Connect Business Spring Issue

FREE

SPRING 2018

PLEASE TAKE ME

BUSINESS The business magazine for Kerry

Padraig McGillicuddy and his adventure in the Himalayas

Award Winning Family Run Business

Francis Fitzgibbon of StoryStock speaks to Connect

New Structure for Tralee Chamber Alliance ..... See inside

Connect | Advertising

2 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Editor Note |Connect

EDITOR NOTE Hello and welcome to Connect Business This issue we were delighted to chat with Hotelier Padraig McGillicuddy who has just completed a trip with a difference. Not your average two weeks’ vacation but a very adventurous one none the less.

We also chat to Nathan McDonnell of Ballyseedy Home and Garden on the expansion to Tralee Bay Wetlands and the changing face of retail.

Tralee Chamber Alliance has undergone some changes and a new progressive plan is in progress so we find out more and Francis Fitzgibbon of story stock gives us an insight into his business.

Lots of new business happening within the county and we have caught up with a few to see how it’s all going.

Of course preparations for the Connect Kerry Women in Business Awards are well underway and with just days to the closing date on April 30th be sure to contact us if you would like to be part of it or would like to nominate a lady you feel is deserving of one of these awards.

As always we are delighted to hear from you and what’s happening in your business so don’t be shy, spread the word and let us tell the county how good your business is.

Until next time.

Margaret x Editor: Margaret Kissane Design: Laura A. Hartnett For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 3

Connect | Business

AT Mater Private Hospital Cork in our Urgent Cardiac Care, patients present after referral by their family doctor with symptoms suspicious of heart Disease. Five specialist trained Consultants, Cardiac Scientists and our Cardiac Nurses assess, test and diagnose patients Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00 pm.

In Ireland, more than three hundred people every day are diagnosed with coronary heart disease. Coronary heart disease CHD develops over time due to multiple factors such as smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes and poor diet. A layer of plaque forms on the inside of the small arteries that supply oxygen and nourishment to the muscle of the heart. If these plaques rupture a clot can form blocking the artery. These arteries can be as small as just a few millimetres in diameter.

Heart disease is the most common cause of premature death in Ireland.

However interventional cardiology has advanced our knowledge and ability to manage heart disease to such a level that many lives are saved and the need for surgery often prevented.

Today specialist heart doctors called Cardiac Interventionists practice techniques that have developed over recent decades.

It is a relatively routine technique now to make a very small incision in the wrist and pass a long thin tube (catheter) through the body via blood vessels to the heart and inject a special solution called contrast. Contrast makes the hearts arteries opaque or visible to x-ray. The images taken by this technique make it possible to see and treat the narrowing’s that form in the artery that can potentially lead to angina or heart attack.

This technique is called cardiac catheterisation. There are several people historically that we can directly attribute these advances to. Notably perhaps the first was in 1844 when a French physiologist named Claude Bernard used a catheter made of glass to examine an equine heart. It was Bernard who coined the phrase ‘cardiac catheterisation’. More than 80 years later in 1929 a young German Doctor named Werner Forssmann cut through the tissue of his elbow exposing the artery and passed a catheter into his own heart and x-rayed the chambers to prove that this technique was safe to do in humans. Forssmann

along with two of his colleagues were awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine for this ground breaking achievement. This enabled future treatments in heart disease including bypass surgery. By 1977 pioneered by Dr Andreas Gruentzig Doctors were able to pass a catheter into a narrowed artery and inflate a tiny balloon compressing the plaque into the artery wall to reopen the narrowed vessel, treating the disease and relieving the symptoms of angina. This technique was called ‘Angioplasty’.

However in many cases the narrowing would close down again months later and the symptoms would return. To counteract this several more advances were made starting with the evolution of the coronary stent. Dr Julio Palmaz and Dr Richard Schatz developed the first approved stent in 1994. This tiny slotted tube made of stainless steel was inserted into the blockage to keep the newly opened artery from closing again.

Over the next two decades and still today the stent has continuously improved by several methods including applying a special coating that helps prevent the stent itself from developing plaque. Every year around the world thanks to the efforts of many such as Greuntzig, millions of patients are treated by these methods spending as little as a few hours to a night in hospital and returning to healthy lives without the fear of heart attack once they modify their lives through smoking cessation, diet changes, exercise and take necessary prescribed medication such as aspirin.

Over the past 18 months, Mater Private Hospital Cork has doubled its capacity, opened a new ward and Emergency Department leading to an increase in staffing levels in a number of medical and administrative areas. Further development and expansion plans are at an advanced stage.

Mater Private Hospital Cork is equipped with the very latest technology, private en-suite rooms and free parking for patients and visitors. The Emergency Department, which treats patients over 16, and Urgent Cardiac Care open daily, from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:

www.materprivate.ie/cork/centre-services/ heart-vascular-centre, email: corkcardiology@materprivate.ie or if need of URGENT CARDIAC CARE, call 021 601 3333 without delay.

4 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Advertising |Connect

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 5

Connect | Business

Padraig McGillicuddy

and his adventure in the Himalayas Padraig

McGillicuddy, owner of Ballygarry House Hotel & Spa, Tralee & his close friend Pat Chawke, Group Director of O’Reilly Hotels set off on a trek in the Himalayas this March. Their intention was to spend 3 weeks trekking in the Himalayas, firstly to Everest base camp at 17,600ft & summit Kala Pattar at 18,600ft. They then intended to made a summit attempt of Island Peak at 20,305ft. This was a technical climb and involved the use of insulated Mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axes, ascending & descending devices.

They shared their experiences on a daily blog called www.sherpaandyak.com & it is worth a read. Here’s how they got on.

Final training for Island Peak

You undertook this adventure with Pat Chawke . . . when was this idea first discussed between you as something you would and could seriously do?

No doubt it started as a casual chat up the side of some Kerry Mountain on one of our regular climbs/treks. We decided to go for Everest Base Camp as we knew it was well within our ability. Then in January, we had an alcohol induced brainwave to do a Summit attempt of Island Peak at 20,305ft as well as EBC. We spoke to a friend of ours who summited Everest last year who said “Never again!” With our minds made up that we didn’t need to summit Everest we sought something a little less life

threatening in Island Peak.

By: Marisa Reidy

What was your (both) motivation to take on such a mammoth challenge?

Myself & Pat go back to the Corrib Great Southern in Galway in 1997 where he was the GM & he gave me my first management role (& paid me peanuts!).

We became great friends over the years & our wives are equally as close. Pat turned a significant birthday this year (somewhere in between 40 & 60!) & this was the stimulus for us to get on & do it. We are both ambitious people & all it takes is a suggestion & we’re off !!!

Once you both had decided this was happening, what type of preparation was needed...and for how long?

We started training in November 2017.

3 days a week in the gym & 2 days out trekking. We would put weights or books in our backpacks to help build leg strength. We both got help from a nutritionist on what to eat and trainers to help us build up body strength for the harder days. We researched clothing & got advice from Ian Taylor trekking on what to wear. At -35 degrees Celsius you can’t afford to get this wrong. We did a weekends mountaineering training in January with Nathan Kingerlee at Outdoors Ireland. We needed a long medical list of what to bring for Altitude sickness, chest infections, headaches, aspirin to thin the blood, something for the nose bleeds, bandages for aches & blisters, sterile wipes & lots for personal hygiene as there’s no water available in March at that altitude as the pipes freeze.

Two plane tickets, plenty of neck & we were off.

Padraig at Island Peak

summit

began to challenge us. On our head wall section, that lasted 3 hours, we could only manage a 4-5 movements & then a break for a minute to regain our breath.

The trick is really to go slow. Our Sherpas would be heard saying every now & again “Slowly, slowly” We taught them how to command us in Irish and revelled in our Nepalese Sherpas urgings of “Go Mall, go mall”….. Every laugh helped and brought the summit a step closer.

When did ye set off - and return?

We left Mid-March & started trekking on St. Patricks day. We had committed to be

You clearly didn’t take on this challenge lightly - what is your experience in this area?

I’ve been trekking all my life as it’s something I love. Myself & my wife Carmel head out a couple of times a week for a trek as do Pat & Marie. Myself & Pat would climb Brandon & Carrauntoohil fairly regularly. Whilst these are challenges in themselves it’s the altitude & lack of Oxygen that present the real challenge in the Himalayas & especially on the summit day of Island Peak. The air was thin but very manageable up to about 17,000ft.

From 17,000 to 20,305ft is where it really Pat studies Island Peak

6 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Advertising |Connect

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 7

Connect | Business

alcohol free on the trek to help to avoid altitude sickness, so the wetting of the Shamrock had to wait until our return.

We spent 11 days trekking to Everest Base Camp with a group from all over the world, Ohio, Canada, New Zealand, Texas, Denmark & our 2 beloved Corkonians! These were a super bunch & soon became like family. We also went vegetarian for the duration (As meat storage can be suspect) & took to a diet of Vegetables, rice, noodles & Eggs. Since I’ve come home on April 3rd, I have been trying to regain the 10 lbs that I shed in the Himalayas - The Brasserie Burger has never tasted so good.

I read that you set yourself three objectives - Kala Pattar, Everest Base Camp and Island Peak - tell me about those..... ie how long each took, the challenges each presented etc.

I didn’t want to do a charity climb. I wanted to do something more personal so I looked at the people that I owe gratitude to. I dedicated the Kala Pattar climb of 18,600ft to my late father (who gave me a strong foothold in business), my mother, family & extended family of Ballygarry staff.

I dedicated the Everest Base Camp trek of 17,600ft to my wife Carmel for always being my backbone & supporting all my decisions in life & business.

And I dedicated the big climb of Island Peak to my niece Aoise Healy who was born with Cerebral Palsy & has defied her early prognosis through sheer determination. I said if I could have her strength on Island Peak summit day heading to 20,305 ft would get me to the top. I thought of her many times when I was feeling the pressure. Her strength helped me to prevail.

Kala Pattar Summit.

Mount Everest in the background

challenges in life (Some we chose to take on and some we are forced to take on) and the sense that I am a really lucky guy to have such a strong support around me in my family, friends and the team at Ballygarry. I also felt really cold, dirty & in bad need of a good shower.…

What were the key challenges you faced along the way...weather, supplies etc t Pat at Island Peak summi There are no roads into the villages on the trek, so supplies were limited. The Tea houses / Hostels we stayed in had solar power so lights died Is it fair to assume that you need as much mental strength around 10pm and there was no heating except for the stove fire as physical strength to do something like this.....? Were there in the food room which was lit from 5pm – 9pm. Our bedrooms ever time when you doubted yourself? were normally around -10C at night. The windows would freeze… Our greatest problem on summit day on Island Peak was that all on the inside! The most precious thing to us was our sleeping our water & food froze solid. We started to get really hungry & bags! We called them our Palaces. We encountered bed bugs, by the time we got back to base camp we were really weak after blood stained sheets, dead mice & so on but in our beautiful 16 hours of hard physical climbing on a bowl of porridge and a sleeping bags, we felt like a we were in suite at Ballygarry House snickers bar. every night. Each night we took our drinking bottles and filled Certainly there were times on the mountain that I was sapped them with boiling water, put them in a spare sock & they acted of all physical strength and it was only some faint voice in my as hot water bottles during the night. Then, each morning we psyche that kept me moving upwards. On summit day we would use the water to brush our teeth & wipe our face. We burned over 14,000 calories, so if anyone is looking for a crash would then put a chlorine & vitamin in the water and drink it diet I have the solution!! with breakfast. Recycling at its best. We had to drink 5 litres per day to combat the dehydration that occurs at altitude..

What’s the next challenge for you now that this has been such a successful adventure?

What was the overriding feeling when you accomplished each We’ll stick to Carrauntoohil & the Kerry Mountains for a while. goal?

It’s hard to know what to do next when the largest in Europe is On reaching each goal, I thought of those that I had dedicated it Mont Blanc at 15,900ft which is 4,400ft less than where we were! to. The overriding feeling was an appreciation of the scale of the For the moment we’ll enjoy the Oxygenated environment at sea level.

8 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Advertising |Connect

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 9

Connect | Business

NESSA MCGANN Station Manager at SPIN South West As Nessa McGann, Station Manager at SPIN South West joins the judging panel for the CONNECT KERRY Women in Business Awards taking place on Friday 25th May, we take a look at SPIN South West after ten years of broadcasting, how the brand has impacted the lives of Kerry women and men since its launch and find out what’s next for the media brand.

SPIN South West is now a staple part of our local media. From the very beginning in 2007, the radio station has served up fresh, fun and music-focused content to entertain the South West audience and to keep listeners in the loop on current issues and events that the region cares about.

Now in its eleventh year of broadcasting, the radio brand continues to play a huge part in the Kerry economy. Its studiooffice on Castle Street in Tralee town centre - which is unmissable with its SPIN pink painted exterior - has recently undergone a revamp and acts as a media hub for radio in Kerry. SPIN South West Sales Manager, Siobhan Patrick and her Kerry Sales Account Executive, Vincent O’Brien are very excited about the future for SPIN in Kerry.

“Our presence in Kerry has been greatly received and we now have several of the major Businesses in Kerry trusting the Brand and advertising on regular basis with the station” according to Siobhan.

South West radio audience continuing to grow quarter by quarter in addition to the brand’s 387,000 followers on social media, SPIN South West offers brands unrivalled access to the South West population.

Not only has SPIN South West been entertaining the South West since it went on air, it has actively contributed to Kerry communities throughout its broadcasting history. The brand focuses on celebrating the Kingdom via a multitude of campaigns and initiatives it runs during the year, its close links to the Institute of Technology Tralee and the INEC, Killarney, its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the Tralee parade, its participation in the Rose of Tralee Festival and its media partnerships with the likes of the Dingle International Film Festival and the Donal Walsh Live Life Foundation.

With other initiatives, the brand aims to directly contribute to the Kerry economy, running events such as SPIN South West Sandstorm and SPIN South West Future Sounds at the INEC which bring thousands to the South West, resulting in real commercial opportunities for local businesses in Kerry.

The power of the SPIN South West brand is in its unique ability to mobilise audience for events and

campaigns but also in the difference this 21st century content producer makes to business owners who take out advertising, digital and social campaigns with the station.

As SPIN South West broadcasts into its eleventh year with its biggest audience ever, it’s easy to forget the Ireland of 2007 that SPIN South West was set up inand no one knows it better than Nessa

“We are recognized as a respected Media channel for their Business and we are looking forward to continued and strengthened relationships in the county”.

Results speak for themselves and the most recent listenership figures released in February 2018 show SPIN South West is the No.1 radio station for all adults in the South West, reaching 37% of adults in the region weekly- a bigger weekly audience than RTE Radio 1 in the South West region. With the SPIN 10 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

st’s Tralee Exterior of SPIN South We eet Studio-Office on Castle Str

Advertising |Connect

Stressed from Employee issues?

We Can Make Your Problem ... No Problem!

The HR Suite provide outsourced HR advice for clients with any number of employees to ensure you are legally compliant including NERA/WRC audits HR Best Practice Support • • • •

Tailored Contracts and Policies Mediation & Dispute Resolution Recruitment Assistance Performance Management

Employment Law Advice • • • •

Legal Compliance Audits & Advice Representation at Third Party Forums Bullying & Harassment Investigations Discipline & Grievance Management

Training Services • • • •

FOR PEOPLE AND BUSINESS

DISPUTE RESOLUTION • NERA AUDIT • MEDIATION • TRAINING

Online Training Programmes Certified Manual Handling Training Strategic Management Development Tailored Training Courses

Caroline McEnery, Managing Director of The HR Suite, HR & Employment Law Expert

Contact Us for a Free Consultation Tel: [066] 7102887 Email: info@thehrsuiteonline.com WWW.THEHRSUITEONLINE.COM WWW.THEHRSUITEONLINE.COM

Cycle Safely

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS OF OUR SERVICES

Before setting off, it is vital that cyclists check especially that the brakes on F O R P E O P L E A N D B U S I N E Stheir S bike work properly because if it so happens that a cyclist needs to make an By: Helen O’Dell abrupt stop for any given reason working Over the last few years cycling has brakes are essential. Bike lights should become a popular activity. Cycling is a be in good working order, batteries great way to get around towns, cities replaced or charged when needed and countryside settings. The freedom and to have a bell on a bike is law. The that one feels while on a bike cannot be wearing of a high visibility jacket or vest matched with anything else. It is great during day and night is a sure way for for keeping you in good health and is a cyclist to be seen. The wearing of a low impact on joints. bicycle helmet is vital too. To go out on a bike without these takes away the safety FOR PEOPLE AND BUSINESS Now that the days are becoming longer element to cycling. If a cyclist is wearing and with summer not long to come shoes with laces, they should check that there will be more people out and about their shoe laces are tied because if a lace on their bikes. There are precautions becomes loose while out cycling and and rules that cyclists need to take wraps around the peddle, it may lead to for them to enjoy this activity in a safe a dangerous situation. environment.

Cyclists need to be observant of cars coming close to them while out on the roads, and also to be aware of parked cars and the opening of doors and people getting out. People cross streets sometimes without being careful, and cyclists should be on the look out for such people to prevent any danger of colliding with them. The rules of the road are not just for motorists, cyclists too must obey these rules, such as cycling

with the flow of the traffic, obeying a stop sign, signalling to motorists when a cyclist intends to make a left or right turn, preparing to stop at traffic lights when the light turns amber and stop when the light is red. When cycling out on the roads and streets, being safe is top priority, and in order to be less vulnerable roads users, cyclists must be safe and they must be seen.

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 11

Connect | Business

JNLR Listenership Fig ures

McGann, SPIN South West’s Station Manager who has been with the station since day one.

“You know, during the recession, a lot of people were having a very tough time and we decided that we would make SPIN South West somewhere to go to relax and feel good – even if things weren’t going great in other parts of life, we wanted SPIN South West to lift up the listeners and celebrate the small things- like a great song, or winning tickets or a night out – that make a difference. You know, we lost a huge amount of young people in that time – they were our key audience, so we suffered along with our listeners but we’ve made it through – we’re delighted to see people returning home – delighted to have our listeners to our apps and the website from across the world but we’re even more delighted to have grown, despite the hard times, into the No.1 Station for 15-34’s in each county we serve – including Kerry! “ As we edge closer to the date of the CONNECT KERRY Women in Business Awards this May, SPIN South West continues to entertain the South West just as it has done over the past decade - but what about the next decade?

Well, so far in 2018, SPIN have launched a new app and a brand new digital streaming service, SPIN Xtra which has achieved massive downloads among the 15-20 year old demographic - so building digital growth going forward is key.

12 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

So is ongoing research to ensure advertising on the station - on air, digital/social and on the ground- remains innovative and that the SPIN South West audience gets what they need and expect from the brand. And, of course, the main thing is that the brand listens to the people who make SPIN great - the listeners - by being based in Tralee and staying local - it’s SPIN South West’s key strength!

CAROL BRICK

of HerMoney talks Finance for Women

Women do not always make money issues a priority in their lives. Family, career, health and homes, maybe; but talk financial planning, investing or pensions and suddenly we’re all great at the excuses regarding why now is not a good time! So, it is no surprise then that on average, women are significantly less well off than men in retirement.

Retirement Planning for Women Pensions are still the big sticking point for most women and ironically they need to prepare better for retirement for very practical reasons.

These include the fact that they tend to earn lower salaries even in the same roles as their male counterparts, may take career breaks and on average live longer than men so will therefore need to build a higher reserve from potentially less income. Giving up work earlier means many women are eligible for a lower level of State pension. Relying on a spouse’s income in retirement is also risky, with growing levels of separation, divorce and premature death. Recent research by HerMoney indicated that only around one third of those working women surveyed expect to have enough money to last through their retirement. This is a crazy situation when the contributory State pension is now at around €12,000 per annum and represents a major income drop for most people. The age at which you are entitled to

Advertising |Connect the State pension has been pushed out further which means that it is now more essential than ever for these women to have substantial private pension savings in place. To that I would say that it is never too late or too early to learn about pensions or indeed to start one so do it now! A 30-year-old can accumulate a pension fund of €300,000 over 35 years for the price of a decent bottle of wine a week!

Protect Your Earnings and Dependents Few women Stop to think of the serious financial impact that the diagnosis of a serious illness or injury or even premature death would have on them and their dependents.

If you are a major contributor to the household income and have dependents, it is absolutely essential to have additional life cover in place outside of mortgage protection and also appropriate serious illness and income protection cover. During your absence from work, serious illness and income protection policies could ensure that you have enough funds in place to cover essential costs like mortgage payments, household bills, childcare, alternative treatments etc. Policies need not be expensive and tax relief is available on income protection and death in service life policies. Only a mere 20% of respondents surveyed by HerMoney had appropriate income protection cover in place which is shocking considering most were the main earners in their households.

Turn Savings into Investments Women are traditionally better at saving however low interest rates currently affect the rate of return on standard savings with banks and other financial institutions. Talk to a financial advisor regarding your investment options to ensure that your savings work

harder. There is a vast choice available at all levels of risk for either lump sums or regular monthly contributions.

Having a steady amount taken directly from net earnings on a regular basis is a low-stress saving method, so look at your investment options. It doesn’t have to be a large amount but needs to be regular and realistic, in line with personal outgoings. Aim to save at least 10% of your income each month and ring-fence it for that inevitable rainy day!

Ensure you are ‘financially savvy’ Understand your family finances and try your best to control your own money situation. If you rely on someone else to do this right now, they might not always be around. It is crucial to build an independent credit history for yourself so ensure you have a bank account in your own name. Try and understand your own income and tax situation and at the beginning of the year always try to budget for the annual overheads including mortgage payments, insurance costs, childcare and holidays.

ABOUT HERMONEY HerMoney is a division of the long-established CWM Wealth Management Ltd. and provides tailor-made financial solutions to Professional Women all over Ireland. Their bespoke advisory service covers Retirement & Protection Planning, Savings & Investments.

HerMoney Managing Director and Kilmoyley Native Carol Brick is a UCD graduate and qualified financial advisor and has specialised in the area of asset and wealth management for the past 20 years. See www.hermoney.ie or email info@hermoney.ie for more information.

CWM Wealth Management Ltd. trading as HerMoney is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 13

Connect | Business

By: Marisa Reidy

Francis Fitzgibbon

of StoryStock speaks to Connect AN unenviable combination of sleepless nights, grey hairs and a somewhat unhealthy bank balance is probably a very familiar reality for many budding entrepreneurs, and no one knows this more than Tralee man, Francis Fitzgibbon.

The well known journalist has no hesitation in saying he is resigned to the fact that he’s probably going to be broke for another couple of years, but he believes that the long term sacrifice will be worth it, given the potential and growth of his new business, StoryStock.

Established in June 2016 by the former Newstalk journalist, the company’s aim is to build a global community of content creators and connect them with publishers and brands who need great content to help tell their story.

“What we say here is that stories have the power to change, so if a publisher or brand wants to change anything they do so by telling stories,” Francis explained. “As journalists, we know that engagement always goes up if there is a better form of content, because people relate to real stories and understand a concept quicker.”

Francis now works alongside fellow Tralee man Stephen O’Connor, who he admits ‘coaxing’ away from BBC Manchester, while the third member of the StoryStock team is Londonbased Paul Maidmand, the former manager of the BBC Archive. Tralee man Keith Phelan, meanwhile, built the StoryStock platform.

Since incorporating, the company’s content creators have been building a bank of great content in video and text which is available for license to publishers and brands. The company has also developed commissioning software which allows publishers and brands to hire anyone of their content creator community, to tell any story, anywhere in the world.

So where did the idea come from?

“I worked as a reporter for the Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk for two years and realised that real stories were put out to cover a particular angle and as I say, engagement went up when you had a better form of content,” he said. “So from there, the idea came about and here we are, nearly two

years later. It’s the same idea with brands. Brands can build brands by telling stories too.”

Francis began his journey in the summer of 2016 with the support of Enterprise Ireland and has since grown into a small and effective team.

Starting a new business, however, does come with its challenges . . . and sacrifices.

Francis Fitzgibbon

“It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done and have had to get very smart very quickly. Thankfully I have a really good team around me who know their stuff. We’re taking it one day at a time, and although I’m far from making millions and probably won’t make money for a while, it’s the risk you take. For us it’s about giving 100 per cent,” he said.

“Cash flow is a constant worry. I’ve been broke for two years and probably will be for another two. It’s an entirely new world for me [in terms of cash flow] but if it works the risk will have been worth it.”

As well as creating content based on demand and having its own unrivalled catalogue of stories, StoryStock also allows the public to create a free portfolio to showcase their own content. You can showcase all your videos, articles, blogs and content on a StoryStock portfolio page. The service is completely free and contributors can then decide whether or not to make their stories available for license.

“If people upload those stories to our bank of stories, we may be able to license them, getting you more coverage and getting you paid.”

Francis also explained that companies and brands can also employ the services of the StoryStock team to help create branding and advertising-type videos to promote their organisation.

“We have a community of content creators based all around the world. You can hire any one of them to create any video, blog or article, or tell any story anywhere in the world.”

Despite its relative infancy, StoryStock is clearly gaining a great reputation. It was named at number five in the Top Irish companies to watch in 2017 and has continued to expand its community of content creators and its bank of content.

Francis and his team have worked with some very high profile publishers and organisations including the European Commission, RTE, TV3 and Channel 4, as well as The Irish Cancer Society, Rehab, Dairymaster and The Farmers Journal to name but a few.

While business is doing quite well, the company is however currently seeking investors, Francis explained.

“At the moment we are very office based as we concentrate on the sales side of the business, so we are looking for investment at this time. The next stage for us, will probably involve a lot of travelling once we have finished the sales side of things.”

14 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Shane O Connor, Keith Phelan and Francis Fitzgibbon

For further information about what StoryStock can do for you, log onto www.storystock.com

Advertising |Connect

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 15

Award-Winning Family Run Business Ballyseedy Home & Garden is an Award-Winning family that Ballyseedy at Tralee run business set on 5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens on the outskirts of Tralee.

One of the largest Lifestyle and Garden Centres in Ireland, they have everything for all your garden and home needs. With their award winning 200 seat family restaurants, a selection of lifestyle departments, Steeltech Sheds, Lynam Garden Displays and a state of the art Garden Centre are all housed under a 20,000 sq ft stunning glass building. Ballyseedy is one of the most popular places to eat, shop & relax in the South of Ireland. So with all that established it was decided

Bay Wetlands would be unveiled. It opened in December 2017, primarily as an extension of our food operation. It has been as popular with locals and visitors alike as its sister facility. Set in the stunning lakeside location at the beginning of the Dingle Peninsula, it is a new culinary destination for the people of Tralee and visitors to the Wild Atlantic Way.

Ballyseedy Home & Garden | Tel: (066) 712 2305 | E: info@ballyseedy.ie | www.ballyseedy.ie

16 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Advertising |Connect

Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre and Nature Reserve Popular at home and abroad with locals, tourists, walking enthusiasts, nature lovers, day trippers, coach groups, garden clubs, school tours and families, Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre is equipped with not only scenic views from the 20 metre Viewing and Observation Tower but also with full visitor facilities, including the Ballyseedy Café, an Interactive Wildlife Exhibition, Guided Nature Boat Tours, Bird Hides, and for the more energetic the light Watersports and Activity Lake!

laptop space and electrical sockets makes it the ideal stop for those on a working lunch or mini meeting. Extra retail space has also been created and two new retailers have joined the group, and of course the new outdoor playground added has caused great excitement for the younger diners at Ballyseedy.

We asked owner Nathan McDonnell why the change to an already award winning establishment ‘To be honest we are constantly improving and upgrading our facility to ensure our customers always have something new to experience at Ballyseedy Home and Garden, while we know we have the best there is we are always open to new additions and luxury brands here at Ballyseedy.’’

Vibrant on the one hand, tranquil on the other, Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre really is a fantastic place to visit with facilities and activities to cater for all ages, making your visit a uniquely individual experience.

“We are delighted to add Tralee Bay Wetlands to our group and with summer on the way we look forward to delivering the same taste variety and value to all our visitors and locals alike”.

Whether you are looking for an all action activity outdoor day or a quiet and peaceful break from the stresses of modern living, a trip to the Wetlands is a must when visiting Kerry.

Ballyseedy prides itself on locally sourced ingredients culinary expertise and a commitment to quality food being produced daily. Food is a passion at THE CAFÉ and the experienced chefs and bakers are always on hand to create exquisite culinary delights. This guarantees fresh beautifully presented food bursting with flavour.

Of course the arrival of Ballyseedy at Tralee Bay Wetlands has been a welcome addition and the variety and selection of delicious options for all tastes offers a choice for diners daily.

So if it’s meeting the girls for morning coffee or tying down that business appointment away from the cluttered office, the surroundings are just right.

We strive to be best in class

Ballyseedy Home and Garden hasn’t been forgotten either, having just undergone a new makeover which includes extra seating for diners in the already spacious and bright café area, their new island seating with

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 17

Connect | Business

What’s New

in Business Premier Financial

Win Life & Pensions Broker of the Year Award

For the second year in a row, Tralee based financial planning practice, Premier Financial, have won a top national industry accolade - scooping the prestigious Best Life & Pensions Broker of the Year Award at the fifth annual Life, Pensions and Investment (LPI) Industry Awards in the Mansion House, Dublin. Premier Financial Directors’, Mark Corkery and Denis Murphy were presented with the Best Life & Pensions Broker of the Year Award 2018 on stage by Aidan McLoughlin ITC. Last year, the financial services and planning Consultancy based on Beechgrove House, Strand Street, Tralee, won the LPI Best Investment Broker in Ireland Award. This year’s win is indicative of the high level of financial expertise, professionalism and dedication offered by the team at Premier Financial.

For more information visit www.premierfinancial.ie.

Tel: 066 718 5723 or email: info@premierfinancial.ie Follow them on Twitter on @PremierIreland The annual Irish Broker’s Association Life, Pensions and Investment Awards give recognition to financial brokers who have proven their excellence, professionalism and dedication to maintaining high standards in the Irish marketplace. Over 530 financial services professionals from all over Ireland attend the LPI Awards Gala, a celebratory night to recognise and commend those at the forefront of their industry.

The Gut HQ

A new forward thinking business The Gut HQ is a new forward thinking business launched by Emma Forrest, Marie Geary & Bríd Ní Mhathúna, three Registered Nutritional Therapists whose aim it is to help people make the connection between the gut and their health. Bríd is based here in Tralee and The Gut HQ will hold clinics throughout the Munster area.

Researchers are realising just how important the gut is to our health and well-being, including its impact on our immune system. With conflicting advice in the media on what is and isn’t healthy, The Gut HQ aim to educate and advise people how they can make the connection between the gut and mood, digestion, joints, hormones & weight.

Many people suffer from problems such as bloating, heartburn and constipation but are afraid or embarrassed to talk about it and think it is normal and something they have to live with. We want people to have that conversation and realise the positive impact normal digestion can have on overall health. We believe in small, manageable changes over time that become healthy habits for life.

The Gut HQ can be contacted at info@theguthq.ie or call Bríd on 087 7944036 or visit our Facebook page at facebook.com/guthq We cater for - Consultations - Group talks & classes - Corporate wellness - Cookery Demos

Photo : David Kenna. Left to Right: Eoin Liston, Philip Sicat, Denis Murphy and Mark Corkery collect their Life & Pensions Broker of the Year Award from Aidan McLoughlin ITC at the fifth annual Life, Pensions and Investment (LPI) Industry Awards in the Mansion House, Dublin.

18 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Business |Connect

New Beginnings The best time for new beginnings is now!

‘New Beginnings is a holistic therapy clinic that offers Acupuncture, Chinese medicine and a variety of other treatments including Aromatherapy massage and Naturopathy. As a therapist I am passionate about supporting people to become empowered in their own health and I work with a large spectrum of health concerns from: * Digestive complaints * Pain and discomfort * Headaches * Sleep concerns * Poor immunity * Low energy and fatigue * and very importantly women’s health and fertility.

Chinese medicine can work with a huge variety of health complaints and the main aim in my clinic is the get the body back to its healthiest and most relaxed state where the most effective healing can occur.

For any questions, queries or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me at: T: 087 3914627 E: Sarah.meaney@mycit.ie FB: New beginnings Acupuncture and healing

Tralee Credit Union

changes its name to Cara Credit Union Tralee Credit Union’s 50th anniversary celebrations continued on Thursday 29th of March when they officially changed their name to Cara Credit Union in Tralee, Castleisland and Killorglin.

Pa Laide Cara Credit Union CEO said “our name change is an historical milestone and helps us achieve our vision for continued growth and strength together. We started the name change process 15 months ago and Cara Credit Union was approved by members at our AGM in December as we commenced our 50th year. Tralee Credit Union was set up to serve the financial needs of our members in Tralee. Over the years our common bond extended into Castleisland and Killorglin so our name was no longer inclusive to all three of

these important towns and hinterlands.

Cara Credit Union gives Killorglin and Castleisland their identity back as each office now has their town named over each office. The landscape of the At the launch of the Irish credit union new Cara Credit Un ion name on Thursda Siobhan Donnelly, Ma y were; , rce movement has also Phyllis Healy, Caroline lla Herlihy , Tom Lawlor, Christine Fitzg erald, Sugrue, Pa Laide, Em changed, mergers er O’Connor, Derry and Suzanne Ennis Fle ming .

Ph oto By : Domnick Walsh © will continue and in Eye Focus LTD © doing so will enhance the long term strength of credit unions. Our Cara Credit Union new name, Cara Credit Union will no is the 5th largest community based longer define us geographically and credit union in Ireland serving the will also help facilitate our growth for financial needs of its members future mergers. Cara means a friend throughout Tralee, Castleisland and in Irish, it is part of our heritage and Killorglin. It has over 43,000 members, culture and is embedded in the credit €220 Million in Assets, €185 Million in union ethos and values. Cara Credit Savings and €74 Million out on Loan.

Union will help us connect more with Membership of Cara Credit Union members and rekindle past friendships is voluntary and open to everyone with inactive members”. Cara Credit who lives and works within Tralee, Union had plenty of celebrations Castleisland and the Killorglin area. throughout their three offices on Thursday with entertainment in each For further information on their office, €50 prizes on the hour, every services call in to Cara Credit Union hour and one lucky member Breda in Tralee, Castleisland and Killorglin O’Callaghan from Tralee won a brand or visit their website new Kia Stonic in their Members Car www.caracreditunion.ie Draw.

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 19

Connect | Business

New Structure for Tralee Chamber Alliance With Tralee announced as the overall winner of the 2017 Bank of Ireland National Enterprising Town Awards it’s a welcome time for Tralee Chamber to restructure and provide new initiatives for the businesses of the town. President Aidan Kelly and newly appointed management consultant Ken Tobin have welcomed feedback from members and non-members and are now taking steps to try and deliver a support for the businesses of the town.

Tralee will receive a €23,000 prize fund to invest in the further development of enterprise in the town from the Bank of Ireland Awards. The judges chose Tralee as the overall winners due to the immense collaboration they experienced while visiting the town from local business groups and the wider community along with an overwhelming sense of purpose and pride from those living, working and doing business in Tralee.

Bank of Ireland’s National Enterprising Town Awards aims to assist in the promotion of enterprise across the country by bringing business and community groups together to showcase to a panel of judges the spirit of enterprise in their local area. A total of 38 towns shared in the prize fund on the night.

The judges were met with a great sense of purpose and intent to demonstrate every facet of this town. This very large market and business town put on an extraordinary presentation and demonstration of social and business enterprise and excellent marketing from young persons to older.

Dereck Counihan

Recognising that it was impossible to bring the judges to see everything in this large town instead, they brought the key businesses and enterprises, small and large to them at an event in the Rose Hotel.

Everything about the day was impressive from the fantastic organisation which allowed the judges in three hours to learn every important thing about the town.

A final quote from the judges which sums up Tralee:- “This competition is not about ticking boxes………… as judges we “feel” the place when we meet the people involved……….it was very easy to see that the town will continue to be successful,” So we look forward to seeing what 23,000 prize fund received will be invested in to encourage further development of enterprise within the town.

A Team for the Future - The Restructured Tralee Chamber Alliance OVER 70 people from a range of sectors in Tralee have answered the call to pledge their commitment to delivering a new vision for Tralee.

Tralee Chamber Alliance has finalised its new structure with five Project and two Advisory Teams tasked with the development and operation of core projects and initiatives for Tralee, with a focus on Business Development,

Brian Hurley and John Drummy

20 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Gene Foley, Brian Stephenson, Caroline McEnery, Ken Tobin and Aidan Kelly.

Innovation, Investment in Tralee, Festivals /Tourism, Marketing and Finance.

The Tralee Chamber Alliance Executive and Steering Group will oversee the workings of each team which will see a significant increase in civic participation and cooperation between all stakeholders in the town.

The Managing Consultant to Tralee Chamber Alliance, Ken Tobin, said: “This is a very exciting time for business development in Tralee and the creation of a strong foundation for future generations. In January, we invited business people in our town to come forward and play their part in helping us make Tralee a better place to live, work and visit. We now have over 70 people who have stepped up to help implement the new structure for our town. These dedicated individuals are working on a significant body of work to improve all facets of business and life in Tralee”

Derek Carroll and Michele King

Paul Ruane

Photo’s by: John Walsh Photography

Business |Connect

KERRY GARDA DIVISION BLACK TIE GALA BALL It has been over 26 years since the last Garda Dress dance in the county. On Friday the 13th of April all this changed and at the fabulous Killarney Oaks Hotel the first Kerry Divisional Ball was held. Chief Supt Tom Myers decided to hold a modernized version of this old traditional gathering and have a Gala Ball in the Kerry Division. We chat to Guard Lynda Brosnan MC and one of the organisers as she gives us a view of the night

‘The style and glamour was outstanding and it was fabulous to see our colleagues all dressed up as opposed to seeing them normally only in their Garda uniform. Hotel owners Eamon & Valerie Courtney and their staff at the Killarney Oaks really provided an amazing setting for the event going truly out of their way to ensure that r Killarney our guests were blown away by the sheer class Garda Michael Milne r of the event. Guests attending were treated to GS & Mags Milne a Champagne reception and canapés before sitting down to a five course Gala dinner and wine, entertainment was provided into the night by Truly Diverse followed by a disco’. ‘We received great support from local businesses many donating spot prizes for the night and we thank them for their support.’

Committee Memb ers: Garda Mike Mi lner, Garda Elaine O Donoghue, Garda Gillian MacEoin, Ga rda Martin Allen, Ga Lynda Brosnan, Ga rda rda Eilis Cronin, D/ Garda Shan Garda Caroline Henn essy & Garda Fidelm e O Driscoll, a O Leary

In attendance along with serving Garda Members were the Mayor of Kerry and Killarney, Assistant Commissioners Ann Marie McMahon & Michael O Sullivan, County Councillors , the local business community & Agencies that interact with serving Gardaí on a regular basis.

Photographs by Marie Carroll O’Sullivan of Little Memory Gallery

Chief Supt Tom Myers Tralee Garda Station

Garda Aoife O Sullivan Tralee & Garda David Howard

Garda Gillian Mac Eoin Killarney GS & Paul O’Donoghue

Lorna & John Griffin Tralee

Garda Padraig Twohig & Garda Diane Twohig Killarney Garda Station

Garda Johnny Quinl an , Siobh Brosnan, Siobhan Br an Quinlan , Garda Tommy osnan, Laur Sergeant Michael Fle a Fleming, ming

Judge Anne Watkins & Edward O Sullivan State Solicitor

Garda Jim Murphy Tralee & Mary Murphy

Gillian Myers & Chief Supt Tom Myers Kerry Division

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 21

Connect | Business

In line with the Framework for Town Centre Renewal, the new Town Team will coordinate and work in collaboration with all retailers, local businesses, the community & voluntary sectors, key agencies and service providers to develop the town centre.

The next generation starts now and the Junior Chamber will look to the future of Tralee by creating a town that caters for the needs of future stakeholders.

The Junior Chamber will stage events and projects with the resources to provide a sense of place for the next generation in Tralee.

The Innovate Team within Tralee Chamber Alliance is a single unified voice required to develop Tralee’s business culture and position Tralee as a strong and viable locations to start, grow or relocate a business.

A Tourism/Festivals Team will continue to support the development of existing and new tourism and amenity attractions in Tralee and support the promotion of Tralee as a holiday destination.

A strong and experienced Business Support Team will create a series of networking and business growth events in Tralee. The team will also develop and

22 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

The teams that will implement the new Tralee Chamber Alliance structure met for the first time at Baile Mhuire Tralee. Pic: John Walsh Photography

support training for business owners and their employees and help improve the quality of service and experience that town centre businesses provide.

The two new Advisory Panels in the Finance Advisory Team and Marketing Advisory Team will provide considerable assistance to Tralee Chamber Alliance for the future, and to support the other new teams. Each of the core teams will work closely with the Marketing Support Team who will manage the online and offline reputation of Tralee in order to project the image for Tralee

the town deserves.

The President of Tralee Chamber Alliance, Aidan Kelly, said: “The teams, each with a distinct core set of duties are developing plans in a synergetic manner, that will fully reflect the needs of Tralee going forward.”

For more details about joining Tralee Chamber Alliance or the new Tralee Chamber Alliance Structure contact Ken Tobin on 066 7121472 or email ken@tralee.ie

Connect | Business

KERRY BUSINESSES

WIN AT THE IRISH RESTAURANT AWARDS 2018 The second of four regional finals in this year’s Irish Restaurant Awards took place in the Radisson Blu, Little Island, Cork, recently, where 91 awards were presented to the country’s leading chefs, restaurants and pubs.

Over 500 people attended the Munster Regional Final where the top establishments in each county were named.

The awards covered a wide range of venues and the winners from each of Munster’s six counties were selected from the following categories: Best Casual Dining, Best Emerging Irish Cuisine, Best Kids Size Me, Best ‘Free From’, Best World Cuisine, Best Restaurant Manager, Best Wine Experience, Pub of the Year, Best Café, Best Customer Service, Best Gastro Pub, Best Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant, Best Newcomer, Best Chef and Best Restaurant. There was also a special Regional award for Munster’s Local Food Hero.

Speaking at the awards, Adrian Cummins, Chief Executive of the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) said: “Now in their tenth year, the Irish Restaurant Awards continue to showcase the exquisite and admirable calibre of food available in our restaurants and pubs nationwide. Online nominations have increased from 9,000 in 2013 to over 80,000 this year and with the increase in interest comes an increase in standards, making the judging process more difficult than ever.

“Our small island boasts everything from fine dining to high quality gastropubs, from the exotic taste explosions of world cuisine to the comfort of traditional dishes. We have an appreciation for what we eat, for the journey of our food from farm to fork, and for the dedication of those working in the food industry to serve up Ireland’s finest food.”

KERRY WINNERS: u Best Casual Dining sponsored by San Pellegrino – O’Neills The Point u Best Emerging Irish Cuisine sponsored by Odaios Foods – Global Village u Best Kids Size Me sponsored by Dubliner Cheese – The Boathouse

Winner of Best Gastro Pub - McMunns Bar

24 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Winner of Best Chef - Chad Byrne of Danu at The Brehon u Best ‘Free From’ sponsored by Peroni Nastro Azzurro Gluten Free – Bookstop Café u Best World Cuisine sponsored by Aryzta – Giovannelli u Best Restaurant Manager sponsored by AIB Merchant Services – Jim McGrath of The Oyster Tavern u Best Wine Experience sponsored by Classic Drinks – Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar & Restaurant u Pub of the Year sponsored by Bushmills – Nora Murphy’s Pub Brandon Pier u Best Café sponsored by Illy – Maison Gourmet u Best Customer Service – Giovannelli u Best Gastro Pub sponsored by Coca Cola & Schweppes – McMunns Bar u Best Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant sponsored by BWG Foodservice – Park Hotel Kenmare u Best Newcomer sponsored by Elavon – Croí Restaurant u Best Chef sponsored by Nisbets – Chad Byrne of Danu at The Brehon u Best Restaurant sponsored by Tindal Wines – Mulcahys

Winner of Best Hotel and Guesthouse Restaurant Park Hotel Kenmare

Business |Connect

HEALTHY EATING IN THE OFFICE

By Eileen Lane

Working in an office typically involves an 8-10 hour working day. This means that eating patterns need to fit in around the office routine. Eating healthily is vital if you expect your body to perform at its optimum, both mentally and physically. An office job requires concentration, mental clarity and energy in order to meet the demands of employers and to work to an efficient standard to complete tasks.

Considering that food is our body’s only fuel source, the type of fuel consumed is ultimately what dictates how you will perform on a daily basis. To use the example of the car; if you put dirty fuel into a car, the result will be sluggishness and eventually it will break down. The same applies to your body. If you fuel it with bad food – laden with sugar, trans fats and ingredients that you can’t even pronounce, let alone digest – then the result will ultimately be sluggishness, fatigue, lack of concentration and a general feeling of unwellness.

So how can you ensure that you keep a healthy routine during office hours?

THE FOLLOWING ARE MY TOP TIPS TO PROMOTE ENERGY: Always start your day with a good Breakfast: As already mentioned, food is the body’s fuel source. Therefore after a period of sleep during the night, the body requires food in the morning to give it energy for the day ahead. Skipping meals can lead to a drop of blood sugar levels, leading to sugar and caffeine cravings later in the morning. It can also lead to a lack of concentration. Always include some protein with your breakfast as this helps to keep you full. A source of fat at breakfast is always a good option too as it is filling and good for the brain. Healthy breakfast options include eggs with avocado, porridge with linseeds, a smoothie with some greens, berries, seeds and coconut oil, salmon with asparagus.

Snacks: Bring healthy snacks to work with you. Or keep them in your desk drawer or in the canteen so that they are easily accessible. Snacks will help to prevent any blood sugar dips and will keep the body fuelled throughout the working day, providing energy for the body. Healthy portable snacks include Greek yogurt, fruit, nuts, vegetable crudités with hummus, cold boiled eggs, wholemeal crackers or a small slice of porridge bread with real butter, a cup of homemade soup or bone broth. If you work a larger company, chances are vending machines are available. This is where a choice has to be made.

Try if you can to not walk past the machine to avoid temptation!

Lunch: This is an important meal of the day as it is the time when you re-fuel for a busy afternoon ahead. Obviously a packed lunch is the healthiest option to help keep on track. Plus it is cheaper!

Healthy lunch options include homemade soup with chicken,

a salad including greens, with protein such as chicken or turkey, a source of fat like avocado or nuts and a healthy carbohydrate like a slice of porridge bread or wholemeal crackers. Planning your lunch the night before is key to staying on track with healthy eating the next day. If you do opt to go to the local shop then try to make healthy choices at the deli counter – opt for wholemeal bread or roll, salad items and some meat for protein. Be mindful of some deli counter fillers which can be loaded with mayonnaise. If you choose to eat at a restaurant at lunch time, most eateries now have their menu online. Choose your meal and even phone in your order ahead of your arrival. This way you stay in control of what you eat and are more likely to make a healthy decision.

Leave your Desk at Lunchtime: It can be very tempting, especially on a very busy day, to eat lunch at your desk. This a big mistake as it mean that your brain does not actually switch off or receive the break it deserves. Lunch, like all meals, should be eaten in a relaxed state so that your digestive system can operate adequately – and not in an environment where the phone is ringing and emails are pinging in your inbox.

Hydration: Even a 2% drop in hydration can lead to a loss of concentration. Therefore it is vital to keep hydrated throughout the working day. Water bottles can now be readily purchased so fill your water bottles the night before work. Keep them on your desk during the day as a reminder; pour the water into a glass if that makes it easier to consume. If you find plain water too boring flavour it with ingredients like lemon or lime slices, strawberry or orange slices, mint leaves or a little fruit juice (not from concentrate). Aim for 2 litres of water per day for adequate hydration. Be mindful of consuming too much tea or coffee at work. Excessive caffeine can be very dehydrating for the body and an impairment of concentration. Herbal teas are a good choice and will also contribute towards your daily water intake.

Colleague Support: If you are serious about your nutrition and eating well, then look for support from your colleagues. Tell them what you are doing and why. Ask them if they would like to join you on the healthy eating wagon. You can share ideas and support each other when temptation arises. This way it will hopefully be easier to say ‘No’ to the scones or biscuits that are brought into the work place.

Exercise: A sedentary desk job does not contribute to a healthy body. So it is important to factor exercise into your daily routine. Try to incorporate some movement into your working day by taking regular breaks from your desk and stretching. Opt for the stairs instead of the elevator. If you have time during your lunch break take a 15-10 minute walk to de-stress and refresh your brain for a more productive afternoon.

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018| 25

Connect | Business

TRALEE TOASTMASTERS Celebrate 25th Anniversary It was the spring of 1993 when Tralee, the Capital of the Kingdom, got its very own Toastmasters Club. It took just a few local people to get together and add one more club to the extensive world-wide network of Toastmasters clubs. This year, our club celebrates 25th anniversary, and it is a good time to reflect on our past, present and the future.

leaders, to perform various duties, to make things happen. No club can function without leaders - and Tralee Toastmasters was a real school of sustainable leadership in Tralee, through all these years.

Globally, Toastmasters took off back in 1924 in California when Ralph C. Smedley established the very first club. Today, the network of the clubs covers all continents with more than 350 thousand members participating. The first Irish club was created in Dublin in 1957, and now there are multiple Irish clubs, including five in County Kerry alone.

The essential component of the Club President 2017-2018 Toastmasters experience is having Derry Butler fun. We enjoy what we do - and that makes our meetings exciting and memorable. Humour and a relaxed atmosphere is what you’ll see and feel on every night of the club. But there is one thing we take very seriously - that is encouragement and positive motivation. Everybody is rooting for everybody, we support each other, we want everyone to succeed in self-development - and that positive attitude brings people to our club and keeps them in the club too.

Why and how does it really work?

What is the Tralee Toastmaster club these days?

2016 - Halloween night in Toastmasters

What are these Toastmasters about, anyway?

There is a lot to it. The first thing everybody finds out about is public speaking - and we do make speeches! We deliver prepared speeches, we do impromptu speaking, we have speech contests - and everyone’s next speech is better than the last one, that’s what we are here for! But it is just one facet of the full Toastmasters experience. Leadership is another skill that people develop in our clubs. We help each other to become

2015 - Roaring 20s night 26 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

It is a mature club with a solid membership base - more than 30 members. Some members are very experienced with dozens of speeches under their belts, who participated successfully in numerous contests and represented the club on many occasions.

Some members who recently joined, have barely made their first ‘ice breaker’ speech, but they are also very important for the club because they are our future! The club members are not just local Kerry people of various walks of life but also people who came from other places in Ireland, like Cork and Dublin, or even from other countries, like Russia or Poland. Everyone feels welcome and at ease once he or she comes through the door of the club.

And that door of the club is open for everybody who is interested in public speaking, leadership, fun, entertainment, meeting new people and developing oneself. Welcome to Tralee Toastmasters club! And happy 25th anniversary to our home club! www.traleetoastmasters.com

Club Committee 2017-2018

@tralee.toastmasters

Advertising |Connect

Connect BUSINESS | April 2018 | 27

NEWS FROM THE DAIL Michael Healy-Rae T.D.

MEETING WITH BUSINESS PEOPLE REGARDING 5. If a claimant takes a claim and loses then they should become liable for all court costs INSURANCE REGULATION I was very glad to recently welcome to Dail Eireann representatives of over 200 businesses from Kerry, Limerick and Cork who are seeking changes to the way the insurance sector regulates itself and came to the Dail to attend the debating of a motion with regard to this issue. The group ‘the business insurance reform group’ were in the public gallery to hear the debate.

I was glad to speak on behalf of businesses who are struggling to try to pay their insurance premiums which have exploded in recent years. This increase is fuelled in no small way by the amount of bogus claims that are been processed and paid out on at present. I personally believe that every case should be fought and contested to ensure that they are valid and that claimed injuries stand up to scrutiny.

6. Penalties need to be applied to individuals who make fraudulent claims in addition to covering all legal fees Again I thank the business people who took time out from their busy schedules to attend the Dail session.

BACKLOG IN PASSPORT OFFICE There is a backlog in the Passport office at present.

Its that time of year again where people are booking holidays so I urge you all to look at your passport date as there is a huge backlog at present in the passport office with applications currently taking 22 working days ( 4 weeks) If you find your passport out of date and you are travelling within the next few weeks please contact me before you submit your application. please note that this timeframe is for renewals and first time passports are taking 4-6 weeks to process.

PENSIONS

Absolutely where genuine injuries occur compensation is to be paid but when you have serial complainants who by pure coincidences seem to fall on a continuous basis and receive money for it. This would surely send alarm bells ringing.

Legislation is now required to change the book of quantum in line with the EU data protection 1. Extend the period by which video footage can be used until a case is heard/dismissed.

2. Change notification of intention to claim to a maximum of one month.

3. Insure a duty of care is placed on third parties i.e to take responsibility for their own actions 4. Change the 2 month warning letter to 1 month 28 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Are you nearer pension age in the next few years Many people miss out on a higher pension because they are unaware that before they reach pension age, they can pay voluntary contributions which would see them gain enough PRSI contributions for a higher pension. If you are coming up pension age in the coming years and feel you may not have enough contributions contact your local social welfare office to get your more information on paying voluntary contributions

Business |Connect

INVITING NOMINATIONS FOR THE Connect Kerry Women in Business Awards 2018 We are delighted to announce the following categories. They are open to owners or operations manager within the business.

We ask you to complete an application form and give us as much information as possible, all information you supply remains strictly confidential. Application forms are available by emailing info@connectpublications.ie you can enter up to 2 categories with a separate entry form to be completed for each entry. We have shown examples against each category which give an idea of what types of business the category applies to. If you are unsure about your eligibility for a category please contact us and will advise, we will allocate the category we feel suits best. There are a number of special non nomination awards to be announced on the night also from the finalists in attendance. The winners will be announced at the Gala Black Tie event on Friday May 25th at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel.

1. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Health & Wellness This award is open to all in the health or wellness therapy business. This category is open to any health or wellness business - Personal Trainers, Massage therapist, Reflexologists, Nutritionists, Slimming Groups, Osteopaths, Counsellors, Physiotherapists, Yoga practitioners.

2. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Business Services This award is open to all in the professional services field whose business serves other companies and can demonstrate the outstanding contribution they have made to their clients. This category would suit ladies in the professional services field IE; Marketing, HR, Social Media. Law, Finance, Graphic Design, Printing, Insurance.

3. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Training Education-childcare.

This award is open to all who work in the industry that supports children or families day to day. It is open to any business that works directly with children, families or parents IE; Schools, Sports Clubs, Montessori or play schools Tuition, Training, Development, Pregnancy Services, Children’s Welfare, and Nurseries.

4. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Fashion Retail This award is open to all in the boutique industry. Whether it’s a family owned boutique or a senior management role with a national name, you are eligible to apply in this category.

5. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Technology This award is open to all working within the technology or science field. This category is aimed at ladies who provide services in the technology sector.

E.g. Website, PC support, IT training, Programming Photography or any business operating in the technology sector 6. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Retail or Consumer Business This award is open to all retail owners or those operating in senior management role in a business that serves consumers and have a great reputation among their competitors. This category is aimed at ladies who sell products or services to consumers. This could be via retail outlets IE; shops, markets etc.

CONNECT KERRY WOMEN IN BUSINESS

7. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Creative Design This category would suit Artists, milliners, fashion, candle making soaps, scents flower arranging, anything in the creative industry

AWARDS 18

8. Connect Kerry Business Woman in Food production This award is open to all in the food industry, manufacturing and producing products locally this is the ideal category for you. We look forward to hearing from you. This could be bakers, fresh food, cakes, or specialty foods, 9. Connect Kerry New Business Award This award is open to all ladies who have started a new business in the last 2 years, it is open to all businesses and also welcomes those who may just be at the very early stage.

10. Connect Kerry Woman in Dining and hospitality Award This award is open to all ladies who operate in the hotel, restaurant trade 11. Connect Kerry Tourism Award Kerry is renowned for tourism and so there are many great ladies leading this to ensure it stays top of the list to provide the best to our visitors, if you are in this industry we want to hear from you.

12. Connect Kerry Marketing and Events Award This award is open to all ladies who provide marketing assistance to people in business, advertising event management, marketing/ event managers.

13. Connect Kerry Outstanding Manager There are many great ladies managing businesses in the county so you tell us you’re favorite.

14. Connect Kerry young business woman This award is open to all ladies who own and operate their own business for the last three years or less or those who may have joined a company in a managerial capacity for the first time, It is dedicated to the ladies in the industry 30 or under.

15. Community Champion We all know someone who works tirelessly for the good of her town, her area or her charity, we want to recognize these ladies so do tell us who you think deserves this recognition.

There are a number of special awards also announced on the night so all ladies in the above will be considered for that also, the judging panel is made up of business people from across the county and their decision is final.

CLOSING DATE FOR NOMINATIONS IS APRIL 30TH Tickets for the event are on sale at €75.00 each, it will be a full meal awards ceremony and night of entertainment.

We look forward to hearing from you all.

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 29

Connect | Business

DIGNITY AND RESPECT AT WORK Bullying and Harassment is an area that can cause concern for even the most experienced people and HR managers.

The purpose of a Dignity and Respect at Work policy is to ensure a working environment that is free from bullying and harassment. The first step in drafting a Dignity and Respect at Work policy is to ensure that both bullying and harassment are clearly defined.

The Labour Relations Commission Code of Practice on addressing bullying in the workplace defines bullying as: “Repeated inappropriate behaviour, direct or indirect, whether verbal, physical or otherwise, conducted by one or more persons against another or others, at the place of work and/ or in the course of employment, which could reasonably be regarded as undermining the individual’s right to dignity at work. An isolated incident of the behaviour described in this definition may be an affront to dignity at work but, as a once off incident, is not considered to be bullying” Harassment is defined as “any act of conduct which is unwelcome and offensive, humiliating or intimidating on a discriminatory ground including spoken words, gestures, or the production, display or circulation of written material or pictures” Sexual Harassment is defined as “any form of unwanted verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity and creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for the person.

The policy should apply to employees both in the workplace and at work associated events such as meetings, conferences and office parties, whether on or off the premises.

The company should have informal and formal procedure in place to deal with the issue of bullying/harassment at work. Any employee who makes a complaint of bullying or harassment should have the option of which procedure they then wish to follow.

Of course, it is often preferable for all concerned that complaints of bullying or harassment are dealt with informally whenever possible, as an informal approach can sometimes resolve matters in a timely manner but it will not always be the case that a complaint can be resolved at this stage.

Although procedures will vary slightly between organisations, the important thing to remember is to ensure that your company procedure is followed.

This procedure must be open and transparent and must be in line with the rules of natural justice and confidentiality is also a key factor.

If you require further information or advice, please do not hesitate to contact one of our HR Consultants on 066-7102887

30 | Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018

Advertising |Connect

Connect BUSINESS | Spring 2018 | 31