recorded as soon as possible. Car registrations and direction of travel before and after the offence is committed can be very helpful.

9. BUILD SUPPORT

Engage with your neighbouring businesses either formally with County Wexford Chamber or Business Watch or even informally. You will create a support network for yourself.

10. GARDAÍ

Contact the Gardaí whenever you need them. Dial 999 if you have an incident occurring, don’t hesitate. Report every crime, no matter how small, because it may be part of an ongoing bigger picture. By reporting a crime, you may stop someone else becoming a victim or someone becoming a repeat offender. Gardaí do care about you, your staff and your business.

See www.Garda.ie for advice on protecting your business.

https://www.garda.ie/en/crime-prevention/ protecting-your-business/

If you need advice or have ongoing issues, contact Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Eddie Wilde on 085 887 3195.

SCARP: THE PROCESS WORKS

The SCARP process is a restructuring tool that is available for many small and micro enterprises to assist the survival and restructuring of an insolvent company. It was introduced into legislation in December 2021. During 2022, there were 22 appointments of a process adviser, the professional who oversees the SCARP, to companies looking to restructure their balance sheet. The sectors and industries varied, including software, hospitality, construction, healthcare, and retail companies.

Nearly 98% of all corporate bodies in Ireland meet the criteria for the appointment of a process adviser. The process takes the restructuring of the company out of the courts system and into the boardroom. Thus, it makes the process more accessible to directors and, more importantly, less expensive than the more wellknown examinership process.

SUCCESS RATES

Since the inception of the legislation, there have been 27 appointments in total, with 17 (63%) companies successfully exiting the process. A further four SCARP cases are ongoing at the time of writing. This is a very strong success rate. One further company restructured its debt outside the SCARP. Azets Ireland has a success rate of 92% in terms of all SCARP appointments overseen. This proves that the process can work.

CREDITOR ENGAGEMENT

The engagement from creditors has been overwhelmingly positive to date. In many SCARP cases overseen by Azets Ireland, the creditors have voted in favour of rescue plans formulated. In addition, it is Azets

Ireland’s experience that the Revenue Commissioners have been supportive of companies availing of the SCARP and have opted in to all the SCARP appointments overseen by the company. This is a huge comfort to business owners: even though returns to creditors under the SCARP can be limited, creditors are supporting companies with a viable future to enable business owners to restructure their business.

JOBS SAVED

In the 17 companies that availed of SCARP to assist the survival and restructuring of an insolvent company, 356 jobs were saved. SCARP appointments overseen by Azets Ireland to date have resulted in over 225 of those jobs being preserved.

THE YEAR AHEAD

Although in its infancy, SCARP can be an important lifeline for many small businesses. It is an important and viable restructuring option for business owners to allow people remain in employment in local indigenous companies that are contributing to the economy and local communities.

The introduction of the SCARP was a timely intervention by the State for hard-pressed small business owners grappling with solvency issues in the wake of the pandemic. Its introduction also addressed the absence of a cost-effective restructuring process for certain small or micro businesses. With growing wage costs, high inflation, and rising interest levels, it is vitally important for small Irish businesses facing a challenging and rapidly evolving environment that there are viable restructuring options available to them to turn around their business.

Dessie Morrow is a Partner in Azets Ireland Corporate Advisory Department specialising in restructuring and turnaround assignments. He has acted as process adviser and examiner to many companies facing difficult trading conditions. Specialist sectors include construction, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, distribution, agri-business, and healthcare.

Dessie Morrow, Partner in Azets Ireland, discusses the key insights and learnings from the first 12 months of the new Small Company Administrative Rescue Process (SCARP).

MEMBERS DIRECTORY A

Accounting & Tax Services

Asple & Co

Azets Ireland

B J. Doyle & Co.

Cunningham & Co. Accountants

Doyle & Associates

EW Levingstone & Co

FHM Accountants

KDA Doyle Kelly Accountants Ltd

McGrath & Co

MK Brazil

Patricia Gilhooly Accountant

RDA Accountants

RH Associates

Sheil Kinnear Ltd

Architects

Mahon & Fox

OLS Architects

Art

Discovering Drama

Eoin O’Connor Gallery

Irish College of Music Theatre

The Gaslamp Gallery

The National Opera House

BBank

AIB County Wexford Hub

Bank Of Ireland New Ross

Bank of Ireland Gorey

Bank of Ireland Wexford

Permanent TSB

Business Services

AshDan SPS Ltd

Bofin Consultancy

Daly & Associates

Darerca Flynn Services Ltd

Datapac Ltd.

Dulann Ltd

EcoMerit Ltd

EllaDev Consultancy

KCC Workspace

KPI Consulting

Love Energy Ltd

Mary Fleming Design

MDdm Ltd

New Work Junction

Profitsflow

RMDK Consultancy

Sluamor Ltd

Sonra ID Solutions

Storm Technology Limited

Sunshyne Coaching

Tetra Tech

The Model County Enterprise Group CLG

The Solutions Group

TOC Translation

Tom Finn Lean Solutions Ltd

Wexford Enterprise Association

Wexford Local Development Ltd

WISE

Clubs & Associations

Courtown Golf Club

New Ross Golf Club

Rosslare Golf Club

Wexford Motor Club

Construction Services

Arkman Engineering Ltd

C & C Building Providers Ltd

Cross Philip Engineering

Ferns Engineering Ltd

Ire Wel Pallets Ltd

John Quigley & Associates Ltd

Matthew Wall & Sons

McGrath Construction

MGM Partnership

Reynaers Aluminium

Credit Union

Altura Credit Union

New Ross Credit Union

Wexford Credit Union

EEducation / Training

Carnew Training & Consultancy

Chevron College

Cumas New Ross

David M. Power Consultancy

Dental Compliance

Geraldine Doyle Accounts Support & Training

Management Resource Institute

National Learning Network

Ruth Gallagher - Musician

Sensible Safety

Systems & Software Training

Taylorstown PM Ltd t/a Your Way Forward Coaching

Waterford & Wexford ETB

Wexford Campus SETU

Youth Train Community

Employment Services

Employ-Ability Services (WCSE Ltd)

Hartley People

Sonrú Ltd

Storm Recruitment Ltd

Turas Nua Wexford

Estate Agents

Kearney & Co.

Kehoe & Associates

P N O’Gorman MIAVI

Quinn Property

Sherry Fitzgerald Radford

Sherry Fitzgerald Wexford

Sherry Fitzgerald O’Leary, Kinsella

Warren Estates

Events

Lantern Events Ltd

FFinancial Services

Alternative Business Finance Brokers

Big Red Book

BNY Mellon

Caulfield Financial

Crawford Tipping

Donal W O’Reilly& Co.

EBS Wexford

Equifax

Neiland Financial Services Ltd.

PWC

R U Compliant

South East Financial Services

Food & Beverage

Charlies Pizza Ltd

Ann McDonald’s Café & Bistro

In a Nutshell & Café Nutshell

O’Brien’s Sandwich Bar

Ufu Coffee

Food Producers

Green’s Berry Farm

Greenvalley Farm Ltd t/a Killowen Farm

Irish Country Meats

Kingfisher Fresh Ltd

Stafford Bakeries

Trudies Kitchen Ltd

Wexford Home Preserves

GGraphic Design & Printing

Creative Design & Print

Think Group

Printhouse.ie

Emco Printers

HHair & Beauty

Azure Beauty

Evanna The Faythe

Gainfort Hair & Beauty Supplies Ltd

Black Amber

H2O Creative Hair

Halford’s Hair Studio

Health & Fitness

Kinetic Fitness

Urban Gym

Health & Wellbeing

BeautIful Wellbeing

Creacon Wellness Retreat

Spiritual Earth

Sundara Self Care

Wellbeing & Motivation

Healthcare

Bluebird Care (Wexford)

Byrnes Opticians

Dillon Dental

Dr Catherine O’Donohoe

Gorey Dental Practice

Haven Group

Hidden Hearing

Home Instead Senior Care

OC Dental

Pillar Healthcare Ltd

Rogers Dental Surgery

Specsavers

Wexford General Hospital

Hotel & Accommodation

Ashdown Park Hotel

Brandon House Hotel & Solas Croi Eco Spa

Clayton Whites Hotel

Coast Hotel Rosslare Strand

Ferrycarrig Hotel

Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa

Marlfield House

Riverbank House Hotel

The Maldron Hotel

The Talbot Collection Wexford

MEMBERS DIRECTORY I

Insurance

Campion Insurance

Gallagher Insurance

Stuart Insurances (S.E) Ltd.

Zurich Insurance plc

Internet Provider

Whizzy Internet

IT Services

Innovate Business Technology Ltd

Aroob Technologies Ltd

Blacknight Internet Solutions Ltd

HBS Connect

Mind A Client

Scurri Web Services Ltd.

The IT Department

MManufacturing /Industry

Culcita Ltd

European Refreshments Wexford

Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd

Harte Outdoor Lighting

Integer Holdings

K & K Windows

Kent Stainless

Mann Engineering Limited

Medentech-Kersia Group

Nutricia Infant Nutrition LTD. (Danone)

Sulzer

Waters Technologies Ireland Ltd

Marketing

Flag Lane Marketing

Frontline Audio Visual

Ronan Marketing

The Social Media Department

Media

Beat 102 103

Enjoy Enniscorthy

People Newspaper

Rocket Science Media T/A Visit New Ross

South East Radio

Motor Dealership/Garage

Audi Wexford

Doyle’s Garage Courtown

Ferrybank Motors

Ferrycarrig Auto Body Repairs Ltd

J Donohoe BMW

JCE Autos Ltd

K.D. (Garage) Services Ltd

OOffice Equipment & Supplies

Jones Business Systems

Barrow Office Supplies

Bracken Office Interiors

Petcare

Highfield Veterinary, Wexford Town

Pharmacy

Fortunes Pharmacy

McCauley Health & Beauty

Whelan’s Pharmacy

Photography

Brownes Photography

Property Developers

New Ross Properties

Seán Doyle Group

Restaurants/Bars

Ministry of Flavours

T. Morris Bar

The Crown Quarter

The Holy Grail, New Ross

The Kitchen

Westgate Design

RRetail

Bodibro

Amy Janes Boutique

Baileys Toy Master

Butchers Best

Brooks Jewellers

Campbell’s Toys

Carries Creations

Cedarwood Furniture Ltd

Chair FX Chair Covers

Deegan’s Toymaster

Dermot Kehoe Supply & DIY

Dominic Smith Electrical

Emobile, t/a Synchro Retail Wexford Ltd

Forristals Jewellers

Funges of Gorey

Gorey Shopping Centre

Halo Tiles

Jack Dunne & Son

Joyces Expert Electrical

Joyces Home Centre

Knockavilla Service Station Ltd

Margaret O’Hanlon Ltd

Meylers Fish Merchants

Molloy’s SuperValu

MPMA Enterprises Ltd

Mrs Bee’s Healthy Options

Myles Doyle Stores

Natural Health Store Ltd

New Mood Boutique

Pettitt’s Supervalu

Redmond Electrical

Shu4U

Slaney Flowers

Springmount Garden Centre Ltd

The Clothesline Boutique

The Wine Buff

Whitmore Jewellers

SKC Providers, Gorey

SSecurity

Darlex Risk Management Limited

Guardian Fire & Safety

Park 100 Fire & Security

Sovereign Security (Wexford) Ltd

Services

Advance Cleaners Ireland Ltd

APB Treecare

Bord na Móna

Browne Fire Protection

Byrne Memorials

Carlow Kilkenny Energy Agency

Carnsore Broadband

Celtic Linen

Changing Lanes

Complete Weed Control - Michael Whyte

Coatek

Crosbie Brothers Ltd

Currahee Food Consultancy

EPA

ESET Ireland

FrigAir Refrigeration Ltd

Gas Networks Ireland

Glen Fuel Services Ltd.

Greenlink

Johnny Flood Water Pumps

Kehoe Farming Ltd

Max Power

NitroFert Ltd

Prim-Ed Publishing Ltd

Stafford Fuels Ltd

Stokestown Port Services

Weber Packaging Solutions Ireland

Solicitors

Augustus Cullen Law

Doyle’s Solicitors

Dunne Law

Ensor O’Connor Solicitors

John A. Sinnott & Co. Solicitors

Liam Hipwell & Co.

Lombard Cullen Fitzpatrick Solicitors

O’Connor Mullen Solicitors

O’Doherty Warren Solicitors

Stone Law

Sport

New Ross Coarse Angling

New Ross Sport & Leisure

Wexford GAA

TTourism International Outdoor Adventure Centre

Irish Ferries

JFK Trust - Dunbrody Visitor Centre

Kia Ora Mini Farm

Morriscastle Strand Holiday Park

New Ross Needle Craft Ltd - Ros Tapestry

Prospect Holiday & Leisure Park

Quadventure

Rosslare Europort

Stena Line Limited

The Irish National Heritage Park

Wexford Lavender Farm

Wallace Mobile Homes

Transport Services

Baku GLS Ltd

Irish Road Haulage Association

Nolan Shared Services Limited

NVD Ltd

Rochefreight (Ireland) Ltd.

Walker Vehicle Rental

Wexford Bus

WWeb Design & Digital Marketing

2 CUBED

Brand Nova Digital

Graphedia

Initiate Digital Ltd t/a Initiate

Pixelpod

Wholesale

H. Murphy & Co (Enniscorthy) Ltd (Cash & Carry)

Scallans Food Service

Irish Country Meats Sustainable success doing more with less

Irish Country Meats is Europe’s leading lamb processor with a reputation for product quality and innovation. Currently servicing over 30 markets worldwide, the company works closely with its customer base to deliver unrivalled expertise in direct livestock procurement, quality lamb production, cold chain management, processing efficiency and after-sales service. ICM also produces and markets a full range of sheepmeat products from traditional carcase to innovative ready-to-cook and formulated lamb products.

Sustainable production is the bedrock of the company’s business philosophy by “doing more with less”. Its supplier base of over 6,000 farms forms the basis for substantial engagement at farm level.

ICM are founding members of the Bord Bia Origin Green programme. It is also a founding member of the Plastics Action Alliance, a progressive collective of 10 like-minded businesses in the food production sector, with ambitious

target-driven plans to reduce, recycle, and eliminate plastics from its production process, where possible. The company is the first organisation in Ireland to achieve the Gold Standard through the European Water Stewardship scheme, further acknowledging its total view of sustainable production. A significant employer in the South-East region, ICM directly employs 500 staff and indirectly supports many more local jobs. In 2021, ICM became an accredited member of the “KeepWell” Programme, verifying its commitment to workplace wellbeing. It is proud to be listed as one of Ireland’s Top 100 companies “Leading in Wellbeing” for the past three years.

Irish Country Meats, Bayland, Camolin, Co. Wexford, Y21 XN40. Tel: 053 936 6300

Email: sales@irishcountrymeats.com www.irishcountrymeats.com

Sulzer celebrates 50 years of engineering innovation

Celebrating half a century of pump manufacturing and innovation in Wexford, Sulzer marked this milestone with a gala event at the plant in March.

Since starting operations in 1973, the Wexford manufacturing site has used extensive research and development, and world-class manufacturing, to create industry-leading products in terms of efficiency and reliability.

With around 280 employees today, the site is a centre of engineering excellence and includes research and development as well as manufacturing and testing facilities. Employees have always looked to adopt new, more efficient processes that help to optimise production, reduce the company’s environmental footprint, and keep the company at the head of the field. A process of continuous improvement supported by all of the staff ensures that products from Wexford truly deliver worldclass performance.

“We have developed market-leading products that are exported around the world, all thanks to our outstanding

workforce and great support from the IDA,” said Brendan Sinnott, Managing Director at Sulzer’s Wexford plant. “The dedication of our staff ensures that we can design and manufacture cutting-edge products that offer our customers superior efficiency and reliability. We have led the way in lean manufacturing in Ireland and developed some of the most efficient products in the market.”

Sulzer, Whitemill Industrial Estate, Wexford Y35 YE24 www.sulzer.com

Danone Ireland partners with FoodCloud to deliver Nutrition Education Programme

charity and community group partners with an annual webinar and the provision of recipes and nutritional information. The aim is to help charities and community groups around Ireland in making the most of surplus food and preparing nutritionally balanced meals for those who use their services.

By contributing to its Community Support Programme, Danone aims to help FoodCloud increase the volume of food redistributed by 10% and grow the number of charities and community groups it supports by 50 new charities annually. The three-year partnership will also allow FoodCloud to distribute the equivalent of over 600,000 meals. Furthermore, Danone’s unlimited volunteering policy means its more than 740 employees around Ireland can support FoodCloud at its three food distribution hubs in Dublin, Cork, and Galway.

Danone Ireland, a leading health-focused food and beverage company, has announced a three-year partnership with FoodCloud, a social enterprise tackling the twin issues of food waste and food insecurity in Ireland. The partnership will help educate and empower community groups nationwide to prepare nutritious meals using surplus food.

Through the partnership, Danone’s registered dietitians and nutritionists will directly support FoodCloud’s 600

Killian Barry, Managing Director at Danone Ireland said: “We believe that large food companies like Danone have a responsibility, not only to address waste along the food supply chain, but to support health at all stages of lifethis includes helping to ensure that people have access to information and education about food and nutrition.”

Danone Wexford, Rocklands, Wexford, Y35 V1HD Tel: 053 916 5300 www.danone.ie

Mayor of Wexford Maura Bell (centre) with Breda Coughlan Roche of C&R Print, Cllr David Hynes, Brigid Beary, Business Partner HR Generalist, Sulzer Ireland and Rebecca O’Rourke, HR Business Partner, Sulzer Ireland at the 50th anniversary celebration.

Killian Barry, Danone Ireland’s managing director (left), with Aoibheann O’Brien, partnerships director at FoodCloud, and Brendan Dowling, of Whitefriar Community Centre, at FoodCloud’s hub in Tallaght, Dublin.

Expanded supports for businesses to invest in energy efficiency and renewable heating

Increased supports are now available for energy efficiency, heat pump and biomass installations — to support business to improve efficiency and switch from fossil fuel. In addition, capital grant support, of up to €3 million or a biomass tariff of up to €3.5 million over 15 years, is now available — for renewable heat and energy efficiency projects in buildings and industry. The aim is to urgently reduce fossil fuel use in commercial buildings and industry.

Support Scheme for Renewable Heat

The Sustainability Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) will immediately implement a broad suite of changes in the Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (SSRH) to increase support levels, target larger energy users, and ensure that appropriate support is available for deployment in buildings and industry. This includes an increase in the support for heat pump installations to a maximum of 40% of costs, up from the current level of 30%.

The SSRH has to-date provided 15-year biomass

support tariffs to 90 installations, with 30 installations commissioned and already receiving regular payments. This equates to a total committed support of €35 million over 15 years and 90GWh of renewable heat annually. In addition, the SSRH has provided grant support of more than €500,000 to heat pump projects. Projects already supported include agriculture, industry, hotels, nursing homes, leisure centres, and buildings in both the private and public sectors.

Excellence in Energy Efficient Design

The Excellence in Energy Efficient Design (EXEED) scheme will immediately increase maximum grant funding available and change evaluation thresholds to ensure appropriate targeting of grant funding.

The Excellence in Energy Efficient Design scheme has to date provided support to over 200 companies — equating to a total committed support of €15.6 million. The EXEED projects to date either completed or currently being implemented represent 190GWh in primary energy savings, 34.7 ktCO2 savings and €8.5 million in annual cost savings. The programme has engaged with a variety of sectors including pharmaceuticals, food and drink, retail, hospitality, agriculture, mining/quarrying and manufacturing.

Solar power from Wexford to power AIB

AIB has signed a Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (CPPA) with NTR plc to source energy generated from two solar farms NTR will construct in County Wexford. AIB is the first Irish company to conclude such an agreement, helping it deliver on its commitment to source 100% of its power requirements from certified renewable energy sources by 2030.

The two solar farms at Enniscorthy and Gorey combined will result in 21.4 GWh of new renewable energy being placed in the Irish grid. This will provide up to 80% of AIB Group’s electricity needs to service its retail and office network of over 270 properties while providing welcome additional generation capacity into the national grid at a time when the country faces energy supply challenges.

Meet Climate Action Plan targets

AIB and NTR are pleased that this agreement, announced in October 2022, will contribute to the delivery of the Irish Government’s Climate Action Plan which has set

a target of 15% of all electricity demand being met by renewable generators contracted under CPPAs by 2030. The agreement also ensures the bank has a sustainable and secure energy supply at a fixed price for 15 years.

AIB CEO Colin Hunt said: “We are delighted to partner with NTR on this innovative project to enable two new solar farms to be built in Ireland, guaranteeing that the electricity we use to power AIB’s own operations will be certified to a fully traceable renewable solar energy source. It is also a key enabler to help us achieve our target to be net zero on our own operations by 2030.’’

Clean affordable power

NTR CEO Rosheen McGuckian said: “Corporate PPAs such as this are an integral part of the solution to drive the clean energy transition across our European markets, but it is particularly gratifying to sign a PPA in our home market with AIB who is leading the charge for Irish companies in embracing this way to access clean affordable power.”

CHAMBER SERVICES

International Trade Service

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