Lou Hickey is leading the marketing team at One4all and pushing the boundaries when it comes to innovative, e ective campaigns
Joseph O’Connor talks to Ciara Hogan about Miagen’s new platform to help businesses avoid falling into the greenwashing trap 20 Entrepreneur
Set up by Fiona Kelleher and Kieran Co ey, MyGug is helping businesses tackle their food waste while contributing to a more sustainable future
MENTORS
Scott McInnes, host of
Mary Bennett’s success is testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to
Furthr CEO Martin Murray on how the not-for-profit is helping to shape the next generation of Irish business success stories
Ag cur ardchaighdeáin d’iompar corparáideach chun cinn trí dhlí na gcuideachtaí a fhorfheidhmiú.
Promoting high standards of corporate behaviour through the enforcement of company law.
Tabhair cuairt ar ár suíomh gréasáin agus lean muid ar na meáinshóisialta le haghaidh eolas maidir leis an méid seo a leanas:
• do chuid dualgas agus oibleagáidí mar stiúrthóir na cuideachta,
• do chuid cearta mar bhall den chuideachta / mar scairshealbhóir,
• conas gearán, léiriú imní nó nochtadh cosanta a chur faoinár mbráid, agus
• deiseanna gairme linn atá ar na bacáin.
Visit our website and follow us on social media for information on:
• your duties and obligations as a company director,
• your rights as a company member / shareholder,
• how to submit a complaint, expression of concern or protected disclosure to us, and
• upcoming career opportunities with us.
Bannerton PR has launched its new Bannerton Launchpad PR programme, created to enable bigger and better business and communication outcomes. The new programme introduces SMEs and others, new
“I wanted to work in an environment that encouraged innovation, championed teamwork and recognised hard work. When I heard about the role at One4all, I was interested straightaway.”
value of professional PR. Priced at €2,000, ex VAT, and with a six-week campaign duration, it comprises a strategic media consultation to help forge your bespoke media strategy, tailored media collateral consisting of two releases or feature/interview proposals and media monitoring to analyse media reach and impact to further refine strategy.
Lou Hickey, Director, Marketing for Original Content - EMEA, Blackhawk Network
SHARON BANNERTON LAUNCHES PR PROGRAMME
Email marydillon@bannerton.ie for more information.
American approval
WELLBEING DECLINE
More than 95% of US multinationals have a positive view of Ireland as an investment location, according to a survey of American Chamber of Commerce Ireland members.
Business BITES
to marketing, to the value of professional Duo’s €6.8 is
One quarter of workers believe their wellbeing has improved over the last 12 months, according to a study by Lockton People Solutions. Women are twice as likely as men to have experienced a decline in their overall wellbeing.
HR DUO SECURES €1.7M IN VENTURE DEBT FUNDING
HR Duo has announced the completion of a €1.7 million venture debt funding round, provided by international investment firm Salica Investments. The infusion of capital will provide the Irish HR tech start-up with the resources to accelerate its growth and development in the UK market. The latest injection of funding brings the total raised since HR Duo’s inception to €6.8 million. The company is planning to complete a Series B investment round in 2025. “Already a leader in Ireland across industries such as retail, construction, manufacturing, medical devices, hospitality, and tech startups, our expansion into the UK reinforced our commitment to providing cutting-edge HR technology solutions internationally,” said Jerome Forde, CEO of HR Duo.
Sharon Bannerton
CONCERN OVER HARDWARE SUPPLY CHAINS ATTACKS
A study of 800 IT and security decisionmakers (ITSDMs) responsible for device security has highlighted the need for businesses to focus on device hardware and firmware integrity. Carried out by HP Wolf Security, the survey highlights the growing concern over nation-state threat actors targeting physical supply chains and tampering with device hardware and firmware integrity.
Almost one-in-five (19%) organisations surveyed say they have been impacted by nation-state threat actors targeting physical PC, laptop or printer supply chains. Over a third (35%) believe that they or others they know have already been impacted by nation-state threat actors targeting supply chains to try and insert malicious hardware or firmware into devices. Overall, 91% believe nation-state threat actors will target physical PC, laptop or printer supply chains to insert malware or malicious components into hardware and/or firmware.
Carbon neutrality
AI AVERSE?
A DataSolutions survey reveals that while 78% of tech companies have plans to achieve carbon neutrality, 65% have not yet measured their carbon footprint.
Irish employers are least likely to use artificial AI in the workplace. The global survey by The Peninsula Group showed that one-in-four are fearful of the unknown and half said they had concerns around safety.
PICTURE THIS
Female Founders
BEST INTENTIONS
Last year funding into female-founded start-ups surged 120% to reach a record €230m, according to a TechIreland report published to coincide with International Women’s Day.
Companies’ global hiring intentions are expected to hold steady in the fourth quarter of 2024, ManpowerGroup’s Employment Outlook Survey shows. Over 40% of employers surveyed expect an increase in hiring plans, while 16% anticipate a reduction.
Fibre broadband
HARDLY WORKING
New data published by Comreg has revealed that fibre-to-the-premises technology in the Irish market is now on a par with cable broadband subscribers for the first time.
A third of employees fake activity during work hours, according to a new survey from Workhuman and Pollfish. 42% scroll through social media while pretending to be busy, while 41% complete personal errands during work hours.
INTEGRITY360 ACCELERATES GLOBAL EXPANSION
As part of its global expansion plan, Integrity360 has acquired Grove Group, a cybersecurity and cloud services company headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa. The acquisition provides Integrity360 with around 600 additional customers across 51 countries, a partnership with leading NDR (Network Detection and Response) vendor Darktrace and another global SOC (Security Operations Centre) location, bringing the group’s SOC locations to five. Grove customers will benefit from access to Integrity360’s extensive cyber services portfolio encapsulating cyber risk and assurance, cyber security testing, incident response, infrastructure, end-point, PCI compliance and a comprehensive range of cyber security managed services. Ian Brown, Executive Chairman at Integrity360, said: “The addition of another Integrity360 regional hub in Cape Town will further enable us to serve the local needs of customers and the SOC will add to and expand our already considerable 24/7 SOC operations.”
Pictured at NovaUCD in Dublin are Fergal Meegan and Barry Murphy, Co-Founders of Assiduous, at the announcement that the company has been selected by EIT Digital to join the Open Innovation Factory 2024. Photo: Paul Sharp, Sharppix
CLIMATE ACTION A PRIORITY FOR FOOD AND AGRIBUSINESS SECTOR
A report by ifac – Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm – has revealed that 90% of Irish food companies are now actively taking climate action, positioning sustainability as a central focus alongside global expansion efforts. Ifac’s 2024 Food and Agribusiness Report “Getting your business fit for export” shows that the number one area reported was reducing energy usage, closely followed by waste reduction. This year sees an increased focus on waste compared to last year’s report, where only 46% of respondents listed ‘managing waste and byproducts’ as an initiative being undertaken to tackle climate change. 44% stated they were receiving requests for sustainability information from customers. John Donoghue, CEO at ifac said: “Sustainability remains a central focus for the sector. The reduction of energy use and waste are the strongest initiatives. And when it comes to growth, while digital transformation has been a driver for many businesses, expanding into international markets is now an essential strategy for SMEs seeking to build resilience and reach new customers.”
ORDÚ SECURES €1.5M PARTNERSHIP WITH LAZENBY GROUP
Ordú, a Galway-based provider of advanced online ordering systems for the food service industry, has announced a new €1.5 million investment in its partnership with global kiosk manufacturer Lazenby Group. Over the next three years, this collaboration is forecasted to generate €9 million in additional revenues for Ordú. The investment will cover the recruitment and support of staff, including the creation of 10 new jobs in product development within the next 12 months, along with the rollout of new technologies. Andrew Dewdney, CEO of Ordú said: “Joining forces with Lazenby Group, a leader in kiosk technology, marks a pivotal moment in Ordú’s growth trajectory. Our partnership will not only elevate Ordú’s service portfolio but also introduce innovative solutions like Safe-Touch to our clientele, enhancing in-store customer experiences and upholding impeccable hygiene standards in the post-pandemic landscape. As we expand our team and merge our areas of expertise, we’re committed to enhancing our product and service capabilities, ensuring a seamless and safer digital journey for our valued customers.”
DATASOLUTIONS REBRANDS TO CLIMB CHANNEL SOLUTIONS IRELAND
DataSolutions is officially rebranding to Climb Channel Solutions Ireland, as the distributor eyes up expansion in key markets across the EMEA region. The group expects to generate 12% growth in this region during its 2024 financial year (FY 2024). It also anticipates 12-15% global growth in FY 2024, following a successful 2023 which saw it surpass $1.2 billion (approximately €1 billion) in revenues globally. This ongoing expansion will also be driven by mergers and acquisitions, with the company acquiring Douglas Stewart Software & Services, in the US. Going forward, it will be focusing on Western Europe and the rest of EMEA as part of its M&A strategy.
SOLTEC LTD RECOGNISED FOR SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS
Soltec (Ireland) Ltd has been awarded the 2024 Overall Pakman Award for its outstanding contributions to improving waste recycling rates across Ireland. Established in 1994, Soltec specialises in providing innovative waste management and recycling solutions, particularly in hazardous waste, helping businesses across Ireland minimise their environmental impact. In 2023, Soltec achieved a 91% overall waste recovery rate, diverting materials from general waste and saving 5,333 tonnes of carbon emissions through liquid recovered fuel, along with 1,479 tonnes by replacing virgin solvents with recovered solvents. Pakman judges praised Soltec’s pioneering advancements in technology and infrastructure, which have helped numerous businesses reduce their carbon footprint, making a significant contribution to Ireland’s sustainability efforts.
THIRD OF BUSINESSES RESERVE BUDGET FOR PAYING RANSOMS
New research from Expleo has shown that 31% of businesses in Ireland reserve budget to pay ransoms in the event of successful cyberattacks. The average enterprise in Ireland will spend €1.18 million on cybersecurity in the next 12 months with one in seven spending more. Meanwhile, a quarter of businesses admitted that they do not invest enough in cybersecurity. The payment of ransoms and the expectation of paying them is embedded in many organisations’ cybersecurity strategies. In the last 12 months alone, 33% of businesses have paid a ransom to cybercriminals. The research found that one-third of enterprises have been severely impacted by an incident within their organisation in the last 12 months, while 31% have been severely impacted by a cybersecurity incident in their supply chain.
ZERVE RAISES $7.6M TO MAXIMISE AI & DATA BUSINESS IMPACT
Zerve, the data science and AI development platform that empowers code-first data teams to cut cycle times by up to 9x, announced that it has raised a seed round of $7.6 million, led by Paladin Capital Group, with participation from existing investor Elkstone and angels including former Executive Vice President of Engineering at DataRobot, Rob Hickey.
Established in 2021, Zerve is on a mission to elevate the impact of AI and data workflows by providing a unique, developer-centric platform based on its filed-patent architecture that guarantees resilience and scalability. Its end-to-end platform provides a robust environment that simplifies the building, managing and deployment of these workflows. By automating away the challenges and complexities that face code-first data teams, Zerve enables them to significantly reduce cycle times and maximise ROI. Since setting up, the startup has successfully onboarded elite code-first data teams in major organisations globally, with over 4,000 users signing up to its free product tier in just three months.
Zerve Co-Founders Jason Hilary, Greg Michaelson and Phily Hayes
FINANCIAL UPSKILLING REQUIRED
A report published by the UCD Professional Academy has revealed that the Irish financial industry is facing a wave of digital disruption driven by AI, big data and new competitors. Rival big tech organisations are embracing new technologies to gain a competitive edge, cybersecurity threats are escalating and data privacy concerns are mounting as regulatory burdens grow. The report – ‘Digital Upskilling Trends in the Irish Finance Sector’ – explores current challenges faced by the financial sector and where current skills gaps exist. The Academy says the potential consequences of failing to remain competitive through upskilling may be extremely consequential for financial organisations. Gaps in cybersecurity skills can leave organisations vulnerable to data breaches and financial losses. To ensure they don’t get left behind, the report recommends that L&D leaders in financial organisations leverage layered learning programmes to cater to different skill levels and collaborate with educational institutions to build training solutions tailored to the specific needs of their organisations.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY CONSULTING BY AUDIT PLUS
European project Audit Plus, which helps energy intensive industries reduce the energy intensity of their industrial processes and advance their decarbonisation, is offering a free of charge comprehensive consulting service that will guide companies in the identification and implementation of energy efficiency measures. UCC-IERC and Lawler Sustainability are project partners in Ireland and are offering this service to companies that request it before October 31 2024. After this date, the service will be offered to companies subject to availability of resources.
The service includes:
• Technology assessment
• Cost benefits analysis of energy efficiency measures
• Engineering support for installation of energy efficiency measures
• Identification of public and private financing sources for the implementation of energy efficiency measures
• Matchmaking between technology/service providers and energy intensive industries
• Guidance for implementation of energy efficiency measures recommended by energy audits
• Development of a corporate energy strategy
More information is available at www.ierc.ie/auditplus/
NIRAS ACQUIRES FDT CONSULTING ENGINEERS
International engineering consultancy, NIRAS, has acquired FDT Consulting Engineers and Project Managers Ltd. Through the acquisition, FDT and its subsidiary BrewConnect, comprising approximately 70 industry specialists primarily based in Ireland, will join a growing global team of experts. In collaboration with NIRAS, they will gain access to new markets, projects, and development opportunities. “At FDT, we believe that this acquisition marks a pivotal step towards enhancing our global reach and strengthening our service offerings. By integrating NIRAS’s extensive industry expertise and global scale with FDT’s proven track record in process engineering and sustainability, we are poised to deliver unparalleled value to our clients. This symbiotic relationship will not only broaden our market exposure and resource base but also drive innovative solutions across multiple sectors,” says John Hanley, Managing Director of FDT Consulting Engineers and Project Managers Ltd.
NEW APPOINTMENTS IN THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY
NEW TITLE: Key Account Manager
EMPLOYER: Codex
PREVIOUS ROLE:
Key Account Manager, O ice Depot
B2B o ice supplier Codex has announced the appointment of Niall Murphy as Key Account Manager for the Munster region. Niall has extensive experience in the o ice supplies industry and will be responsible for managing key accounts within the Health Service Executive (HSE) and associated bodies across Munster, as well as driving growth and new business in the region.
NEW TITLE: Executive Director
EMPLOYER: FUEL
PREVIOUS ROLE: CEO Music and Entertainment, Communicorp
Keith McCormack has joined entertainment and experience agency FUEL. He will play a key role in leading the growth and development of FUEL’s brand and employee experience, its festival and events portfolio and group partnerships and will drive the overall vision and strategy for the company. FUEL clients include Meta, Sky, World Rugby, PayPal, Paddy Power, Accenture, Lidl, Universal Music Group and Google.
NEW TITLE: Head of Ireland
EMPLOYER: Delta Capita
PREVIOUS ROLE: Chief Operating O icer, Delta Capita
Delta Capita has appointed Caroline O’Sullivan as its Head of Ireland. Caroline will be responsible for developing and executing Delta Capita’s regional business strategy, with a focus on driving growth across all service lines and overseeing business operations. She has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services sector and has held significant positions at leading investment banks and financial markets industry groups.
NEW TITLE: Managing Director
EMPLOYER: Bluebird Care
PREVIOUS ROLE: Managing Director, Home Instead Galway
Bluebird Care has appointed Suzanne Ryan as Managing Director. Suzanne will support Bluebird Care’s franchise partners in delivering high-quality home care services for both the HSE and private clients. Her appointment aligns with the company’s growing focus on new models of support for clients including their Live-in Care Service that empowers people to live their lives on their own terms.
UNUSED LEAVE ON THE UP
A survey carried out by FRS Recruitment has shown that one in five adult Irish workers failed to use a week’s worth of annual leave last year, while 42% did not make full use of their holiday entitlements. A total of 15% of people said they did not take four days, 17% had three days which went unused, 19% did not use two days of leave and 3% had one day’s holiday remaining. Almost one in two workers said they used their annual leave for domestic travel last year, the most common reason cited.
NIALL MURPHY
KEITH MCCORMACK
CAROLINE O’SULLIVAN
SUZANNE RYAN
IRELAND BUCKS THE TREND IN FINTECH DEALS
A new report produced by The World Economic Forum and McKinsey & Company, ‘Fuelling Innovation: Closing Fintech Funding Gaps’, analyses global disparities in fintech VC funding and the threat to innovation of rapid drops in funding levels in Europe and beyond. While global VC funding for fintechs grew steadily, from $18 billion in 2015 to $92 billion in 2021, boosted by mass digitisation during the pandemic, the trend has reversed alarmingly, with a 67% decrease. The good news is that Ireland seems to be bucking the trend, with KPMG’s Pulse of Fintech H1’24 report stating that fintech deals worth $140.8 million closed in Ireland in H1’24, an increase from the $59.2 million across nine deals seen in H1’23.
Fostering a more robust fintech ecosystem
THE HOT TOPIC
Fintech Funding
Commentary and news on the global drop
in fintech funding
“Irish and European investors are more confident this quarter. However, the uncertainties created by the 2024 elections in the US and Europe, together with a sluggish IPO market and relatively high interest rates, mean they will remain cautious and it’s unlikely to see VC investment return to the levels reached in 2021 and 2022. It’s particularly encouraging to see investment and interest in Irish innovative solutions in biotech, ocean data tech, healthtech and AI.”
Anna Scally, EMA Head of Technology, Media & Telecommunications and Head of Technology and Media at KPMG in Ireland, commenting on VC activity in Ireland during Q2 2024
To close fintech funding gaps and foster a more robust fintech ecosystem, the WEF report identifies five strategic pathways, which emerged from consultation with key industry stakeholders. These include investment in digital public infrastructure, enhancing regulatory clarity and encouraging regional collaboration, nurturing talent and strengthening support networks, developing local financing capacity and encouraging sustainable fintech growth strategies. Read more at weforum.org/publications/fuelling-innovation-closing-fintech-funding-gaps/
NEWS, VIEWS AND PROFILES ON THE LATEST START-UPS IN IRELAND
$150bn
The valuation OpenAI is reportedly targeting with its latest funding round, where it hopes to raise $6.5bn from investors.
HOW IT ALL STARTED
James Galvin CEO, STARCIRCLE
Location: Cork
Product or Service: Hiring Technology
Number of staff: 31
How have you funded the business to date? Via Enterprise Ireland and private investors.
What’s the best advice you’ve been given?
“When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the universe.” We need to avoid the trap of linear thinking and understand the interconnectedness of things.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned starting out?
Don’t over-engineer things upfront. Perfect is the enemy of good – if you wait until something’s perfect, you’ll never get moving.
Your biggest make-or-break moment?
Several years ago, we decided to rebuild our entire platform from scratch. Hiring Tech and SaaS had evolved a new wave of AI, cloud-native technologies and containerised architecture that changed the way systems connect and scale. Our product needed to evolve too. We tore everything down and rebuilt with a completely fresh mindset. It wasn’t an easy decision –stripping away features that people had relied on was risky – but we knew it was the only way to create something that could adapt and thrive as technology continues to evolve.
Is there anything you would change in hindsight?
During Covid, we became somewhat isolated and we drifted away from our clients to a certain extent. We weren’t able to meet them in person and we didn’t create the bridge that would have maintained the right level of connection. In hindsight, I would have prioritised putting our clients at the centre of everything we do – not just in terms of the product roadmap, but also in our day-to-day interactions and decisions.
THE REAL DEAL
A future tech star in the making... After his win at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition earlier this year, 18-year-old Seán O’Sullivan, from Coláiste Chiaráin, nabbed a second-place prize at the EU-wide Contest (EUCYS). His project ‘VerifyMe: A new approach to authorship attribution in the post-ChatGPT era’ analyses variations of language patterns to determine whether a piece of text was written by a human or by AI such as ChatGPT, with up to triple the accuracy of current AI content detection systems.
AN EYE ON IMPROVING
Irish tech start-up Proveye has been chosen to join the AWS Clean Energy Accelerator 4.0 programme. Proveye is a spin-out from the UCD School of Biosystems and Food Engineering and specialises in processing vehicle-mounted, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and satellite-based optical data for the agriculture sector. As a HPSU, support to date has come from Enterprise Ireland, ComOp and ESA. The AWS Clean Energy Accelerator is centred on the needs of enterprises looking to accelerate their energy transition through emerging technologies. As part of its Generative AI Energy Lab, Proveye will be collaborating with AWS enterprise customers to test and deploy its solution at scale. proveye.io
Professor Tom Solomon CBE, Director, The Pandemic Institute; Dr Krishanthi Subramaniam, University of Liverpool and The Pandemic Institute; Dr Nicky Bertollo, CTO and Co-Founder, Pharma Latch and Ronan Byrne, CEO and Co-Founder, Pharma Latch (Image credit: Nick Bradshaw, Fotonic)
Latching On
Pharma Latch, a company set up to transform how to deliver injectables such as vaccines, has announced it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Liverpool-based The Pandemic Institute. Pharma Latch’s unique intradermal injection devices ensures consistent needledepth penetration and dose delivery every time, enhancing the patient experience and e icient vaccine delivery.
“We are delighted to be partnering with The Pandemic Institute to create a centre of excellence for our technology. We are impressed with both the breadth of ability and resources available and are excited about the planned projects we will be looking to progress together,” said Ronan Byrne, CEO, Pharma Latch.
Together, Pharma Latch and The Pandemic Institute hope to progress patient acceptability of intradermal injection technology, assess the immune response when using the new technology in pre-clinical trials and assess how the technology works in delivering vaccines in a clinical trial.
IoT: The Internet of Trees
Treemetrics forest management platform Forest HQ utilises mobile applications, remote sensing, data mining and satellite communications technology to deliver a total forest census, helping forest owners and managers make better decisions to improve profitability and sustainability. They have recently partnered with Qarlbo Biodiversity, a Swedish-based international leader in biodiversity credit methodologies. Together, they are developing a software solution for monitoring, reporting and verifying biodiversity in forest landscapes, crucial for issuing biodiversity credits by confirming biodiversity changes. Regenerating biodiversity across forests will sustainably manage and restore these critical ecosystems for future generations. treemetrics.com
TO WATCH: GIYST
Founded by Avril Power and Colm Murphy in 2023, following the completion of an Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund project carried out at CeADAR, AI-driven video repurposing platform Giyst has already secured clients in the UK, Europe and USA. Leveraging AI technology, Giyst automates the process of editing longform videos into engaging, shorter clips and summaries suitable for social media, marketing, education and digital platforms. This saves time and resources and ensures high-quality, impactful content that drives engagement for customers. They have already raised €525k from angel investors and Enterprise Ireland as part of a seed round, and are running a crowdfunding campaign to close out to €750k. This will enable Giyst to expand its operations and scale its platform in the US, a key market for the company. Avril Power, COO and Co-Founder, says, “We are confident in our mission to drive e iciencies for businesses in the global video content repurposing industry.”
Garret Mullooly, COO, Treemetrics; Martin Pilstjarna, Biodiversity Impact Director, Qarlbo Biodiversity; Aleksandra Holmlund, CEO, Qarlbo Biodiversity; and Enda Keane, CEO, Treemetrics
OUT TO DRY HANGING GREENWASHING
Irish fintech Miagen has launched a new platform to help businesses navigate new sustainability reporting obligations and avoid falling into the greenwashing trap. Joseph O’Connor spoke with its Commercial Director, Ciara Hogan, to find out more
Forty years after environmentalist Jay Westerveld first coined a term to describe businesses using spin to exaggerate their environmental credentials, the practice of greenwashing might be on its way out.
At least that’s one goal of the EU’s new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which is designed to improve access to high-quality, reliable and comparable sustainability data from businesses throughout the EU and beyond.
The directive came into force in Ireland on July 6th 2024 and establishes a harmonised EU-wide framework, requiring large and listed companies to make extensive annual disclosures on environmental,
social and governance (ESG) matters. With commencement dates fast approaching, many businesses are now playing catch-up.
One company using technology to help businesses navigate the new regulations is Irish fintech Miagen. In July, it announced an investment of €1.8 million in the launch of GreenGen, a tool for streamlining compliance with the CSRD and other ESG reporting frameworks.
Companies subject to the CSRD face three key challenges, according to Ciara Hogan, Miagen’s Commercial Director. “It comes down to the data available, time and resources,” she says.
“The CSRD is instructing these companies to do a double materiality assessment, which hasn't been done before. That's not only looking at your financial implications, but also the impact of your activities on the environment and society, and asking you to consider everyone within your value chain.”
These new reporting requirements mean companies must collect over 1,200 data points, a scale of reporting not many businesses would have ever managed. Miagen says its new product provides an interactive reporting hub that will vastly reduce the time and costs required for the labour-intensive processes associated with collecting, managing and streamlining this data.
Companies can integrate the hub into their systems using customised APIs, get AI-driven guidance on the 1,200-plus data points and have peace of mind about the integrity of numbers.
AN OBVIOUS TECH FIT
Developing tech that helps businesses navigate CSRD was an obvious fit for Miagen, given its experience in regulatory reporting for major industries like aviation leasing, shipping and airlines. “We've been working with finance teams for the last 21 years, so we're very familiar with these regulatory requirements and with deadlines, people under pressure and ensuring the integrity of figures,” says Hogan. “It was second nature to us, so it only felt right to move into this space.”
While the new reporting job falls naturally under the remit of heads of ESG, not all companies have that role in-house. More often, the task is landing on the desks of chief financial officers, many of whom are scrambling to understand the CSRD requirements. To fill this knowledge gap, Miagen provides on-site training on using the platform, charting a company’s activities and tailoring it to their specific needs and industry.
“What we've seen is that because finance teams are so familiar with regulatory deadlines, they've now just inherited this role,” says Hogan. “Senior leaders think that because it'll be part of their annual report, the finance team can do it. The message has to be that it's not the kind of task that can be done at the side of a desk or on the back of an envelope. This has to be taken seriously and brought into company strategy.”
BACKING UP YOUR CREDENTIALS
In recent years, as climate anxiety drives the purchasing decisions of more environmentally
“Senior leaders think that because it'll be part of their annual report, the finance team can do it. The message has to be that it's not the kind of task that can be done on the back of an envelope."
conscious consumers, the practice of greenwashing among opportunistic companies has gone into overdrive.
Recent research by the ESRI and Trinity College Dublin found that when consumers were trained to identify greenwashing, they became more suspicious of genuine claims. That means authentic sustainable brands that consumers might not be familiar with struggle to convey an authentic message.
The CSRD will ensure companies are not cherrypicking or twisting data for PR purposes, instead reporting like-for-like results and hopefully building trust among consumers again. “When people were looking at ESG reports, there was nothing to substantiate the kind of green credentials that some organisations are claiming,” says Hogan.
“The CSRD and other regulatory frameworks that have come before it are really looking to standardise and harmonise these reports. That means making the language consistent and making sure that companies are actually comparable. I think it will give companies the opportunity to bring ESG and those metrics into their business strategy.”
According to Hogan, the new framework and Miagen’s technology will empower businesses to make informed decisions that prioritise ESG and support scaling businesses with a sustainability focus. It will also help enterprises gain greater insights into their carbon footprints and become greener businesses.
“They'll be able to mitigate any damage to their reputation by being non-compliant,” says Hogan. “They'll be able to highlight any risks to their own business or risks around working with companies whose goals and strategies don’t align with their own.”
Hogan advises companies subject to the CSRD to act now rather than later. “This is a really big exercise,” she says. “It will take a while to get your ducks in a row, so you need to act fast. Ask yourself, ‘is your company assurance ready?’ Because it’s not only about getting the report ready, you have to stand over the figures and policies that you're reporting on, so you need a platform that will facilitate that.”
COMPANIES SUBJECT TO THE CSRD
COMPANY
CATEGORY COMMENCEMENT OF REPORTING OBLIGATIONS
Large public interest undertakings
Other large undertakings
Listed SMEs
Non-EU undertakings
Financial year starting on or after 01/01/24
Financial year starting on or after 01/01/25
Financial year starting on or after 01/01/26, with an opt-out right for an additional two years
Financial year starting on or after 01/01/28
Skills & Talent
UPSKILLTOFUTURE
MARY LYONS, Director for Enterprise, Employees and Skills at SOLAS, outlines the options available to businesses and individuals who want to upskill or reskill
SOLAS is the state agency responsible for Further Education and Training (FET) in Ireland. Our vision is to power the potential of individuals, communities and enterprise through lifelong learning and workforce transformation.
SOLAS’ role involves setting strategy, channelling investment, coordinating implementation and ensuring accountability across FET providers, including the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs), ensuring that the needs of learners remain the key focus. Our message has been strong and consistent – “FET is for
everyone, regardless of your level of formal education. It is available in every community in Ireland and will offer you a valuable and recognised pathway to take you as far as you want to go.”
This message has resonated with people and there is now an increasing awareness among the public of the wide range of opportunities that FET and apprenticeship has to offer. Growth and demand for FET shows that it is delivering not only for individuals, but for communities, enterprise and society. The learner base grew by some 17% from 2022 to 2023 and one in 10 adults in Ireland were engaged in apprenticeships, construction skills schemes or other FET activity last year. FET is excelling in its ambition to be a major driver of both economic development and social cohesion.
FET FOR ENTERPRISE
FET is uniquely placed to respond to the critical skills needs in Ireland, due to the availability of provision
in every county. It’s now seen as a valued option for people to upskill and reskill throughout lifetimes and careers. The development of targeted upskilling options under the Skills to Advance initiative, such as FET Micro-Qualifications, ensures that enterprise can respond to the rapidly changing world of work due to advances in technology and commitments to tackling climate change. Importantly, FET Micro-Qualifications are developed collaboratively between SOLAS, the ETBs and industry, meaning they are tailored to meet the current and future requirements of Irish business across key areas such as digital and green skills for sustainability.
As employers across the country are increasingly seeking to address critical skills gaps to respond to the challenges posed by climate change and digital transformation in particular, many businesses are recognising upskilling as a crucial part of futureproofing jobs and empowering employees with the skills to create more sustainable, competitive and profitable companies.
SKILLS TO ADVANCE INITIATIVE
Skills to Advance, a national initiative funded by SOLAS, has been vital in providing upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in jobs undergoing change and to those currently employed in vulnerable sectors since 2019. Over 74,000 employees have upskilled via the Skills to Advance initiative since 2019. It aims to equip employees with the skills they need to progress in their current role or to adapt to changes in their jobs. Working closely with small and mediumsized enterprises, Skills to Advance helps employers identify skills needs and invest in their workforce by providing subsidised education and training to their workforce. A broad range of programmes are available to support business needs across all industry sectors, from healthcare and hospitality to advanced manufacturing and biopharma, with a focus on upskilling for the digital and green economy through the recently launched FET Micro Qualifications.
FET MICRO QUALIFICATIONS
FET micro-qualifications were launched in January 2024 and they offer short, part-time accredited training programmes, developed under the Skills to Advance initiative. They provide locally accessible and subsidised upskilling for enterprise and employees. A number of programmes have been developed in priority skills areas for industry including green, digital and other emerging skills areas such as robotics and business innovation. The programmes are accredited by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and lead to Levels 4, 5 and 6 Awards on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
Findings from the recently launched report, ‘The Future of Green Skills – An Irish Perspective’ commissioned by the Enterprise, Employees and Skills unit at SOLAS in partnership with Deloitte Ireland
“FET
is for everyone, regardless of your level of formal education. It is available in every community in Ireland and will offer you a valuable and recognised pathway to take you as far as you want to go.”
will ensure that the FET sector can continue providing enterprise with the necessary skills and career opportunities for their employees, so they can thrive in a green economy. The report will also play a key role in supporting the development of future skills that will be required to meet national strategic challenges.
ECOLLEGE
eCollege is the national online learning service for FET and provides a range of high quality self-directed online learning courses, available any time, for those who want to learn at their own pace. In line with a growing need for digital skills in the workforce, eCollege has become a vital resource for employees who want to upskill and reskill. All courses are available free of charge, are designed to be completed on a flexible, part-time basis and include everything from software to certification that a learner might need to achieve their goals. eCollege provides pathways across skills areas including: Essential Digital, Hybrid Workplace, Analytical, Digital Marketing, Applications, IT Support, Network, Cybersecurity, Software & Web Development, Data, Project & Change Management, Business Analysis, Sustainability and Transversal skills courses. Learners can build their own pathway though these skills areas, combining certified and non-certified options as suitable to their needs. The industry-recognised qualifications on offer are awarded by Microsoft, Adobe, Digital Marketing Institute, CompTIA, Pearson IT Specialist, APMG and APM.
For more information on how FET can support enterprise, visit skillstoadvance.ie for upskilling programmes on offer in your local ETB or ecollege.ie for the national online learning service
Pictured (L-R) are: Andrew Brownlee, SOLAS CEO; Aoife Connaughton, Director, Sustainability Strategy & Decarbonisation Lead, Deloitte Ireland; Mary Lyons, Director of Enterprise, Employees and Skills at SOLAS; and Ciaran Duffy, Partner - Human Capital, Deloitte Ireland, at the launch of ‘The Future of Green Skills – An Irish Perspective’ report
Set up by Fiona Kelleher and Kieran Co ey, MyGug is helping businesses tackle their food waste while contributing to a more sustainable future
WASTE NOT, WANT NOT
In Ireland, we waste a lot of food. e EPA estimates that in 2022, Ireland generated 750,000 tonnes of food waste; that gure equates to 146kg of food waste per person and it’s higher than the EU average of 130kg of food waste per capita.
e manufacturing and processing sectors are the biggest culprits, followed by households and the restaurant and food service sector.
As with most problems, prevention is better than cure and West Cork company MyGug Ltd has come up with a novel way of converting food waste into a clean, renewable source of cooking energy and plant nutrient, thereby preventing it from going into the bin. Headed up by Fiona Kelleher and Kieran Co ey, the idea for the business goes all the way back to Kieran’s college years and a project centred around an anaerobic digester. “I was doing a degree in mechanical engineering and for my nal year project I designed, built and installed a bench-scale anaerobic digester. Although anaerobic digestion wasn’t something I was involved with during my career, it was always at the back of my mind and I could never understand why large-scale anaerobic digesters in industrial settings were possible, but miniaturised versions for smaller settings were not. So, with my experience in process design for wastewater and water treatment plants I thought, why not use those skills and design a micro digester. Given that it's such an issue, I thought it would be an ideal way to treat food waste.”
"With my experience in process design for wastewater and water treatment plants I thought, why not use those skills and design a micro digester. Given that it's such an issue, I thought it would be an ideal way to treat food waste.”
plate scrapings, liquid waste, bread, yogurt, everything. at produces a gas that we were then able to pipe into our kitchen and use for cooking,” says Kieran. Although there are basic digesters available in other parts of the world, this is the rst fully automated digester of this scale.
A musician by trade, Fiona’s background is in early years music working with children from zero to three years of age. She describes MyGug as a ‘pivot’, although she’s been able to transfer some skills from her musical background to the new business, as well as honing her entrepreneurial acumen.
At the organic
With MyGug, turning the concept and prototype into a business was the tricky part. It took time for people to understand how the technology worked and that it was a very real, viable solution to tackling food waste. e message is nally getting through; just recently, MyGug completed an installation on an island in Cape Clear o the Cork coast. It's an ideal solution for various industries including hospitality, a sector where food waste is commonplace. In 2021, restaurants and the foodservice sector generated approximately 189,000 tonnes (25%) of food waste. But with hospitality businesses struggling to keep their doors open, getting the message across that now’s the time to tackle their food waste can be di cult. “We know that restaurants and other businesses in the sector are under pressure. ey’re looking at their cash ow and an investment like this can be daunting. However, we’re nding that they really do want to embrace the best sustainability solution for food waste and that’s why we o er a really good leasing option for businesses in this sector. We know they don’t want a big outlay at the moment, particularly with the huge costs they’re facing. is option allows restaurants and other hospitality businesses to utilise the best involved was and large-scale industrial settings but smaller my for plants skills and design a micro digester. Given thought and build a micro-scale digester
A grant from SEAI allowed Kieran design and build a micro-scale egg-shaped anaerobic digester in 2017 and the following year, it was installed. A period of testing followed. “We saw the potential of it. At the time, we had no organic waste collection for our bins so once we got the prototype up and running, we had a simple, e ective way of getting rid of all our food waste –
want to embrace the best sustainability solution in this sector. We particularly costs they’re facing. and
possible food waste solution in an economical way,” says Fiona.
Education is another market of interest for the product. “In a sense, we are creating the market for a new product like this, so it’s great to get into schools and third level colleges to communicate its potential to the next generation. We’re showing them that as a solution, anaerobic digestion is the way forward. It allows for the disposal of food waste in the best possible way; you’re getting rid of it while at the same time, creating something of economic bene t that can be used in a meaningful way to cook food,” says Fiona.
A relationship with Enterprise Ireland and their local LEO in Cork has helped propel MyGug on its commercial and exporting journey. Already, the MyGug biodigester has been installed across the EU and interest is growing. “ e aim is to scale into Northern Ireland and the UK initially. In terms of transport and accessibility, that makes the most sense. We’re also looking to grow further into Europe; we see a big market there for food waste solutions at this level. We’re getting a lot of interest from countries like Spain and Italy that have a signi cant problem with food waste,” says Kieran.
More education around food waste is needed, says Fiona, not just within the education sector itself but beyond it. “I think people sometimes get tired listening to the same statistics around climate change. e fact that food waste is a signi cant contributor to climate change gets a bit lost and if we could be more creative and empowering in our messaging, we might be more successful in getting through. A lot of people listen to the facts and gures around climate change and think, what can I do about it? How can I make a di erence? But actually with our solution, you really can make a di erence at a small but important scale. You can do a lot with a little and it's really about building a community. Our technology feeds directly into that message of giving people agency and encouragement to do something positive.”
53% of food waste in Europe is produced in household settings.
“It allows for the disposal of food waste in the best possible way; you're getting rid of it while at the same time, creating something of economic benefit that can be used in a meaningful way to cook food."
With a good number of inquiries coming from domestic customers, providing a product to this cohort is also on the cards. “We’ve seen the value it gives us ourselves. ere are obstacles to overcome if we’re to operate in that space; domestic customers have to pay 23% VAT and the margins are harder to obtain to provide a product at a reasonable cost. But ultimately, our goal is to provide a product for domestic customers that would make economical sense,” says Kieran. is year, MyGug announced a successful round of fundraising, securing more than €900,000 in capital. e investment, which was led by BVP with participation from Enterprise Ireland, will help advance those exporting and growth plans. “It’s great to have the support of BVP and Enterprise Ireland. e investment will help us bring MyGug to a wider market and help people understand how it can create greater positive impact in the ght against climate change,” says Fiona.
MyGug – how it works
Stage 1
Food waste (raw and cooked) is disposed of with water through a food macerator installed in the MyGug outdoor cabinet
Stage 2
The macerated food waste flows directly to a balance tank
Stage 3
The food waste is then pumped to the MyGug egg digester at regular intervals where it is digested using the natural process of anaerobic digestion
Stage 4
Biogas is produced. The gas is filtered to remove H2S and travels to a gas bag installed outdoors. A small biogas pump will pressurise the gas for use in the kitchen
Stage 5
Use the biogas on your cooking hob... free clean cooking energy at your fingertips
Stage 6
Use the rich organic liquid feed for your plants and vegetables.
COMPANY: Cara Partners
SECTOR: Natural health solutions
LOCATION: Cork
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Cara Partners, a member of the Schwabe Group, has announced a €130m modernisation and expansion of its Little Island facility. This multi-million-euro investment is expected to create 60 new highly skilled roles over the next four years.
COMPANY: SiriusXM SECTOR: Audio entertainment LOCATION: Dublin
ANNOUNCEMENT:
US-based company SiriusXM is opening a new state-of-the-art technology facility in Dublin. Roles at the new facility will cover automotive technology & engineering, software development and adtech, data science and analytics.
COMPANY: SD Worx
SECTOR: Payroll and HR solutions
LOCATION: Wicklow
ANNOUNCEMENT:
SD Worx Ireland is investing €3m to expand its payroll o ering and roll the service out to SMEs. The investment will span five years across technology, services and people within SD Worx Ireland.
OpportunityIRELAND
COMPANY: GlobalLogic
SECTOR: Digital engineering
LOCATION: Co Down
ANNOUNCEMENT:
GlobalLogic, a Hitachi Group company, has announced its expansion on the island of Ireland with a new o ice in Newry, Co Down. The expansion will be supported by the creation of 15 jobs in the new NI hub.
AQUAFACT has opened a new o ice in the Liosbaun Business Park and expects to grow the team to 35 by the end of 2025. Roles will span environmental consultants, marine ecologists, numerical modellers as well as graduate trainees.
Employers using AI to find sta
Research from IrishJobs.ie has found that 28% of employers in Ireland have introduced AI to their recruitment processes. The survey of decision makers in 250 businesses showed that more than half (56%) of firms that have introduced AI to recruitment have done so in the past 12 months. Medium businesses had the highest levels of AI adoption in recruitment (38%), while only 13% of small businesses had incorporated it.
COMPANY: ATC Computer Transport & Logistics
SECTOR: Transport & logistics LOCATION: Dublin
ANNOUNCEMENT:
ATC Computer Transport & Logistics has unveiled an investment of €22.5m over five years to support its ‘Driving Green Strategy’. The business plans to increase headcount to 300 by 2026 and add two further international o ices.
“This survey provides important insights into how AI is transforming the recruitment sector, as well as the attitudes and actions of recruiters as they seek to keep pace with advances in innovation. While we’re still at an early stage of the lifecycle of AI, it’s clear from our findings that the technology is having a significant impact on how employers attract and recruit potential talent.”
Sam Dooley, Country Director of The Stepstone Group Ireland with responsibility for IrishJobs
CREATE to ENGAGE
Lou Hickey is leading the marketing team at One4all and pushing the boundaries when it comes to innovative, e ective campaigns
Agood marketing campaign will create buzz for a brand. It will in uence consumer behaviour and di erentiate a company from its competitors. During Christmas 2022, One4all pushed the boat out when it comes to running an e ective marketing campaign. Led by EMEA Marketing Director Lou Hickey, soap star Martine McCutcheon was recruited to lead a campaign where she o ered advice to help the nation avoid family dramas over the festive season. Martine, aka ‘Ti any’ from Eastenders, adopted an agony aunt persona and answered questions from the public, all the while promoting the One4all Gi Card as the perfect Christmas present. ‘Love Actually’, in which she starred, was celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2022 so media interest in Martine was high. It was, says Lou, a perfect storm and ended up being One4all’s most successful marketing campaign to date. “ e campaign ran across Ireland, the UK and the Netherlands and it was really successful, it completely exceeded our expectations. We landed 156 media titles including nationals and online, we got three TV interviews and Martine also took part in 32 radio interviews. Brand search in the UK increased over the campaign by 11%, which was huge. It just took
“I wanted to work in an environment that encouraged innovation, championed teamwork and recognised hard work. When I heard about the role at One4all, I was interested straightaway.”
“Working for Blackhawk Network has been fantastic. It’s a super complex global organisation but it still feels very localised.”
off, people loved it and they talked about it; word of mouth endorsement is one of the best forms of advertising. It’s something you can’t buy.” To top it all off, Lou and the team went on to win the Best Creative Marketing award at the 2023 Gift Card Voucher Association Hall of Fame Awards. Lou joined One4all in 2020. It was about a year before she got the opportunity to meet her team in person. Building new relationships through Zoom and Teams wasn’t ideal, but Covid restrictions meant in-person meetings weren’t possible. “I made a point of organising regular virtual coffees and one-on-ones to get to know everyone. It actually worked really well and when we eventually got to meet in-person, I had to remind a couple of them that this was our first time meeting face to face.” Previous roles include marketing and project management positions at home
and abroad, before she established her own marketing, communications and events consultancy in Australia, where she lived for over a decade. A move back to Ireland aligned with a shift in career direction. “I decided to wind down my consultancy business and began looking for a permanent role with a great consumer brand. It was really important the culture was the right fit; I wanted to work in an environment that encouraged innovation, championed teamwork and recognised hard work. When I heard about the role at One4all, I was interested straightaway. It sounded like a real melting pot of my experience.” Lou was appointed Senior Marketing Communications Manager and after 18 months, she was promoted to Marketing Director in the EMEA region for Blackhawk Network’s original content. Blackhawk Network, a major player in the gift card and payment industry, purchased One4all in 2018. A year later, One4all launched its digital gift card, the first multi-store gift card to be launched globally and a gamechanger in the space. “Our digital gift card really helped accelerate the business. It has changed the face of gift cards in Ireland. The Blackhawk acquisition was also a huge milestone for us and working for them has been fantastic. It’s a super complex global organisation but it still feels very localised. When I took up the role, I didn’t
expect to be enabled and set up for success in the way I’ve experienced. It’s an incredibly supportive company, with a huge focus on women in business. Talbott Roche is our global CEO and she’s an absolute powerhouse and dynamo of a person. So many of the senior management team across all the regions are women, which is inspirational to see.”
“ ink Global, Act Local” is the marketing team’s mantra this year. e EMEA region is, says Lou, quite complex. Di erent cultures, di erent nuances in humour and multiple languages mean it’s not a one size ts all approach. “In the second half of the year, I’ve de nitely pivoted back into a much more localised market centric approach, which is all about driving growth in region. In particular, the business is putting a really strong focus on performance marketing and our direct to consumer channels.” Like most brands, One4all has pivoted to online and digital marketing activities. “We need to make sure we have visibility in the marketplace and that we’re playing where our consumers are playing. In Ireland for example, One4all has traditionally ran TV campaigns whereas for the last couple of years, I’ve moved more towards a VOD (video on demand) and streaming services approach. We’re still maintaining a
“We do a huge amount of work with influencers and will continue to do so. I do expect to see this modality of marketing evolve as AI becomes more mainstream. It’s all about refining our way of working so we evolve as the market changes.”
presence on national radio, but we’re also running campaigns on digital audio like Spotify or podcasts.” In uencers and content creators still have a strong hold on the market. “We do a huge amount of work with in uencers and will continue to do so. I do expect to see this modality of marketing evolve as AI becomes even more mainstream. It’s all about re ning our way of working so we evolve as the market changes.”
at readiness to evolve is re ected in One4all’s transition to a cardboard replacement for its traditional plastic gi card. As of January 2023, 95% of its product range is issued on cardboard. “ ere’s still plastic across some of our sales channels and I’m really looking forward to the day when all our new stock on shelves is cardboard. Ultimately, all brands must adapt, whether it’s through incremental changes or more radical changes. Our media consumption and how we interact with it changes so it’s crucial to review, re ect, re ne and embrace new innovations and practices. at’s what really excites me about marketing.”
Over the past few years, One4all has been on a huge growth trajectory. Blackhawk deployed research into its portfolio of gi card brands last year, with One4all resonating most.Adopted as its global consumer brand, it launched in the US, Australia and Switzerland this year, the latter launch adding to the now 10 countries across EMEA. “It’s been extremely well received in the Swiss market and is now among the top four performing gi cards in the region. e rest of this year is all about driving that growth, along with a launch into Poland.” For One4all, the Irish and UK markets might be mature but there’s no taking your eye o the ball. “We need to make sure we’re proactive and innovative across all our campaigns. We’re up against increased competition in the UK market, so staying at the top of our game is important. e end prize is Christmas, which is our busiest time of year, but ensuring our campaigns are consistent and keeping the end user in mind is what it’s all about.”
WISE WORDS
Word of mouth endorsement is one of the best forms of advertising. It’s something you can’t buy
Blackhawk Network is an incredibly supportive company, with a huge focus on women in business. Talbott Roche is our global CEO and she’s an absolute powerhouse and dynamo of a person
Our media consumption and how we interact with it changes so it’s crucial to review, reflect, refine and embrace new innovations and practices. That’s what really excites me about marketing
MENTOR: MARY BENNETT
ICON OF
IRISH BUSINESS
A well known figure in Galway and beyond, MARY BENNETT’S success is testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to supporting local culture and craftsmanship
Although she originally hails from Rockvale, Co Clare, Mary Bennett is an icon of Galway business; now in her mid-eighties, she only retired after selling her iconic shop, Treasure Chest in 2022. But she certainly hasn’t been idling since, keeping busy as ever with charitable ventures. After over 50 years in business, she doesn’t know any other way. Here she shares some of her favourite memories and best advice, from her full and impactful life in business.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Bennett began her career in the Great Southern Hotel and still credits the hotel trade with instilling a penchant for doing things to perfection and a level of customer-focused service that would serve anyone well, regardless of their
business. It was while at the hotel that she began running a little gift shop, selling Irish crafts under the stairs. It was a novel idea at the time and one that took off.
“The best thing I ever did was to get into the hotel,” she says, of her early training ground. “You have to do everything and everything has to be done properly.”
FINDING A WAY AROUND
BLOCKS
However, her career could have stalled there, as she left the hotel in 1961 after marrying her husband Eddie. While the Marriage Bar was only strictly enforced in civil service and education until 1973, the societal expectation for married women to give up work was still strong across the private sector. However, where there’s a will there’s a way and it didn’t stop budding entrepreneurs from setting up their own business.
Bennett first set up a guest house in Salthill the year after her wedding and in 1966, she took on a lease on a shop in Galway, which was the beginnings of the Treasure Chest.
Her ability to plough through in a maledominated business environment speaks to her determination and the changing attitudes toward women’s roles in society during that era.
TAKE IT STEP BY STEP
From leasing her first shop premises, to buying and then extending over the years, she built the Treasure Chest up bit by bit. “I never had a plan,” she says.
“I never wanted to overload myself. I progressed slowly, but every year I needed to have progressed a little and that was my mission... everything we made went into the shop.”
In 2024, Mary Bennett received an honorary degree at University of Galway
SEEK OUT QUALITY
The shop became an integral part of Galway’s retail scene, offering high-quality Irish gifts, crafts and fashion. Located on Shop Street, one of Galway’s busiest and most central shopping areas, the store stood out not just for its quality products, but also for its distinctive window displays and personal customer service.
Over the years, Bennett’s shop became an iconic tourist spot and an essential shopping destination for locals too, with its mix of Irish craft and artisan products, gifts and fashions. Bennett’s vision and dedication to quality helped make Treasure Chest a landmark in Galway’s city centre.
STAND OUT
It was a trip to New Orleans, where she took part in the St Patrick’s Day parade and observed some of the highly decorative architecture there, that inspired the iconic highly decorated exterior of Treasure Chest – the Wedgewood blue and decorative plasterwork swagging was surely one of the most memorable shop exteriors in Ireland.
Bennett’s care for the streetscape extended to campaigning for a removal of neon signage from stores in the city centre and she came up with an excellent motivator for other shopkeepers who came on board with her urban beautification plans – the shopfronts were photographed and became part of a bestselling poster of Galway shopfronts.
THE POWER OF NETWORKS
Over the years Bennett has been an active participant in business life beyond her own shop floor, not just in Galway, but also on an international level. Attempting to detail the scope and breadth of her CV would turn this article into a very lengthy list, but to give an idea, over the years she has participated in Galway Chamber (as President and also serving two years as National President of Chambers Ireland); helped set up and served as executive chair of Galway Tourism and the international network of tourism professionals Skal, of which she became the first female World President in 2002; and has held directorships of Ireland West Tourism, Bord Failte and Aer Lingus. She was presented with the Freedom of the City of Galway in 2011, an honour she shares with Douglas Hyde, Eamonn de Valera, Hillary Clinton and Ronald Regan, among other notables.
MOVING WITH THE TIMES
“Over the years, Bennett’s shop became an iconic tourist spot and an essential shopping destination for locals too, with its mix of Irish craft and artisan products, gifts and fashions.”
She advises anyone in business to get involved with local networks. “You can learn so much from them,” she says. “Be curious and always keep your mind open to what you can see happening around you, keep an eye on the development that goes on and how they progress it.”
Like a heat-seeking missile, Bennett suggests “Always try and be involved with somebody that’s creative or that you feel has initiative.”
She adds: “I think it’s important to work in projects locally, whether it’s the local Chamber or something else. Help and get enthusiastic about the work they do. People will then seek you out and help you as you go.”
From travelling the world, Bennett found beautiful products abroad and expanded her range from Irish crafts, always conscious of keeping up with changing customer needs.
“When I started, it was all shamrocks and the Irish harps on products. As we progressed in business, we had to continually move forward and changed to stocking the best gifts we could find, be they European or otherwise, for weddings, birthdays and christenings. Then the wedding gift section became far more practical; people getting married wanted useful products and a lot of them wanted cash, which killed a certain amount of gifting,” she explains, as an example of how her stock evolved over the years.
She recalls with fondness her innovative Christmas shop, with high-quality decorations imported from the US, long before such a range was widely available. “In the beginning we were unique and we made our name with quality,” she says. But nowadays, for many customers, cost is more important than quality or provenance and retail has changed.
KNOW WHEN TO CASH IN YOUR CHIPS
After over 50 years of running the landmark Galway store, Bennett made the decision to sell the Treasure Chest in 2022. As she tells it, it wasn’t her wish to slow down that spurred the decision, rather that it was becoming harder to find the kind of quality craft products she wanted to sell, at prices that made business sense. The challenges facing retail, with rising costs for quality products and a global shift towards fast fashion, led to a decline in demand for and availability of Irish-made items.
The closing of Treasure Chest marked the end of an era for one of Galway’s longest-running and best-loved businesses. “I enjoyed every minute,” she says of her career, “because I love something different and I love to be on top of what I’m doing. I’m not a
perfectionist, but I try to find the right way to do something because that was the culture I was brought up in.”
Mary Bennett’s career is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to supporting local culture and craftsmanship. The Treasure Chest wasn’t just a shop; it was a symbol of Galway’s vibrancy, attracting tourists from around the world and becoming a key part of the city’s commercial history. Through her dedication to showcasing Irish-made products, Bennett helped preserve and promote Irish heritage on a local and international scale.
While her direct involvement in retail has come to an end, her impact continues through the legacy of Treasure Chest and her influence on Galway’s business landscape. Truly, an icon of Irish business and tourism.
“I think it’s important to work in projects locally, whether it’s the local Chamber or something else. Help and get enthusiastic about the work they do. People will then seek you out and help you as you go.”
GOING
Furthr CEO
MARTIN MURRAY
on how the not-for-profit is helping to shape the next generation of Irish business success stories
CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT FURTHR AND THE SERVICES YOU PROVIDE?
Since 1988, Furthr has been supporting the founders of innovative start-up and scale-up enterprises.
Our mission is to deliver game-changing impacts for founders that enable them to become investor ready and to scale. We are a very commerciallyminded, not-for-profit organisation. Most of our activity is funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Enterprise Ireland.
At Furthr, Founders Go Free. Our work is across the dimensions of Accelerating, Funding and Connecting. Our Acceleration team consists of experienced serial entrepreneurs who provide the most impactful mentoring and advice available to entrepreneurs anywhere. In terms of Funding, Furthr VC is the venture capital arm of Furthr.
We’re the only organisation of our type with our own venture capital fund. The current fund is a €32m fund which has to date invested in 23 highly innovative B2B SaaS and Medtech companies.
Furthr is also a founding partner and managing partner of the Guinness Enterprise Centre, the largest innovation hub in the state.
WHERE DID THE IDEA FOR FURTHR COME FROM?
Back in 1988, some visionary people saw the need to support indigenous entrepreneurship. Dublin City Council and Diageo were early supporters of Furthr. From humble beginnings Furthr has delivered an impressive list of firsts for Ireland, including the first private start-up incubator space in Ireland (1992), the first university spin-out programme (1995), the first register of private start-up investors (1998) and the first seed capital fund backed by entrepreneurs (2017).
WHAT’S YOUR OWN BACKGROUND?
My early career was as an engineer working in telecommunications. In 1999 I commenced my entrepreneurial journey, co-founding Interactive Return, one of the very earliest digital marketing agencies. Our specialty was search engine marketing
(this was before Google Adwords existed). Typically, a sales call would begin by explaining what the internet was. With support from Enterprise Ireland, we took on clients in the UK and US. I sold the business in 2008 to Publicis, one of the largest advertising concerns in the world. From there, I did a stint in Google in various roles including Head of Global Agency Sales Operations and Country Manager for France for SMB clients. I’ve been working with Furthr since 2017 as a mentor to many of our start-up clients and more recently, I took on the CEO role. I’m also a proud son of The Liberties, where Furthr is now based.
WHAT WAS THE THINKING BEHIND THE RECENT REBRAND?
Furthr was formerly the Dublin Business Innovation Centre. We re-branded in 2022. We knew that it was time for a refresh. The Dublin Business Innovation Centre brand was poorly understood and the enterprise support marketplace had changed considerably since 1988. With the Furthr brand, we deliver game-changing impacts for founders and we do that across the dimensions of Accelerating, Funding and Connecting. It’s that simple.
HOW IMPORTANT ARE START-UPS IN THE OVERALL BUSINESS LANDSCAPE?
Incredibly important. Everybody recognises and acknowledges the economic miracle that Ireland has achieved over the last half century with FDI. Equally, it is recognised that FDI is hypermobile and vulnerable to factors well beyond our control. Indigenous entrepreneurship gives us the opportunity to embed innovation, wealth creation and job creation into the economic fabric of the nation.
CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT ONE OR TWO START-UPS YOU HAVE HELPED SCALE AND GROW?
One of my proudest achievements with Furthr is the Innovate Accelerator Program, directed at female entrepreneurs and designed, developed
"Our mission is to deliver game-changing impacts for founders that enable them to become investor ready and to scale."
and delivered by Furthr on behalf of Enterprise Ireland. Just two of the alumni from the program are Deirdre Lyons, Founder of Examfly and Julie Garland, Founder of Avtrain. Examfly is reinventing how people study for tax and accounting exams. Professional services firms such as PwC, Deloitte, EY, Grant Thornton and BDO are clients, across multiple jurisdictions. Examfly recently took on €1.5 million in investment to aid its expansion while Avtrain, Europe's leading drone pilot and operator training and certification body, is delivering online training that will create a safe drone operating environment across Europe.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU FACE AS A BUSINESS?
As is the case with many of our start-up clients, the market opportunity for Furthr to add value is limitless, but our resources are limited. So, we have to choose carefully where we can have optimum impact. With greater resources, we could contribute more to the transformation of the Irish economy to one based more on indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship.
WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE THE SUCCESS OF THE COMPANY TO?
Two things. The culture of the organisation and the incredible founders with whom it is our privilege to work with. Furthr’s culture is all about supporting founders. That’s the North Star of the organisation. The founders with whom we work are a constant source of inspiration.
WHAT ARE YOUR AMBITIONS FOR THE BUSINESS?
Plans are underway to raise a new fund in 2025, ensuring continued support for seed-stage companies. Simultaneously, Furthr Investor Network is seeking to build a new generation of angel investors who are ready to invest in Irish entrepreneurial innovation. Increasingly, we are seeking growth opportunities for our clients in overseas markets by leveraging our international network. Irish government policy is that Irish startups go further (excuse the pun)! By continuing to empower founders with the resources and supports they need to succeed, Furthr is poised to help shape the next generation of Irish business success stories.
"With greater resources, we could contribute more to the transformation of the Irish economy to one based more on indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship."
“Ireland is well placed to deal with many of the problems that are affecting businesses across Europe. However, there are uncertainties regarding the strength of the domestic economy and worries that export trade will decline too.”
Shane Conneely, Head of Policy, Chambers Ireland on the EES2023 report
A ROUND-UP OF ALL THE NEWS AND EVENTS FROM THE CHAMBER NETWORK NATIONWIDE
Offshore wind energy a ‘transformative opportunity’
“The advent of offshore wind energy in Ireland provides a potentially transformative opportunity which must be harnessed for Waterford and the entire south-east region,” the President of Waterford Chamber of Commerce, Niall Harrington, told delegates at a special conference held by the Chamber in the Houses of the Oireachtas in Dublin. He added that the enablement of key infrastructure projects such as at the Port of Waterford is essential to help the region support the development, installation, operation and maintenance of wind farms into the future and secure the economic benefits for the region. “We urge the Government to provide a roadmap for a comprehensive Designated Maritime Area Plan for Ireland to demonstrate the long-term opportunities for investors. Additionally, the Government must ensure that the priorities for offshore wind development are aligned across all relevant government departments.”
Lack of investment poses risk to Dublin’s growth
Dublin Chamber has called on Government to use Budget 2025 to increase investment and accelerate delivery in major capital projects such as public transport, water infrastructure, energy and housing. Speaking as Dublin Chamber’s pre-budget submission was launched, Dublin Chamber CEO Mary Rose Burke said: “Housing continues to be a major blockage for recruitment and retention for members. Increasing the supply of homes in the GDA is critical for residents, businesses and investors. The Residential Zone Land Tax must continue to be reviewed so it can be used to activate more land that is zoned and serviced for housing. This must be reinforced with a commitment to servicing those areas with key infrastructure such as water, wastewater, public transport, energy and childcare so as not to cause any delays in getting much needed housing on stream.” She added: “The Government has seen unprecedented returns in terms of tax revenue. This must now be used to invest in the future, on major capital investment that will bear fruit in the years to come.”
Pictured (l-r) are Sean McKeown, Chief Executive, Waterford City and County Council; David Sinnott, CEO, Port of Waterford; David Cullinane TD; Niall Harrington, Waterford Chamber President; Cllr Adam Wyse, Deputy Mayor of Waterford; Senator John Cummins; Gerald Hurley, CEO, Waterford Chamber Picture by Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography.
Looking forward at NI Chamber
are Suzanne Wylie,
Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister Conor Murphy launched his Department’s ThreeYear Forward Look and 2024/25 Business Plan at NI Chamber’s most recent Public Affairs Forum. The Minister spoke with members about how the 41 actions contained in the plan will help turn the dial on the region’s economic performance. Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive, NI Chamber welcomed its publication, saying the priorities “strongly align with NI Chamber’s core areas of focus including competitiveness, the future workforce and energy transition.”
Expertise from Estonia
Irish policymakers and business leaders recently visited Estonia to explore advanced timber construction methods to address Ireland’s housing challenges. The visit, coordinated by the Estonian Chambers of Commerce, included site visits and seminars on sustainable building techniques, fire safety and environmental impacts. This exchange aimed to assess how Estonia’s wood construction expertise could support Ireland’s housing strategy. For more on the Estonian wood industry, visit woodhouse.ee
Ambassador visits to County Wexford Chamber
County Wexford Chamber was honoured to host two Ambassador visits recently. In June, the Chamber co-hosted the visit of the British Ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Paul Johnston to the Hatch Lab in Gorey and in May, the Chamber also welcomed Japanese Ambassador, H.E. Norio Maruyama to Gorey. The British Ambassador shared how his role involved helping to foster links between the two neighbouring countries. Key businesses were invited to meet the Ambassador, sharing insights about the opportunities and experiences of trading with the UK. The Japanese Ambassador’s visit was also a valuable opportunity to foster relationships between our two countries and was attended by Chamber President, Lorcan Kinsella, CEO Paula Roche and John O’Connor, Manager of The Hatch Lab. Sincere thanks to Senator Malcolm Byrne who facilitated the Ambassadors’ visit to North Wexford.
Chief Executive Ian Talbot has expressed Chambers Ireland’s support for recommendations made in a recent report from the All-Island Strategic Rail Review to increase the network by almost 700km.
“This represents the transformative vision we need to reshape our rail infrastructure, enhance connectivity and promote sustainable development.
“However the ambition must be matched by political will and revitalising our rail networks will require significant, sustained investment. The clock is ticking and if we don’t invest now then the disparities in regional development will only increase.
Our public transport network must have the capacity to deal with the growing demands placed on it by our projected population increase by 2040. Increasing and improving our connectivity will also strengthen our position within the European transport network. Reopening disused routes and improving intercity connections will be crucial towards fostering economic growth and making Ireland a more attractive destination for investment.”
Pictured
Chief Executive, NI Chamber and Conor Murphy, Economy Minister
Pictured at the British Ambassador’s visit to The Hatch Lab, Gorey, were representatives from Braahmam International, Holos Skincare, Indos Financial, Reynaers Aluminium, Rosslare Europort, Scurri, SETU, Wexford County Council, along with Senator Malcolm Byrne; John O’Connor, CEO, The Hatch Lab; Paula Roche, CEO, County Wexford Chamber and Lorcan Kinsella, President, County Wexford Chamber
Dublin businesses embrace more office days
One in three businesses (32%) have reported that their employees are in the office three days a week, up from 27% in Q3 2023 and up from 22% from Q4 2022. Only 22% of employees are spending two days in the office, a decrease from 27% and 28% in Q4 2022 and Q3 2023 respectively. That’s according to Dublin Chamber’s latest Business Outlook Survey, which also found there has been a consistent increase in companies implementing core days in the office, rising from 21% in Q4 2022 to 27% in Q3 2023 and reaching 39% in Q2 2024. Midweek days (Tuesday to Thursday) have shown a clear upward trend in office capacity since 2023, with an average increase of 18 percentage points for each day.
Aebhric McGibney, Director of Public and International Affairs, said: “From these findings, we can see that most Dublin businesses are utilising the hybrid work model. Employers recognise the need for greater flexibility in working schedules to attract a wider pool of employees, including those living further away from their workplaces due to the lack of affordable housing in the city.”
New look for Kilkenny Business Awards
Kilkenny Chamber has launched its 2024 Kilkenny Business Awards with Vhi Healthcare as the new main sponsor, new branding and six new categories. The event in November is the culmination of three months of work involving nominations, applications and interviews before the winners are announced at the Gala Awards evening in the Lyrath Estate Hotel on the 23rd November. Kilkenny has a vibrant economy with a diverse range of indigenous and multinational businesses. As Kilkenny Chamber’s flagship event, Kilkenny Business Awards play an essential role in recognising and celebrating those enterprises that excel in their fields. President of Kilkenny Chamber, Anne Barber said: “We all value feedback and especially from our peers and nominating a business is the way to recognise that.” More details about the Awards online process and event can be found at www. kilkennychamber.ie
Áine Donegan presents prizes to Shannon Golf Classic winners
Shannon Chamber broke with tradition this year by refraining from holding the Shannon Golf Classic prize-giving ceremony on the day of the competition, choosing instead to host a special ceremony and inviting the top five teams back to Shannon Golf Club to receive their prizes. This decision proved most beneficial as Irish amateur golfer, Áine Donegan, graced the event to present the prizes as it coincided with Ei Electronics’ announcement of their sponsorship of Ennis native Áine.
The Costcutters team, winners of the Shannon Chamber 2024 Golf Classic, pictured with Áine Donegan; Helen Downes, CEO, Shannon Chamber; and Mick Guinee, Chairman and Chief Executive, Ei Electronics
Photo by Joe Buckley
Brian Kelly, MindaClient (sponsors of the online application process); President Anne Barber; Therese Bourke, Head of Customer Service Vhi Healthcare; and CEO John Hurley
Photo by Vicky Comerford
Great turnout for Dundalk Chamber Business Seminar
In association with Cross Border Partnership Employment Services, Dundalk Chamber of Commerce held a free business seminar on employment incentives and supports available for SMEs in the Cross Border Region in May in the Fairways Hotel. Over 70 attended the event, which gave employers in the border areas information on how they can be assisted with their recruitment needs. Speakers included the Department of Social Protection, Cross Border Partnership Employment Services, the Dept. for Communities, Intertrade Ireland and the Local Enterprise Office Louth. MC for the event was Michael Gaynor of Dundalk Chamber and there was also a case study with guest speaker David Minto of Moran CCTV. Dundalk Chamber President Pat McCormick was delighted that the chamber ran this event as it helps increase awareness of what supports are out there for SMEs in the Cross Border Region.
For more information on the Cross Border Partnership Employment Services and how it can assist you, go to www.cbpes.com
IDA boss backs Waterford at Summer Gala
The Waterford business community gathered at the Haven Hotel for Waterford Chamber’s President’s Summer Gala, sponsored by AIB and featuring guest speaker Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland. Niall Harrington, President of Waterford Chamber, said: “With the largest regional city population catchment after Dublin at 634,000 people, the Waterford city region is lagging behind in investment terms when compared to a city like Cork for example. Notwithstanding the lack of balanced regional investment, our initial ask is not all about money.” He talked about the need for Waterford Airport, offshore wind and equitable funding for SETU. Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, said: “This region boasts a significant highvalue manufacturing cluster, with over half of the 15,000 people employed by IDA client companies in the South East, working within the life sciences sector.”
Paul Nolan honoured as first Patron of Waterford Chamber
Paul Nolan has been honoured with the title of first Patron of Waterford Chamber. Paul, who has served two terms as President, is Group Commercial Director at Dawn Meats and has been a constant in terms of his commitment to Waterford over the past number of decades. Niall Harrington, President of Waterford Chamber, said: “As Waterford’s position as the capital of the South East strengthens, Waterford Chamber needed someone to lead the charge on a national and international level. Who better than Paul Nolan. Paul’s voluntary commitment to not only Waterford Chamber, but the city and region at large, has been unwavering and widely acknowledged.” Accepting the Patronage, Paul said: “This is a very exciting time for Waterford and I am looking forward to sharing the opportunities that exist for the city nationally and internationally, while also supporting Waterford Chamber in terms of governance and future boards. I am genuinely humbled and grateful to Waterford Chamber for this honour.”
Niall Harrington, President, Waterford Chamber with Maria Clifford and Regina Mangan from Liberty Blue
Pictured (l to r) are Rose Tierney, Tierney Tax Consultants; Paddy Malone, PRO Dundalk Chamber; Pat McCormick, President, Dundalk Chamber; and Linda Byrne, Dept of Social Protection and CB PES Adviser
A cautious welcome
Chambers Ireland responds to Budget 2025
Chambers Ireland has cautiously welcomed Budget 2025 but urged the Government to focus on delivery. Businesses across the country urgently need essential infrastructure to be developed without delay to safeguard our national competitiveness. The funding allocated for infrastructure in the budget is to be applauded, but will only have an impact when it is delivered.
Chambers Ireland’s Budget priorities focused on three key areas:
• The need to scale-up our delivery of housing, public transport, water, energy and social infrastructure to meet the demands of our growing population and to improve our competitiveness in the long-term.
• The imperative to promote business growth and protect our SMEs from the myriad of financial, administrative and regulatory requirements that have increased the cost of doing business.
• The importance of fostering thriving towns and cities by tackling vacancy, developing the public realm, investing in skills, and mitigating against crime and antisocial behaviour.
Infrastructure
Commenting on infrastructure, Chambers Ireland’s Chief Executive, Ian Talbot, said: “The €3 billion for infrastructure spending that has been allocated for the delivery of water, housing and electricity grid infrastructure is very welcome news. Ensuring sustainable supplies of drinking water and waste-water treatment into the future will bolster our resilience for future growth and development. Accelerating the supply of new homes will help alleviate issues facing SME recruitment and retention, while grid upgrades will support our delivery of high-capacity onshore and offshore energy networks.
“The commitment to developing an investment framework for the utilisation of the €14.1 billion in funding from the Court of Justice’s recent decision through the National Development Plan also has enormous potential to deliver for our long-term competitiveness.
“However, secure and sustainable multi-annual funding is required to realise our ambitions for water, electricity, public transport and housing, and once-off funding can only offer a much-needed short-term boost to agencies that are tasked with largescale, intensive project delivery.”
“The increase in the Vacant Homes Tax rate should be a helpful measure in freeing up existing building stock for redevelopment and reinvestment across Irish towns and cities.”
Cost of Doing Business
“The cost of living package and tax changes, although not directly affecting businesses, will alleviate some of the wage demand pressures facing smaller employers by putting more money back in the pockets of employees.
“The increase to the VAT registration thresholds, the proposed amendment to Retirement Relief, the review and reform of EIIS, the increase in the first year payment threshold in the R&D tax credit, the Stamp Duty exemption and the participation exemption for foreign dividends are all very welcome measures but will have marginal impact on most smaller enterprises.”
Thriving Towns and Cities
“The investment in our higher education system is positive acknowledgement that we need to further develop our competitive advantage in education and training. Ireland’s talent pipeline is one of our key differentiators and maintaining this should be a key priority for Government.
“However, we were hoping to see more allocation of funding for small and medium enterprises to upskill and reskill their employees. Emerging technologies and increased innovation will place significant strain on businesses to compete for skills into the future and businesses need direct support now to facilitate this growth and development.
“The increase in the Vacant Homes Tax rate should be a helpful measure in freeing up existing building stock for redevelopment and reinvestment across Irish towns and cities. However, we would still like to see further reform of this Tax to improve its application and effectiveness. Similarly, the additional funding for Garda recruitment should support safer urban centres and deter increasing levels of anti-social behaviour.”
A lasting legacy
As she approaches retirement, Letterkenny Chamber CEO Toni Forrester is leaving behind a strong membership and a legacy of achievement
How is business in Donegal?
In general business in Donegal is good. Obviously there are challenges across the sectors in terms of costs and recruitment, however many businesses have weathered other storms and have the attitude that they can only deal with challenges that are within their control. We have a very resilient business community here in Letterkenny and across the county.
When did you join Letterkenny Chamber?
In 2008, just in time for the financial crisis and recession. In the early years, many businesses downsized and others closed. Domestically it was a tough time and then we had two very bad winters. However, out of challenge comes opportunity and the Chamber leaned into the opportunity by ensuring members were represented at all times. In a way, these challenges made us stronger. Membership retention remained high and has subsequently grown substantially over the intervening years.
What are some of the challenges facing businesses?
Staff recruitment and retention is by far the biggest issue members are mentioning. The availability of suitable housing is impacting recruitment and in Donegal, that’s amplified by the defective blocks crisis and the lack of available building contractors. Other challenges include the pace of new regulations being introduced by the Government in terms of sick pay entitlement, living wage and soon to be introduced autoenrolment. This region and particularly Donegal is also the only county without motorway or rail access. Connectivity to Dublin and other cities is severely lacking and has a direct impact on how the region performs economically. Donegal is hugely ambitious and we feel we are being held back by the lack of investment and support of central Government.
How does Letterkenny Chamber support its members?
Like every Chamber we run events, a mixture of informal networking events to more topic driven events. Each year we have our President’s Lunch, annual awards and a cross border Future of Energy Conference. We have a fortnightly newsletter that outlines what’s happening in the Chamber and we have a WhatsApp group for quick messaging. Our social media channels are used extensively and we’ve recently added TikTok.
Letterkenny Chamber received the 'Perpetual Special Recognition for Excellence Award' at the 2024 Chamber Awards. What do you attribute the win to?
Letterkenny Chamber is just coming up to its 60th anniversary and to this day, we punch above our weight. We are a small Chamber in terms of staff and resources, but we play an important role in the business community. Our membership now stands at 310 and we are growing our events calendar and sponsorship profile each year. Under our ShopLK brand, we also run Ireland’s most successful town gift card that in its last year had sales of €5.7 million. The award gives recognition to the commitment of our voluntary boards members, past and present who fully support the vision and ambition of the Chamber.
As CEO, what are your ambitions?
After 17 years (I’m not quite ready to go yet), I'm proud that I have led the Chamber through some difficult times and that it's on a good foundation financially and has a membership offering on a par with others, meaning members are engaged and stay with us. On some of the larger infrastructure projects, we are seeing progress on the A5 and hope that will lead to the starting of the Donegal Ten-T, connecting Donegal to the rest of the country. Some projects within the Letterkenny 2040 Masterplan are starting and I hope to be here to see one or two completed. I am really looking forward to the next few years knowing that I have made a meaningful contribution to Letterkenny Chamber during my time here.
Committed to Ireland’s energy transition
Gas Networks Ireland outlines pathway to a Net Zero Carbon Network
On September 11th, Gas Networks Ireland hosted a stakeholder event to launch its Pathway to a Net Zero Carbon Network in Dublin, attended by over 150 senior industry stakeholders. The event was moderated by Ivan Yates, who guided the discussions and presentations.
This transformation pathway outlines how Gas Networks Ireland is embarking on an ambitious journey to fully decarbonise the country’s gas network by 2045. This will involve repurposing and resizing Ireland’s current gas infrastructure to facilitate the transport of renewable gases, such as biomethane and green hydrogen.
Gas Networks Ireland’s strategy is essential for Ireland’s transition to sustainable energy and ensuring a dependable energy future. The plan targets a reduction in natural gas usage on the Irish network from over 99% currently to 60% by 2036, with a complete phase-out by 2045. Concurrently, the share of renewable gas is projected to rise to 40% (15% hydrogen and 25% biomethane) by 2036 and to 100% (68% hydrogen and 32% biomethane) by 2045.
The pathway to a net zero carbon network is comprised of four key phases: Foundation, Development, Repositioning and Conversion. These phases mark the progression from initial groundwork to the complete transformation of the gas network.
PHASE 1: Foundation Phase (up to 2027)
The Foundation Phase, already underway, focuses on preparing the gas network to handle renewable gases. Key projects include the construction of new anaerobic digestion plants and the Mitchelstown Central Grid Injection facility. This phase ensures the network's enhanced security and resilience, demonstrating the safe injection and transportation of renewable gases.
Cathal Marley and Edwina Nyhan, Pathways launch
PHASE 2: Development Phase (2028-2032)
During the Development Phase, Gas Networks Ireland will facilitate increased connections of renewable gas to the network, aiming to meet the national biomethane target of 5.7 TWh by 2030. is phase will also see the commencement of hydrogen blending and the development of initial hydrogen clusters. By the end of this phase, approximately 17% of the gas on the network will come from renewable sources, with 14% biomethane and 3% hydrogen.
PHASE 3: Repositioning Phase (2033-2040)
In the Repositioning Phase, Gas Networks Ireland will focus on more extensive repurposing of the gas network and the establishment of hydrogen clusters. By 2040, it is anticipated that nearly half of the gas on the network will be hydrogen, with biomethane comprising 38% and natural gas reduced to 16%.
PHASE 4: Conversion Phase (2041-2045)
e nal Conversion Phase will see the complete transformation of the gas network into two distinct renewable gas networks: a larger national hydrogen network and a smaller regional biomethane network. By 2045, the network will exclusively transport renewable gases, with an estimated composition of 70% hydrogen and 30% biomethane.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Cathal Marley, Chief Executive O cer of Gas Networks Ireland, emphasises the dual bene ts of this pathway – achieving Ireland’s climate objectives while ensuring energy security and economic stability.
"Developing and repurposing the gas network to be net zero carbon over the next 20 years o ers a least-cost and least-disruptive means of decarbonising energy use for many and a vital alternative decarbonisation path for those consumers for whom electri cation is very challenging," Marley stated. "While achieving this network transformation has several dependencies, including the availability of renewable gases and supportive energy policies, Gas Networks Ireland is fully committed to transitioning the network to exclusively transport renewable gases, ensuring a fully decarbonised energy system by 2045."
“The pathway that Gas Networks Ireland has laid out brings our vision to be at the heart of Ireland’s energy future to life and outlines a route by which the gas network can transition to net zero."
Strategic Collaboration and Flexibility
Gas Networks Ireland's pathway underscores the importance of innovation, expertise and stakeholder collaboration. e plan is designed to be adaptable, allowing for adjustments as energy policies and technologies evolve, a point emphasised by Edwina Nyhan, Director of Strategy and Regulation at Gas Networks Ireland. “ e pathway that Gas Networks Ireland has laid out brings our vision to be at the heart of Ireland’s energy future to life and outlines a route by which the gas network can transition to net zero,” Nyhan explained. “Inevitably, some aspects will evolve as we move forward. However, we will remain exible and responsive to achieve our commitment to delivering for Ireland. is roadmap will enable us to transition sequentially and ensure a robust and adaptive approach to achieving a fully decarbonised network over time."
Recent Awards
Highlighting the organisation’s commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement, Gas Networks Ireland recently took home the Environment & Biodiversity category award at the 2024 Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Impact Awards. Additionally, Gas Networks Ireland was a nalist in the Volunteering & Pro Bono Services and Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business Impact categories.
To read the full report visit: www.gasnetworks.ie/pathway
Pathways event: Edwina Nyhan, Ivan Yates, Cathal Marley
Managing your cashflow
Cashflow management is important all year round but right now, it’s critical to keeping your business secure and profitable
Cash ow management is the monitoring, surveillance and active management of the actual money coming in and going out of your business. It’s more than what you currently have in the bank as it also considers the money you are owed by others, any unpaid debts or scheduled payments you may have. Additionally, it involves taking actions
"Cashflow management is the monitoring, surveillance and active management of the actual money coming in and going out of your business."
to maintain the nancial health of your business, both now and in the future. Cash ow management is important all year round, but at this time of the year with annual tax ling deadlines in mind, cash ow management is critical to all businesses. is can be a busy and potentially stressful time for many business owners, however e ective nancial forecasting, cash ow management and early tax planning can help reduce and relieve the stress. By managing cash ow e ectively,
you will be able to keep your business secure and pro table, while providing the opportunity to forecast investment opportunities, establish company spending and build up an emergency cash fund. Being prepared for all scenarios that may occur throughout the year for your business is vital.
AIB’s cashflow solution for your business: PromptPay Finance
Paying signi cant annual bills requires planning and AIB's cash ow solution, PromptPay, can support your company to conserve cash for expected and unexpected expenses. With PromptPay, your business can spread large one-o expenses, such as your annual tax bill or pension payments across six to 11 months.
To gain a better understanding of PromptPay, we posed a few questions to Alan O’ Regan, Head of Finance & Leasing in Area South at AIB, on why he recommends PromptPay to his business customers.
Can you tell us a little bit about PromptPay?
PromptPay is a short-term working capital nance product which enables businesses to nance signi cant annual payments over an 11-month term, easing cash ow pressures. It’s a key product for many of our business customers.
Why do you recommend PromptPay to your customers?
PromptPay is a great product for businesses to manage their cash ow as it facilitates spreading annual payments such as corporation tax or business insurance over a maximum 11-month term in manageable monthly repayments.
All business customers have an insurance requirement and through knowing our customers and their businesses, we advise them of the PromptPay solution which may suit spreading their annual costs over an 11-month period.
What are the benefits of using PromptPay?
It is a short-term working capital nance product which enables businesses to manage their annual cash ow as it facilitates spreading annual bills over an 11-month period which in turn can ease cash ow pressures.
AIB Business Banking customer, Deerpark Haulage, speak on their experience managing cashflow with PrompPay
Deerpark Haulage Donegal Ltd is a family run business, which was set up in 2006 by Joe and Priscilla Dolan. Deepark is a specialised transportation company with extensive knowledge and
expertise in their area. Since being established, their aim has always been to provide transportation services to a loyal customer base. With a eet of modern, wellmaintained trucks, they have developed a reputation for ensuring safe and timely transportation for businesses nationwide.
Running a family business brings signi cant responsibilities speci cally in managing nances, pro t and loss and cash ow. In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of modern business, the optimisation of working capital is critical in ensuring growth and maintaining nancial stability.
Managing Director Joe Dolan emphasised the important role that AIB has played over the years when it comes to managing cash ow.
“We have had a strong banking relationship with AIB for several years. It was our Finance and Leasing Representative Peter Muldoon who rst introduced us to PromptPay, explaining its bene ts and ease of use. PromptPay allows us to have short term nancing so we can have exibility and liquidity, helping us stay operational during every season, handle cash ow uctuations and seize growth opportunities without being locked into long-term debt.”
When asked about their experience with PromptPay, Joe spoke positively about the process. “We will continue to use PromptPay going forward. It is an easy product to use and it allows us some exibility to make larger purchases with a short-term repayment that has a clear xed rate. Peter helped us initially and now it is a very simple process that we use frequently. We would highly recommend PromptPay to other businesses."
"Our Working Capital Finance solutions of PromptPay and Insurance Premium Finance are short term finance products which enable businesses to finance significant annual payments, easing cashflow pressures, and are a key part of our product o ering to many business customers.”
We spoke to Head of AIB Finance & Leasing, Brendan Crowley, about cashflow management
“AIB Finance & Leasing remain committed to supporting the growth and expansion of businesses within the SME and Agricultural sectors. As well as o ering our standard Hire Purchase and Leasing products, we understand businesses also have short-term working capital nance requirements and recognise how these signi cant one-o payments can negatively impact on the day-to-day cash ow. Our Working Capital Finance solutions of PromptPay and Insurance Premium Finance are short term nance products which enable businesses to nance signi cant annual payments, easing cash ow pressures, and are a key part of our product o ering to many business customers.”
Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland
We cannot expect one without the other.
It’s why we pride ourselves in focusing on how we, as a team, can always improve. It means embracing new technologies, continuous professional development, reviewing projects for fresh insights and building close relationships with our supply chain. After all, to build smarter, we need everyone to go further.
Go Further | Build Smarter
To learn more about how John Paul Construction can help you, email info@johnpaul.ie or visit www.johnpaul.ie
Celebrating Excellence in Sustainability
Arthur Cox took home top honours at this year’s Sustainable Business Impact Awards
At a glittering ceremony in Dublin on 25 September 2024, Arthur Cox LLP was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business Impact award at the Chambers Ireland's Sustainable Business Impact (SBI) Awards. ese distinguished awards, now in their 21st year, recognise exemplary practices in sustainable business development across Ireland.
Arthur Cox LLP, along with winners in 14 other categories, showcased an unwavering commitment to corporate sustainability. eir initiatives underscore the importance of integrating sustainable practices into business operations, signi cantly impacting their workforce, environment and local communities.
e SBI Awards, sponsored by BAM Ireland, highlight best practice in sustainable development and social responsibility across companies of all
sizes throughout Ireland. Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director of BAM Ireland, expressed his pride, remarking, "We are thrilled to sponsor the Sustainable Business Impact Awards once again and extend our congratulations to all participants and winners, especially Arthur Cox LLP. e impressive submissions this year demonstrate a persistent commitment to sustainability, with innovation and dedication reaching new heights annually."
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, echoed these sentiments while commending Arthur Cox LLP for their overarching win. "Congratulations to Arthur Cox LLP and all category winners. eir commitment to embedding sustainability into their core operations not only reduces their environmental footprint, but sets a benchmark for businesses nationwide. eir achievements exemplify leadership in sustainable and responsible business practices."
"We are thrilled to sponsor the Sustainable Business Impact Awards once again and extend our congratulations to all participants and winners, especially Arthur Cox LLP."
Jean Maxwell, Head of Sustainable Business and Internal Communications with Geo Moore, Managing Partner, Arthur Cox
SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS IMPACT AWARDS
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Katherine Sheils, Sponsorship Lead, KPMG; Karina Howley, Head of Corporate Citizenship, KPMG; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Mykola Skvortsov, Associate, Arthur Cox; Carolann Minnock, Of Counsel and Head of Pro Bono, Arthur Cox; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
"Congratulations to Arthur Cox LLP and all category winners. Their commitment to embedding sustainability into their core operations not only reduces their environmental footprint but sets a benchmark for businesses nationwide."
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Eamonn Foley, Environment, Health and Safety Manager, Astellas Ireland Company; Grace Stack, Environmental, Health and Safety O icer, Astellas Ireland Company; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Isobel Doherty, People Propositions Lead, Three Ireland; Jill Johnson, CSR Manager, Three Ireland; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Tara O'Reilly, Corporate A airs, Amgen; ABE teacher, Carolyn Cavey, Biology and Science Teacher, St David’s Holy Faith, Greystones, Co Wicklow; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
Winners
The Sustainable Business Impact Awards category winners
Communication (LIC) KPMG – KPMG Women in Sport
Community Programme (MNC)
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Shane Mackey, Brand Marketing Manager, Bord na Móna Recycling; Lauralouise Reay, Marketing Graduate, Bord na Móna Recycling; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
Partnership with Charity (LIC)
Arthur Cox LLP – Providing critical legal support to displaced Ukrainian people
Amgen – The Amgen Biotech Experience at University College Dublin
Health & Wellbeing
Three Ireland – Supporting mental wellbeing at Three Ireland
Partnership with Charity (MNC)
Boots Ireland – Boots in partnership with the Irish Cancer Society
Environment & Biodiversity (LIC)
ABP Ireland – ABP Research & Demonstration Farm
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (LIC)
Bank of Ireland –Neuroinclusion Strategy
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (MNC)
Boots Ireland – You Belong at Boots
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Martha Ryan, Director of Human Resources and ESG Lead; Louise O'Brien, ESG Manager, Boots Ireland; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
Environment & Biodiversity (MNC)
Astellas Kerry Plant –“Changing Tomorrow” –Our Journey to Sustainability
Volunteering & Pro Bono Services
Gas Networks Ireland – Gas Networks Ireland Volunteer Initiatives
Partnership with a Social Enterprise
John Paul Construction –Refurbishment of Inner City Enterprises’ new Enterprise Hub
Sustainable Impact by a Small Business Bionua – Bionua’s Sustainable Solutions for a Global Di erence
Sustainable Impact by a Medium Business Easydry – Easydry’s 100% Compostable Biodegradable Towels
Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business Impact
Arthur Cox
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Stephen Connolly, Agricultural Sustainability Manager, ABP; Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland
Community Programme (LIC)
Bord na Mona Recycling – Bord na Mona Recycling Upcycling Competition
*LIC= Large Indigenous Company
*MNC= Multinational Company
Proud sponsor of
Rhasidat Adeleke
Record-breaking Sprinter
Leona Maguire Champion Golfer
Rachael
Blackmore
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CHAMBER FEATURE
Chamber Executive Forum
Paula Roche was elected Chair at the most recent Chamber Executive Forum
On September 10th, Chambers
Ireland held its most recent Chamber Executive Forum at the o ces of ree Ireland. is meeting was attended by 21 Chamber CEO’s from around our network and over the course of the day, they met with a number of important stakeholders including Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
ey also met with Leo Clancy, Chief Executive of Enterprise Ireland and Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority. At the meeting, we discussed energy needs for Ireland and the requirements for businesses from Budget 2025,
along with the forthcoming general election. We also received an overview of the nancial and service supports available to businesses from ree Ireland.
At the meeting, we elected Paula Roche of County Wexford Chamber as the new Chair and four new representatives to the board of Chambers Ireland. ese are John Hurley of Kilkenny Chamber, Jenny Beresford of Dungarvan Chamber, Toni Forrester of Letterkenny Chamber and Paula Roche of County Wexford Chamber.
e CE Forum meets four times per year to discuss import issues a ecting Chambers and their members.
"This meeting was attended by 21 Chamber CEO’s from around our network over the course of the day."
Helen Downes, CEO, Shannon Chamber; Peter Burke, Minister For Enterprise, Trade & Employment; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland
Fostering an inclusive culture
Mohamed S Camara, Program Coordinator at Employers For Change,
on why understanding inclusive recruitment from a disability perspective requires a shift in mindset
In today's dynamic and interconnected world, diversity is not just a buzzword; it's a necessity for thriving businesses. As we strive for inclusivity, it's crucial to understand that embracing diversity goes beyond gender and ethnicity – it extends to people with disabilities, a community o en overlooked in the recruitment process.
Understanding inclusive recruitment from a disability perspective requires a shi in mindset — one that values the unique skills and perspectives individuals with disabilities bring to the table. Research indicates that companies that prioritise inclusive hiring practices reap signi cant bene ts, not only in terms of corporate social responsibility but also in pro tability and innovation.
According to a study by the UK Department for Work and Pensions from 2023, businesses that embrace inclusive recruitment practices see a 72% increase in productivity. is nding underscores the untapped potential of individuals with disabilities in contributing to organisational success. Moreover, research by Accenture reveals that companies committed to disability inclusion achieve, on average, 28% higher revenue and twice the net income of their peers. e Inclusive Recruitment Toolkit, commissioned by the Open Doors Initiative, provides practical guidelines for Irish employers. It draws insights from research with diverse backgrounds, aiming to improve recruitment processes and create inclusive workplaces and you can check on this link for more information: https://www. opendoorsinitiative.ie/user les/ les/EFC%20 Inclusive%20Recruitment%20Toolkit%202022_ FINAL.pdf
Inclusive recruitment isn't just about statistical representation; it's about cultivating an organisational culture where every individual is esteemed and embraced. Picture the dynamic synergy when diverse voices converge, each bringing forth distinct viewpoints molded by their
"The Inclusive Recruitment Toolkit, commissioned by the Open Doors Initiative, provides practical guidelines for Irish employers."
backgrounds and experiences. rough nurturing inclusivity, companies unleash a torrent of creativity and innovative problem-solving, fueling progress and outpacing competitors. Integral to this ethos is accessibility, spanning all six stages of the recruitment process. For instance, o ering alternative formats for application materials ensures those with visual impairments can engage fully. Similarly, ensuring interview venues are wheelchair accessible empowers candidates with mobility challenges to participate without hindrance. Such accommodations underscore a commitment to fostering an environment where talent knows no bounds and where every voice nds resonance.
Moreover, companies that prioritise inclusive recruitment send a powerful message to both employees and customers – they stand for equality and embrace diversity in all its forms. is not only enhances brand reputation but also attracts top talent from diverse backgrounds who are drawn to organisations that share their values.
Inclusive recruitment isn't without its challenges, but the rewards far outweigh the obstacles. By proactively reaching out to individuals with disabilities, tapping into talent pools like never before, businesses can build teams that re ect the richness of society. Moreover, inclusive workplaces foster loyalty and employee engagement, leading to lower turnover rates and higher retention of valuable talent.
In conclusion, inclusive recruitment isn't just a checkbox – it's a strategic imperative for businesses looking to thrive in an increasingly diverse world. By embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive culture, companies can unlock the full potential of their workforce and drive innovation and growth. Let's build a future where everyone has a seat at the table and no one is le behind.
"Companies
that prioritise inclusive recruitment send a powerful message to both employees and customers –they stand for equality and embrace diversity in all its forms."
For further information on inclusive recruitment and how it can bene t your business, feel free to contact us:
Email: info@employersforchange.ie
Website: https://www.employersforchange.ie
LinkedIn: @Employers for Change
Instagram: @Employers for Change
Employers for Change is an employer disability information service and a program of the Open Doors Initiative, funded by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. e service empowers employers with all the information and advice needed to hire, employ, manage and retain sta with disabilities. For free consultations regarding Government supports, reasonable accommodations or disability policies, contact info@employersforchange.ie or follow on LinkedIn. Learn more about free trainings about Building Disability Con dence, Disability Inclusive Recruitment and Accessible Communication – www.employersforchange.ie
CHAMBER FEATURE
Generations of craftsmanship in Waterford
Intricate, authentic and masterful crystal pieces come to life at the House of Waterford factory
C"Explore the intricate process of crystal manufacturing through our guided factory tour which allows visitors to experience the exceptional skill of our elite master blowers, cutters, sculptors, and engravers."
rafted since 1783, Waterford continues to be at the forefront of exquisitely designed and expertly crafted crystal creations. House of Waterford’s esteemed factory is the beating heart of Waterford’s crystal manufacture and is where our most intricate and masterful crystal pieces come to life. The factory is located in the heart of Waterford City in Ireland, a Viking city build in 914 A.D., and is surrounded by a cluster of museums that detail the proud history of this great city.
Explore the intricate process of crystal manufacturing through our guided factory tour which allows visitors to experience the exceptional skill of our elite master blowers, cutters, sculptors, and engravers, some of whom have been honing their skills for over 45 years. Witness how our crystal masterpieces are crafted using centuries-old techniques, transforming molten crystal into glistening works of art.
Inside the retail store, you can explore Waterford’s full catalogue of products, including the Lismore pattern which has been a staple of Waterford’s since 1952. The trophy display gives visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of some of the world’s most recognisable sporting trophies like the Irish Open Trophy.
The Waterford Café provides a space to relax and enjoy delicious local produce on the finest Wedgwood china.
intertradeireland.com/TradeHub
AE scheme – what you should know
Auto-enrolment is set to impact every employer and employee in Ireland, writes Bobby McDonnell
The long-awaited auto-enrolment (AE) retirement scheme may finally be on the way in 2025. Legislation has passed all stages in the Oireachtas and although the focus was originally a January 2025 start date, a phased launch over 2025 is a more likely outcome at this stage. While exact dates are still not confirmed, it is noted by the Government that official updates will be provided on the its auto-enrolment web pages.
WHO WILL BE IMPACTED BY THE AE SCHEME?
In short, in one way or another every employer in Ireland, regardless of size or industry, and every employee, regardless of contract term or type if they are not already in a pension scheme will be impacted.
Even employers who currently already have existing private company pension schemes in place will need to see what adjustments may need to be made to their schemes and to ensure that their existing schemes are competitive and still fit for purpose.
Some of the finer details have yet to be formalised and communicated by the new AE body, so while employers, employees and the wider pension industry waits to see the final information and weigh up the pros and cons, here is what we know so far.
WHAT IS AUTO-ENROLMENT?
Auto-enrolment is a new Government administered retirement savings system; it is designed to ensure that anyone who is not building a pot for their retirement starts to do so. Ireland is the only OECD country with no form of this style of Government backed pension scheme. This new pension savings system will be made up from contributions from employers and employees with a Government top-up to be added also. It will be administered by the National Automatic Enrolment Retirement Savings Authority
which is a new Government department. The Government’s plan is to phase this new scheme in over 10 years from inception, with contribution rates to rise every three years.
WHAT IS THE RIGHT APPROACH FOR EMPLOYERS?
Auto-enrolment or company pension plan/PRSA
As is always the case with any financial planning, the specific needs of the employer and employee may make one option more appealing than the other. AE or a private company pension scheme have characteristics that differentiate them.
For example, occupational pension schemes afford generous tax relief to employee contributions and offer much greater flexibility, including Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs), whereas it appears AE will be much less flexible with a fairly rigid structure with
THIS NEW PENSION
SAVINGS SYSTEM WILL BE MADE UP FROM CONTRIBUTIONS FROM EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES WITH A GOVERNMENT TOP-UP TO BE ADDED ALSO”
fewer options. Employees who pay tax at 20% rate or do not pay any tax will benefit from the State contribution in AE, which is effectively similar to a tax relief at a rate of 25%, as opposed to 20% or 0% in an occupational pension scheme.
Equally, employees who are higher rate taxpayers (currently 40%) will be significantly better off in an occupational pension scheme where they will get tax relief on contributions at the marginal rate rather than at 25% in auto-enrolment.
Employers with existing schemes in place, who ensure that all their employees are members of their occupational pension scheme and adjust eligibility criteria accordingly, will avoid the need to administer contributions to two or more schemes at the same time, ie some employees are auto-enrolled and others are members of the company pension scheme. Also, the absence of risk benefits (death in service/ income protection) for employees with auto-enrolment is another key consideration.
Ultimately the issue we face in Ireland is that there is a shortfall of people who are saving for later in life. Any plan to help these people save will ultimately be a positive and AE will help drive awareness of the need for income in retirement and set more people on the path to a financially secure future.
The best advice…. is to get advice.
Bobby McDonnell is Corporate and Pensions Risk Manager at Bank of Ireland
Reduce Your Company’s E-Commerce Carbon Footprint
DHL Express is helping businesses start or advance their sustainability efforts by offering practical advice to enhance environmental responsibility in logistics
As the drive for sustainability intensifies, reducing the carbon footprint of e-commerce operations has emerged as a crucial goal for businesses. The surge in online shopping presents both challenges and opportunities for companies aiming to minimise their environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. Here’s
a closer look at effective strategies for cutting down carbon emissions in the e-commerce sector.
OPTIMISE PACKAGING
Packaging is a key area where e-commerce companies can make a significant difference. Traditional packaging often leads to unnecessary waste and higher carbon emissions. To address this, switch to eco-friendly packaging options such as recycled cardboard, biodegradable materials, or compostable fillers. For example, companies like Noissue are pioneering sustainable packaging solutions that reduce reliance on single-use plastics. Additionally, opting for packaging that snugly fits the product helps minimise the need for extra cushioning and reduces waste. Implementing customsized packaging ensures each package is efficiently sized, cutting down on excess material and emissions.
EFFICIENT SHIPPING
Shipping is another major contributor to carbon emissions in e-commerce. To mitigate their environmental impact, companies should leverage technology
OFFERING CUSTOMERS OPTIONS TO REDUCE THEIR CARBON EMISSIONS THROUGH CARBON INSETTING PROGRAMMES, LIKE DHL EXPRESS’S GOGREEN PLUS SERVICE, ALLOWS THEM TO INSET AND REDUCE THE COMPANY’S SCOPE 3 EMISSIONS
to streamline delivery routes. Advanced algorithms can identify the most efficient paths, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. At DHL Express, we use tools like Greenplan to enhance route efficiency and lower the environmental footprint. Combining multiple orders into a single shipment, where possible, also cuts down on the number of trips and minimises both packaging waste and transportationrelated emissions.
GREEN LOGISTICS
Incorporating green logistics solutions can further reduce a company’s carbon footprint. Transitioning to electric or hybrid delivery vehicles reduces dependence on fossil fuels and cuts greenhouse gas emissions. DHL Express is working towards having 60 per cent of its ground fleet electrified by 2030. Enhancing warehousing practices by implementing energy-efficient solutions, such as utilising renewable energy sources like solar panels and optimising heating and cooling systems, can substantially lower energy consumption.
CONSUMER CHOICES
Empowering customers to make ecofriendly choices is another effective way to reduce carbon footprints. Offering
customers options to reduce their carbon emissions through carbon insetting programmes, like DHL Express’s GoGreen Plus service, allows them to inset and reduce the company’s Scope 3 emissions using Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
MEASURE AND REPORT
Understanding and tracking your carbon footprint is essential for effective reduction efforts. Regularly measuring and analysing carbon emissions across various aspects of your e-commerce operations helps identify areas for improvement and for tracking progress over time.
Reducing the carbon footprint in e-commerce demands a comprehensive approach, focusing on sustainable packaging, efficient shipping, green logistics, and consumer engagement. By adopting these strategies, businesses can make a significant environmental impact while meeting the increasing demand for sustainable practices. Embracing these changes not only contributes to a healthier planet but also enhances brand reputation and fosters customer loyalty.
For more practical tips scan the QR code.
Helping Irish businesses grow
A focus on security and fibre expansion at Virgin Media Business means businesses of all sizes are equipped with the tools they need to scale and succeed
In today’s digital age, reliable, highspeed internet is crucial for small, medium and large enterprises to remain competitive and operationally efficient. Connectivity affects everything, from customer engagement and cloudbased services to remote work capabilities and digital transformation initiatives. As businesses grow, so do their bandwidth needs, making scalable and future-proof solutions essential. Dagmara Nowak, Manager of Pre Sales at Virgin Media Business, discusses the important role of fibre networks, cybersecurity challenges and the need for businesses to invest in cybersecurity.
A key component in meeting these growing demands is the role of fibre networks. Dagmara mentions: “Fibre networks offer superior speeds, lower latency and more reliable service compared to traditional copper-based connections, making them ideal for modern busi-
nesses. As companies increasingly rely on cloud-based applications and data-heavy processes, the need for a robust fibre network becomes even more critical, ensuring seamless operations and preventing disruptions.”
With an extensive, rapidly expanding fibre network across Ireland, Virgin Media Business provides high-speed internet to businesses in urban and rural areas like Cork, Tralee, Killarney and Letterkenny, as well as wide range of fibre-based dedicated enterprise grade services.
However, alongside strong connectivity, businesses also face growing cybersecurity challenges. As companies expand, they become more attractive targets for cybercriminals, particularly for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks that can disrupt operations. Poorly secured networks and unencrypted communications heighten the risk of data theft, fraud and costly downtime.
“Even with the best internet connectivity, businesses can be crippled by cyber threats if they lack advanced protection services,” comments Dagmara. “Recognising this, Virgin Media Business provides proactive DDoS mitigation services designed to shield businesses from largescale attacks that can severely impact their networks. These services detect and neutralise threats before they cause disruptions, ensuring constant uptime and performance.”
Virgin Media Business also offers Secure SIP solutions, which safeguard voice communication by encrypting VoIP (Voice over IP) channels. This service ensures that sensitive conversations are protected from interception and unauthorised access, while also ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
Fast, reliable internet is only half the equation. Medium to large enterprises (MLEs) also need robust cybersecurity measures to protect their data, communications, and operations from everevolving threats. Virgin Media Business’ DDoS protection and Secure SIP services empower MLEs to operate confidently, knowing that their networks and voice communications are secured against malicious attacks.
As a Tier 1 service provider, Virgin Media Business is the go-to partner for both SMEs and MLEs looking for growth through enhanced digital connectivity. By focusing not only on connectivity but also on security, Virgin Media Business ensures that Irish businesses can operate confidently in a digital landscape fraught with cybersecurity challenges. With advanced DDoS protection and Secure SIP services, businesses can safeguard their data, communications and operations, enabling them to harness the full potential of their digital infrastructure without fear of malicious attacks.
In an era where digital transformation is essential to growth, Virgin Media Business’s commitment to fibre expansion and security means businesses of all sizes are equipped with the tools they need to innovate, scale and succeed.
VIRGIN DEDICATED INTERNET ACCESS
RAPID, RESILIENT INTERNET THAT'S ALL YOURS
Businesses of all sizes, upgrade to our Dedicated Internet Access: reliable, equal speeds, robust backup, and top-tier Service Level Agreements. We've got it all covered.
FEATURES:
• Symmetrical service: Your upload and download speeds stay identicalessential for moving data and services like VoIP.
• Cost e ective: Choose the plan that suits your business needs. Fixed monthly costs mean no nasty surprises on your bill.
• Best service agreements: In the unlikely event of an interruption we provide the best service agreements in Ireland.
BENEFITS:
• Relentlessly rapid: From 10Mb to 10Gbps per second, a dedicated connection gives you the ability to work with higher capacities with identical upload and download speeds.
• Flexible bandwidth: Easy to ex when demand changes and easy to budget with the knowledge of all the xed costs up front. You’ll only ever pay for the bandwidth you need.
Suppo r t loc a l to l i ft us a l l
All Ri s e All Ri s e
Ch am p i o n G r ee n . i e
Best in class
Sinead Browne, Head of Elevate, on building a next-level data solutions business and delivering relevant advertising solutions to brands
WHEN DID MUSGRAVE RETAIL MEDIA BUSINESS LAUNCH
ELEVATE AND WHAT IS ITS AIM?
Elevate launched to the media market in March 2024. The aim of Elevate is to capitalise on the diverse and rich audiences that are reached across the Musgrave national estate. What makes the audience we bring to brands unique is the multiple touchpoints across both our retail (grocery and convenience) and wholesale brands eg SuperValu, Centra, Marketplace. When consumers are in purchasing consideration mode in store or online, delivering relevant and contextual advertising provides that real moment of truth in each of these areas.
HOW IS BUSINESS GOING? CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT SOME OF YOUR CURRENT PROJECTS?
Business is going well; we have had another consecutive year of growth. Our projects now include delivering innovation in our existing offering, alongside enhancing our digital proposition by utilising Musgrave’s valuable first party data. We now have a strong team in place, dedicated to delivering tailored campaigns based on data and insight led decisions. Our team are focused on working collaboratively with clients to ensure we deliver successful campaigns that maximise their return on investment.
CAN YOU GIVE ME AN EXAMPLE OF A SOLUTION FOR A CLIENT THAT HAS WORKED WELL?
A recent partnership between Elevate and a brand from the chill category was particularly effective. Their objective was to drive new customers to their product. Through a cross- platform campaign spanning our online shopper platform, a competition promoted through our social channels and targeted email, complimented with standout POS, Elevate delivered results which drove new consumers to the brand by 35% and sales growth by 51%.
ELEVATE HAS A CLEAR AMBITION OF BECOMING THE MEDIA CHANNEL OF CHOICE FOR ALL MARKETEERS IN IRELAND. WE ARE ON A JOURNEY IN BUILDING A BEST-INCLASS MEDIA AND DATA SOLUTIONS BUSINESS AND WE ARE INVESTING SIGNIFICANTLY TO MAKE THAT HAPPEN”
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MORE EFFECTIVE TOOLS THAT BUSINESSES CAN EMPLOY TO FUEL GROWTH?
The tools will always depend on the campaign objective. The solutions we can deliver work from pre-prompt (before store visits) right through to contextual advertising across multiple touchpoints in store and online. The Elevate approach is consultancy led; we use the wealth of first party data and analytics at our disposal to inform us about the audiences that brands want to reach. Post campaign analysis then provides strategic recommendations for future campaigns, delivering a full 360 approach to our clients.
ARE SOME BUSINESSES STILL RELUCTANT TO LEVERAGE ONLINE PLATFORMS?
We see clients of all expenditure levels take advantage of our online platforms. In fact, our online platform is a key growth area for us. Our consumer data shows that shopping behaviour is migrating online. We already have media placed in
high traffic areas onsite and have big plans to invest more in the coming months. We’re also bringing gamification to life in the next few months. It’s a new format that engages consumers with brands within an exciting and fun environment.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A BRAND LOOKING TO INVESTING IN RETAIL MEDIA?
Musgrave has a wealth of experience within the Irish retail sector. By working with Elevate, brands can leverage this knowledge. Also, our vast offering across multiple touchpoints gives brands the opportunity to reach customers at various stages of their consumer shopper journey.
WHAT ARE THE AMBITIONS FOR 2024 AND BEYOND?
Elevate has a clear ambition of becoming the media channel of choice for all marketeers in Ireland. We are on a journey in building a best-in-class media and data solutions business and we are investing significantly to make that happen.
E N E R G Y E F F IC I E N C Y G R A N T
P U T A L L Y O U R E N E R G Y I N TO E F F I C IE N C Y
More efficient equipment and technology can reap dividends for your business Improving energy efficiency and reducing waste can make a big impact on your bottom line. With our Energy Efficiency
Grant you can access grants of 75% of your costs for newer, more efficient equipment up to €10,000. Contact Local Enterprise Office Clare today FIND
Is your business sustainable?
LEO Clare offers businesses a range of supports to improve their productivity and become more competitive
Sustainability means different things to different businesses, but do you know how sustainable your business is? In recent months, the Local Enterprise Office Clare have introduced an enhanced range of supports aimed at improving the cost competitiveness of businesses employing less than 50 people operating in all business sectors across the county. These Statefunded initiatives are designed to facilitate small and medium-sized businesses in assessing their operational efficiencies and take proactive steps to improve their productivity. Supports include the Lean, Green and Digital programmes, all of which enable small businesses to become more competitive and productive in how they work.
SAVE MONEY, WORK SMART
In a recent report, an average of €34,000 is saved by businesses that engage in productivity programmes. The LEAN Programme is designed to encourage
clients to adopt LEAN business principles in their organisations to increase competitiveness. The Green for Business is another programme with a consultant assigned to help business owners make small changes that can have a big impact. These recommendations are further supplemented by an Energy Efficiency Grant which provides funding up to 75% of eligible costs up to a maximum of €10,000, to implement those changes. LEO Clare also wants to ensure that small businesses plan well for digital transformation by maximising every advantage, whether they are planning to develop bespoke software to improve internal processes or to deliver
improved customer experiences through digital solutions. In recent weeks the Local Enterprise Offices have introduced two new supports – Digital For Business and the Grow Digital Voucher – which provides up to 50% funding for eligible costs up to a maximum of €5,000.
ENHANCING THE COST COMPETITIVENESS OF CLARE BUSINESSES
Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise at Clare LEO stated: “Taking time out to reflect on operational strategies for enhanced efficiency and productivity can be challenging for business owners. This is where available resources play a pivotal role. I encourage businesses to engage with their Local Enterprise Office to explore tailored supports that can facilitate their daily operations, improve efficiencies and enhance profitability.”
Local Enterprise Office Clare works with client companies across County Clare offering a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice and financial supports to small businesses.
For additional information visit https:// www.localenterprise.ie/Clare/ or telephone 065 6821616.
TAKING TIME OUT TO REFLECT ON OPERATIONAL STRATEGIES FOR ENHANCED EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY CAN BE CHALLENGING FOR BUSINESS OWNERS. THIS IS WHERE AVAILABLE RESOURCES PLAY A PIVOTAL ROLE”
Evan Talty from Wild Irish Seaweed
Be prepared
Now’s the time to ensure your business funding for seasonal stock is in order
As summer draws to a close, it’s important for businesses to plan for the funding of seasonal stock purchases. Consumer demands can shift from September to December and having the right stock can significantly impact a company’s profitability and customer satisfaction. Seasonal stock purchases often require significant upfront investment, which can strain a company’s finances if not properly planned. By forecasting cashflow needs and arranging financing options such as lines of credit or shortterm loans, businesses can ensure they
have the liquidity to make necessary purchases without disrupting other operations.
By securing the necessary funds in advance, businesses can strike a balance on stocking levels, ensuring they have enough stock to meet demand without overcommitting resources. While overstocking can lead to increased holding costs and potential losses, understocking can result in missed sales opportunities and dissatisfied customers. Having your finance and funding lined up in advance can ensure you get your stocking levels just right, maximising sales and profits.
But what if I am having difficulty securing credit from my bank?
Credit Review is here to help. We provide an independent appeal service
Credit where it’s due.
Having difficulty getting a new business loan or restructuring your existing debt with your bank?
Established by the Minister for Finance, Credit Review is here to help.
Talk to the credit experts today on 0818 211 789 or visit creditreview.ie
for businesses who have had credit facilities refused, reduced, restructured/ refinanced or withdrawn by AIB, BOI and PTSB for amounts up to €3 million. Our helpline also provides useful information and assistance over the phone to SME’s – sometimes credit issues can be resolved without a formal appeal.
Our appeals process is flexible and responsive. Our credit experts will engage directly with you and provide comprehensive insights into the credit application/decline process.
For more information on our independent appeals process and information services, visit creditreview.ie where you can request a call back, or call the helpline directly on 0818 211789
Unrivalled Choice
Excellent customer service and new ‘For You’ brand drives growth for credit unions
Over the last 12 months, credit unions across Ireland have experienced sustained growth in the number of members, the volume of loans and the range of channels being used to conduct business. Future opportunities for the unique not-for-profit financial cooperatives are significant, with the Credit Union (Amendment) Act 2023 providing a legislative foundation upon which credit unions can expand their offering to include greater mortgage and business loans to consumers. This brings real competition and benefits to the people of Ireland, where retail financial services have historically been heavily dominated by high street banks.
Alice Grant is Head of Brand & Member Experience at the Irish League of Credit Unions, which represents 90% of the total active credit unions in the Republic of Ireland. She says there
are two main factors driving credit union growth.
“Firstly and unique among any financial institution, credit unions are a not-for-profit institution built for members and the communities they live in. Decisions are driven by this ethos, not for profit or shareholder interest. This results in a very customer-centric approach, as evident by credit unions winning the CXi Customer Experience Awards since 2014. This valuecentric ethos has significant appeal to our existing members and is also driving new members to join the credit union, with one in 10 new current accounts each week being opened with a credit union.
“Secondly, credit unions offer unrivalled choice of channels. They are available online, over the phone or in one of 400 locations. This choice is crucial to our existing members and to attracting new members. The ‘For You’ national advertising campaign promotes this choice to consumers, with the holistic approach setting credit unions apart from other financial institutions.”
THIS RESULTS IN A VERY CUSTOMERCENTRIC APPROACH, AS EVIDENT BY CREDIT UNIONS WINNING THE CXI CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AWARDS SINCE 2014”
Skills for Sustainability
Now, more than ever, companies need to ensure their employees have the skills to compete in a low carbon, resource efficient and circular economy
Upskilling teams in green skills is becoming recognised as an essential part of future-proofing businesses, while empowering employees to act as agents of change in tackling climate change.
With the Skills to Advance, Green Skills micro-qualifications, it has never been easier to train your team. This highly-subsidised suite of programmes is designed to boost awareness of the key environmental sustainability issues affecting organisations and equip every learner with the green skills needed for sustainable business practice.
These micro-qualifications have been developed under Skills to Advance, an initiative providing subsidised upskilling for employers and their employees, funded by SOLAS, the State agency responsible for Further Education and Training (FET). The programmes have been created in collaboration with SOLAS, the 16 Education and
Training Boards (ETBs) nationwide, the Environmental Protection Agency, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Irish Water, IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and the Regional Skills Fora.
Micro-qualifications are short, stackable, fully accredited qualifications. They are provided locally by ETBs across the country and at little to no cost. Programmes are delivered in a flexible, blended format with tutor support and online digital resources to enhance the learning experience and are scheduled to fit around the schedules of participating companies and their workforce.
There are currently seven Green Skills micro-qualification courses that are awarded at levels 4 to 6 on the NFQ. Programmes include Environmental Sustainability in the Workplace, Sustainable Procurement, the Circular Economy and more, with further programmes in leader-
ship, reporting and sustainable finance currently in development.
Jon Geary, Co-Founder of the awardwinning Little Mamma’s gelato shop in Donegal town, completed Environmental Sustainability in the Workplace micro-qualification course run by the Donegal ETB. He found that the course helped in taking action to transform different parts of the business to more sustainable practices, with impressive cost savings.
“We were able to bring all these new skills back to the business basically straight away, starting off with waste segregation, looking at reusable items for the business, cutting out plastics and also energy savings,” he explained.
Since 2019, more than 80,000 people have participated in a Skills to Advance course. These programmes are a fantastic opportunity for career development within companies, empowering business owners and employees with the skills to create more sustainable, competitive and profitable companies, while future-proofing jobs.
Learn more about the programmes on offer by visiting skillstoadvance.ie or contacting your local ETB
David McCourt is the Chairman of National Broadband Ireland
Exciting Times
NBI’s David McCourt discusses how Ireland can capitalise on its connected future
Irish-American entrepreneur David McCourt has enjoyed an illustrious career by any measure. As the founder and Chairman of NBI, many will know him for spearheading the rollout of the National Broadband Plan in partnership with the Irish Government, the biggest investment in rural Ireland since electrification.
In a career spanning over 35 years, McCourt has been one of the most prominent investors and entrepreneurs in the technology, media and telecommunications (TMT) industries, founding or running over 25 companies. To top it off, he’s an Emmy award-winning TV producer and a best-selling author.
Chambers Ireland sat down with the man behind NBI, who The Economist describes as possessing “impeccable credentials as a telecom revolutionary”, to find out about the progress in NBI’s rollout and the opportunities he sees ahead in Ireland’s connected future.
THE MINISTER OF STATE OSSIAN SMYTH RECENTLY POINTED TO THE NATIONAL BROADBAND PLAN’S SUCCESS, CLAIMING IT WAS ON TRACK TO COME IN ON SCHEDULE, ON BUDGET AND DELIVER GREATER BENEFITS THAN ORIGINALLY ANTICIPATED. HOW IS THE ROLLOUT GOING IN YOUR EYES?
The Minister is certainly correct – NBI is on schedule, on budget, and our connections surpass not only the original targets but also all other international comparisons. A huge amount of credit must go to the Government and the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, in particular.
At NBI, we have over 2000 talented men and women working tirelessly to complete the rollout as fast and effectively as possible. Today, the project is more than 50% complete with approximately 475,000 premises built or underconstruction, over 300,000 premises available to order high-speed broadband on the NBI network and approximately 100,000 homes, farms and businesses connected.
This is truly a transformative infrastructure that brings economic, social, and environmental benefits to communities across Ireland, helping to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age. Ultimately, NBI will serve over 1.1 million people, stimulating an exciting future not just for rural Ireland but for Ireland INC.
WE KNOW YOU’RE A BIG ADVOCATE FOR IRELAND ON THE GLOBAL STAGE AND YOU’VE CAMPAIGNED FOR THE ROLE IRELAND COULD PLAY IN WRITING GLOBAL AI RULES. TELL US ABOUT THAT. Well firstly, Artificial intelligence (AI) is the most urgent technology issue of our times, and its development and adoption are going to accelerate as a result of access to high speed connectivity becoming ubiquitous. We’ve never seen potential like it. But we must move quickly to meaningfully frame it in a way that serves our democracy, our society and our vision of humanity. I believe Ireland is incredibly well placed to lead in shaping the future of this technology. We have a trackrecord of pioneering policy decisions, we’re soon to be one of the most connected countries in Europe, and we have 16 of the top 20 global tech companies with a major office or HQ here (including OpenAI).
YOU RECENTLY HOSTED A SERIES OF EVENTS AT DALKEY BOOK FESTIVAL TO SHED LIGHT ON SOME OF THESE ISSUES. WHAT HAS THE RECEPTION BEEN? These sessions are part of a worldwide series I am hosting with Columbia University and the reception in Ireland has been phenomenal. We have such a rich talent pool of thought leaders and the respect Ireland holds internationally is critical to driving meaningful change.
Most importantly, my focus is on looking at the positive effects of AI as opposed to the usual stories of gloom and doom. That’s not to say that guardrails aren’t important – they are – but I think Ireland has an opportunity to lead on the opportunities.
I believe it is a civilisation-defining topic, and that’s why I’m tackling this from multiple angles. In addition to the AI event series, we’re shooting a documentary to shine a light on ordinary people doing extraordinary things with AI; I recently accepted an Adjunct Professorship at UCD to help support the school’s work in AI; and of course, at NBI we’re laying the foundations for the connectivity that will give rise to all these new advances in technology. We’re living through incredibly exciting times and you have to stay alert to keep up.
Visit www.nbi.ie to check whether your home is included in the National Broadband Plan and register to receive Eircode specific updates on the rollout
AT NBI, WE HAVE OVER 2000 TALENTED MEN AND WOMEN WORKING TIRELESSLY TO COMPLETE THE ROLLOUT AS FAST AND EFFECTIVELY AS POSSIBLE”
Getting out of the office is the perfect reset for your team and clients with conference, meeting and teambuilding spaces to suit all.
Just an hour from Dublin, The Heritage is your perfect venue with a choice of open spaces and meeting places for your next offsite meeting, whether it’s to gather your team or clients alike.
Over €1.1m allocated to 28 projects by South Dublin County Council under the Community Climate Action Programme; Hellfire Project Conservation Works at Massy’s Wood Commence; Meath County Council secures €7m THRIVE funding
€5.1m LEADER funding available to County Limerick communities; €987,845 community funding announced for 16 projects in County Tipperary; Cork County Council opens road infrastructure to support 2,500 homes at WaterRock Urban Expansion Area in Midleton
Mayo County Council awards €2m in Croi Conaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment grants; Ireland’s first artificial reef in Killala Bay; Minister Catherine Martin TD breaks ground on €1.2m water sports facility in Co Leitrim
Lord Mayor of Belfast welcomes PEACEPLUS funding for community relations; sod turned on Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) Harbour Redevelopment Phase 2 Regeneration Project; Contracts signed for Glenties Historic Towns Initiative
Fingal County Council has been handed the keys to the Rush Multipurpose Youth Facility (RMYF) following a refurbishment to the site on Millbank. This upgraded facility will serve as a vital hub for the community, providing much-needed spaces for community groups to engage in a variety of activities, meetings and development programmes. The refurbishment project was primarily funded by Fingal County Council, having invested just
over €1m to help develop the facility. Additional funding was supplied by the LEADER Programme, and the RMYF. Pictured: Eamonn Ryan CTS handing over the keys to Mayor of Fingal Brian McDonagh and Chief Executive of Fingal County Council AnnMarie Farrelly.
Over €1.1m allocated to 28 projects by South Dublin County Council under the Community Climate Action Programme
Hellfire Project Conservation Works at Massy’s Wood Commence
Hellfire, the transformative project in the Dublin Mountains which will offer a range of exciting amenities and activities for visitors of all ages, reaches a key milestone as conservation works officially commenced on September 17th. Led by South Dublin County Council and supported by Coillte, Hellfire will transform the area into a captivating destination for leisure, tourism, and cultural experiences. Previously referred to as the “Dublin Mountain Visitor Centre Project”, the project has been named “Hellfire” following extensive consultation with key stakeholders. Key features of Hellfire will include a state-of-the-art Visitor Centre, a Treetop Canopy Walk, Hellfire Club restoration, and exploration of the historic Massy’s Estate including its woodlands and trails.
“South Dublin County Council’s Tourism Strategy 2024–2029 reflects the Council’s commitment to unlocking the full potential of South Dublin as a vibrant and sustainable tourist destination, of which, Hellfire is identified as a major initiative to support tourism development in the County,” says South Dublin County Council Mayor Cllr Baby Pereppadan. “The planned investment in major projects such as Hellfire demonstrates our aim to create sustainable experiences that resonate with visitors, while also preserving the natural beauty and the cultural and historic heritage of the area. I am excited about Hellfire’s potential and the benefits that will accrue for the local community and visitors alike.”
South Dublin County Council has announced that 28 projects have been awarded funding through Strand 1 and 1a of the Community Climate Action Programme. A range of community organisations, from sports clubs to scouts, and charities to social enterprises have been supported to take climate action that has impact. Work will include changing the energy use of facilities from fossil-fuel-based sources like oil and gas to renewable sources like solar. The insulation of buildings to keep the heat we make is also featured, as is action to support the better management of our resources, by improving how communities deal with waste. Projects also seek to promote active travel, by providing facilities for bikes and scooters, thus helping to reduce journeys made by car, in addition to the provision and reimagining of local green spaces.
With funding coming from the national Climate Action Fund, the Community Climate Action Programme in South Dublin will seek to try to build on the recent downward trend of greenhouse gas emissions in the State. As we work towards the national 2030 climate targets and implement South Dublin County Council’s own Climate Action Plan 2024–2029, these local community projects form a crucial part of the ongoing response.
“I am delighted to support these vital local projects under the Community Climate Action Programme, a landmark fund which is making €24m available to climate action projects across Ireland, alongside a €3m contribution from the government’s Shared Island Fund,” says Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan. “I look forward to seeing the transformative effect these projects will have not only in tackling climate change, but in making our cities, towns and villages better places to live and work.”
[ SOUTH COUNTY DUBLIN ]
A new campaign has been launched by Local Enterprise Office Meath to help small businesses take those first steps in becoming more sustainable and show them the substantial benefits. The “Going Green, It’s All In A Day’s Work” campaign will show how easy it is for a business to make small changes that can make a significant impact. There are two specific supports available to all small businesses (up to 50 employees) in any sector that can set them on their green journey, the Green for Business audit and the Energy Efficiency Grant. Businesses are encouraged to take two minutes to register themselves on AllInADaysWork.ie/Green and their Local Enterprise Office will take it from there.
Meath County Council secures €7m THRIVE funding
Meath County Council secured €7m in THRIVE funding, the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme 2024, under Strand 2 for the development of Navan Cultural Quarter: Community Hub & County Archive, formerly known as St Patrick’s Classical School.
allocated to Meath projects under Community Climate Action Programme
Meath County Council and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications announced the allocation of €811,000, which will be shared across 25 community groups in Meath under the Community Climate Action Programme, which aims to support small and large, rural and urban communities to tackle climate action at a local level and empower communities to shape and build low carbon, sustainable communities.
The project consists of the conservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of a vacant and derelict building, the former St Finian’s Seminary Study Hall (and former St Patrick’s Classical School), an important Protected Structure in the heart of Navan. The design for St Finian’s Seminary Study Hall is to convert this building into a new Community Hub and County Archive. The surrounding public realm will be restored in line with the natural gradient of the space to create a natural amphitheatre and along with the renovated hand ball alley will provide outdoor space for cultural and artistic performances and events and will provide linkages to other cultural buildings in its proximity and the historic core town. The community hub will be used for community meetings, workshops, classes and training and will also act as a community exhibition space. The county archive will provide an appropriate space to store historical records, photographic collections and industrial heritage collections which will be available for academics, schools, historians, archaeologists and citizens free of charge.
THRIVE, the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme is awarded under Ireland’s two European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Regional Programmes. THRIVE was developed by the Southern Regional Assembly and the Northern & Western Regional Assembly, working closely with the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage. The funding aims to allow Local Authorities and citizens to reimagine and revitalise town centres through the renovation and adaptive reuse of vacant or derelict heritage buildings in public control or ownership.
[ COUNTY LIMERICK ]
€5.1m LEADER funding available to
€5.1m in LEADER funding is available to support rural development projects across the whole of County Limerick. The LEADER programme is a community-led initiative designed to support rural development projects. It aims to improve the quality of life and economic activity in rural areas by funding projects that align with local development strategies. Supports under LEADER 2023–2027 will be provided under three main funding themes: Economic Development and Job Creation; Rural Infrastructure & Social Inclusion; and Sustainable Development & Climate Change. Limerick Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) in Partnership with West Limerick Resources is now seeking expressions of interest for funding support. Anyone who wishes to apply for support under this initial call must submit an expression of interest before December 16.
€750K+
County Limerick communities
awarded to 19 Limerick projects under the Community Climate Action Programme
Limerick City and County Council announced the allocation of more than €750,000 to 19 Limerick projects under the Community Climate Action Programme. The funds will support Limerick community groups and organisations to deliver projects in areas such as biodiversity, energy conservation and waste disposal.
[ COUNTY TIPPERARY ]
€987,845
community funding announced for 16 projects in County Tipperary
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD announced €16.5m million to deliver 185 community projects across the country under the Community Recognition Fund 2024, which aims to support the development of community infrastructure and facilities in recognition of the contribution being made by communities across the country in welcoming and hosting significant numbers of arrivals from Ukraine and other countries.
Tipperary County Council put forward 18 projects of which 16 were successful, with funding totalling €987,845 announced for the county. This investment will support a diverse range of projects such as upgrades to sports facilities, community centres, parks, walking tracks, theatres and community gardens.
“Funding such as this is incredibly important for our community groups and sports clubs in Tipperary,” says Sinead Carr, Chief Executive of Tipperary County Council. “It enables them to continue providing high-quality facilities and services that are vital for communities to thrive.”
“The projects are diverse in nature – demonstrating the fact that communities have different needs,” says Minister Humphries. “This investment is just the first of a number of tranches that will be announced under the Community Recognition Fund over the coming months. This is about giving back and saying ‘thank you’ to communities for what they do week-in, week-out.”
Cork County Council opens road infrastructure to support 2,500 homes at Water-Rock Urban Expansion Area in Midleton
The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll and the Tánaiste, Micheál Martin TD officially opened an €11.7m critical infrastructure development at Water-Rock near Midleton that will eventually support 2,500 homes, three schools, a neighbourhood centre, a railway station and parks.
The works funded by the Government’s Local Infrastructure Housing Activation Fund (LIHAF) and Cork County Council include 1.7km of link roads, surface water drainage, services, public lighting and landscaping. Cork County Council acquired approximately 30 acres of land to facilitate the development. The road is an important part of the WaterRock Urban Expansion Area. Planning permission has already been granted for 1,400 residential units and construction of housing along the road has commenced. The design and planning of the infrastructure was completed by AtkinsRéalis with the works constructed by BAM Civil Ltd.
Cork County Council has purchased approximately 18 acres of land within the Water-Rock Urban Expansion Area to develop three public parks in tandem with [ COUNTY CORK ]
the proposed housing. The local authority is working to progress the Water-Rock Linear Park located along the Owenacurra River to the east of the site. In parallel, the Council is working with the support of government funding to construct the Midleton to Youghal Greenway and complete the interurban cycleway connectivity from Cork to Midleton.
“Sustainable housing delivery and infrastructure development is a priority for this government,” says Tánaiste, Micheál Martin. “The Water-Rock project is a
fine example of an integrated planning approach. Cork County Council has worked together with key state agencies – including Uisce Éireann, Irish Rail, Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Office of Public Works – to drive the delivery of vital infrastructure, which will support the development of thousands of much-needed homes in the Midleton area.”
A pilot food waste collection scheme on a West Cork island; new bike racks made from recycled wind turbine blades in North Cork; and the installation of solar PV panels on community buildings across the county are among more than 30 projects that have been awarded funding under the Community Climate Action Programme (CCAP). Cork County Council has announced that 31 community-led climate action projects have been approved for funding totalling €1,000,265. The CCAP is a new programme developed by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) to address climate change at a local level and aims to support and empower communities to shape and build lowcarbon, sustainable communities to contribute to national climate and energy targets.
Mayo County Council awards €2m in Croi Conaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment grants
Mayo County Council has paid out €2m in grant payments to successful households of the Croi Conaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment grant. This significant milestone comes at the second-year anniversary of the grant, which was established to provide a pathway to home ownership for applicants. The introduction of the grant two years ago resulted in an unprecedented response from members of the public across the county. The Vacant Homes Office of Mayo County Council administers the grant on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. To date, the Vacant Homes Office has received 577 applications under the grant, with 365 applicants having been approved thus far. Of those applicants who have been approved a grant, 54% of them are applying for the derelict top-up grant and 46% for the vacant property grant. The €2m in grant payments have been paid across 41 individual households. This figure represents 41 homes that would have been vacant and in some cases derelict which now because of the grant are completely refurbished and back in residential use.
[ COUNTY SLIGO ]
Sligo County Council has confirmed that the contract for the Cranmore Regeneration Project, Phase 3 – Building & Environmental Upgrade Works has been awarded to Kilcawley Construction. It is planned for the work to be carried out in five stages, with a duration of approximately 24 months. This project represents the final phase of the deep retrofit, energy works to upgrade residents’ homes in Cranmore. On completion of the project, residents’ homes will achieve an ‘A Building Energy Rating – BER’. Pictured, back row (from left): DOS
Jim Molloy, Senior Architect Marian O’Callaghan, Executive Technician Frank Quinn, Senior Executive Architect Míċeál McGinty, Executive Architect Colin Bell, and Gary O’Connor, Associate, Rhatigan Architects. Front row (from left): Fergal Meagher, Managing Director, Kilcawley Construction; An Cathaoirleach Cllr Declan Bree and Chief Executive Martin Lydon.
Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD announced €16.5m to deliver 185 community projects across the country, including funding of over €1.3m for 10 Sligo projects. The investment will support a diverse range of projects such as upgrades to sports facilities, community centres, parks, walking trails and playgrounds. As part of the initiative, funding is provided to support the purchase of buildings and vehicles for community use. [ COUNTY MAYO ]
€1.3M+
allocated to 10 Sligo projects under the Community Recognition Fund
Ireland’s first artificial reef for Killala Bay
Killala Bay is about to host Ireland’s very first artificial reef, creating a marine life haven and international tourist attraction on the Wild Atlantic Way. It involves the placing on the seabed of ex-smuggling ship the MV Shingle in an innovative co-operative venture between local group Killala Bay Ships 2 Reef Ltd., the Revenue Commissioners, Mayo County Council and Sligo County Council.
The MV Shingle hit the headlines in 2014 when it was seized by the Revenue Commissioners after 32 million smuggled cigarettes and 4.5 tonnes of tobacco were found on board with a potential loss of €14m to the exchequer.
The 60m steel hulled cargo boat has since undergone thorough preparations including environmental procedures making it ecofriendly and fit for purpose as an artificial reef. Having undergone works and required surveys, the vessel will leave New Ross and under tow arrive at its final destination in Killala Bay.
Artificial reefs have been in use around the world since the days of the Roman Empire, initially to increase fish stocks and later for recreational diving. These deliberately sunk manmade structures are quickly colonised by marine life, beginning within a few hours. Algae and coral are followed by a complex community of fish and larger marine life which is very attractive to both the diving and fishing communities.
“Mayo County Council are delighted to be part of this exciting development in Killala Bay,” says Chief Executive of Mayo County Council, Kevin Kelly. “The creation of Ireland’s first marine artificial reef is a new and exciting initiative and is a testament to the power of partnership and the dedication of all involved in getting it to this exciting stage.”
Minister Catherine Martin TD breaks ground on €1.2m water sports facility in Co Leitrim
Minister Catherine Martin officially turned the sod on the new €1.2m water sports facility at Acres Lake, Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim. Developed by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Leitrim County Council, this best-in-class outdoor tourism amenity aims to enhance the visitor experience and serve as a central hub for outdoor activities in Leitrim.
The new facility will help extend the outdoor tourism season by providing year-round hot showers, changing rooms, toilets, secure storage, induction spaces, and equipment washdown areas. Accessibility and sustainability will be key focus points for the project, ensuring full wheelchair access and the installation of solar heating panels to comply with Nearly Zero Energy Building Standards. It will also feature Leitrim’s first changing places facility along with an accessible toilet.
“The development of the Shannon Blueway and Acres Lake has acted as a catalyst for opening many enterprises in the area. This has led to a significant increase in people enjoying outdoor water-based activities such as kayaking, surfing, paddleboarding, and angling,” says Cathaoirleach at Leitrim County Council, Cllr Paddy O’Rourke. “The new facility will address the increased demand in capacity and enhance the existing Shannon Blueway, providing much-needed facilities for waterways users and improving their overall visitor experience.”
This project is part of Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Scheme, funded under the Government’s Project Ireland 2040 strategy. The first Fáilte Ireland investment scheme of its kind, it specifically targets ‘platforms’ or projects that have the greatest potential to grow tourism across Ireland and strategically enhance the Irish tourism offering to meet visitor needs.
[ COUNTY LEITRIM ]
COUNTY CAVAN ]
Lord Mayor of Belfast welcomes PEACEPLUS funding for community relations
Lord Mayor of Belfast Cllr Micky Murray has welcomed funding of almost £15m through the PEACEPLUS Programme, administered by the Special EU programmes body. The funding will target improving good relations in the city, supporting Belfast City Council’s Action Plan which aims to make Belfast a compassionate, inclusive city.
“A key part of the Belfast agenda is for our city to be one which is welcoming and compassionate. One that respects the diversity of our people,” says Belfast Lord Mayor Cllr Micky Murray. “In securing this funding, the council can use the money to encourage thriving and peaceful communities, and celebrate different cultures and diversity. Projects that are due to benefit from the funding include an LGBTQIA+ hub, Sanctuary Theatre, Distillery Street Redevelopment Project, Annadale Open Space, and Access to the Hills. These projects will make a real difference to our city and help make it as inclusive as possible.”
PEACEPLUS is a European Union funding programme designed promote peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.
A £90,000 fund from Belfast City Council has opened to incentivise and boost Belfastbased social enterprises and co-operatives. The Social Economy Incentive Fund will provide grants of between £1,000 and £10,000 to new or developing social economy businesses in early growth stages, or in need of support to begin trading in the next six months. Councillor Sam Nelson, Chair of the council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee, said the initiative is fulfilling the council’s aim of providing practical support to local businesses who are keen to give back: “Businesses have told us that one of the major barriers to start-up success and early growth – particularly in the social economy sector – is their lack of capital, so this fund will provide a welcome boost to help overcome this obstacle. Successful applicants can use these grants to cover set-up costs, buy equipment to grow their organisation, develop staff skills, help with marketing costs or bring in specialist support – anything that is not already covered by other business programmes.”
for Cavan communities to undertake climate action projects
Cavan County Council has been awarded funding of €771,961 for 27 community groups to undertake community climate action projects. Made available by the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications under the Community Climate Action Fund, this offers an opportunity to build climateresilient communities and reduce the impact of climate change whilst working towards a more sustainable future.
Pictured outside St Connell’s Museum are members of the St Connell’s Museum, Dedalus Architecture and John Molloy Construction.
Sod turned on Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) Harbour Redevelopment Phase 2 Regeneration Project
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD, together with the Elected Members of the Glenties Municipal District turned the sod on Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) Harbour Redevelopment Phase 2 Regeneration Project.
This significant regeneration project is co-funded by Donegal County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development under the Rural Regeneration & Development Fund, which is a flagship element of Project Ireland 2040. The project is the result of collaboration with the local community, Donegal County Council and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
The Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) Harbour Redevelopment – Phase 2 Regeneration Project forms part of the broader and linked multi-faceted integrated phased project known as the Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport)/Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) ‘Harbour to Island’ Regeneration Project for the regeneration of Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) and Oileán Árainn Mhór (Arranmore Island). Phase 1 transformed the harbour infrastructure and environment through the demolition and removal of under-
Works to the historic and cultural buildings will be completed by the end of October. [ COUNTY DONEGAL ]
utilised, redundant or vacant buildings, to a new multi-user public realm space with modern transport infrastructure, public amenities and services and parking and Phase 2 proposes a new Ferry Terminal Building and Enterprise Building that present as an important physical element of the overall project and provide a valuable opportunity to introduce regenerative physical development, a diversification of uses and quality architecture to the marine and harbour environment.
Dorrian Construction Ltd have been appointed by Donegal County Council to deliver Ailt an Chorrain (Burtonport) Harbour Redevelopment Phase 2 Regeneration Project which is scheduled for completion by Q4 2025. Design Team services on this project are being delivered by MH Associates.
Contracts signed for Glenties Historic Towns Initiative
Following the announcement earlier this year that the town of Glenties will benefit from €350,000 in funding under the Heritage Council’s Historic Towns Initiative, the signing of the contracts for conservation works to historic and cultural buildings in the town took place in The Highlands Hotel. The funding award will be augmented with €150,000 in funding from Donegal County Council as well as in-kind contributions by property owners. The Glenties Historic Towns partnership team include the Conservation Office and Heritage Office of Donegal County Council, the Brian Friel Trust, Dedalus Architecture and local property owners.
“The signing of the contracts is an important step in commissioning the proposed conservation works,” explains Joseph Gallagher, County Donegal Heritage Officer. “Structures that will benefit from conservation works under the scheme include The Laurels that is playwright Brian Friel’s mother’s home and the setting for his play Dancing at Lughnasa; the mid-19th century Glenties Courthouse that has been leased to the Brian Friel Trust in order to establish the Brian Friel Centre; the community-run St Connell’s Museum and the steel-arched gateway that forms part of the curtilage of St Connell’s Church. The project also involves the design of public realm along the Main Street in Glenties. The conservation works will employ best conservation practice and will demonstrate the cost-benefit of conserving our historic buildings and keeping them in use or bringing them back into use. The focus of the Historic Towns Initiative on the heritage character of Glenties and its streetscape will help to accentuate some aspects of the town’s rich built heritage that often gets overlooked in our towns and villages. The funding provided by The Heritage Council and the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage will make a significant contribution to protecting, enhancing and promoting the built heritage of Glenties.”
A contemplative look at life and death from two Irish writers, a revisit of a classic on social behaviour, an examination of contemporary social engineering and a delightful treat for commuters on the M50.
REVENGE OF THE TIPPING POINT
By Malcolm Gladwell
Malcolm Gladwell examines the pivotal moments that shape today’s world of upheaval. Through a series of riveting stories, he explores how society has responded to major crises like the Covid-19 pandemic and the opioid epidemic, revealing a troubling new form of social engineering. Gladwell takes us to the streets of Los Angeles to meet the world’s most successful bank robbers, rediscovers a forgotten 1970s television show that changed the world and visits a historic experiment on a tiny cul-de-sac in Northern California.
Malcolm Gladwell has been a sta writer for The New Yorker since 1996. He has published seven books. He is also the host of the podcast Revisionist History. Gladwell’s writings often deal with the unexpected implications of research in the social sciences such as sociology and psychology.
ONE FOR THE COMMUTE
Audio books to make the most of the M50 backlog
YOU DON’T HAVE TO HAVE A DREAM
Advice for the Incrementally Ambitious
BY TIM MINCHIN, READ BY TIM MINCHIN
‘Life will sometimes seem long and tough. And you will sometimes be happy and sometimes sad. And then you’ll be old. And then you’ll be dead. There is only one sensible thing to do with this empty existence and that is: fill it.’
A book for the science-loving reality-romantic in all of us, You Don’t Have to Have a Dream o ers Tim Minchin’s inimitable thoughts and advice on life, art, success, kindness, love and thriving in a meaningless universe. Drawn from three of his iconic commencement addresses and beautifully designed with specially commissioned illustrations throughout, it’s a rallying cry for creativity, critical thinking and compassion in our daily lives. It’s never too late to put something beautiful out into the world.
NEW IRISH READS
TWELVE SHEEP LIFE LESSONS FROM A LAMBING SEASON
By John Connell
As he tends to a dozen ewes, John Connell reflects on the work ahead as the seasons shift from winter to spring. While these sheep arrive at a pivotal moment in John’s life, when he feels deep fatigue and sadness, he comes to realise that caring for this flock can o er spiritual sustenance. This book serves as a meditation on the rituals of farming and the lessons of nature and a reminder to “live in each season as it passes” as philosopher Henry David Thoreau once said.
SO ONCE WAS I FORGOTTEN TALES FROM GLASNEVIN CEMETERY
By Warren Farrell
From unmarked graves to impressive monuments, Glasnevin Cemetery is the final resting place for more than one million individuals, including some of the most renowned names in Irish history. In this book, Warren Farrell, author and tour guide, aims to honour lesser-known figures and their significant contributions to the Irish state.
OLDIE BUT GOODIE
I’LL HAVE WHAT SHE’S HAVING By R. Alexander Bentley, Mark Earls and Michael J. O’Brien
Humans are inherently social and I’ll Have What She’s Having explains how this shapes most of our choices. Rather than being driven by instinct, we rely on others for thinking and knowledge. The book explores how ideas, behaviour and culture spread, from small groups to entire populations, including how buzzwords or epidemics gain traction. Changing behavior is di icult – for every “Yes We Can” political slogan, there are thousands of “Just Say No” buttons. It o ers insights into how social learning and imitation drive change, providing a practical guide for those looking to influence human behaviour e ectively.
Whether
Together, let’s pave the way to success.
Move forward with Forvis Mazars.
Fiona Byrne Audit & Outsourcing Partner Stephen Gahan
