Inside Wexford Business - Issue 3

We

businesses of

identify

the skills they

Breakfasts

Budget 2023 - A

perspective

Finance Minister’s predictions for 2023

Wexford Opera Festival: A significant boost to local economy

Potentially challenging year for Irish businesses

SETU President:

Ambitious plans for university in Wexford

Member news: Celebrating success in wexford businesses

Meet the County Wexford Chamber Team

Sick pay to become a legal entitlement this autumn Kennedy Summer School – a huge benefit to County Wexford and the South East

Sustainability: Enterprise Ireland’s Gael Offshore Network

Chamber Events: JobsFest and Golf Classic go big in 2022

Sustainability: Energy saving tips from SEAI

Chamber Services: Shop Local Vouchers

MAKING WEXFORD THE BEST PLACE TO DO BUSINESS

This past year has been a busy year for County Wexford Chamber. We have showcased the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of enterprises at events such as the JobsFest and the County Wexford Business Awards. We have engaged with stakeholders such as the Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe TD, and County Wexford’s new university, South East Technological University. Our aim always is to connect, represent, and support the business community so that, together, we make Wexford the best place to do business.

BUDGET 2023

Budget 2023 will go some way towards creating certainty for our businesses and households in County Wexford. In recent weeks and months, we have seen many of our SMEs struggling to cope with significant increases in energy bills. With this in mind, we cautiously welcome the announcement of new schemes aimed at alleviating some of the pressure on businesses through energy bills.

SOUTH EAST TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

The county’s new university, South East Technological University (SETU), will have a positive impact on employment and skills creation in the South East. The region will also benefit from expanded research opportunities, as well as socioeconomic and regional development. County Wexford Chamber extends our full support to SETU. We look forward to collaborating with the university and the Wexford campus and building a partnership that makes Wexford a better place to study, to work, to build and grow businesses and fulfilling lifestyles.

CULTURAL OFFERING

Festivals are a key way to enhance our cultural offering – and boost economic activity. Our Wexford Fringe Guide provides essential information on events, ticket information, festival tours, historical attractions, and much more. We also showcase here the Kennedy Summer School and Wexford Opera Festival. All these events bring high-profile visitors to County Wexford, with very tangible benefits for the business community. We urge you to support them – and to work with County Wexford Chamber to make our county the best place to live, work, and play.

Dunphy

CEO, County Wexford Chamber

INTRODUCTION

I’m delighted to welcome you to the Autumn issue of Inside Wexford Business magazine.

Since our last edition, the Board of County Wexford Chamber has been very busy working behind the scenes to develop our strategic business plan for 2023 to 2025. I’d like to thank those businesses and Chamber members who have completed our members’ survey to help inform and shape our plans for the coming years. We hope to launch our new plan in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for updates.

RISING COSTS, BUDGET

I am very aware that, while we are working on this plan, many of our members are concerned about more immediate challenges that they face, not least of these is the massive increase of energy costs. Amongst others, those engaged in the hospitality sector and the night-time economy have voiced their collective worries and, by all accounts, are particularly vulnerable.

I would encourage you all to support those businesses by getting out as much as possible to enjoy the great range of offerings across our county. I welcome the supports include in the Budget, but these will not be enough to offset the increases currently being experienced by business. Meanwhile, we will continue to seek opportunities to build on the supports already announced by the Government in the recent Budget.

OPPORTUNITIES WITH SETU

Thankfully, it’s not all doom and gloom; there are some very positive developments on the horizon. We recently welcomed SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell to meet our members at one of our networking events. Professor Campbell outlined her vision for the future of SETU and, in particular, the Wexford campus and the benefits that would flow for the region. A recent survey of our members indicated that 37% of respondents currently engage in research and development as part of their normal business function. Over half of survey respondents - 56% - indicated that they would be interested in collaborative R&D with SETU as the opportunity arises. It is hoped that the prospectus for the campus will include new and bespoke programmes designed to take full advantage of our geographical position. It is also hoped that the prospectus will take into consideration environmental and sustainability challenges and opportunities, such as the development of an offshore energy generation support hub at Rosslare Port.

FLEADH CHEOIL NA hÉIREANN

By now, you will have heard of the bid to bring Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Wexford for 2024. The bid is being jointly spearheaded by Wexford County Council and the local branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. If the bid is successful, it is expected to bring 500,000 visitors to the county, along with an estimated boost of up to €60 million to the local economy.

SHOP LOCAL VOUCHERS

Another welcome Budget initiative is the increase in the value of the Small Benefit Exemption Scheme from €500 to €1,000 per annum. I would encourage businesses that are taking advantage of this scheme to reward and support their valued staff to consider purchasing our Shop Local Vouchers for such rewards. This is keeping the benefits of such financial supports circulating in our county’s economy.

Finally, I hope you enjoy and find this edition of our magazine informative and interesting. I wish to thank our ever-diligent team for putting it together once again.

Brendan Crowley President, County Wexford Chamber

PARTNERS 2022

CHAMBER EVENTS

County Wexford Business Awards a huge success

The County Wexford Business Awards ceremony in May was a runaway success. Five hundred guests attended the soldout black-tie event in Clayton Whites Hotel in Wexford town.

“The calibre of business applications for this year’s awards were outstanding,” said Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy. “The County Wexford Business Awards celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of our business community. It was a wonderful opportunity for companies to share how they have excelled, innovated, and contributed to our thriving business region.” The judging panel commented on the exceptional quality of this year’s entries, with close scoring in some cases given the high standard of the applications.

“From the get-go, from a County Wexford Chamber perspective, it was brilliant to witness the passion and competitiveness demonstrated by so many entrants from across our county’s various business sectors,” said Brendan Crowley, President of County Wexford Chamber.

“On the night, the energy and positivity were palpable in the room where almost 500 guests enjoyed a night to celebrate the success of businesses, large and small. On a personal level, it brought home to me how privileged I am to be President of such an innovative and progressive County Chamber at this time. We have weathered the storm that was Covid-19 and it is the same resilience demonstrated by so many businesses that will see us overcome the current and imminent difficulties brought on by the war in Ukraine and the soaring rate of inflation.”

County Wexford Chamber Directors. Back (l-r): Willie Fitzharris, Trudy Ryan, Karl Fitzpatrick, and Mary Browne, with MC Hector Ó hEochagáin.

Front (l-r): President Brendan Crowley, Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy, and Vice-President Lorcan Kinsella.

County Wexford Chamber Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy and President Brendan Crowley pictured with award sponsor Liam Hore, Waters Technologies (centre) and Ronan McGrath and John Casey, McGrath Construction Consultants. McGrath Construction Consultants, winners of the County Wexford Operational Excellence Award, sponsored by Waters Technologies.

(L-r): County Wexford Chamber Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy, County Wexford Chamber

President Brendan Crowley, Mary Fuhrmann, Mann Engineering, Karl Fitzpatrick, President, Chevron College pictured with Rolf Fuhrmann, Mann Engineering, and MC Hector Ó hEochagáin. Mann Engineering won the County Wexford Business of the Year Award.

CHAMBER EVENTS

The Winners’ Arena

County Wexford Outstanding Contribution to Business Award

Sponsored by: Monart Destination Spa WINNER: Pat Kent, Kent Stainless

County Wexford Green Award: Environmental Best Practice

Sponsored by: Wexford Bus WINNER: Seal Rescue Ireland RUNNER-UP: Maldron Hotel Wexford

County Wexford Hospitality Provider of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Wexford SkillNet WINNER: Maldron Hotel Wexford RUNNER-UP: Brandon House Hotel, New Ross

County Wexford Operational Excellence Award

Sponsored by: Waters Technologies WINNER: McGrath Construction Consultants

JOINT RUNNER-UP: Medentech, Kersia Group

JOINT RUNNER-UP: Celtic Linen

County Wexford eCommerce Excellence Award

Sponsored by: AIB Wexford WINNER: The Clothesline Boutique RUNNER-UP: All Ireland Foods

County Wexford Excellence in Retail Award

Sponsored by: Joyces Expert Wexford WINNER: The Skin Cellar RUNNER-UP: Natural Health Store

County Wexford Food & Beverage Producer of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Irish Country Meats WINNER: Trudie’s Kitchen RUNNER-UP: Yola Sourdough Bakery

County Wexford SME of the Year Award (1-50 Employees)

Sponsored by: Permanent TSB WINNER: Mann Engineering RUNNER-UP: The Gravity Group

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

Sponsored by: Talbot Hotel Wexford WINNER: Integer RUNNER-UP: Celtic Linen

County Wexford Excellence in International Trade Award

Sponsored by: Rosslare Europort WINNER: Medentech, Kersia Group RUNNER-UP: Reynaers Aluminium

County Wexford Social Media and Digital Marketing Excellence Award

Sponsored by: Clayton Whites Hotel

WINNER: Natural Health Store

RUNNER-UP: Ministry of Flavours

County Wexford Service Industry Provider of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Danone Nutricia Wexford WINNER: McGrath Construction Consultants

RUNNER-UP: Denise’s Beauty & Skin Clinic

County Wexford Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility Award

Sponsored by: Scurri

WINNER: Irish Country Meats

RUNNER-UP: Graphedia.com

County Wexford Training Provider of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Kent Stainless WINNER: Sensible Safety RUNNER-UP: Gorey Institute of Beauty

County Wexford Start-Up Business of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Wexford County Council WINNER: Sully & Juno RUNNER-UP: Wexbury Spirits

County Wexford Social Enterprise Outstanding Achievement Award

Sponsored by: Wexford People

WINNER: Seal Rescue Ireland RUNNER-UP: Rosslare Community Development Association

County Wexford Activity Tourism Provider of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Wexford Local Development

WINNER: IOAC – International Outdoor Adventure Centre & Camping Grounds RUNNER-UP: Secret Valley Wildlife Park

County Wexford Family Business of the Year Award

Sponsored by: PwC

WINNER: Cross Philip Engineering RUNNER-UP: K&K Windows

County Wexford Town Ambassador of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Zurich Insurance WINNER: Brendan Ennis

Special Award: Outstanding Contribution to County Wexford Chamber

Denise Farrell

County Wexford Business of the Year Award

Sponsored by: Chevron College WINNER: Mann Engineering

See our interviews with the award winners on our website.

Search for Podcast Series –Business Awards – Winners Interviews

The team from K&K Windows, Craanford, runners-up in the County Wexford Family Business of the Year Award.

Members of the Kent Stainless team, Wexford.

The Clothesline Boutique team, Wexford and New Ross.

Staff members of Irish County Meats, Camolin, Enniscorthy.

BUDGET BREAKFASTS SET THE SCENE FOR 2023

150 people attended County Wexford Chamber’s Budget Breakfasts in Wexford town and New Ross.

The events were held on 28 September, the day after Minister Paschal Donohoe TD delivered an €11 billion budget – possibly the largest budget in the history of the State.

In the Talbot Hotel, Wexford, the panel of speakersBilly Sweetman, Partner, PwC; Brian Hogan, Director, PwC; and Ray Griffin, Lecturer at South East Technological University - outlined the impact of changes in this year’s ‘cost of living’ budget for individuals, businesses and their customers.

In the Brandon House Hotel, New Ross, Brendan Twohig, Partner with MK Brazil, addressed a broad cross-section of the New Ross business community. Brendan is a Chartered Tax Consultant, working in the tax sector for over 20 years.

Attendees at the PwC Budget Breakfast in the Talbot Hotel, Wexford.

At the PwC Budget Breakfast in Wexford were (l-r): Ray Griffin, South East Technological University; Brian Hogan, Director, PwC; Billy Sweetman, Partner, PwC; and Emma Dunphy, Deputy CEO, County Wexford Chamber

At the Budget Breakfast in New Ross were, back (l-r): John Hickey, RH Accounting; Padge McGrath, McGrath & Co.; Peter Walsh, New Ross Credit Union; Mary Walsh, Brandon House Hotel; and Margaret O’Hanlon, Margaret O’Hanlon Ltd. Front (l-r): Lauren Greene, MK Brazil; Brendan Twohig, MK Brazil; Lorcan Kinsella, Vice-President County Wexford Chamber; and Willie Fitzharris, Fitzharris Construction.

BUDGET 2023

A PRIVATE BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE BY RONAN FURLONG, TAX PARTNER, PWC WEXFORD

For the third year in a row, this was a crisis budget and, despite having significant funds available, there were difficult choices to be made by the Government. Rightly, this was a ‘cost of living’ Budget, aiming to protect families, individuals, and businesses from cost pressures while attempting to, as Minister Donohoe put it, not “add fuel to the inflationary fire”.

COST SUPPORTS FOR PRIVATE BUSINESSES

Many private companies and family businesses need cash supports to cope with surging costs. The new Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS), intended to assist businesses facing massive energy bills, is welcome. It covers 40 per cent of the increase in electricity or gas bills, up to a maximum of €10,000 per month per business. The hope is that the scheme, to be administered by the Revenue Commissioners, will be easily workable and that support is received quickly.

EMPLOYMENT MEASURES

The increase in the tax bands will see workers get a meaningful increase in their take-home pay. The USC bands were increased to ensure that anyone on the soonto-be-increased minimum wage would remain out of the tax net. While this will add to business costs, it is hoped it will encourage people to join and/or remain in the workforce. The measures to reduce the childcare costs should also help in this regard.

Attracting and retaining talent is a persistent challenge for private enterprises. The extension and reform of the Key Employee Engagement Programme (KEEP) scheme is welcome and can further support businesses in attracting and retaining talent.

The small benefit exemption has been increased from €500 to €1,000 and this will also help employers reward and retain employees. This measure takes effect in the current year so will allow employers an opportunity to reward employees now.

As widely flagged, the ending of the 9% VAT rate for hospitality next February is disappointing for that sector.

COMPLIANCE

It was announced that Revenue will conduct a range of targeted projects to include PAYE compliance interventions involving a focus on share schemes, and increased debt management activity. Revenue have also recently issued Level 1 compliance intervention letters to all taxpayers who availed of debt warehousing inviting them to self-review their tax affairs. Any business that receives this letter should take the time to review their affairs to avoid interest and penalties.

SOME MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

Minister Donohoe re-emphasised the Government’s commitment to tackling climate change. However, there were limited tax measures announced in the Budget to support and encourage the greening of businesses. We would have welcomed supports for business in the form of accelerated allowances to encourage investment in energy efficient equipment and buildings. We would also have welcomed more incentives to mobilise private investment in sustainable innovation and to drive the decarbonisation of our economy.

While the Minister announced an enhancement of the pre-letting expenses regime for landlords, we would like to have seen further measures to encourage landlords to remain in the market.

It was also disappointing that the tax debt warehousing scheme that operated during COVID was not extended.

MORE TARGETED INVESTMENT NEEDED

Budget 2023 certainly cushioned some of the blow of the inflationary pressures on private businesses. However, Ireland also has an opportunity to build its resilience against future shocks by investing in high growth areas. Some of the money put aside in the National Reserve Fund could be used for this purpose.

Ronan Furlong, PwC Wexford Partner

WEXFORD

MINISTERIAL VISIT

Finance Minister outlines Budget 2023 vision at Chamber event

County Wexford Chamber welcomed Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe TD to Wexford at end-September. As part of a post-Budget roadshow, Minister Donohoe spoke to business leaders from across Co. Wexford at an evening event in Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford, on Thursday, 29 September.

Minister Donohoe predicted that Ireland’s economy will grow by 1.5% in 2023. This is lower than in previous years, he said, but it was still growth in a challenging environment. In addition, the Finance Minister expects that almost-full employment will continue, but that inflation will run to about 6-7%. He listed the supply of gas to Europe, the uncertainties of Covid-19 over the winter, and Brexit as risks to the economy.

The event was attended by County Wexford Chamber President Brendan Crowley, Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy, directors from the Chamber’s Board, as well as public representatives, and a broad cross-section of the business community.

Minister Donohoe addressed questions faced by businesses including the difficulties of competing with the social welfare system for employees, the concrete levy, the increase in the 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector, work permits for foreign workers, and the increasing costs

of utilities. Minister Donohoe outlined the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme, addressed the Licensed Haulier Emergency Support Scheme, and said he anticipated the roll out of funding under the Energy Support Scheme for Business to occur at the end of November.

“Almost 100 people attended the event, and County Wexford Chamber was delighted to facilitate this exchange between the Minister for Finance and the business community,” said County Wexford Chamber Deputy CEO, Emma Dunphy. “We would like to thank Paul Kehoe TD for getting Wexford on the Minister’s schedule and the turnout showed how engaged the business community is in keeping Wexford open for business.”

Paschal

Donohoe

TD, Minister for Finance, pictured with members of County Wexford Chamber’s Board of Directors and Paul Kehoe TD (l-r): Willie Fitzharris, Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy, President Brendan Crowley, Karl Fitzpatrick, and John Nolan.

A significant boost to the local economy

Wexford Festival Opera runs from 21 October to 6 November 2022, bringing 80 events to audiences over 17 days.

The process of bringing it all together has not changed much since 1951. The starting point is that the Artistic Director, Rosetta Cucchi who is based in Italy, suggests the operas to produce. When these have been agreed, the artists are selected, consisting of principal singers, conductors, directors, and designers.

This year, artists from 12 countries will appear in Festival productions, which are often planned as co-productions with other companies. In 2022, the production of La Tempesta will also appear in Novara, Italy, and Armida will appear in Pilsen, in the Czech Republic.

ECONOMIC BENEFIT

Wexford Festival Opera is an important economic generator for the town, supporting a whole range of visitor services.

In 2019, a Fáilte Ireland study showed that a total of 20,000 tickets were sold. Over one-third (37%) of the audience was local, another third (35%) travelled from elsewhere in Ireland, and 29% came in from overseas. This year, tickets have been sold to 17 countries, with addresses throughout Europe and as far away as Australia, Israel, and North America.

This report also showed that 71% of overseas visitors stayed for three or more days. All stayed overnight in the Wexford area and 79% of domestic visitors also stayed for an average of two nights. A 2017 study estimated the average spend per person as:

locals, €198; domestic visitors, €560; and overseas visitors, €823.

In addition to the visiting audience, the Wexford Festival Opera company of over 200 personnel, consisting of principal singers, chorus, creative teams, orchestra, production and stage staff, stay in Wexford for up to seven weeks spending money in local hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops.

VOLUNTEER SUPPORT

Wexford Festival Opera’s management is supported by an extraordinary team of volunteers, currently numbering 418. They provide a range of services in the theatre including front of house, cloakroom and bars and it is they who have made the Festival renowned for the friendliness of its welcome.

For 70 years, Wexford Festival Opera has been a valuable part of the corporate and cultural life of Wexford. It has built an enviable reputation as one of the world’s leading opera festivals and was awarded the title of ‘Best Festival’ at the 2017 International Opera Awards.

SUPPORT OF LOCAL BUSINESS

But the company’s life is challenging, reinventing itself each year with entirely new products. The Festival

receives generous support from The Arts Council, Wexford County Council, and Fáilte Ireland but, in addition to ticket sales, it needs to raise nearly €1 million from commercial sponsorship and philanthropic donations. The continuing support of local business is vital to ensure that we can continue to generate such a high level of local economic activity.

INFORMATION AND BOOKINGS

Wexford Festival Opera www.wexfordopera.com

Wexford Fringe Festival www.wexfordfringe.ie

Randall Shannon, Executive Director of Wexford Festival Opera, tells Inside Wexford Business how this extraordinary international festival benefits Wexford and beyond

Randall Shannon, Executive Director, Wexford Festival Opera

A Potentially Challenging Year For Irish Business

By Jim Power, Independent Economist

For small and medium-sized (SME) Irish businesses of all sorts, the past two-and-a-half years have been extremely challenging on many different fronts. The pandemicrelated restrictions that were put in place in March 2020, and which remained in place to varying degrees for the next two years, represented a shock of monumental proportions for the Irish economy in general but the SME sector in particular.

DRAMATIC IMPACT OF RUSSIAN INVASION

The reality is that those businesses subjected to various levels of restriction were predominantly SMEs. As 2021 progressed and as economic and business life gradually returned to something resembling normality, there was a heightened sense of optimism as we moved into 2022. That sense of optimism was shattered when Russia invaded Ukraine in February and the impact of that invasion on inflation, the costs of doing business, the supply chain for many goods and services, interest rates, and general business and consumer confidence has been quite dramatic.

SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES AND HOUSEHOLDS

The Government provided strong support to businesses and households during the pandemic. And, in Budget 2023, a similar approach has been adopted to help businesses and households deal with the Russian-inspired crisis. An €11 billion package of budget measures is very significant, with the cornerstone for businesses being the energy support package. While this is the most obvious support given to the SME sector, it is also important to note that the considerable financial support given to households and consumers will be important over the coming months to support consumer demand in the economy, which is obviously of extreme importance for business.

It is probably no exaggeration to suggest that the climate for Irish businesses as we face into the winter can only be characterised as ‘intensely uncertain’. The war in Ukraine is ongoing; recession appears quite likely in the Eurozone, the UK, and possibly the US over the coming months, or at least a significant downturn; central banks are likely to continue to increase interest rates in order to try to get spiralling inflation back under control; and the

UK economy and its financial markets look set to remain very volatile and weak, given the very unstable political backdrop.

The UK accounted for 10.7 per cent of Irish merchandise exports in the first seven months of this year and 37.7 per cent of food and live animal exports. Sterling weakness will damage the competitiveness of those exports and will just compound the difficulties caused by Brexit. For UK tourists, the weak pound will make Ireland less attractive, but at least the same will apply to our competitor countries in the Eurozone.

FACTOR IN RISKS

For businesses in the South East, a number of risks need to be factored in over the coming months. The domestic economy will inevitably slow down over the coming months; interest rates are likely to continue to be increased by the ECB, with at least a doubling in official rates from current levels of 1.25 per cent probable. External markets will be challenging, with the volatile UK a particular cause for concern; sterling looks vulnerable to further weakness, or at least considerable volatility.

Domestic consumer behaviour is likely to be considerably more cautious; and the costs of doing business look set to remain under pressure. Careful management of business costs, staff, and key customers will be essential. We will emerge from the current period of uncertainty and potential weakness, so ensuring survival should now be the imperative. Economic downturns do of course provide opportunities for businesses with strong balance sheets.

Ambitious plans for university in Wexford

Professor Veronica Campbell, inaugural president of the South East Technological University (SETU), outlines her ambitions for the university. Professor Campbell addressed members of County Wexford Chamber, along with public representatives, at a Business After-Hours event in September.

The South East Technological University was established on 1 May 2022 and Professor Veronica Campbell took up the role of inaugural President of SETU in mid-July. Professor Campbell had held several senior leadership roles in Trinity College, including dean of graduate studies, bursar, and director of strategic innovation.

“My role in SETU has been described to me as simultaneously leading a merger; leading a transformation project and leading business as usual for a large organisation,” said Professor Campbell, who is originally from Scotland. “I’m looking forward to applying my considerable experience in higher education to SETU. I’m particularly excited and confident for success for SETU as I’m working again with Patrick Prendergast, the former Provost of Trinity, now chair of the governing body of SETU, and a proud Wexford man!”

SETU is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the whole SouthEast and for Ireland. “We have this incredible opportunity to drive regional innovation and economic, social, and cultural prosperity; to reverse the brain-drain from the South East; to nurture an entrepreneurial culture; and to improve educational access for all cohorts.”

MULTI-CAMPUS UNIVERSITY

SETU is a community of 18,000 students and 1,800 staff based across five locations in the South East, delivering courses that span apprenticeships to PhDs. Universities provide excellent

graduates for industry, and they enable the research partnerships that further innovation. That is what SETU will bring to the South East.

“SETU is a university that was waiting to happen. The SouthEast is alive with talent but 11,000 students engaged in thirdlevel education study outside of the region, on a full-time or part-time basis. In other words, 60% of students from the South East who are engaged in a university education go elsewhere. This is a brain-drain. And that’s not happening in Dublin, Cork, Galway, or Limerick, where students tend to radiate to their ‘home’ university. We need to retain talent in the South East and attract new talent. The only way to do this, is to provide talented students with as good, or better, options here, as elsewhere.”

GOALS

In September, SETU launched a consultation for its first Strategic Plan which will map out its priorities for the next five years. The key themes for the strategic plan will be Partnerships, Access, Research, and Skills/Entrepreneurship.

SETU will:

• Improve access and provide flexible educational opportunities for all

• Develop and deepen regional and international partnerships with businesses, industry, government, and with cultural and social organisations

•

Meet regional and national skills requirements, developing future skills, and fostering an entrepreneurial culture and mindset in staff and students

• Build capacity for research, including increasing our numbers of PhD students in collaboration with local industry and enterprise.

ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE AND QUALITY EDUCATION

“The demography of the South-East places an important obligation on SETU around Access. More than 30% of students in SETU are mature students and 45% are part-time. This means that we need to focus on enabling lifelong learning and on providing flexible progression pathways. Improving access is about putting in place programmes to support students coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. And it means breaking away from the traditional model of a university which is based around full-time school-leavers. We need to deploy technology and work with employers to enable part-time, flexible study.”

PARTNERSHIPS, REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

SETU already interacts with a broad range of regional partners to create new skills and knowledge to drive innovation and cultural value. Examples include relationships with Rosslare Port on new wind energy initiatives, engagement with 250 companies in the area of advanced manufacturing, partnership with cultural organisations such as Wexford Arts Centre. At the Ploughing Championships last month, two new degrees from the Wexford campus were launched by the Minister for State for Agriculture –a BSc in Organic Agriculture and a BEng in Agricultural Systems Engineering. Both of these programme are co-created with external partners. These are the type and diversity of partnership which will drive economic, social and cultural prosperity.

INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

SETU is a member of a prestigious European network of universities focussed on Sustainability of Coastal regions. This consortium, EU CONNEXUS, will address the blue, green, and digital agendas with a multi-disciplinary approach, a focus on life-long learning and research collaboration. “When you consider the offshore wind energy opportunities in the South East, SETU is well placed to make a major contribution through its own expertise and European networks.

“My ambition is for SETU to be a leading European Technological University and that will bring new knowledge and networks into the South East to benefit activities here.”

SKILLS, CURRENT AND FUTURE

“It’s important to name the skills you want graduates to acquire. We want SETU graduates to be proficient in digital skills, to be employment-ready with an appreciation of the sustainable development goals, to have the ability to think critically, work collaboratively, and contribute to society in its broadest sense, and to be entrepreneurial and self-starting.

“Great work is already being done and it is worth noting that two out of the 10 finalists of this year’s Enterprise Ireland Student Entrepreneur of the Year Award were SETU students. And SETU was recently awarded funding from the Springboard programme to support 2,000 upskilling places across a number of programmes that align with regional skills requirements.”

BUILDING CAPACITY FOR RESEARCH

“We need to be strategic about this and to focus on building capacity where we can offer most benefit. This is tied in with skills requirements. Four Technology Gateways exist in the SouthEast which reflect research expertise in ICT, industrial design, pharmaceutics, and advanced materials. These gateways interact with industry partners and European and international research partners. We will focus on expanding research capacity across areas of strength and position SETU to future research themes through an interdisciplinary perspective. This will harness the potential of the South East as an Innovation Region.

ACHIEVING THESE GOALS

“In order to achieve these four goals, we will need to put the right structures in place. That means the right physical structures - campus development is a priority and is essential –SETU needs additional teaching, learning and research space to support its growth and trajectory.

“And it means the right organisational and administrative structures. We are a large, ambitious, multi-campus university, spread across Wexford, Waterford and Carlow - with a presence also in Kilkenny and Wicklow. This makes us a new type of university. It’s incredibly exciting and there is real strength in a regional focus. It also brings, of course, logistical challenges. But multi-campus universities work best when there is buy-in and investment from the whole region - from schools, industry, the business community, arts and culture, civic society. It’s in everyone’s interest for SETU to be a success. And I’m happy to say that the sense of excitement and opportunity across the South-East is high for our new university.

“It is vitally important that SETU’s presence in Wexford is housed in appropriate infrastructure, fitting for a modern university experience. We have a plan for a new site for SETU in Wexford and a submission for capital funding has been made to Government. Our new Governing Body has been briefed on the Wexford campus development and we are committed to progressing this project within our capital programme as part of our new Strategic Plan.

“I will do everything that I can to ensure that SETU’s facilities, including here in Wexford, are fit for purpose to facilitate growth, provide an excellent university experience for our students, and support productive R&D engagement with our external partners.”

Professor Campbell said she welcomed the opportunity to build further on the partnership with County Wexford Chamber, concluding with a request of Chamber members: “I will also be looking to you to support these plans – there are a myriad of ways that you can lend your support to SETU – through philanthropy, corporate sponsorship, by offering internships to our students, by seeking out SETU for research and innovation, and by promoting the South East as a university region in your professional networks.”

SETU EVENT

Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, addressed members of County Wexford Chamber, along with public representatives, at a Business After-Hours event in September.

Pictured (l-r): Cllr Jim Moore, Mayor of Wexford Cllr Maura Bell, SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell, County Wexford Chamber President Brendan Crowley, Cllr Jim Codd, and County Wexford Chamber Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy.

From left: Jackie Kilgannon, Wexford Arts Centre; Eleanor Saunders, Consultant, and Martina McAteer, artist.

From left: SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell and County Wexford Chamber Director John Nolan.

From left: Verona Murphy TD and Catherine Darcy, manager, New Work Junction, Wexford.

Pictured (l-r): SETU President Professor Veronica Campbell; County Wexford Chamber President Brendan Crowley; Janette Davies, Deputy Head of Wexford Campus, SETU; County Wexford Chamber Deputy CEO Emma Dunphy.

From left: Janette Davies, Deputy Head of Wexford Campus, SETU; Dr Lillian Byrne, SETU, and Calodagh McCumiskey, Spiritual Earth.

From left: Tom O’Mahoney, Katie Slattery, and Malachy McGlynn, Medentech.

Augustus Cullen Law opens new office in Gorey

Augustus Cullen Law, one of Ireland’s oldest and most progressive law firms, has opened an office in Gorey. Located in Esmonde Street, the new office will be led by Augustus Cullen Law partner Eleanor McKiernan. Eleanor has been practicing law in Gorey for over 15 years, specialising in property law, commercial law, wills, and enduring powers of attorney. She is also the vice-chair of the Conveyancing Committee of the Law Society of Ireland.

Mary Ni Ghuairim, one of the firm’s senior associates in litigation, will also be a key part of the team in Gorey. The new Gorey office will provide a full range of legal services. Alongside general litigation, medical negligence, and family law, it will focus strongly on residential and commercial property law, property sales and purchases, new housing developments, agricultural land, voluntary transfers and mortgages, along with enduring powers of attorney, wills, probate, and landlord and tenant leases.

With offices in Gorey, Wicklow, and Dublin, Augustus Cullen Law has 17 solicitors and approximately 40 staff, enabling the firm to have in-depth knowledge in all areas of law.

Its specialties are: Medical Negligence, Professional Negligence, Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution, General Litigation, Property Law, Corporate and Commercial Law, Planning and Environmental Law, Compulsory Purchase of Property, Debt Recovery and Insolvency, Employment Law, Family Law, Adoption Law, Child Care Law, Taxation and Wealth Management, Wills, Probate and Estate Management, and Human Rights.

Lighting the path for a brighter future

Harte Outdoor Lighting is a family run business which has been making the best quality outdoor products in New Ross for almost four decades. It prides itself on its exceptionally high standards in design, manufacturing, and customer service, with an excellent reputation earned over 40 years in business.

Harte Outdoor Lighting was founded in 1983 by electrical engineer Willie Harte, who saw an opportunity to create decorative pieces in cast iron and steel. This entrepreneurial spirit has endured as the business adapted well to the everchanging world and consumer needs. The last three years have been some of business’ most productive.

In 2019, Jack Harte (second generation) joined the firm after spending 10 years working across multi-national businesses in Ireland. Joining Liz Harte at director level, Jack’s new ideas and fresh thinking have rejuvenated the established business and set it up for future success.

2019 was also the start of a growing relationship with Enterprise Ireland, which recognised the business’ potential as a business and has supported its recent growth and development. One of Harte Outdoor Lighting’s most successful initiatives has been its focus on lean manufacturing. With support from lean consultant Seamus Scully, the firm has completely transformed its manufacturing flow, layout,

and planning. These strategic changes have increased production output by 55% which has allowed Harte Outdoor Lighting to reinvest in the business for future growth.

The Lean work has also allowed the business to work on larger scale projects. This year, it completed its single biggest-ever order with a five-star property in the UK. This prestigious property placed a custom order for over 350 lights specifically designed to suit its environment. This is the start of a great journey for Harte Outdoor Lighting and, with the support of Enterprise Ireland, it has big plans to grow its business in the UK and further afield over the next five to 10 years.

Harte Outdoor Lighting, The Harte Complex, New Ross, Co Wexford Y34 CR28 Tel: 051 421 239 Email: info@harteoutdoorlighting.ie www.harteoutdoorlighting.ie

Augustus

Celtic Linen’s green strategy pays dividends

Celtic Linen is Ireland’s largest and longest established linen rental and laundry service provider. With two plants in Wexford and one in Naas, it employs over 300 people and supplies over 1.2 million freshly laundered items weekly, processing more than 650,000kg and delivering nationwide 365 days a year. To ensure and verify the quality of its linen, it is accredited to EN14065:2016 Risk Analysis & Biocontamination Control (RABC), ISO 9001, and ISO 14001.

“We are very proud to have recently won an excellence in business award, ‘Excellence in providing laundry services across healthcare sector’,” said CEO Joanne Somers. “This award is an acknowledgement of our team’s hard work and commitment. The business has seen the most rapid changes and we have had to meet these head on. This is due to the great team we have here at Celtic Linen and the support of our suppliers and customers.”

GREEN STRATEGY

Celtic Linen is constantly working to further reduce its carbon footprint whilst also improving operating efficiencies.

Reynaers Aluminium focuses on sustainable growth

Reynaers Aluminium is a leading specialist in the development and marketing of innovative, sustainable aluminium solutions for windows, doors, and façades. Together with its partners, the Enniscorthy company focuses on creating energy efficient, responsibly made products that make a difference for homes, buildings, and the people they serve.

The Irish subsidiary of Reynaers Aluminium was established in Enniscorthy in 1987 and today employs over 70 people, with customers installing Reynaers’ products in construction projects all over Ireland, the UK, and North America. Founded in 1965, Reynaers Aluminium has grown from a small Belgian business to become a global leader in the aluminium industry, employing over 2,600 people across 40 countries, with sales in over 70.

What makes Enniscorthy unique amongst Reynaers’ operations globally is that not only does the business here supply and distribute aluminium systems, but the doors, windows, and curtain wall elements are also manufactured

“Recently we completed a €2 million capital investment project which sees the latest technology being used to automate the processing of 3,300kg per hour, the transfer by shuttle, and automatic loading and discharge from preprogrammed item-specific dryers. Our new heat-exchange system uses wastewater to heat incoming fresh cold water and reclaim 660kW/h, generating savings of 3,000MW per year (equivalent to the consumption of 200 households). Working closely with our hygiene specialist, our innovative use of chemical dosage and industry leading wash processes has reduced water consumption from 6 litres per 1kg of linen to 2.2 litres per 1kg.”

The company’s reverse-osmosis plant filters the company’s incoming water for use in its steam boilers and reduces the need for blow downs, saving 10,000 litres of superheated water daily. “This project is in collaboration with Steam Esco, a leading energy services company with expertise in steam energy and reducing carbon emissions which is also based in Wexford.”

Celtic Linen Ltd, Rosslare Road, Drinagh, Wexford, Y35 Y20F Tel: 053 916 5700 Email: orders@celticlinen.ie www.celticlinen.ie

in-house. A third division produces hundreds of components that are exported back to Belgium for global distribution.

€5M EXPANSION OF PREMISES

With over 35 years of experience, the team in Enniscorthy serves a wide partner network of architects, engineers, façade designers, and fabricator installers. They also help refine new products and systems for the wider Group, serving as a de facto centre of excellence. The company recently invested over €5 million in an ambitious renovation and expansion of the premises, providing state-of-the-art offices in an historic stone building (which originally served as a Jameson distillery), along with increased manufacturing and warehouse space.

Energy efficiency and sustainability is at the heart of everything Reynaers does: there is real synergy between its efforts as a construction industry supplier and Wexford’s ambition to become a global leader in sustainable construction methods. Reynaers has invested heavily in circularity – the Cradle2Cradle principle - where products are designed to be infinitely recyclable, reducing waste and emissions.

Reynaers Aluminium, Fairfield, Enniscorthy Co. Wexford Y21 KX28 Tel: 053 923 5600 www.reynaers.ie

Upgrade of Chadwicks Wexford Park

In January 2023, Chadwicks Wexford Park will become a beacon of light at the top of Wexford town as the stadium will be lit up for the first time. We aim to create a significant event that will be remembered as a moment in history in Wexford sport. The floodlights will be the first of its type in a medium size stadium in Ireland and the UK with a special effect features which facilitate an integrated sound and music show.

The full redevelopment of Chadwicks Wexford park will cost approximately €3 million euro and we are reaching out to the business community in Wexford to support our vision of having Chadwicks Wexford Park as the premium venue for events in the South East. To achieve this, we are asking business to become a floodlight sponsor as outlined below.

• Two VIP tickets to the game on opening night.

• Listing in the programme and on the big screen as a floodlight sponsor on the evening of the game.

• A unique drone photograph from the opening game with the Wexford GAA logo and signed by the Wexford hurling captain which can be displayed in your business.

Emma Dunphy Deputy CEO

Therese O’ Connor Skillnet Network Manager therese@countywexfordchamber.ie

Sheila Meyler Skillnet Network Administrator sheila@countywexfordchamber.ie

Jacinta Fortune Manager | Gorey Visitor Centre jacinta@countywexfordchamber.ie

Anne Dwyer Accounts & Membership Executive New Ross office

Jennifer Buckley Office Administrator Wexford office jennifer@countywexfordchamber.ie

Deirdre O’Flynn Development Officer Gorey office deirdre@countywexfordchamber.ie

Pauline Doyle Events and Membership Co-ordinator | Wexford office pauline@countywexfordchamber.ie

Denise Farrell Events Co-ordinator Wexford office

SICK PAY TO BECOME A LEGAL ENTITLEMENT THIS AUTUMN

The Sick Leave Act 2022 was signed into law by the President on 20 July 2022. It will come into effect when the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment signs a commencement order. That order is expected to be made on 1 January 2023. 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.

For many years, workers in Ireland have had no statutory right to receive sick pay from their employers. Rather, most workers have an entitlement to receive Illness Benefit from the State if they are medically certified as being unfit for work and they are absent for more than three days. There is no entitlement to Illness Benefit in respect of the first three days of such absence.

Against that background, some employers operate discretionary sick pay schemes or provide for sick pay in employees’ contracts of employment. Many of these employers also provide the benefit of membership of income continuance schemes which normally kick in after an employee has been out sick for six months or more. None of these employer initiatives, however, are compulsory under employment legislation.

NEW LANDSCAPE

The sick pay landscape is about to change significantly once the Sick Leave Act 2022 is brought into effect by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar, on 1 January 2023. The Act provides that employees who are absent from work due to illness or injury shall be entitled to up to three days of statutory sick leave per annum. They are also to be entitled to payment for those three days at a rate to be provided for in regulations to be introduced by the Minister.

It is expected that the Minister will increase the number of days of paid statutory sick leave each year over the coming years, moving the entitlement from an initial three days per annum in 2023 to five days in 2024, seven in 2025 and, eventually, 10 days in the fourth year of the scheme’s operation. It is also expected that statutory sick pay will be set at the level of 70% of normal wages up to a maximum sick pay entitlement of €110 per day.

Employees will need to have at least 13 weeks of continuous service in order to avail of statutory sick pay and will also need to be certified by a GP as being unfit to work. Employers will be obliged to keep records of statutory sick leave and sick pay for four years or face potential prosecution.

IMPACT OF NEW LEGISLATION

Most large employers already operate sick pay schemes, with many offering benefits that are well in excess of the new statutory scheme. It is therefore likely that the impact of the new legislation will be felt most acutely by small and mediumsized businesses as they will be required to keep even more records than at present and will be obliged to calculate and pay statutorily mandated sums to employees on certified sick leave.

NEED HELP?

Employers requiring advice and guidance on the new statutory sick leave provisions may obtain same from Jacob and Twomey Solicitors LLP on 053 924 9920.

Employment Law Updates –Information Webinar with Adrian Twomey, Jacob & Twomey Solicitors LLP, Thursday, 3 November, 9am-10am. Book on County Wexford Chamber website.

Kennedy Summer School – a huge benefit to County Wexford and the South East

The Kennedy Summer School has established itself as the premier summer school in the country, according to its Chair/Director, Willie Keilthy.

Over the past 10 years, the Kennedy Summer School in September has featured not only in Ireland’s national media, but also across both the UK and the US. The continuation of this focus by media undoubtedly benefits and keeps the profile of the South East region in the public mind and is a reminder of all that the region can offer. The value of this media coverage is in the order of €1 million each year.

This year, visitors travelled from far and wide as they have in the past few years. A preliminary analysis shows the following breakdown: Wexford 26%, rest of Ireland 65%, and international visitors 9%. The town and the environment of New Ross experienced a significant uplift in economic activity in the order of around €200,000 over the weekend and the atmosphere around the town was both positive and welcoming.

The future of the Kennedy Summer School is reliant on the support we get from our Municipal District, Wexford County Council, the OPW, Boston College, Fáilte Ireland, TU Dublin and our many local partners who give generously to make the festival a success.

DIRECTORS’ INPUT

The input of the directors is also immense and should not be underestimated, giving freely of their time, and using all their contacts to include the most important topics discussed by the most knowledgeable in their field. It was our founder, the late Noel Whelan, whose vision it was to have the Summer School in the first place. We acknowledge the significant voluntary contribution of our directors: Dr Brian Murphy, TU Dublin; Larry Donnelly, NUI Galway; Eileen Dunne, RTE; Dr Bob Mauro, Boston College; Sinead McSweeney, Twitter; and Eamonn Hore, Wexford County Council.

ROLE FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS

For the future of the Summer School and indeed the other Autumn festivals, it would be great if the local Chamber members could meet with festival organisers to see if they can add value to the visitor experience of all the patrons who visit New Ross over this time. One issue this year was the lack of bed nights around the area; this is something that will need to be addressed for the future sustainability of these type of events where we want people to stay.

EXPERT SPEAKERS

Over the past 10 years, the Summer School has attracted many expert speakers from various fields of politics, academia, sport, literature, and music. Each year, our speaker list is filled with notable high-profile people, such as the President of Ireland, each of the last four Taoisigh, two American Ambassadors, a US State Governor, leaders of all the political parties in Ireland and Northern Ireland, EU Commissioners, journalists, historians, and sports personalities.

At the Wexford Leading Tourism discussion at the 2022 Kennedy Summer School were (l-r): Willie Keilthy, chairperson; Dr Dominic Dillane, moderator; Paul Kelly, Fáilte Ireland CEO; Ruth Andrews, chairperson, Tourism Recovery Taskforce; Siobhan McManamy, Acting Chief Executive, Tourism Ireland; Cian Ó Lionáin, Assistant Secretary in the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media; and Eamonn Hore, director.

At the official opening of the Kennedy Summer School were (l-r): US Ambassador Claire Cronin; Eileen Dunne, director; Dr Robert M Moro, director; and Larry Donnelly, director.

At the Sustainable Future discussion at the JFK Memorial Park and Arboretum were students from Ramsgrange Community School pictured with David McCullagh, RTE.

Gael force ahead

Enterprise Ireland (EI) has been actively working on developing Irish SME capability in the offshore wind sector since 2018. And EI personnel have worked intensely with the Irish supply chain and on developing export market opportunities, particularly in the UK.

EI has developed an Irish offshore wind supply chain cluster (Gael Offshore Network), which consists of approximately 70 Irish companies. These companies provide a range of products, services, and skillsets appropriate to the offshore wind industry sector.

THE UK MARKET

As per the agency’s remit, EI is primarily focused on helping Irish SMEs to bring this capability to export markets. The largest and easiest-to-access market opportunity is the UK, which is the world leader in offshore wind. Indeed, the UK plans to install circa 4,000-5,000 turbines between now and 2030, with over 10GW already installed. Enterprise Ireland’s London office has been building connections between Irish SMEs and UK offshore wind project developers, original equipment manufacturers, and Tier 1 contractors to ensure the greatest possible penetration of the UK market. There are also strong export market opportunities in the Baltic Sea, the Nordic countries, France, Taiwan, Japan, and others.

IRISH EAST COAST

While the immediate opportunity for Irish SMEs is in the UK, EI is very aware of the need to maximise the local supply chain content for offshore wind projects off the Irish East Coast. EI believes the best way to maximise local content for these projects is to build a portfolio of Irish SMEs with appropriate products, services, and capabilities to meet the needs of the developers and Tier 1 contractors developing and ultimately constructing these wind farms. By facilitating Irish SMEs’ entry into the UK offshore wind industry, EI is helping these companies to build the appropriate offerings to an industry that is rapidly expanding globally. EI welcomes the commitment to develop 7GW of offshore wind in the Irish Sea between now and 2030 and will work with all key stakeholders to maximise the local supply chain content level.

GREEN HYDROGEN

Irish capability will not only be relevant for Irish Sea projects, but also for bottom-fixed projects in the Celtic Sea. In addition, Irish capability will also be relevant for the emerging technology of floating offshore wind. This technology will be vital for the harnessing of the wind resource off the South and West coast in waters deeper than 60m. A future end use of this potentially enormous offshore wind resource is the production of green hydrogen, a key future decarbonisation fuel. Green hydrogen can play a very significant role in the decarbonisation of the Irish energy system, but Ireland’s offshore wind resource is so large that it can potentially be a net exporter of green hydrogen to mainland Europe.

EMPLOYMENT POTENTIAL

The offshore wind industry also has a significant regional employment potential. EI has visited offshore wind industry bases in the UK and noted substantial employment growth in these centres, often to the benefit of geographically remote small coastal communities. One example is the Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm, which is operated and maintained from its base at Wick in North East Scotland.

To find out more about Enterprise Ireland’s Gael Offshore Network, click on https://irishadvantage.com/offshore-wind/

The Enterprise Ireland-managed Gael Offshore Network – Ireland’s supply chain for the global offshore wind industry

JobFest success leads to national recognition

County Wexford Chamber’s JobFest in April was such a success it was later shortlisted for the “Most Innovative Project” in the 2022 Chambers Ireland Awards. Held on the Quay in Wexford town, and supported by Wexford County Council, the JobsFest brought top employers and talented employees together. Over 35 key employment sectors were represented at the JobsFest, along with State agencies. HR experts were on hand with advice on job-readiness and leading sporting and business legends mingled with over 900 attendees. Panel discussions and chill-out areas and breakout rooms facilitated information gathering and networking opportunities.

“We’re so delighted with the overall response we’re already looking forward to Jobs Fest 2023,” said Emma Dunphy, Deputy CEO of County Wexford Chamber.

Ms Dunphy thanked everyone involved, particularly Wexford Rotary, Lantern Presents, Brand Nova Digital, all the exhibitors and Wexford County Council.

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, then Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, officially opening the JobsFest.

A section of the stands at the JobsFest.

Waters Technology, Wexford.

Chamber Golf Classic a sunny success

The sun shone on County Wexford Chamber’s Annual Golf Classic at Courtown Golf Club on Friday, September 2.

Enniscorthy firm Sensible Safety came out the strongest with Shane Dunphy achieving the longest drive amongst the men and Nikki Dunphy out-distancing the pack in the women’s longest drive. Stephen Healy from BNY Mellon won the ‘nearest the pin’ competition.

“Our Golf Classic was a great opportunity for businesses to thank clients or treat their team in an enjoyable, relaxed, sporting and social outing,” said Emma Dunphy, Deputy CEO of County Wexford Chamber. “The course at Courtown Golf Club was in super condition and there were great displays of golf on the day.

“A day like this is not possible without the support of the business community, and we thank our main sponsor, J Donohoe BMW, along with other sponsors such as Pettitt’s SuperValu Gorey, Advance Cleaners, Bank of Ireland, Clayton Whites Hotel, Cllr Andrew Bolger, Guardian Fire & Safety, Harte Outdoor Lighting, Irish National Heritage Park, Joyces Wexford, K&K Windows Ltd, Park 100 Fire & Security, Reynaers Aluminium, Sensible Safety, Sheil Kinnear Accountants, The IT Department, and Wexford Bus.”

Sponsored by J Donohoe BMW, the golf classic attracted teams from across the county. On offer as first prize was the opportunity to represent County Wexford Chamber at the inaugural Chambers Ireland All Island Chamber Golf Classic. This event, on Thursday, October 20, in the K Club, Co. Kildare, is a national team golf event for the winning member businesses from each local Chamber.

Courtown Golf Club’s team finished the day in top position and are now set to represent County Wexford in the Chambers Ireland competition.

In a closely contested competition, Irish Country Meats came in second place, followed by BNY Mellon in third place.

Irish Country Meats - 2nd Place

Courtown Golf Club - Golf Classic winners

Longest Drive Man and Woman - Shane Dunphy and Nikki Dunphy (Sensible Safety)

BNY Mellon

Place

Reduce Your Energy Use with Business Supports from SEAI

Working with businesses, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) understands the impact of rising energy costs and the need to reduce your energy use and save money.

An average SME could potentially reduce its energy bills by up to 30%, by implementing energy efficiency measures. Ten per cent of savings can be achieved with little or no capital cost. Listed below are some key actions that Wexford businesses and employees can take now to get winter ready and become more resilient to rising energy costs.

HEATING

The longer your heating is on and the higher your thermostat is set, the higher your bills will be. Remember, heating costs increase by 8% for every one-degree increase.

• Check your timers are set to the correct date and time considering different working hours on the weekends and bank holidays

• Ensure your heating in offices is set to 19 degrees and, in areas of higher physical activity, set to below 19 degrees

• Identify who is responsible for heating controls and communicate this to your employees, asking that they avoid tampering with the controls

DRAUGHTS

Up to 30% of heating costs can be saved by preventing cold air entering a building. So, controlling this is one of the easiest ways to reduce your heating energy bills.

• Identify sources of draughts and fit appropriate draught proofing.

• Ensure that doors are not being propped open for convenience and consider fitting spring-loaded door closures

LIGHTING

For many businesses, lighting is one of the most energy intensive parts of the business and can be responsible for 40% of a building’s electricity use.

• Make use of natural light, relocate objects that are blocking windows, ensure window blinds are open during the day, and arrange desks near windows without causing glare

• Identify and label your lighting switches to encourage staff to turn them off when not in use and agree that the last person out turns the lights off

• Consider installing occupancy sensors which can reduce lighting energy use by 30%

•

LED lamps use up to 90% less energy than traditional lamps and can last up to five times longer. Consider replacing existing non-LED lamps with suitable LED ones.

CONNECT WITH SEAI

The SEAI provides grants and supports to help your business reduce its energy use.

Encourage your staff to join the SEAI Energy Academy where they will learn about the basics of energy efficiency, helping you embed a sustainable energy use culture within your organisation.

Register for the next SEAI Introduction to Energy Management training course to learn how to create an energy action plan. If you spend more than €10,000 per annum on energy, apply for the SEAI Support Scheme for Energy Audits and receive a €2,000 voucher towards a high-quality energy audit. This will help you identify your significant energy users and steps you can take to reduce your energy use.

SERVICES

Almost €1m in sales of Shop Local Vouchers

Close to €1 million - €965,000 - County Wexford Shop Local vouchers have been sold at the time of publication. This will have a significant impact on businesses as it ensures that money will stay in the local economy and protect local jobs.

LOCAL SUPPORT

County Wexford Chamber vouchers are accepted in over 250 participating outlets across Gorey, New Ross, and Wexford. They

are an ideal gift for any occasion, allowing for a wide choice of purchases and services ranging from clothing, jewellery, beauty, hospitality, car and household fuel and much more. Shop Local Vouchers are a practical gift for family, friends or staff that will encourage and support our sectors which, in turn, means supporting local jobs and the livelihoods of many in our towns.

SMALL BENEFIT EXEMPTION

It was announced in Budget 2023 that the Small Benefit Exemption will increase from €500 to €1,000. This means that employers can give two vouchers or gifts to their employees each tax year. This increase will also be applied for the 2022 tax year. We encourage businesses using this scheme to consider buying our Shop Local Vouchers for such rewards. This is keeping the benefits of such financial supports circulating in our county’s economy.

“My entire business is run off my laptop so it’s important to me that I have a reliable and fast connection that is always on.”

Rosemary O’Connor Killarney Organic