InBusiness Yearbook 2024

CHAMBERS

IRELAND: A YEAR IN REVIEW CHAMBER DIRECTORY: FULL NETWORK LISTING CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP: THE BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

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Editor: Denise Maguire

Art Director: Lenny Rooney

Editorial Assistant: Daniel Traynor (Chambers Ireland)

Editorial Contributors: James Kiernan

Daniel Traynor

Fiona Candon Ian Talbot (Chambers Ireland)

Production Manager: Jane Matthews

Production Executive: Nicole Ennis

Managing Director: Gerry Tynan

Sales Director/Chairman: Diarmaid Lennon

Sales Director/Chairman:

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On behalf of: Chambers Ireland, 11 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, D02 FY84

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Email: info@chambers.ie Web: www.chambers.ie

All articles © Ashville Media Group 2024. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Opinion and comments expressed herein are not necessarily those of Ashville Media or Chambers Ireland. ISSN 20093934

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The voice of business

2023 was defined by a combination of formidable challenges and great successes, writes Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot

22

Chambers Network: The Year in Pictures

A look back over the last 12 months with some snapshots of Chambers Ireland’s work in representing members, both nationally and internationally

26

InBUSINESS talks to Sinead Bryan, Managing Director at Vodafone Business Ireland, about the ambition to be the digital partner for Irish businesses

Eurochambres

The advocacy body for Chambers across Europe continues to play a vital role in meeting the challenges within international businesses

28

Chamber Awards 2023

Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber came out on top at the 2023 Chamber Awards

48

Excellence in Local Government Awards

Recognising and rewarding best practice in the local authority sector

Our Local Government InBUSINESS supplement continues to look at the important role played by local authorities in Irish enterprise

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, says 2023 was defined by a combination of formidable challenges and great successes

Welcome aVoice Giving Irish Business

to the InBusiness Yearbook where we invite you to take a look back over the last year in Chambers Ireland and the chamber network. As the voice of business throughout Ireland, we represent 37 member chambers across every major city, town and region on the island. These chambers in turn represent over 8,000 businesses of all sizes across the country.

Last year, our network identified four high-level priorities that helped us shape our policy output and guided our work for the year ahead. Those priorities were also defined within the context and framework of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Over the last 12 months, we have encountered formidable challenges and experienced great successes across each of these priorities.

1. In 2023, there were over 32,500 new homes built across the country. Only 10 years ago, in 2013, this figure stood at 4,500. After our economic crash the development of key infrastructure, not only in housing, stalled completely and we are now facing the repercussions of a decade of inaction. At the same time as this inaction, population growth forecasting has come up short and our projected future infrastructure needs are insufficient as a result. While much progress has been made, housing will continue to be an urgent priority for our network, as it is only with adequate and affordable housing provision across the country that businesses can recruit employees and grow their enterprises, which in turn promotes economic development and regional growth.

2. In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, energy security became a national priority, as we realised the uncertainty and instability of relying on imported Russian oil and gas, which also resulted in inflated costs. The importance of creating a secure and selfsufficient energy supply has come to the fore and the economic opportunities of maximising our renewable energy potential is now more important than ever. For businesses, this means reduced energy costs and security of operations into the future.

3. Skills gaps and labour shortages continue to constrain businesses across the country. In a survey carried out by Chambers Ireland last year, it was found that almost nine out of 10 respondents were facing significant challenges recruiting essential employees with sufficient skills and qualifications. Upskilling and reskilling programmes targeted at the green and digital twin transition, improvements to the employment permit and visa systems, and measures focused on achieving enhanced labour force activation are all important measures needed to improve recruitment and retention across the country.

4. Finally, productivity and competitiveness have been significantly impacted by the above issues and as a result, Irish businesses are treading a tightrope when it comes to maintaining productivity in the face of increased operating costs, factor costs and labour costs.

These issues are more important than ever as we look ahead to a year of elections. With the Local Government and European Parliament elections taking place in June and a General Election also on the cards potentially for later in the year, we will ensure that the Chamber network and the voice of business is heard on these issues.

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

“WHILE MUCH PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE, HOUSING WILL CONTINUE TO BE AN URGENT PRIORITY FOR OUR NETWORK”

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

2023

HAS BEEN A YEAR of significant highs for me in my role as President of Chambers Ireland.

On 2 March, Chambers Ireland celebrated 100 years to the day since representatives of Chambers of Commerce from across Ireland assembled in Dublin to establish an Association of Chambers across the new State, or Chambers Ireland as we know it today. To celebrate, we were joined by friends and colleagues from across the country and beyond in the wonderful and historic surroundings of St Patrick’s Hall, Dublin Castle. We were delighted to be joined by the then Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar; former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson; EU Commissioner, Mairead McGuinness; and Dr Kieran McCarthy, researcher and author of a special commemorative centenary book charting the history of Chambers Ireland since its establishment. The night was incredibly special and I was honoured to attend as President.

Another highlight from the year was the selection of Chambers Ireland to be a national Champion of the Sustainable Development Goals for 2023-2024. The Chamber network have been strong and vocal advocates for the UN SDGs and this designation was important recognition of our role in promoting sustainable development to businesses of all sizes right across the country.

The centenary was not the only significant milestone event this year. We also celebrated 20 years of the Sustainable Business Impact (SBI) Awards in September and 20 years of the Excellence in Local Government (ELG) Awards in November. The SBI Awards showcase businesses across the country that are committed to embedding sustainability in their company values and taking meaningful action for the betterment of their employees, local communities and the environment. The ELG Awards celebrate best practice in local government and recognise the skills, hard work, innovation and enthusiasm within local government that can often go unrecognised. Both events are incredibly inspirational and each year I am consistently amazed by the standard of applications and the quality of each category.

In November, a delegation of 26 representatives from across the Chamber network in Ireland attended the European Parliament of Enterprises in Brussels, our largest ever presence at this biennial event. In total, over 700 individuals representing businesses from right across Europe attended the event, to debate and vote on issues relating to skills, energy, trade and the single market, all within the prestigious surroundings of the European Parliament Hemicycle. 2023 has been an exciting and jam-packed year and looking forward to the year ahead, I’m excited to continue in my role as President and to represent the voice of business right across the country.

“EACH YEAR I AM CONSISTENTLY AMAZED BY THE STANDARD OF APPLICATIONS AND THE QUALITY OF EACH CATEGORY”

A Message President

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland

Chamber Network

Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Drogheda & District

Fingal County Meath

Dún Laoghaire - Rathdown Bray & District

Dungarvan & West Waterford

Cobh & Harbour

Limerick

Shannon

Ennis

Galway

Athlone

Mullingar

Sligo

Ballina

Ballyhaunis

Westport

Dundalk

Cootehill

Longford

Letterkenny

Arklow & District County Carlow County Kildare

Tullamore & District

Mallow

Cork

Bantry

Tralee

County Wexford W

Dublin

Kilkenny

Waterford

South Dublin n

Laois

County Tipperary

SPONSORS

Chambers Ireland wishes to thank its sponsors for their continued support.

Who : we are As Ireland’s largest business network,

Chambers Ireland works to advance Irish businesses at home and abroad by empowering, lobbying, representing, growing and delivering for our network.

THE WORK OF CHAMBERS IRELAND

A glance at Chambers Ireland’s main areas of activity:

REPRESENTING IRISH BUSINESS INTERESTS

As a lobbying organisation, we represent Irish business interests at local, rezgional and national level to the Irish Government, while also exerting influence through our presence on key policymaking boards and councils.

SUPPORTING BUSINESS AND STRENGTHENING THE NETWORK

Chambers Ireland supports SMEs and larger businesses in Ireland through the Chamber Network. We provide information and advice to businesses on a range of topics and issues.

INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE

Chambers Ireland is an active member of both EUROCHAMBRES and the International Chamber of Commerce, which represents businesses at EU, panEuropean and international level. Chambers Ireland engagement on these important business platforms ensures greater visibility and competitiveness for Irish business on a global stage.

our primary aim is to advance business competitiveness across the country through developing the best environment to do business at all levels, while facilitating the growth of our Chamber Network. Our Network consists of local and regional affiliated Chambers, for which Chambers Ireland acts as one voice at national level on behalf of this Network.

By engaging with business members through our Chamber Network and by encouraging better business practices for long-term development at local, regional and national level, Chambers Ireland works to advance Irish businesses both at home and abroad.

Chambers Ireland monitors the relevant policy issues that businesses care about and are affected by, and represents the views of our business members to Government. Through research, lobbying and representation on influential policy-making boards and councils of importance to the Irish Government – including the National Competitiveness Council, the National Corporate Social Responsibility Stakeholder Forum and the Retail Forum – Chambers Ireland is a respected voice in the business community. Our membership and participation on these fora is strengthened by our engagement with Chambers Ireland’s own policy taskforces, our Public Affairs forum and Chief Executives forum.

INTERNATIONAL PROFILE

In addition to these various levels of domestic influence, Chambers Ireland also engages at a European and international level, as a member of the Paris-based International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the largest business representative organisation worldwide, and as a member of EUROCHAMBRES, the association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

As a member of the ICC, Chambers Ireland acts as the Irish national committee of the ICC, which allows us to advocate the interests of our members to the intergovernmental organisations that legislate on international trade. The work of the ICC includes promoting the importance for open trade, business self-regulation, fighting corruption, dispute resolution and more.

Chambers Ireland is also one of the national Chambers of commerce members of EUROCHAMBRES, the voice of the business community at EU level, representing over 20 million businesses across Europe. EUROCHAMBRES aims to improve the conditions of the Single Market to facilitate trade within and beyond the EU, through engagement with the EU institutions and coordinating projects to benefit businesses across all countries of the European Union.

Membership The Benefits of

Being a member of a Chamber means your business can gain benefits across a number of areas from advice and networking opportunities to increased visibility and credibility.

BY joining your local Chamber, you’ll receive members-only benefits, exclusive advertising, networking opportunities and increased publicity for your organisation, along with representation at a national level through Chambers Ireland.

With 40 accredited Chambers around Ireland, businesses in the Chamber Network are widely represented across the country. The Chamber Network is Ireland’s largest business representative organisation, working to promote the enhanced economic and social development of communities in order to make them a better place to work, live and do business.

Local economic development is one of the Chamber Network’s core policy priorities. Chambers work to remedy the challenges that face businesses in cities, towns and rural areas of Ireland. The strength of the local economy is vital for the success of any business, and Chambers work to encourage and promote local economic development for their communities, and deliver significant results for their members.

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF KEY AREAS WHERE CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP CAN BENEFIT YOUR BUSINESS, INCLUDING: SUPPORT Chambers provide their members with support in a variety of ways. This includes but is not limited to business development and access to knowledge, skills and training on a wide range of topics. Chambers can also act as an advisor to businesses in their network, whether they are early stages start-ups or established enterprises.

NATIONAL REPRESENTATION AND LOBBYING

Chambers around Ireland represent their members locally, and on a national level by being a member of the Chamber Network. Chambers Ireland lobbies the Irish Government on national issues on behalf of the Chamber Network regarding issues that affect businesses across Ireland. Chambers Ireland is an active member of EUROCHAMBRES and the International Chamber of Commerce. Through these organisations, the Chamber network is also represented at a European and international level.

NETWORKING

Members of Chambers are invited to many networking events. This opens up opportunities for members to do business with other companies in their Chamber’s network. It has been recorded that 60% of members do business at Chamber events through meeting with other members and their contacts. You can connect and engage with a broader audience and expand your network through your local Chamber.

HAVE YOUR SAY LOCALLY

Chambers around Ireland represent their members at meetings with local authorities and politicians and during events throughout the year. Have your say in local government through the Chamber advocacy efforts. Chambers lobby their Local Authorities on many issues that need to be addressed for their members.

PROMOTION AND REFERRALS

Chambers also become an information centre to businesses that may or may not be members. Chambers will always recommend Chamber members to businesses that fit the requirements.

CREDIBILITY

VISIBILITY

Stand out and generate awareness within your local community. Being a member makes you part of an active business group within your community.

FIND NEW SALES TARGETS

LEARNING

Gain a competitive edge over non-members with exclusive training opportunities on current topics. Chambers organise training across a variety of subjects.

SOCIAL NETWORKING

Chamber members can participate in members only groups for updates.

EVENTS

Chamber members are invited to the many events that their local Chamber organises throughout the year. Chambers host a wide variety of successful events, including workshops, informative seminars, award ceremonies and more.

Chambers believe that people do business with people they know. By joining your local Chamber, you are making new business connections with contacts you can trust.

Enhance your reputation and increase awareness through membership. Chamber members have the benefit of the Chamber President, CEO, Board and staff promoting their business. At networking events, Chamber personnel always keep their members in mind when they are speaking to other business owners, whether they are national or international companies.

DISCOUNTS ON PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

Chambers offer their members a number of different products and services. Exclusive services that Chambers provide to their members include discounted business services from member to member, and access to a membership directory.

Chambers Ireland has been supporting Business for 100 Years

CELEBRATION Centenary

On2nd March, Chambers

Ireland celebrated its 100th anniversary with friends and colleagues from across the country in the wonderful surroundings of St Patrick’s Hall, Dublin Castle.

We were delighted to be joined by An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, former President of Ireland Mary Robinson, and European Commissioner, Mairéad McGuinness.

We heard from each about the importance of the Chamber network in facilitating business, driving sustainability, and being a powerful voice for change.

We were also joined by Dr Kieran McCarthy, researcher and respected historical author of the commemorative centenary book, Championing Ireland: Chambers Ireland – 100 Years of Advancing Business Together, charting the history of Chambers Ireland since its establishment in 1923.

We look forward to championing Ireland on behalf of our members long into the future.

The wonderful St Patrick’s Hall at Dublin Castle

Chambers

European Commissioner Mairéad McGuinness spoke about the importance of the Chamber network in facilitating business

Chambers Ireland President Fiona Candon at the Centenary event

Ireland CEO Ian Talbot proudly marks the centenary

Former President of Ireland Mary Robinson spoke about being a powerful voice for change

Chambers Ireland CEO Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland President, Fiona Candon, and author Dr Kieran McCarthy take a look at the specially-commissioned Championing Ireland book

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was in attendance to help us celebrate our 100th anniversary

CHAMBERS IRELAND

Tees Off

Mazars representing Galway Chamber took home the top prize at the All Ireland Chamber Champions golf competition

In October 2023, Chambers Ireland held the All Ireland Chamber Champions golf competition in the K Club, Straffan, Co Kildare, sponsored by The Noel Group. Fifteen teams competed in the competition. The teams representing their Chambers were the winners of the individual Chamber golf competitions from all over Ireland during 2023. They competed for the overall title of Chambers Ireland All Ireland Chamber Champions.

Commenting on the event, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland stated: “We were delighted to facilitate the coming together of Chamber teams for this golf competition. It was fitting that this took place in the world-renowned K Club, which recently held the successful Irish Open. The anticipation was palpable before the start among the competing teams.”

The winners of the team competition were:

■ First place

Mazars representing Galway Chamber

■ Second place

CAE Parc Aviation representing Shannon Chamber

■ Third place

Cellnex Ireland representing Laois Chamber

■ Alan Brigdale from CAE Parc Aviation (Shannon Chamber) won the prize for the longest drive and Robbie Burns from ETL Security (Cork Chamber) won the prize for the nearest to the pin.

Managing Director of Noel Group, Siobhan Kinsella, said: “We are proud supporters of the Chamber network in Ireland and we are delighted to sponsor this prestigious event and heartily congratulate the winners.”

The World Chambers Congress brings together Chambers from around the world for a truly unique global event

GENEVA 2023 ICC World Chambers Congress

Over 1,500 participants from over 100 countries met in Geneva for the 13th edition under the theme “Achieving peace and prosperity through multilateralism”. The Congress is the biggest, most diverse economic forum for chamber and business executives to exchange experience and examine the issues affecting people, their livelihoods and our planet.

Chambers Ireland and representatives from across the Irish chamber network including Cork Chamber, County Kildare Chamber, Dublin Chamber, Dundalk Chamber, Galway Chamber, Sligo Chamber and South Dublin Chamber attended the Congress.

As an organisation, the ICC is at the forefront of international trade. Highlights from the Congress included commemorating the important role chambers play in offering tools and services which enhance the global trade. Such milestones include the 60th anniversary of the ATA Carnet, the 10th anniversary of Certificates of Origin and the 100th anniversary of the ICC International Court of Arbitration.

In a noteworthy session, participants discussed how heightened geopolitical tensions and multiple crises are shaping policy strategies on global value chains, as well as sourcing in relation to the twin transition. The EU Ambassador to the World Trade Organisation (WTO), João Aguiar Machado, highlighted EU efforts to strengthen and reform the WTO, urging businesses in particular to be vocal in calling for the dispute settlement system to be re-established. In addition, Ian Talbot representing Chambers Ireland, stressed the role chambers of commerce play in facilitating international trade and providing essential support to businesses navigating the complexities of the global market.

Attendees were also addressed by keynote speaker, former EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier, who emphasised: “When

“WE MUST ACT TOGETHER WITH NO NAIVETY, JUST RESPECT. IT IS SIMPLY IN OUR COMMON INTEREST”

we witness the amount of crises we have faced in only 15 years – financial crisis migration, Brexit, Covid-19 pandemic, war in Ukraine – when we witness ravages of terrorism and conflict in Africa provoking inexorable migration, when we imagine the cost of potential confrontation in Asia, especially over fundamental technologies and raw materials… we can only advocate for multilateralism in the framework of international organisations. We must act together with no naivety, just respect. It is simply in our common interest.”

The overall message could not be clearer – globalisation is here to stay and chambers look to international authorities and the European Union to provide a multilateral trade framework that provides stability, predictability and an environment that supports free trade.

The World Chambers Congress takes place every two years, with the next one taking place in Melbourne in 2025.

the

Sustainable Development Goals Sustainability and

Chambers Ireland is working with businesses to achieve our Sustainable Development Goals

“WE HAVE LEARNT THAT INTEGRATING THE GOALS INTO BUSINESS BRINGS OPPORTUNITIES AND STRUCTURE TO MANY OF THE ACTIVITIES THEY ARE ALREADY PLANNING TO INTRODUCE”

CHAMBERS IRELAND is the State’s largest business representative network. We are an all-island organisation with a unique geographical reach; our members are the Chambers of Commerce in the cities and towns throughout the country – active in every constituency. Each of our member chambers is central to their local business community and all seek to promote thriving local economies that can support sustainable cities and communities. Sustainability is now something that can be marketed and sold by businesses as consumers become more conscious of their environmental footprint. Businesses are also conscious of this and are continuously reviewing supply chains to secure more sustainable methods of doing business: something which is even more attractive if it can positively impact the organisation’s bottom line.

The combination of all these elements and the risk of future EU and national directives and legislation on implementing sustainable business practices, means that there is large-scale buy-in from Chamber members across the country. We are beginning to see more and more businesses take the lead on

this, which supports our overall work in this policy sphere.

What Sustainable Development Goals has Chambers Ireland been involved with?

Though most of the 17 goals are relevant to the work of business, five are of most strategic relevance, comprising in numerical order:

■ Gender Equality (SDG 5)

■ Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)

■ Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9)

■ Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)

■ Climate Action (SDG 13)

The targets of each of these often interlink. For example, sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) will be achieved through concrete measures to promote climate action (SDG 13) and balancing economic development (SDGs 8 & 9). Therefore, all five are equally as strategically relevant and important to our organisation and wider network.

How has Chambers Ireland contributed to achieving these goals?

We have learnt that integrating the goals into business brings opportunities and structure to many of the activities they are already planning to introduce. Over the past number of years, businesses have significantly increased engagement and policy advocacy in sustainable development by leveraging the ideas and aims of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to transition to the SDGs, focusing all elements of the organisation and its outputs on the aims of the goals.

In 2019, all affiliated Chambers across Ireland pledged their commitment to the SDGs. This involved all Chambers, committing to upholding, promoting and implementing the SDGs into their daily operations, advocating for the goals locally and creating or supporting policies that reflect the SDGs.

Having engaged our network of chambers, we have delivered an awareness building and action-orientated communication strategy with businesses throughout the island. Each Chamber plays an integral part in

“BEYOND RAISING AWARENESS OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS, THE PRINCIPAL AIM OF THE TOOLKIT IS TO DRIVE ACTION ON ACHIEVING THE GOALS BY BRINGING SIMPLICITY AND PRACTICAL GUIDANCE”

creating a sustainable environment to work and live and they collectively work together on achieving a prosperous future for Ireland. In representing the needs of its business members, Chambers Ireland utilises the targets of the goals as a lens to interrogate the causes of the policy priorities that our network raises, and uses the SDGs to ensure cohesion in the policy recommendations and advocacy that we carry out nationally. Since the commitment was made by the network, each of our policy outputs identify how the goals interact with our policy agenda and are used to identify parallel areas of interest and activity which can sometimes be missed in the consideration of a policy area. Examples include consideration of gender equality (SDG 5) in our submissions on the night-time economy, particularly its interaction with safe late-night transportation for those that are enjoying the nightlife and the workers who make it possible.

Similarly, the Chambers Ireland submission on the National Development Plan ‘Review to Renew’ consultation highlights how necessary that programme of activity is to deliver on climate action (SDG 13), and how, given the implementation

of the Climate Action Plan, the National Development Plan will need to be realigned if we are to achieve the decarbonisation targets Ireland has committed to.

In addition, the Chambers Ireland submissions on the Government Budget annually and the Chambers Ireland General Election Manifesto 2024 have all been structured around the goals, a mechanism that was useful in prioritising and deprioritising various e orts which we have advocated for.

Achieving the SDG targets by 2030 is a collective task that cannot be accomplished without partnership and collaboration. Businesses are rooted in communities, which is why we use our platform to amplify the SDGs, the achievements of our stakeholders, and our network. By upholding and promoting the SDGs, Chambers Ireland’s aim is to highlight the opportunities the Goals create and provide business with the con dence that meaningful results can be achieved.

Since pledging to advocate for and support the advancement of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in November 2019, our Network has been closely engaged with the aims

of the goals, taking a proactive approach on driving and supporting engagement throughout the business community has become central to our organisation’s strategy.

The Chambers Ireland SDG Toolkit for Business Building on our extensive work to promote the SDGs, Chambers Ireland launched its SDG Toolkit for Business in July 2021. Based on significant contributions from the Chambers Ireland Sustainable Business Council, the Toolkit encourages employers of every size to advance their sustainability journey by integrating the Goals into their day-to-day activities.

The SDG Toolkit for Business equips business with the knowledge to take leading action across a range of issues and signal the direction to achieve a sustainable society in Ireland. Chambers Ireland encourages SMEs and larger companies to engage with the Toolkit and their local chamber in support of our collective work to secure a better, greener, and fairer planet in the years ahead. Beyond raising awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals, the principal aim of the Toolkit is to drive action on achieving the goals by bringing simplicity and practical guidance.

The Sustainable Business Impact Awards

Following its commitment to the SDGs, Chambers Ireland relaunched the Sustainable Business Impact Awards to continue the process of alignment with the Goals.

The Sustainable Business Impact Awards celebrate best practice in sustainable development and social responsibility from companies of all sizes, nationwide. They recognise the meaningful and high qualitywork from companies through different awards categories, including excellence in Environment, Workplace, Communication, Social Enterprise, Community Partnership (divided into Charity, Volunteering and Community Programme) and Diversity & Inclusion.

We also have a Sustainable Business Council made up of Chamber and business experts in the area of sustainability, which meets regularly to help our members engage on the topic.

THE SDG TOOLKIT FOR BUSINESS ENCOURAGES EMPLOYERS OF EVERY SIZE TO ADVANCE THEIR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY BY INTEGRATING THE GOALS INTO THEIR DAY-TO-DAY ACTIVITIES

What is the biggest challenge facing business in relation to the SDGs?

The 17 SDGs address not only measurable changes of wellbeing, economic development and better environments, but also how these changes will be induced by a means of clearly defining 169 targets to be achieved by 2030 and indicators to measure how it contributes with respect to the various SDC targets.

With the wealth of reports available on Ireland’s progress on achieving the SDGs (which often utilise different reporting mechanisms), it is difficult to ascertain which is the most relevant and has the correct, up to date information. This makes it equally difficult to assess Ireland’s overall progress. Developing structured indicators are a crucial next step for accurately identifying where we are as a country. These will help in understanding if the expected development changes are being realised. In terms of measuring the impact and quantifying the progress on SDG targets, developing effective indicators to gauge success is important. Attracting and retaining skilled employees has been a challenge for businesses. We believe that aligning businesses with the SDGs will help attract and retain staff who have an increased interest in sustainability.

A Growing Willingness from Business to Buy In

The IPCC have updated climate models that provide more detailed projections about possible future conditions which depend on the choices humans make about carbon emissions. We continue to see the need to quickly alter our behaviours and the growing willingness to get there and limit climate change. The increased coverage of climate change in the media is just one example of this growing willingness to achieve our collective climate action (SDG 13).

Further, a recent national study that Chambers Ireland conducted on the shaping Ireland’s electricity future demonstrated an overwhelming level of feedback for greater ambition and prioritisation of renewable energy in the design of Ireland’s electricity network for the coming years.

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)

Champion for 2023-2024

Chambers Ireland announced as a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Champion for 2023-2024

“WE ARE FACING MAJOR CHALLENGES IN ACHIEVING THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS, WITH UNPRECEDENTED PRESSURES ON OUR PLANET, ECONOMY AND SOCIETY, AS WELL AS THE IMPACTS BROUGHT ABOUT BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC”

INMAY OF 2023

the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan TD, appointed Chambers Ireland as one of 26 organisations from across society as leaders in driving forward Ireland’s progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Chambers Ireland have been appointed as part of the 2023-2024 SDG Champions Programme, developed to raise public awareness of the SDGs and to demonstrate that everyone in society can make a contribution to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The role of an SDG Champion is to act as an advocate and promoter of the SDGs and a good practice example of how an organisation can contribute to the SDGs and integrate them into their work and activities.

Speaking about the launch, Minister Ryan said: “I am delighted to be relaunching the SDG Champions

programme for 2023-2024. We are facing major challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, with unprecedented pressures on our planet, economy and society, as well as the impacts brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Now is the time to accelerate action towards achieving the goals, to build back better while leaving no-one behind.”

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland stated, “We are proud to be selected as a champion for the SDGs over the next year. Chambers right across the country work hard to make their communities vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous places in which to live, work and do business. As champions we will use our influence to ensure we play our part in progressing awareness, engagement and action on the goals.” Champions have been selected from across the public, private, community, voluntary, youth and NGO sectors and are represented by larger, national organisations and smaller, community groups.

The role of an SDG Champion is as follows:

ROLE

■ Advocate and promoter of the SDGs and sustainable development

■ Acts as a good practice example of how an organisation or group can contribute to the SDGs and integrate the SDGs into their work or activities

■ Shares learnings with others

RESPONSIBILITIES

■ Ongoing promotion of and linking of work to the SDGs

■ Quarterly updates on related work and activities

■ Organisation of an SDG-related or promotional event during the lifetime of being an SDG Champion

■ Contribution at end-of-term showcasing event

“AS CHAMPIONS WE WILL USE OUR INFLUENCE TO ENSURE WE PLAY OUR PART IN PROGRESSING AWARENESS, ENGAGEMENT AND ACTION ON THE GOALS”

To find out more about Chambers Ireland’s work on the Sustainable Development goals, go to https://chambers.ie/sustainabledevelopment-goals/

Want to become more sustainable? To Download Toolkit For Business go to https://chambers.ie/wp-content/ uploads/2022/11/ Chambers-Ireland-SDG-Toolkitfor-Business-2021-2.pdf

CHAMBERS

CHAMBERS IRELAND:

The Year in PICTURES

InBUSINESS looks back over the last 12 months with some snapshots of Chamber Ireland’s work in representing members, both nationally and internationally.

Pictured at the Dublin Chamber AGM in February 2024 were: (l-r) Frank O’Keeffe, Managing Partner at EY Ireland; Siobhan O’Shea, Dublin Chamber President and Director at Indeed; former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar; Samuel Dennigan, Founder and CEO of Strong Roots; and Mary Rose Burke, Dublin Chamber CEO.

Pictured at the Dublin Chamber Annual Dinner in September 2023 were: (l-r) Cathy Bryce, Managing Director, AIB Capital Markets; Mary Rose Burke, Dublin Chamber CEO; Michael McGrath TD, Minister for Finance; Rosheen McGuckian, CEO, NTR plc; Stephen O’Leary, Managing Director at Olytico and former Dublin Chamber President for 2023.

County Wexford Chamber announced the integration of Enniscorthy & District Chamber with Lorcan Kinsella, President of the County Wexford Chamber chairing the negotiation process. This significant step heralds a new chapter for both chambers, enhancing support, expanding networking opportunities and strengthening advocacy for businesses throughout County Wexford. Pictured are: (l-r) Ed Murphy, Director, Enniscorthy & District Chamber; Paula Roche, CEO, County Wexford Chamber; and Lorcan Kinsella, President, County Wexford Chamber.

DUBLIN CHAMBER

DUBLIN CHAMBER

ENNISCORTHY & DISTRICT CHAMBER

Cork Chamber welcomed Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien to Cork to speak with business leaders from across the region. The meeting, which was attended by representatives of some of the leading employers in the region, focused on the issue of housing, the progress that has been made and what more can be done to deliver accommodation in an increasingly pressurised market. Pictured with Conor Healy, CEO, Cork Chamber; Fiona O’Donovan, Cork Chamber Public Affairs & Communications Executive; and Ronan Murray, Cork Chamber President.

Winter Wonderland: Embracing the Spirit of Christmas in Tralee.

Pictured is Una McGoey, President at Dundalk Chamber with President Michael D. Higgins at the President of the Portuguese Republic’s State Visit to Ireland at Farmleigh House.

Together we harbour success – Cobh & Harbour Chamber champions community and collaboration in 2024.

During their visit to Drogheda & District Chamber, Chinese delegates from Tianfu met with local producers Pat Cooney, Boann Distillery; Bronagh Conlon, Listoke Distillery; and Olan McNeece, Dan Kelly Cider.

DROGHEDA & DISTRICT CHAMBER

CORK CHAMBER

COBH & HARBOUR CHAMBER

TRALEE CHAMBER

DUNDALK CHAMBER

St Patrick’s Festival 2024 in Bray brought together the business community, the Wicklow Volunteer Centre, local TD’s Simon Harris and Jennifer Whitmore, community groups, Bray Municipal District staff and councillors, Bray Person of the Year Desi O’Toole, Adrian Kennedy MC, Bray Chamber Executive council members and staff and local members of the public and volunteers.

The Sixth International Human Rights Lecture of The Mary Robinson Centre was delivered by Ernesto Zedillo, former President of Mexico, member of the Elders and Director of the Center for the Study of Globalization at Yale University, June 2023. Pictured are Mary Robinson; Tracey Glacken, President, Ballina Chamber; Ernesto Zedillo; and Mags Downey Martin, CEO, Ballina Chamber.

The euphoric team from the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber enjoying a moment together after winning ‘Chamber of the Year’, marking a historic win as the first town Chamber and female-led Chamber to clinch this fiercely competitive award.

The Business Awards 2023 were announced at the Arklow & District Gala Chamber Ball, held in the Arklow Bay Hotel in September 2023.

BALLINA CHAMBER

DUNGARVAN & WEST WATERFORD CHAMBER

BRAY CHAMBER

ARKLOW CHAMBER

are Cllr Joe Conway, Mayor of Waterford City & County, officially launching the new Think Waterford First Gift Card, with Denis Carroll and Jessica Manning, City Square Shopping Centre and Gerald Hurley, CEO, Waterford Chamber.

&

with other elected representatives, County Council executives and Chamber members at the Offaly Jobs fair in June 2023.

Pictured are Minister Calleary, Anthony Hanniffy, President Tullamore

District Chamber

TULLAMORE & DISTRICT CHAMBER

Pictured

Photo by Noel Browne

WATERFORD CHAMBER

Shannon Chamber outlined a number of economic development issues requiring Government intervention at a Chamber luncheon event held in Dromoland Castle House, at which Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage was the keynote speaker. Pictured were Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Housing with (from left): Eoin Gavin, President, Shannon Chamber; Colin MacDonald, Chief Executive, Fine Grain Property; and Helen Downes, Chief Executive, Shannon Chamber.

Photograph by Eamon Ward

SHANNON CHAMBER

U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Joe Kennedy III, addressed NI Chamber members at a business event in Belfast in February 2024.

NI CHAMBER

The advocacy body for Chambers across Europe continues to play a vital role in meeting the challenges within international businesses

Taking Action Eurochambres

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT OF ENTERPRISES

Last winter, Eurochambres hosted the sixth edition of the European Parliament of Enterprises in the European Parliament Hemicycle. The European Parliament of Enterprises is the largest event at EU level giving the floor directly to entrepreneurs. It is organised once every two years by Eurochambres in collaboration with the European Parliament. The idea is to bridge the gap between the European Institutions and the main actors of economic growth – entrepreneurs. The EPE recreates a parliamentary session and gives the floor to European entrepreneurs.

Last year, over 700 individuals representing businesses from right across Europe attended the event to debate and vote on issues relating to skills, energy, trade and the single market.

Dita Charanzová, Vice-President of the European Parliament and Valdis Dombrovskis, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and European Commissioner for Trade, introduced the event, alongside Eurochambres President, Vladimír Dlouhý, who set the scene and welcomed everyone by acknowledging that after the difficult years of

the pandemic imposing tough conditions, it is time for policymakers to enable Europe’s entrepreneurs to move on from survival to success.

Chambers Ireland engaged in this event with a delegation of 26 representatives from businesses and the chamber network across Ireland. We also had exceptional interventions given on the Irish delegation’s behalf by Eveanna Ryan (Connacht Hospitality Group and Galway Chamber) who drew on her own experience working in hospitality to highlight the importance of transferrable skills. She emphasised that in an ever-challenging world, businesses require employees with diverse skillsets that can be applied across various industries to create a resilient workforce.

Speaking on energy, Seán Murphy from ESB said that renewable energy policies will be crucial to deliver for all citizens of the Union. Scaling up existing industries such as wind and solar generations, along with creating new ones such as green hydrogen and retrofitting at scale, will be central to gaining control of our energy future.

Lorraine Greene from AIB also gave a VoxPop interview on behalf of the Irish delegation, stressing that skills are a hugely important competitive issue not only in Ireland, but across Europe. Lorraine used the platform to bring attention to the Green Transition and the crucial role of entrepreneurs in carrying it out. This should be the next crucial topic of conversation, she added.

The debate and voting outcomes underscored the immediate imperatives – meeting businesses’ workforce requirements, ensuring affordable and secure supplies of energy and materials and confronting trade complexities amid geopolitical upheavals. Linked to these challenges, the need to maximise the benefits of the Single Market and to minimise regulatory burdens were recurring messages from entrepreneurs.

Despite the challenging geopolitical headwinds, the debate was upbeat and supercharged with ideas — proof that Europe’s entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well but would benefit from more backing from Europe’s policymakers.

VOTING HIGHLIGHTS

■ 88% said it is harder to recruit staff with the right skills than five years ago

■ 87% believe that the ambitious targets of the European Green Deal will lead to tougher competitive conditions for EU businesses on the global market

■ 97% felt that geopolitical tensions are negatively impacting the functioning of their supply chains

■ 93% said the Single Market is NOT sufficiently integrated allowing their company to operate and compete freely

EUROCHAMBRES MEETINGS IN MADRID

As part of its EU Presidency activities, the Camara de Comercio de Espana (Spanish Chamber of Commerce) hosted meetings with Eurochambres and associated Chambers in Madrid in September last year. Among the matters discussed were Eurochambres members’ priorities for the forthcoming European Parliament elections and new Commission in 2024, the priorities of the current Spanish Presidency of the EU and an update on the European Parliament of Enterprises in November 2023.

Xiana Mendez, Secretary of State for Trade, also addressed the group on the Spanish economic situation and aspirations for the EU Presidency.

In addition, His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain hosted the Presidents and Deputy Presidents of Eurochambres and the Spanish Chamber of Commerce for a discussion on the future potential of the European economy at his residence at Palacio de la Zarzuela.

MEETING WITH THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT’S COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE (INTA) Chambers Ireland also met a high-level delegation of the European Parliament’s Committee on INTA led by Chairman of the group Bernd Lange MEP and including Barry Andrews, MEP for the Dublin constituency. The meeting was primarily to discuss

progress on the Windsor Framework and its implementation, but also included discussion on our concerns about the State Aid developments within the EU and ensuring that smaller countries are not disadvantaged.

VISIT OF PRESIDENT OF EMPLOYERS’ GROUP OF EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE

In October, Chambers Ireland’s representatives on the EESC Peter Byrne invited Stefano Mallia, the President of the Employers’ Group, to Dublin for a series of meetings. A former President of the Malta Chamber of Commerce, Stefano has served on the EESC for 13 years, the last three as President, and is an expert in EU Affairs specialising in structural funds and SME financing. With a particular message about ensuring the competitiveness of the EU economy, meetings were held with representatives of Ireland’s National Economic and Social Council, the Department of the Taoiseach, Noelle O’Connell, CEO of European Movement Ireland, Frances Ruane, Chair of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council, Barbara Nolan, Head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, local media and Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Dara Calleary.

OUTREACH TO OVERSEAS DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS

Over the last few years, Chambers Ireland has been increasing our visibility with diplomatic missions and Irish Chamber of Commerce overseas. Some examples include meeting with the Irish Embassy in Madrid and briefing Ireland’s Ambassador to Finland, Ruth Parkin, in advance of her meeting with Päivi Pohjanheimo, International Director of our Eurochambres Colleagues, the Finland Chamber of Commerce.

Recognising EXCELLENCE

Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber came out on top at the 2023 Chamber Awards writes Carly Mooney, Event Manager and Administrator at Chambers Ireland

Chambers Ireland hosted the h annual Chamber Awards on ursday, June 1st 2023, at the Killashee Hotel in Naas, Co Kildare. Sponsored by Zurich, these awards provide a platform to acknowledge the exceptional work of the Chamber Network throughout the country. ey o er local and county Chambers an opportunity to showcase

their achievements across various categories, including innovative projects, successful events and creative collaborations between companies and local authorities.

e awards were presented by Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, Fiona Candon, President of Chambers Ireland and Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions at Zurich.

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland; Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Jenny Beresford, CEO, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber; Oren Byrne, President, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Chamber of the Year 2023

In recognition of its outstanding e orts, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber was awarded Chamber of the Year 2023. is prestigious accolade commends the Chamber’s signi cant activity throughout the year, its innovative ideas and its positive engagement with both its membership and the local community. e Chamber also received two additional awards –Partnership for Business for its project ‘Jobs for Ukrainians’ and Event of the Year for its ‘Menopause - e case for Change’ event.

“Being named Chamber of the Year is testament to the scale of work being undertaken by Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber. It re ects the huge amount of talent and dedication within the Chamber and underlines how impressively they have managed and adapted their activity to meet the needs of their members,” said Fiona Candon, President of Chambers Ireland.

“What truly impressed our judges was how much Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber engaged with its community. is is a group of strong communicators, relationship builders and people who care deeply about their town and county. e Chamber produced a series of excellent events and projects which undoubtedly contributed positively to the community of Dungarvan and surrounding region. Overall, the quality of the applications across all categories showed the high level of work being done by our Chambers across the country.”

Candon,

Joe

Fiona

President, Chambers Ireland;

Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Jenny Beresford, CEO Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland; Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Elaine Murphy, Events & Marketing Manager, Galway Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland; Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Sinead Ronan, CEO (previously Public A airs Manager), County Kildare Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

2023 The Winners

Event of the Year

Dungarvan Chamber

Menopause – The Case for Change

Most Innovative Project

Galway Chamber

Inclusive Pathways to Employment

Lobbying & Policy Campaign

Dublin Chamber

Moving the Dial on Right to Request

Remote Work

Supporting Members

County Kildare Chamber

Kildare Schools Roadshow

Local Authority Innovation

Waterford Chamber

Waterford – A City of Opportunity

Communication & Representation

Cork Chamber

Cork Chamber Economic Trends Report

Sustainability & the Sustainable

Development Goals

Ballina Chamber

Ballina Green Town

Partnership for Business

Dungarvan Chamber

Jobs for Ukrainians

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland; Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Orla Mannion, Public A airs Manager, Dublin Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland; Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Paul Nolan, President, Waterford Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland, Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich, Bo Browne, Marketing & Communications Manager, Cork Chamber, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland; Tracey Glacken, President, Ballina Chamber; Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Mags Downey Martin, CEO, Ballina Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Fiona Candon, President, Chambers Ireland; Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich; Oren Byrne, President, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber; Jenny Beresford, CEO, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

SINÉAD BRYAN, Managing Director of Vodafone Business Ireland, talks to Deanna O’Connor about the company’s investment in Ireland and its ambition to be the digital partner for Irish businesses

W TO IRISH BUSINESS

ith a recent announcement of a €35 million investment in Ireland, Vodafone Business Ireland is setting out its stall as the ICT solutions partner for Irish businesses. Managing Director of Vodafone Business Ireland Sinéad Bryan is already feeling the energy and excitement in the air when the hybrid teams gather for their monthly ‘anchor’ days in the o ce, giving updates, sharing a meal and networking together.

e new investment will create 120 new jobs, with 70 of those roles due to be hired and onboarded in the next year. Bryan isn’t wasting a second: “We’re actually about halfway through - we’ve o ers out to half of those 70 roles already, so it’s a really exciting time,” she reveals.

What prompted this investment now? It’s a mix of deep diving to glean insights into what their business customers want and gearing up for the exponential change brought on by evolving technologies. “Our overall ambition is to be the digital partner for Irish businesses,” she says. “And that means di erent things to di erent customers.”

Sinéad Bryan, Managing Director, Vodafone Business Ireland

The one common thread over the last few years is that businesses of all sizes are going through a digital transformation. “The size, the complexity and the timing of that digital transformation journey can be different for a small business than it is for a multinational.” The opportunities afforded by leveraging technology opens up new markets and customer bases: “For businesses, it’s enabling them to be more efficient and it’s really changing how they work with customers because customers’ expectations are changing.”

Bryan says that customer insight informs everything they do. They recently set up a customer advisory board, focused on small business customers. “We bring a cohort of customers in and we talk to them about some of the challenges and opportunities that they have in their business. We share our plans and our roadmap and we take their input around whether that makes sense for them, how they would like to see it brought to market and whether it would enable their business, what other features they would like, what services or additional support they would need…”

Having access to these voices and gaining these insights from their business customer base means that when Vodafone Business brings out a new product or service, it is responding to their particular needs. “Whatever we launch makes sense for a particular reason; it is helping them achieve their ambitions.”

The focus for businesses of all sizes is on cybersecurity. “During Covid, it was all about getting online and accessing a new customer base, making their business more efficient. Now, businesses are more mindful and aware of the challenges and risks posed by cyber threats. We’ve seen a huge surge in demand for cybersecurity services and products over the last 12 to 18 months, particularly in small businesses.”

With cyber attacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, businesses’ security needs are evolving. “What may have been sufficient 12 or 24 months ago is not anymore.” Cognisant that businesses need guidance through the maze of different security offerings, particularly when they are of a size that does not include in-house security expertise, Vodafone Business has stepped up to help their customers assess their needs.

“We’ve taken the opportunity to understand the market and what our customers need, depending on the phase of the journey they’re at, and curated those solutions for them so that they can come to Vodafone Marketplace knowing that we’ve done the research for them, and that the curated product will make sense for their business and will keep them secure.”

“We’ve

seen a huge surge in demand for cybersecurity services and products over the last 12 to 18 months, particularly in small businesses.”

With another €500 million investment set to go into the mobile network over the next five years, they are continually futureproofing to stay one step ahead of the needs of the business community.

“Fibre broadband is now a basic requirement for all smaller businesses. Many people realized the criticality of connectivity during Covid and what it enables, and that has just continued to increase exponentially. The bandwidth is there, so it’s now about what we’re putting on top of it, and how we

“Our ambition is to enable Irish businesses to become more digital and become their trusted partner for advice, support, products and solutions.”

leverage that technology to change the way we live, the way we work and how we engage.”

Ireland scores very highly on digital intensity, a measure of the level of digital adoption, with a rate of 85% compared to the EU average of 69%. Bryan says the goal is to get to 90% by 2030 and with a growing demand for digital services from small business customers, this seems like a very achievable number.

“Solutions can really enable their business, to get them online, keep them safe online,

Sinéad

“IoT is a hugely exciting part of the portfolio and we are seeing new use cases all the time.”

reach a new customer base or even change the way their teams are working – there is a huge demand around productivity.”

Setting up the V-Hub digital advice & support platform opened up a first port of call for businesses to explore a knowledge centre and research a wide range of topics. “If that doesn’t answer their question or they would like more information, they can then access a free one-to-one call with our V-Hub digital experts who can provide advice tailored to their specific business needs. This service is available to our existing customers, but also to non-Vodafone customers as well.”

They’ve also been building out Vodafone Marketplace – “basically a B2B digital shop” – and curating solutions based on the insights gleaned. “We launched that about 18 months ago and we’re seeing huge demand; the investment and new roles will support that.” At the enterprise level, trends and customer needs are evolving even more. “Our larger customers are no longer buying products or solutions,” Bryan reveals. “They’re now looking for end-to-end services. They want to outsource the management of their end-toend network to a partner so they can refocus their teams on other value-add activities.”

There is also increased demand in SDWAN, IoT and cloud services. “To meet the demand in those services, we need to hire additional expertise. It’s a hugely exciting time and it’s really energising the team.”

Bryan is particularly enthused by the “endless possibilities” in IoT, across businesses of all sizes, particularly when it comes to sustainability and energy efficiency, from IoT sensors being used to detect water leaks to IoT-enabled solar panels.

Agritech is an area which they are also strongly focused on. The benefits for techsavvy farmers are boundless: capturing and visualising farm data can lead to outcomes such as better soil and crop health, more effective water use, pest control, increased farm productivity and reduced greenhouse gases. “IoT is a hugely exciting part of the portfolio and we are seeing new use cases all the time. It has a critical role to play in sustainability and helping organisations, governments and even individuals hit their sustainability goals,” she enthuses.

Whether it’s a sole trader, a farm business or a complex digitally led enterprise, Bryan’s approach is all about responding to their evolving digital needs. “All of our ambition is around enabling our business customers and measuring that in terms of what impact we are having on Irish business – how are we helping them to be more successful? How are we helping them to be more productive and to reach more customers?”

Bryan, Managing Director, Vodafone Business Ireland

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A strong partnership between Brazil and Ireland could help develop innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges

Brazil

in a

- a solid partner Changing World

I“BRAZIL IS HOME TO ROUGHLY 20% OF THE WORLD’S BIODIVERSITY, WHICH IT PROTECTS BY PRESERVING 60% OF THE COUNTRY’S NATIVE VEGETATION.”

n today’s highly volatile international environment dominated by intersecting economic upheavals and political tensions, Brazil emerges as a stable and increasingly safe haven for doing business. Stable institutions and a thriving democratic culture underpin the country’s robust growth on the back of sound economic and monetary policies. Unsurprisingly, S&P Global Ratings recently upgraded Brazil’s credit rating despite the turmoil in world markets and disruptions to global supply chains.

Add to this the fact that Brazil’s population of 203 million is home to a vast and diverse consumer market boasting a growing urban middle class. Brazil’s major cities have become global hubs offering investment opportunities in Brazil and a gateway to Latin America as a whole. Clearly, the reasons to do business and develop partnerships in Brazil have never been more compelling. As a result, it is the

fifth-largest global destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), with inward flows of US$ 86 billion in 2022.

Feeding the World Sustainably

Nowhere is Brazil’s global role more obvious than in areas crucial to securing a more peaceful and prosperous world. The major international conflicts now in the headlines stem from disputes over access to scarce energy and food resources, aggravated by their impact on biodiversity and climate change.

Brazil is home to roughly 20% of the world’s biodiversity, which it protects by preserving 60% of the country’s native vegetation. Brazil’s forest code sets out measures to promote forestry conservation and stem deforestation and destructive wildfires. This includes policies to restore deforested areas, regulate forest use, develop agroforestry systems and encourage environmental monitoring and management of rural properties.

At the same time, Brazil is one of the world’s agricultural powerhouses. From a net food importer only a few decades ago, Brazil has become one of the largest producers and exporters of foodstuffs. Over the last half century, agricultural output rose almost fourfold (385%) with only a modest increase (32%)

in land under tillage. Given that less than 10% of its territory is currently under the plow, Brazil’s potential as one of the world’s breadbaskets is only beginning to be tapped. The agrifood revolution underway benefits from abundant natural resources but equally from agricultural research, effective public policies and entrepreneurship. Brazil’s success in harnessing these factors offers innovative options to launch a truly global green transition that leaves none behind.

Central to this revolution is the decarbonisation of agriculture. Brazilian farm emissions are set to fall by 1.1 billion tons of CO2 equivalent by 2030. To this end, 4 million hectares of degraded land will be recovered, encouraging carbon sequestration and biodiversity. This will equally foster the commercially sustainable production of wood, fibres, food, bioenergy and non-timber forest

products such as latex and resins. Lastly, rural producers will be encouraged to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices.

Given the rainforest’s crucial role in promoting biodiversity and in containing global warming, its protection is at the heart of any environmental scheme. Between 2004 to 2012, deforestation in Brazil was cut by 83%. Current government policy calls for an even more ambitious target:

Top, Wind power wind turbines in Aracati, near Fortaleza, Ceara.

Above, Drone in soybean crop

Photo: iStock

zero deforestation by 2030. Present government policy coupled with increased monitoring of illegal activities and sustainable productive practices, within an appropriate regulatory environment, will help that process.

Energy and Innovation for the Future

Brazil’s commitment to sustainability goes hand in hand with its clean energy policy. In contrast to its global peers, in 2022 almost 50% (against a global average of 14.1%) of all energy generated in Brazil was renewable, spanning an impressive array of sources including hydroelectric, solar, wind and biomass. This trend is gaining speed – 98% of all energy investments in Brazil up to 2050 (estimated at USD 150 billion) will be carbon-free, positioning Brazil as a renewable energy powerhouse. Helping to develop the answers to the challenge of transitioning away from fossil fuels is crucial if Brazil is to continue to boast a competitive and dynamic industrial sector. Brazil hosts Latin America’s largest aerospace, automotive, oil and gas, mining, capital goods, medical equipment and chemical industries. In 2022, Brazilian exports included automobiles and auto parts, aircraft and aerospace equipment, chemicals and petrochemicals, metals and metallurgy, furniture and wood, food and beverages, as well as textiles, footwear, jewellery and pharmaceutical products. In 2022 alone, overseas sales of machinery and equipment grew to US$18.2 billion, an almost 30% rise. These numbers reflect Brazil`s attractiveness as a destination for venture capital and explain why Brazil received 40% of the US$7.8 billion invested from overseas in Latin America in 2022.

None of these achievements would have been possible without a robust innovation culture and institutional framework. A crucial

“98% OF ALL ENERGY INVESTMENTS IN BRAZIL UP TO 2050 (ESTIMATED AT USD 150 BILLION) WILL BE CARBON-FREE, POSITIONING

BRAZIL AS A RENEWABLE ENERGY POWERHOUSE.”

partner in this endeavour is Brazil’s public and private university network, which is well known for its research and innovation excellence. It has boosted Brazil’s scientific profile through pioneering academic publications across a wide range of fields. As a result, numerous Brazilian universities host technology parks and applied research programs, generating not just new products and services but over 40,000 jobs.

Nowhere is this surge in innovation more obvious than in the growing number of startups, venture capital, corporate ventures, innovation hubs and unicorns over the last decade. A sign of the growing maturity of the Brazilian startup ecosystem, today 18% of these companies are considering expanding overseas. It is very encouraging for Irish-Brazilian business ties that Brazilian startups from the agrifood, health and finance sectors will be taking part for the first time in this year’s Dublin Tech Summit. Ireland’s premier innovation hub will provide a unique opportunity to showcase how Ireland and Brazil can continue to cooperate in developing innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

For more information on doing business with Brazil, contact the Embassy of Brazil in Ireland at: secom.dublin@itamaraty.gov.br

Rio de Janeiro Port Photo: iStock

Uisce Éireann has announced 700 new jobs nationwide

DRIVE at Uisce Éireann Recruitment

"UISCE ÉIREANN IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING ONGOING TRAINING AND ATTRACTIVE COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS PACKAGES TO ENSURE A SECURE AND FULFILLING WORK EXPERIENCE"

U

isce Éireann, Ireland's national water authority, has announced it will be recruiting for 700 new jobs across the country. These exciting opportunities will be available in the next year, with positions ready to be filled immediately.

The roles span a range of disciplines, offering a chance for professionals, tradespeople at all levels, recent graduates and skilled workers to contribute to their local communities while building rewarding careers. Uisce Éireann is committed to providing ongoing training and attractive compensation and benefits packages to ensure a secure and fulfilling work experience.

Speaking at the announcement, Uisce Éireann’s People and Safety Director, Dawn O’Driscoll, said: “As we continue our development as Ireland's national water authority with responsibility for the delivery of public water and wastewater services nationwide, we are delighted to be announcing 700 new jobs for candidates across the country. We’re filling an exciting range of roles in all counties including front-line operations, science and engineering, administration, communications, management and IT.

“This is the largest recruitment announcement made by Uisce Éireann to date and reflects the scope and scale of the activities we are carrying out nationwide. These new positions will not only offer a chance to make a tangible difference to your community, but will provide plenty of opportunities to develop your career in a growing organisation. We are looking for people with diverse skillsets to play their part in delivering transformative water services that enable their local communities to thrive.

“At Uisce Éireann, we are proud to provide all employees with equal opportunities and we continue to demonstrate our full commitment to creating an open, diverse and inclusive workplace that enables all our people to achieve their full potential.”

Uisce Éireann encourages interested individuals to visit www.water.ie/careers to explore and apply for the exciting opportunities available in their local areas.

"THESE

NEW POSITIONS WILL NOT ONLY OFFER A CHANCE TO MAKE A TANGIBLE DIFFERENCE TO YOUR COMMUNITY, BUT WILL PROVIDE PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES TO DEVELOP YOUR CAREER IN A GROWING ORGANISATION"

UISCE ÉIREANN PROVIDES SECURE EMPLOYMENT WITH MAJOR OPPORTUNITIES

Iarla Moran spent 19 happy years with Mayo Co Co before bidding farewell to his role as Head of Castlebar Municipal District and making the move over to Uisce Éireann last year

The decision to leave a role he took immense pride in was a difficult one, but earlier in his career he had worked as Head of Water Services for the local authority and never lost the grá for the industry or the realisation of how important water is to help communities thrive.

He was also aware of the strides Uisce Éireann continues to make in upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support the growth needed in housing and across our economy, while protecting the environment and safeguarding water supplies and wanted to play his part.

“When I started in water services in January 2014 Uisce Éireann, or Irish Water as the organisation was known at the time, was coming on stream and I could see the investment in water and wastewater services and the professionalism they were bringing to the industry. They were developing a utility model that was much needed and when the opportunity arose to be part of the team, I applied for my current position.”

Today, Iarla is Uisce Éireann’s Wastewater Regional Operations and Maintenance Manager in the Northwest Region. Having originally joined the Local Authority in 2004 as an Executive Engineer (Electrical) in the Machinery Yard, Iarla is enjoying the move from looking after a town and county to an entire region.

“All of a sudden, I have a regional brief and I’m looking at the different ways that the teams in each county are delivering services and bringing that under one umbrella. It’s about using all the brilliant skills and resources we have to deliver efficient services to the communities we serve.”

About Uisce Éireann

Uisce Éireann is Ireland's national water utility responsible for providing high-quality public water and wastewater services to communities across the country. Committed to delivering safe and sustainable water services, Uisce Éireann plays a vital role in supporting the local economy and enhancing the quality of life for all Irish citizens. In 2023, Uisce Éireann assumed full responsibility for the management of all public water services which had previously been delivered by 31 Local Authorities.

He sees Uisce Éireann’s latest jobs announcement as a chance for people across the region to apply for exciting roles that will make a tangible difference to their communities. “Working with Uisce Éireann provides secure employment with major opportunities. I’m not only referring to operations but right across the business. It’s an exciting time for the organisation.”

future A cleaner Energy

Ireland’s renewable energy future with biomethane

Gas Networks Ireland operates and maintains Ireland’s €2.8 billion, 14,725km national gas network, which is considered one of the safest and most modern renewables-ready gas networks in the world. The gas network is the cornerstone of Ireland’s energy system, securely supplying more than 30% of Ireland’s total energy, including 40% of all heating and almost 50% of the country’s electricity generation.

Ireland has committed to and legislated for netzero emissions by 2050. Leveraging and utilising the existing national gas network is vital to achieving this target. Gas Networks Ireland is committed to delivering a net-zero carbon gas network by 2050. By working to replace natural gas with renewable gases, such as biomethane and green hydrogen, and complementing intermittent renewable electricity, Gas Networks Ireland is supporting Ireland’s journey to a cleaner energy future.

What is biomethane?

Biomethane is a carbon-neutral renewable gas made from farm and food waste through a process known as anaerobic digestion. Biogas is initially produced through the breakdown of organic material (feedstock) by micro-organisms in large oxygen-free tanks (anaerobic digesters) into biogas and digestate. To be injected into the gas network, this biogas must then be upgraded to biomethane and meet the quality standards as required by Gas Networks Ireland.

Decarbonising the gas network with biomethane will help reduce emissions, support the achievement

of Ireland’s climate ambitions and secure Ireland’s energy security with least disruption. The gas network infrastructure in the future will also be adapted to transport zero-carbon gases, such as green hydrogen.

Ireland’s renewable ambition for biomethane Under the Climate Action Plan, Ireland has a target to produce 5.7 TWh of biomethane by 2030. For context, 5.7 TWh is equivalent to 10% of Ireland’s current natural gas demand. The production of indigenous biomethane has been recognised as having the potential to play a vital role in relation to security of energy supply as well as supporting the circular economy and sustainable agriculture.

Whilst the biomethane industry in Ireland might

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, James Cole, Director, Virginia Transport and Karen Doyle, Head of Business Development, Gas Networks Ireland.

be just beginning, countries such as Germany, France, Italy and Denmark have been progressing their biomethane markets over the last decade. In Denmark – which has a population and agricultural industry similar in size to Ireland – biomethane now makes up 34% of gas on the national grid, just 10 years after the first large plant was built there.

Gas Networks Ireland Biomethane Report

In view of the Government’s ambition for biomethane production, there is a need to scale up and prepare for this renewable energy source. In September 2023, Gas Networks Ireland published the Biomethane Energy Report which outlines the current and future role biomethane and the gas network will play in specific areas of Ireland’s energy system and the opportunity it provides to decarbonise sectors including agriculture, transport, industrial heating and power generation. The report illustrates that Ireland has the potential for a biomethane industry, which would replace more than a quarter of natural gas on the network, create significant new agri-income streams and reduce Ireland’s total emissions by almost 4 million tonnes per year – 6.5% of Ireland’s total emissions.

In January this year the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications co-published the Draft National Biomethane Strategy. The Government then sought feedback from industry stakeholders on what supports and policy measures would help kick start the industry. Gas Networks Ireland welcomed the opportunity to provide a detailed response to the public consultation on the Strategy. The publication of the final National Biomethane Strategy will be an important milestone in the decarbonisation of Ireland’s gas network in the transition to a net-zero energy system in Ireland by 2050.

GRAZE Project

Gas Networks Ireland is expected to begin construction of Ireland’s first large-scale renewable gas injection facility later this year. The €30 million Green Renewable Agricultural Zero Emissions (GRAZE) renewable gas project will include the construction of a central grid injection (CGI) facility in Mitchelstown, Co Cork. The new facility will have the capacity to receive renewable gas produced from farm and food waste from approximately 20 local producers. When operating at full capacity, it will have the potential to inject 700 GWh of renewable gas into the gas network. This is equivalent to fulfilling the gas requirements of up to 64,000 homes.

Led by Gas Networks Ireland, the GRAZE gas project is supported by more than €8.4 million in

funding from the Government’s Climate Action Fund. The project will show how Ireland can diversify its gas supplies by speeding up the roll-out of renewable gases like biomethane and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. This aligns with the Government’s National Energy Security Framework, which sets out how Ireland is prepared to deal with potential shocks to our energy system and highlighted the need for alternatives to natural gas, such as biomethane and hydrogen.

This project will champion sustainably produced, carbon-neutral renewable gas and exemplify the principles of the circular economy. By recycling and re-using food and farm waste Ireland can create cleaner energy – for electricity, heat and transport.

Renewable energy for transport

Ireland faces a significant challenge to meet its emission reduction targets, particularly in the transport sector, as it currently accounts for 42% of Ireland’s energy use, making it the country’s largest source of energy demand. It is also one of the most difficult sectors to decarbonise.

Compressed natural gas (CNG), delivered through the national gas network, is key to driving sustainable supply chains and is the first step towards net-zero commercial transport in Ireland.

Fuelling with CNG can reduce a heavy good vehicle’s emissions by up to 22%, while bioCNG, which qualifies as a renewable fuel under the Irish Biofuel Obligation Scheme, can turn a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) into a carbon neutral vehicle.

As Ireland replaces natural gas with renewable, carbon neutral gas (bioCNG), vehicles refuelling from the gas network will increasingly reduce their carbon footprint without changing a thing.

Last year, Gas Networks Ireland and Virginia International Logistics opened Ireland’s eighth CNG refuelling station. A further four stations are in the process of development and once operational, will provide Ireland’s fleet operators a pathway to more sustainable transport.

As AIB’s Head of Finance & Leasing, Brendan Crowley says innovation and sustainability are at the centre of Ireland’s dynamic business ecosystem. Having held this position for two years, Brendan has ensured AIB supports the transport sector in the challenges it faces, while the sector navigates an evolving landscape and embraces sustainability

Innovation AIB spearheading and

Sustainability for finance & leasing customers

In terms of the Finance & Leasing aspect of AIB, what’s in store for 2024?

“TO

SUPPORT OUR CUSTOMER BASE ON THEIR OWN SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY, AIB HAS RELEASED A SERIES OF SECTOR SPECIFIC SUSTAINABILITY GUIDES.”

We have seen a very strong performance for 2023 in Finance & Leasing. I’m delighted that this positive activity has continued through Q1 2024. SIMI (Society of the Irish Motor Industry) statistics indicate that the market is buoyant, particularly in wheeled assets, with car sales up 8%, LCV’s (Light Commercial Vehicles) up 28.2% and HGV’s (Heavy Goods Vehicles) up 15%.

From a sustainability perspective, it’s worth noting that the number of electric vehicles sold in 2023 was 22,789, up from 17,678 in 2022 and while we have seen a slowdown in EV sales in the early part of 2024, it remains a strong market. Indeed, we have seen price drops by some of the premium brands on their EV range, which will support activity.

The supply chain issues across the asset finance spectrum that many of our clients experienced in the 18 months after Covid appear to have washed through in 2023. However, lead times in the transport sector can still be up to six months for certain refrigerated

trailers, which is due to a delay in parts and production slowdowns in factories.

We are also aware of the concerns of our haulage customers. These include costs in terms of driver wages, where they have seen an average increase of 27.5% over the last our years, fuel price volatility, the costs of transitioning to newer fuel technologies and the infrastructure available to support the transition to newer fuel technologies. AIB has a product offering available to assist our customers and we also offer low-cost Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI)-backed products, such as the Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme and more recently, the Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme.

Supporting the transition to a lower-carbon economy is a strategic priority for AIB –what does ESG mean for finance & leasing customers?

Sustainability a key driver of long-term success for all businesses. Embracing eco-conscious practices, such as energy efficiency and waste reduction, not only align with societal expectations but also enhance operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

In Ireland, the transport sector accounts for 18%

of total national emissions. To support our customer base on their own sustainability journey, AIB has released a series of sector specific sustainability guides. These guides aim to provide practical advice and information which can be used by businesses to transition their own operations to a more sustainable environment. AIB is committed to supporting customers with their own transition journeys by making finance available for low emission and electric vehicles.

In addition to direct financing, AIB has a partnership that aligns to our ESG strategy and that is our ownership stake in NiftiBusiness and Nifti Personal Leasing.

For those who might not be aware of Nifti, it’s an innovative vehicle leasing company in which AIB holds a 50%

stake. Nifti’s pioneering approach to EV leasing not only addresses the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions, but also supports SMEs in reducing their carbon footprint and operating costs. The partnership has provided additional product opportunities which we can offer to our AIB customer base. This collaboration between Nifti and SMEs enables our customers to adopt clean energy technologies and drive progress towards a greener, more sustainable future. Nifti recently won the EV Leasing Company of the Year Award for 2024, which demonstrates their commitment to sustainability and in tandem supports AIB’s strong sustainability agenda.

AIB has made strides in the customer journey experience. Tell us about some of the initiatives that have taken place or what else is in the pipeline?

Whether a customer engages with us in person or online, creating a positive experience for them is imperative for us. To continue supporting customers, we have deployed significant resources from a technology perspective to ensure that they are empowered to engage with the bank digitally when they require funding. Enhanced automation has enabled the ongoing growth in the business, which has also led to increased utilisation of automated decision making and e-signature technology, which has enhanced the speed and efficiency of the customer journey. This increase in automation has also created capacity for relationship managers to spend more time visiting customers to better understand their businesses and their future needs.

Brendan Crowley , AIB’s Head of Finance & Leasing

AIB’s Internet Business Banking app has recently undergone a significant update aimed at enhancing the customer experience. This update includes several new features that aim to make banking more convenient, efficient and user-friendly.

There are two interesting features I think customers will find very valuable. The first new feature allows business customers to track their account balances over time, providing valuable insights into their financial health and spending patterns. Another useful function is the ability to export transactions, making it easier for business customers to manage their finances and keep track of their transactions. This feature is particularly useful for businesses that need to reconcile their accounts or provide financial records to third parties.

In addition to these features, the update also includes a feedback survey within the Settings section of the app. This allows business customers to provide feedback on their experience with the app, helping AIB to continually improve and enhance the app’s features and functionality. Overall, the latest Business Banking Mobile release is a testament to AIB’s ongoing commitment to develop simple and efficient solutions to make it easier for our customers to bank with us.

EXCELLENCE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

AWARDS

The Excellence in Local Government Awards recognise and reward best practice in the local authority sector. The 2023 event, which was sponsored by Orsted and in association with the Department for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, took place on Thursday 23rd November in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dublin Airport

For more information about the projects that were shortlisted and other events, follow ChambersofIreland on Instagram

Darragh O’Brien, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage

Festival of the Year Sponsored by Failte Ireland

– Kildare County Council

Supporting Sustainable Communities Sponsored by Eirgrid – Limerick City & County Council

Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

Promoting Economic Development Sponsored by Uisce Eireann

Kerry County Council

Municipal Districts Initiative Sponsored by AIB

Kildare County Council

Sustaining the Arts Sponsored by Zurich

Carlow County Council

Climate Change Sponsored by Eirgrid - South Dublin County Council

Local Authority Innovation Sponsored by ipb insurance

Dun Laoghaire County Council Communications Sponsored by ESB Networks

Fingal County Council

Diversity and Inclusion Sponsored by An Post

Donegal County Council

Supporting Tourism Sponsored by Failte Ireland

Waterford City & County Council

Sustainable Environment and Biodiversity Sponsored by European Recycling Platform – Dublin City Council

Heritage and Built Environment Sponsored by House of Waterford Ireland – Waterford City & County Council

Sustaining the Arts Sponsored by Zurich – Carlow County Council

Urban Revival Sponsored by Gas Networks Ireland – Cork City Council

Age Friendly Initiative – Wicklow County Council

Local Authority of the Year 2023 Sponsored by Orsted – Limerick City & County Council

Health & Wellbeing Sponsored by Healthy Ireland – Limerick City and County Council

Rewarding Sustainability Action

The Sustainable Business Impact Awards celebrate businesses that are engaging with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, championing equality, diversity and inclusion, and integrating sustainable business practices

After a year in which the e ects of climate change feel very real and present, the impetus to integrate sustainable behaviours across business practices carries more urgency than ever. Chambers Ireland’s Sustainable Business Impact Awards are guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) laid down by the United Nations (UN), and reward companies who have aligned their business, fundraising, volunteering, and pro bono practices with these goals to make meaningful impacts.

e UN SDGs have set the global agenda for sustainability up to the year 2030 and lay out a framework which aims to end poverty, improve global health and education standards, reduce inequality, drive economic growth, tackle climate change, and preserve our oceans and forests. Each and every shortlisted company nominated in these Awards is recognised for their commitment to these goals and to furthering them in their initiatives.

is year the Awards took place on ursday, 14th September in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dublin Airport, and saw Intel take home the Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business Impact

THE PROGRAMMES AND ACTIVITIES DEVELOPED BY BUSINESSES OF ALL SIZES CONTINUE TO EVOLVE EVERY YEAR AND HAVE BECOME EVER MORE PROACTIVE AT ADDRESSING CURRENT SUSTAINABILITY CHALLENGES

Award, for demonstrating commitment to sustainability in its company values and consistently meeting key judging criteria across all aspects of sustainability. Intel had been shortlisted across two categories: Communication (MNC) for their work on shaping stakeholder engagement through strategic communications; and Environment (MNC) for water e ciency through nanoltration.

In their communications initiative Intel developed

an annual communications strategy that features signature themes, including environment and sustainability, which saw increases of up to 50% in reach and engagement.

eir shortlisted initiative in the environment category saw Intel Ireland install a new nano ltration system to signi cantly increase the amount of water reused on-site, resulting in at least 484 million litres of mains water being conserved per year.

is twentieth annual

Awards ceremony was kindly sponsored by BAM Ireland.

e Department of Rural and Community Development sponsored the Social Enterprise category, One4all sponsored the Excellence in Workplace Award and ESB the Communications category. Each winner was presented with a specially commissioned trophy designed by Waterford Crystal.

Commenting on the Awards, Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland said, “It gives us great pleasure to once again sponsor these awards.

Congratulations to all the inspirational participants and particularly to Intel Ireland.

“Every year the quality of submission goes up and judging the SBI Awards becomes more di cult. It was an honour and a pleasure to be part of the judging panel again this year, and I would like to applaud Chambers Ireland and all the participants on their principled insistence that businesses must positively impact people and planet.”

Speaking at the Awards ceremony, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland said: “Congratulations to Intel Ireland and the winners of the award categories, whom we recognise for their achievements. Our Awards reveal how the benchmark of quality among projects implemented by businesses across Ireland continues to be driven upwards. e programmes and activities developed by businesses of all sizes continue to evolve every year and have become ever more proactive at addressing current sustainability challenges. e winning projects have demonstrated engagement with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals which is important as we move closer to the 2030 deadline for achieving the goals.”

Championing Sustainability

The Sustainable Business Impact Awards celebrate business achievements in engaging with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, championing sustainability and integrating environmentally friendly practices

Intel has been awarded the Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business Impact at Chambers Ireland’s Sustainable Business Impact Awards 2023 by demonstrating commitment to sustainability in its company values and consistently meeting key judging criteria across all aspects of sustainability.

e Sustainable Business Impact Awards celebrate business achievements in engaging with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, championing sustainability and integrating environmentally-friendly practices.

e twentieth annual Awards ceremony

was kindly sponsored by BAM Ireland. e Department of Rural and Community Development sponsored the Social Enterprise category, One4all sponsored the Excellence in Workplace Award and ESB the Communications category. Each winner was presented with a specially commissioned trophy designed by Waterford Crystal.

Commenting on the Awards, Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland said: “It gives us great pleasure to sponsor these awards once again. Congratulations to all the inspirational participants and particularly to Intel Ireland.

“Every year the quality of submission goes up and judging the SBI Awards becomes more di cult. It was an honour and a pleasure to be part of the judging panel again this year and I would like to applaud Chambers Ireland and all the participants on their principled insistence that businesses must positively impact people and planet.”

ere were a number of awards presented on the night with companies of all sizes recognised for their work with charity and volunteering initiatives, their positive impact in their communities and for initiatives which look to tackle climate change.

Winners

Intel awarded Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business

Communication (LIC)

AIB – 2022 AIB Sustainability Conference

Communication (MNC)

Aldi Ireland – Tackling Food Poverty: an ALDI and Barnardos approach

Partnership with Charity (LIC)

Kerry Group – Realigning Agriculture to Improve Nutrition (RAIN) in Niger

Partnership with Charity (MNC)

Aldi Ireland – ALDI and Barnardos partnership

Environment (LIC)

Uisce Eireann – Sustainable Water Services

Environment (MNC)

Intel Ireland – Water E iciency through Nanofiltration

Volunteering

Matheson – Legal community unites to support Ukrainians on Maynooth University campus

Partnership with a Social Enterprise

DPD Ireland – Lough Ree Access For All 'Resilience' Boat Initiative

Special Initiative

Supporting A Social Enterprise

Irish Prison Service, Eco Mattress & Bounce BackRecycling

Community Programme (LIC)

ESB – ESB Brighter Future Arts Fund

Community Programme (MNC)

Three Ireland – Making Arranmore the most connected island in the world

Workplace

Irish Life Group – Life Matters | Series of Policies and Programmes Supporting our People

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (LIC)

Bus Éireann – Inclusive Recruitment: A Career Built Around You

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (MNC)

Workday – Workday's 'Future Females in Tech' initiative

Sustainable Impact by a Small Business

One Step Closer – Trinity College Dublin – student, sta and community sustainability engagement

Sustainable Impact by a Medium Business

Lárionad Acmhainní

Nádúrtha LAN CTR Cill Ulta – Sustainable Community Horticulture

Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business Impact

Intel Ireland

DHL Express: Supporting Irish Exporters

Bernard McCarthy, Managing Director of DHL Express Ireland, says Irish exporters have reason to remain optimistic, with the support of the right logistics partner

Irish exporters could be forgiven for heading into 2024 with a sense of foreboding. While the Irish economy is deemed resilient, it is technically in recession. The Central Statistics Office reports that the value of goods exports fell by 5% in the first 11 months of 2023. With inflation increases in December reducing the likelihood of any interest rate cut in the first half of 2024, it’s difficult to be optimistic for the months ahead.

The international context isn’t much better, with continued demand weakness in the global economy, uncertainty caused by geo-political tensions and heightened concerns regarding the climate crisis. These external circumstances do not seem favourable for Irish companies seeking to grow their export markets.

Bernard McCarthy has been the Managing Director in DHL Express Ireland for more than 20 years and having seen the highs of stellar economic growth and the lows of the financial

crisis and the IMF bailout, retains a more optimistic outlook.

“It would be easy to talk yourself into ‘crisis mode’ but that’s certainly not my view in Q1 2024,” says McCarthy.

“Whilst exports were down in 2023 this is principally due to the slowdown in multinational-related activities. A small number of MNC’s can drive these numbers so it doesn’t really tell the story of what’s happening with indigenous Irish companies and across the SME sector generally. Our experience is that notwithstanding the economic and external challenges, exporting activity remains vibrant within these sectors.”

DHL Express is to work closely with and provide support to exporting companies, in particular for those companies who are seeking to take their business international for the first time or are entering new markets. Landing a first export order can be somewhat daunting for an SME faced with customs and paperwork requirements, import taxes and insurance. “It’s critical

to choose a reliable carrier and with DHL Express the door-to-door service provided will include customs clearance and secure delivery to the consignee.”

Not only does DHL Express have locally-based staff who can provide support to businesses, there are dedicated online resources which are specifically designed to support exporters. “Our website provides access to a whole range of global shipping advice for our Irish customers. In addition, DHL Express has developed My Global Trade Services, an intuitive, all-in-one portal which enables businesses to comply with all import/export regulations, query for product classification and customs tariff (HS) codes and calculate Landed Costs.”

With the support of the right logistics partner, the outlook for 2024 is not so bleak and Irish exporters can look ahead to enjoying a fruitful year.

Find out more at dhl.com/discover/en-ie

Find out more detail by scanning the QR code.

Mayor of South Dublin County Council launches five-year tourism strategy; Minister Ryan opens bus interchange in Navan Town Centre; Minister Ryan launches ambitious Meath County Council Climate Action Plan 2024-2029

Cork County Council launches economic and community development plan; Cork County Council launches first Climate Action Plan; multi-million euro Renewal Scheme launched; Kilrush included in Town Centre First programme

Sligo takes home Best Mental Health Initiative award; Co Sligo allocated €1,742,899 under the Community Recognition Fund 2024; €304,186 CLÁR funding for Leitrim

Glenties selected for Historic Towns Initiative; over €4.3m PEACEPLUS funding for Cavan; new Belfast Agenda sets targets for 150,000 new trees, 6,000 new homes and 7,000 new business start-ups by 2028

Funding confirmed for Kildare Heritage Conservation Projects

Kildare County Council is delighted to confirm that four Kildare projects will receive funding under the recently announced Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and a further 15 projects under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) which, cumulatively, exceed €324,000.

The funding follows the recent announcement by Minister of State with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, that a total of 676 heritage projects across every county in Ireland will benefit from €9m in financial support for conservation projects through the HSF and the BHIS for 2024.

Both conservation schemes fund a variety of essential repairs and sensitive conservation works to prevent deterioration, protect character, and encourage the re-use of protected structures. The schemes also provide important support for the employment of traditional craftspeople and conservation professionals.

5-YEAR TOURISM STRATEGY FOR SOUTH DUBLIN

CLIMATE ACTION PLAN FOR CORK

NEW BELFAST AGENDA SETS TARGETS

In Association with

Mayor of South Dublin County Council launches five-year tourism strategy

The Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Alan Edge, launched the council’s new five-year tourism strategy at an event in Tallaght Stadium. The document is intended to guide the activities and work programme of South Dublin County from 2024 to 2029.

“South Dublin County, with its rich history, diverse communities and stunning landscapes, stands poised to become a beacon for visitors from home and abroad, eager for all the authentic experiences that the gateway to the Dublin Mountains has to offer,” says Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Alan Edge. “This comprehensive strategy reflects our commitment to unlocking the full potential of South Dublin County as a vibrant and sustainable tourist destination. By embracing innovation and fostering collaboration between local stakeholders, we aim to create an environment where tourism not only thrives but also contributes significantly to the wellbeing of our communities.”

The strategy aims to plan sustainably for the next phase of the county’s tourism evolution, position South Dublin to capitalise on its

strongest assets, build on the previous tourism strategy and ensure that tourism supports inclusive economic growth in South Dublin.

“Our €100m planned investment in tourism under this strategy, including for projects such as the Dublin Mountains Visitor Centre, Tallaght Heritage Centre, 12th Lock along

€257M

Increased Cost of Business Grant announced

As part of Budget 2024, the Government signed off on a package of €257m for the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) Grant as a vital measure for small and medium businesses facing rising costs. A once-off grant payment is available to qualifying businesses and online applications are open until May 1st. For further details, visit your local authority’s website.

the Grand Canal and The Castle Stables and Courtyards at Rathfarnham, along with our active travel network incorporating the Dodder, Grand Canal and Canal Loop Greenways, demonstrate an ambitious but sustainable approach to tourism,” adds Chief Executive of South Dublin County Council Colm Ward.

Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Alan Edge with councillors and staff of South Dublin County Council at the launch of the South Dublin County Tourism Strategy at Tallaght Stadium.

[ SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY ]

[ COUNTY MEATH ]

Minister Ryan opens bus interchange in Navan Town Centre

Mayor of Navan Cllr Eddie Fennessy was joined by Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan TD and the National Transport Authority (NTA) to o icially open the bus interchange on Kennedy Road, Navan, Co Meath. The project was funded by NTA through the Government’s Project 2040 and is aligned with the Sustainable Mobility Action Plan, the Climate Action Plan and the GDA Transport Strategy.

Close co-operation between NTA and Meath County Council has led to major improvements to the public transport network for the people of the Navan area, over the last six years. This includes the high-frequency NX express service from Navan to Dublin; better connectivity with Dublin Airport on the 109A; enhanced regional connectivity with Drogheda, Mullingar and Athlone on the 190;

new Local Link routes 188 and 189; and a significant upgrade of the N1/N2 Navan town bus service.

“We know that when we invest in public transport, by making it more useful, more frequent and more reliable, people respond,” says Minister Eamon Ryan. “In recent years, thanks to an ongoing programme of investment in infrastructure and services, including the N1 and N2 introduced in 2020, patronage on the regional and local buses network in the Navan area has grown from 1.4m to 2.4m passengers per year. That’s an increase of 71%. The new Kennedy Road interchange will facilitate further increases in public transport usage in Navan over the next few years and will act as the focal point for more enhancements of the public transport network.”

Minister Ryan launches ambitious Meath County Council Climate Action

Cathaoirleach Cllr Tommy Reilly and Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan TD o icially launched Meath County Council’s Climate Action Plan 2024-2029. The plan outlines ambitious strategies aimed at building a climate-resilient, biodiverse-rich, environmentally sustainable, and climate-neutral economy. These strategies will support healthy lifestyles and economic growth in Co Meath. Central to the plan is the

Plan 2024-2029

concept of decarbonising zones with nine towns identified. These designated zones will serve as focal points for targeted measures to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy e iciency, and enhance environmental sustainability. Furthermore, they will provide opportunities for sharing experiences and learnings between communities.

“Change requires local engagement, local community involvement, local community support, and leadership,

which is why this Climate Action Plan in Meath is important,” says Minister Eamon Ryan TD. “What everyone’s involvement has done to date has given this plan its grassroots strength. I have had the great privilege of visiting every single county and every Local Authority, with great e orts being made in making this shift; it belongs to every political party, we cannot a ord not to make this change, and it has to belong to everyone, and that is quite evident in Co Meath today.”

Brian Daly, Local Link; Deirdre Murtagh, Local Link; Kieran Kehoe, Chief Executive, Meath County Council; Minister Eamon Ryan TD; John Burns, Local Link; John Halpenny, Halpenny Travel; and Conor O’Donovan, National Transport Authority.

Cork County Council launches plan for economic and community development

The Cork County Local Economic and Community Plan 2024-2030 has been formally adopted by the Elected Members of Cork County Council. The plan provides a framework for how Cork County Council itself, and in partnership with stakeholders, will promote and support the economic and community development of the county over the next six years.

This plan sets out a series of high-level goals representing the specific vision that Cork County Council wishes to achieve. These include sustainable, resilient and empowered communities and places; a socially inclusive county; a healthy and active county; a low carbon and climate resilient county that protects biodiversity and the environment; a county that supports enterprise; and a smart and innovative county.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Frank O’Flynn highlighted the collaborative effort between Cork County Council, its economic and community stakeholders and the citizens of Cork County in the development of the plan: “As we unveil this comprehensive roadmap which will guide us through the challenges and opportunities presented over the next six years, I am reminded of the strength that lies in the power of collaboration. The input and participation of Elected Members, economic and community stakeholders and the citizens of Cork County throughout this process demonstrates our shared vision and aspiration to promote the development of our county as an attractive, competitive and sustainable place to live, visit and do business.”

€83.2M

road grant allocation announced for Cork County

Cork County Council welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Transport of the 2024 Roads Grant allocations. A total of €83,199,560 has been allocated by the Department of Transport in respect of the maintenance and improvement of regional and local roads in Cork County this year – €42,496,500 for restoration improvement and maintenance for roads, with €1,887,840 dedicated to bridge rehabilitation works.

Cork County Council launches first Climate Action Plan

Cork County Council has launched its first Climate Action Plan (2024-2029) which aims to support the transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient county. The plan includes actions and projects which support the local authority in reducing its direct carbon emissions by 51% by 2030 in line with national emissions targets. It also outlines how the council will work with communities and national and state agencies to advocate for positive and meaningful climate action.

Key goals in the Climate Action Plan include actions and projects to protect, restore and enhance biodiversity across the county and support the transition to a low-carbon transport system. This includes the promotion of active travel and the delivery of new greenway infrastructure.

One significant aspect of the Climate Action Plan is the establishment of Macroom as Cork County Council’s first Decarbonisation Zone, which will act as a key pilot zone and testbed for climate change mitigation, adaptation and biodiversity measures, as well as community-led climate action projects.

The plan also supports the delivery of the Community Climate Action Programme (CCAP), which provides eligible community organisations with up to 100% funding to deliver local climate action projects (to a maximum value of €100,000).

“The formal adoption and publication of the Cork County Council Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 marks a significant milestone for the council and emphasises our ongoing commitment to meeting national climate targets,” says Chief Executive of Cork County Council Valerie O’Sullivan. “The publication of this first-ever Climate Action Plan for the council is an important moment for the local authority sector, as we strive to continue to address the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change.”

Multi-million euro Patrickswell Village Renewal Scheme launched

The completed Patrickswell Village Renewal Scheme, which has been completed by Limerick City & County Council’s Active Travel team and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA), has been officially launched. The scheme aims to prioritise pedestrians and traffic calming measures, with controlled crossing points installed and improved sightlines designed for safety purposes. New bus stops in the village centre have also been provided and opportunities to link in with current developments in the village have been optimised, including the new Community Centre, which opened in October 2023.

Cllr Sarah Kiely; Pat Daly, Chief Executive Limerick City and County Council; Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Office of Public Works and the Gaeltacht; Cllr Dan McSweeney, Deputy Mayor of Limerick City and County; Jack Chambers TD, Minister of State at the Department of Transport and at the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications; Trina O’Dea; Cllr Fergus Kilcoyne; Sean Kelly, MEP; and Richard O’Donoghue TD. Photo: Don Moloney.

Limerick City & County Council has worked closely with the Patrickswell Tidy Towns Committee throughout the project with regard to design of the landscape and planting proposals and future maintenance requirements. The scheme provides additional landscaped green areas, including more than 50 mature indigenous trees. The project also provides for bike parking in the area, along with solar compactor bins at locations throughout the village and public lighting upgrades. The project received an allocation of €1.25m in funding from the NTA in 2023, having been allocated €750,000 in 2022.

Kilrush included in Town Centre First programme

Clare County Council has welcomed the inclusion of Kilrush in the Town Centre First programme, which focuses on the social and economic revival of towns across the country.

The Government has confirmed that the West Clare town is among 26 urban centres across Ireland that will benefit from Phase 2 funding to complete a comprehensive masterplan to help develop their town centres.

Working in collaboration with the local community, Clare County Council has already produced a Town Centre First plan for Sixmilebridge, which was included in Phase 1 of the programme and was officially launched by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell TD.

The Town Centre First programme is supported by Government through the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, the

Limerick City & County Council’s Active Travel team has been allocated €21m for the design, planning and construction of infrastructure in 2024 by the National Transport Authority. The funding will be used to further expand and improve Limerick’s walking and cycling facilities, with approx 11km of infrastructure completed since the establishment of the Active Travel unit in 2021. €21M funding for Limerick City & County Council’s Active Travel team in 2024

Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, European Regional Development Fund, Town Centre First Heritage Revival (THRIVE) Scheme and the Historic Towns Initiative.

Pictured at the Town Centre First announcement were (from left) Mark Noonan and Eileen Moloney, Sixmilebridge Town Team; Minister Heather Humphreys TD; Minister of State, Kieran O’Donnell TD; Joan Tarmey, Town Regeneration Officer; Anne Griffin, Shannon Municipal District; and Carmel Kirby, Director of Economic Development, Clare County Council.

[ COUNTY MAYO ]

[ COUNTY LEITRIM ]

The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin and the Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne announced a record investment of almost €30m in core funding support to sporting organisations, through Sport Ireland, for 2024; €17.3m for National Governing Bodies of Sport and €11.4m for Local Sports Partnerships – the highest-ever level of Core investment into these organisations, an increase of almost €11.9m over the lifecycle of the National Sports Policy 2018-2027. Pictured (from left): Sport Ireland Chairperson John Foley, Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education, Thomas Byrne TD, and Chief Executive of Sport Ireland Dr Úna May.

Minister Heather Humphreys visits Ballinamore to officially open The Junction

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys officially opened The Junction Ballinamore, which received €2.4m under the Rural Regeneration Development Fund. The Junction project promotes the regeneration of Ballinamore town and surrounding areas by restoring two protected buildings and a derelict site at the former Station House. This preserves local heritage assets for future generations to enjoy and improves the public realm space in Ballinamore. It provides opportunities for employment, digital technology, arts, culture and youth services. The Junction is fully operational with the hosting of youth services by the North Connaught Youth and Community Services, by the provision of arts programmes by the Leitrim School of Art and in the Junction hub, flexible hot desking and office space for enterprises.

€304,186

CLÁR funding for Leitrim

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, announced almost €6.2m in funding for schools and community and sports facilities nationwide. The funding under CLÁR is being provided as part of Our Rural Future, the Government’s strategic fiveyear plan to revitalise rural towns and villages nationwide. In Leitrim, eight projects were successful in securing cumulative funding of €304,186 for the development of new facilities such as playgrounds, school gardens, or upgrades and repairs to existing facilities.

Sligo takes home Best Mental Health Initiative award

Sligo County Council won the Best Mental Health Initiative at the Local Authority All Ireland Community and Council Awards 2024 for the Sligo Comhairle na nÓg LGBTI+ animation

“Here for You”.

The awards were hosted by the Local Authority Members Association (LAMA) to celebrate community and councils working together and provide the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the work done within our communities.

Sligo Comhairle na nÓg is one of 31 child and youth councils established in the local authority structures across the country. Their purpose is to give children and young people the opportunity to be involved in the development of local services and policies.

“Here for You” is a short animation designed by young people and targeted at young people within the LGBTI+ community in Sligo aged 12-17. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the supports and services in Sligo town and online to the LGBTI+ community; to help young people realise they are not alone and that there are services to help young people who are struggling with their identity, or just still finding their way.

The initiative is a collaboration between Sligo County Council, its Comhairle na nÓg and Foróige with creative animation provided by Studio Meala. It was funded by the Department of Rural Community Development under the 2021 Dormant Accounts Funding for LGBTI+ organisations. The purpose of the Dormant Account funding was to help provide services to LGBTI+ organisations nationwide, targeting marginalised people experiencing exclusion on account of their LGBTI+ identities.

Co Sligo

allocated

€1,742,899

under the Community Recognition Fund 2024

The Minister for Rural & Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, together with her colleague Minister Joe O’Brien TD, have announced a further €50m in funding under the Community Recognition Fund.

The Community Recognition Fund was first introduced last year to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland. Through the 2023 allocation, funding of €50m was approved for some 900 projects in supporting cities, towns and villages nationwide that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries. A further €50m is now being provided to deliver projects over 2024 and 2025. Local authorities, in collaboration with communities, will be funded to develop projects that will deliver long-term benefits to those living in the areas selected. Co Sligo has been allocated €1,742,899 under the Community Recognition Fund 2024.

Projects that will be funded include the development or refurbishment of community or cultural facilities including play areas, walkways, parks, community/sensory gardens, allotments, and recreational areas; development or refurbishment of local club and sports facilities; enhancement to school/parish facilities which are open to use by all of the community after school hours; purchase of equipment for local clubs, festivals, community events and organisations; and transport infrastructure such as community vehicles.

[ COUNTY SLIGO ]

Glenties selected for Historic Towns Initiative Over €4.3m PEACEPLUS funding for Cavan

The Special EU Programmes Body has announced a funding award of €4,334,408 for Cavan County Council through the PEACEPLUS Programme. The Cavan PEACEPLUS plan was developed after extensive consultation using the co-design process to address needs within the Cavan County Council area and in particular how PEACEPLUS can address a lack of historic investment due to conflict and enhance peace and reconciliation in the county.

The Shared Spaces projects in the plan are deemed the best vehicle to create the conditions to bring people together both from within the county and on a cross-border basis. The lack of these facilities has had a direct and negative impact on efforts to integrate the communities of Cavan and the border counties and build inclusive and shared communities. Respecting the changes in our society with the increasingly ethnically diverse community, this PEACEPLUS plan places an additional emphasis on increasing sustained and meaningful engagement with participants from minority ethnic communities and those of different racial backgrounds. The Action Plan has 27 projects across three themes: community regeneration and transformation; thriving and peaceful communities; and celebrating cultural diversity. The PEACEPLUS Programme is a European Union initiative, which helps address the peace and reconciliation needs of Northern Ireland and the Border region. The funding is administered by the Special EU Programmes Body.

The town of Glenties will benefit under the Heritage Council’s Historic Towns Initiative following Donegal County Council’s successful application to the scheme. The Conservation Office and Heritage Office of Donegal County Council in partnership with the Brian Friel Trust, Dedalus Architecture and local property owners were awarded €350,000 under The Heritage Council’s Historic Towns Initiative. The award will be augmented with €150,000 (30%) funding from Donegal County Council as well as in-kind contributions by property owners.

Structures that will benefit from conservation works under the scheme include The Laurels – playwright Brian Friel’s mother’s home and the setting for his play, Dancing at Lughnasa; the mid-19thcentury Glenties Courthouse that is being leased to the Brian Friel Trust to establish the Brian Friel Centre; the community-run St Connell’s Museum and the steel-arched gateway which forms part of the curtilage of St Connell’s Church. The project also involves the design of two road crossing points. The conservation works are due for completion in November.

Three other towns countrywide secured

The Laurels is Brian Friel’s mother’s home in Glenties in which he spent time during the summer holidays when he was young. The house and his aunts who lived here served as the inspiration for his play, Dancing at Lughnasa. Donegal County Council in partnership with the Brian Friel Trust and the local community have secured funding from The Heritage Council for conservation works to this protected structure of national significance under the Historic Towns Initiative.

funding for capital works under this year’s Historic Towns Initiative: Ballina, Co Mayo (€240,000); Midleton, Co Cork (€350,000) and Birr, Co Offaly (€80,000). A further four towns also secured funding for the preparation of heritage-led regeneration plans: Monaghan Town, Co Monaghan (€50,000), Passage West, Co Cork (€50,000), Strokestown, Co Roscommon (€50,000) and Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare (€50,000).

basis for a Brian Friel Centre to celebrate the life and works of the Irish playwright.

The mid-19th-century Glenties Courthouse and St Connell’s Museum will benefit from funding under the Glenties Historic Towns Initiative. Glenties Courthouse is in the process of being leased to the Brian Friel Trust to provide the

The Library Service has partnered with the Donegal Education and Training Board’s Further Education and Training Service to deliver Digital Hubs in libraries. The Digital Hub is a free service where you can receive support for all your digital needs. The Digital Hubs are available in the following libraries: Tuesdays in Central Library, Letterkenny 2pm-5pm; Tuesdays in Bundoran Library from 10am-12pm; Thursdays in Carndonagh Library from 2pm-4pm; the last Thursday of the month in Buncrana Library from 9.30am-12.30pm.

[ COUNTY ANTRIM ]

€4M

for Letterkenny under Urban Regeneration

& Development Fund

Funding support of €4m has been provided to Donegal County Council under Call 3 of the Urban Regeneration & Development Fund to tackle long-term vacancy and dereliction in Letterkenny Town Centre. Under this programme, 44 vacant/derelict properties have been identified as having potential to be brought back into use as homes.

New Belfast Agenda sets targets for 150,000 new trees, 6,000 new homes and 7,000 new business start-ups by 2028

Plans to support the most vulnerable in Belfast while growing the economy, regenerating neighbourhoods and achieving climate targets have been published in a refreshed strategic plan for the city. The Belfast Agenda was first published in 2017, setting out a joint vision for the city up to 2035. With significant economic, social and environmental changes in recent years, it has been reviewed and updated to reflect current priorities.

City partners have agreed to deliver a significant programme of actions by 2028 which will include building 6,000 new homes, planting 150,000 trees, reducing chronic homelessness, increasing the number of business start-ups by 20%

and reducing the economic inactivity rate by 5% each year.

“Since we first published the original Belfast Agenda seven years ago, there have been seismic changes both economically and politically as a result of Brexit, the global impacts of Covid-19, austerity measures, societal changes and the ongoing climate emergency,” says Belfast Lord Mayor Cllr Ryan Murphy.

“While our vision for Belfast and its people hasn’t changed, when we began the process of reviewing the Belfast Agenda it was clear that city partners and the public had new priorities, so we needed to rethink our approach, re-evaluate how we utilise our resources and establish ambitious new targets.”

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ARKLOW & DISTRICT CHAMBER

Office 9, Arklow Business Enterprise Centre, Arklow, Co. Wicklow, Y14 X803

Tel: +353 (0)402 26909

Email: chamber@arklow.ie Web: www.arklow.ie

ATHLONE CHAMBER

Unit 12, Inis Oir, Golden Island, Athlone, N37 F7X6

Tel: 090 6420931

Email: info@athlonechamber.ie Web: www.athlonechamber.ie

BALLINA CHAMBER

44 Pearse Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo, F26 R62W

Tel: +353 (0)96 72800

Email: chamber@ballina.ie Web: www.ballina.ie/ ballina-chamber-of-commerce-ireland

BALLYHAUNIS CHAMBER

Unit 1, The Enterprise Centre, Clare Road, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo, F35 HC66

Tel: +353 (0)94 963 0311

Email: ballyhaunischamber@gmail.com

Web: www.ballyhaunischamber.ie

BANTRY CHAMBER

C/O Neill Clarke Auctioneers, Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry, Co. Cork, P75 TN96

Tel: +353 (0)27 52860

Email: neillbantry@gmail.com

BRAY & DISTRICT CHAMBER

10 Prince of Wales Terrace, Bray, Co. Wicklow, A98 A4X0

Tel: +353 (0)1 282 8248

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COBH & HARBOUR CHAMBER

Arch Building, Casement Square, Cobh, Co. Cork, P24 HP29

Tel: +353 (0)21 481 3612

Email: info@cobhharbourchamber.ie

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COOTEHILL CHAMBER

White Star Complex, Market Street, Cootehill, Co. Cavan, H16 X034

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Email: cootehillchamber64@gmail.com

CORK CHAMBER

Fitzgerald House, 20 Summerhill North, Co. Cork, T23 TD90

Tel: +353 (0)21 450 9044

Email: info@corkchamber.ie Web: www.corkchamber.ie

COUNTY CARLOW CHAMBER

Carlow Gateway Business Centre, Athy Road, Co. Carlow, R93 C7P6

Tel: +353 (0)59 913 2337

Email: ceo@carlowchamber.com

Web: www.carlowchamber.com

COUNTY KILDARE CHAMBER

Sallins Road, Naas Town Centre, Naas, Co. Kildare, W91 KV4H

Tel: +353 (0)45 894074

Email: info@countykildarechamber.ie Web: www.countykildarechamber.ie

COUNTY MEATH CHAMBER

Chambers Buildings, Church Hill, Navan, Co. Meath, C15 YKR4

Tel: +353 (0)46 904 6060

Email: info@countymeathchamber.ie Web: www.countymeathchamber.ie

COUNTY TIPPERARY CHAMBER

Questum Acceleration Centre, Ballingarrane Science & Technology Park, Clonmel, Co.Tipperary, E91 V239

Tel: +353 (0)52 612 6500

Email: marketing@countytipperarychamber.com

Web: www.countytipperarychamber.com

COUNTY WEXFORD CHAMBER

Chamber Offices, Hill Street, Wexford, Y35 WR99

Tel: +353 (0)53 912 2226

Email: info@wexfordchamber.ie

Web: www.wexfordchamber.ie

DROGHEDA & DISTRICT CHAMBER

Broughton House, Dublin Road, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 CF57

Tel: +353 (0)41 983 3544

Email: enquiries@droghedachamber.com

Web: www.droghedachamber.ie

DUBLIN CHAMBER

7 Clare Street, Dublin 2, D02 F902

Tel: +353 (0)1 644 7200

Email: info@dublinchamber.ie

Web: www.dubchamber.ie

DÚN LAOGHAIRE-RATHDOWN CHAMBER

Avoca House, 8 Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, A96 T8K1

Tel: +353 (0)1 284 5066

Email: info@dlrchamber.ie

Web: www.dlrchamber.ie

DUNDALK CHAMBER

Unit 4, Partnership Court, Park Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 N8FY

Tel: +353 (0)42 933 6343

Email: info@dundalk.ie

Web: www.dundalk.ie

DUNGARVAN & WEST WATERFORD CHAMBER

Dungarvan Enterprise Centre, Main St., Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, X35 FX45

Tel: +353 (0)58 45054

Email: info@dungarvanchamber.ie Web: www.dungarvanchamber.ie

ENNIS CHAMBER

54 O’Connell Street, Ennis, Co. Clare, V95 V3KD

Tel: +353 (0)65 684 2988

Email: info@ennischamber.ie Web: www.ennischamber.ie

ENNISCORTHY CHAMBER

Portsmouth House, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 A6K1

Tel: +353 (0)53 923 2006

Email: admin@enniscorthychamber.ie Web: www.enniscorthychamber.ie

FINGAL CHAMBER

2 The Green, Dublin Airport, Co. Dublin, K67 E2H3

Tel: +353 (0)1 890 0977

Email: info@fingalchamber.ie Web: www.fingalchamber.ie

GALWAY CHAMBER

Commerce House, Merchants Road, Galway City, Co. Galway, H91 C8K1

Tel: +353 (0)91 563536

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KILKENNY CHAMBER

11 Patrick Street, Kilkenny City, Co. Kilkenny, R95 VNP4

Tel: +353 (0)56 775 2767

Email: admin@kilkennychamber.ie Web: www.kilkennychamber.ie

LAOIS CHAMBER

James Fintan Lalor Ave., Lyster Square, Portlaoise, Co. Laois, R32 EHP9

Tel: +353 (0)85 256 6522

Email: info@laoischamber.ie Web: www.laoischamber.ie

LETTERKENNY CHAMBER

Grand Central Complex, Canal Road, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 EK7Y

Tel: +353 (0)74 912 4866

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LIMERICK CHAMBER

96 O’Connell Street, Limerick City, Co. Limerick, V94 YYP6

Tel: +353 (0)61 415180

Email: info@limerickchamber.ie Web: www.limerickchamber.ie

LONGFORD CHAMBER

Harbour House, Market Square, Longford, Co. Longford, N39 N2N2

Tel: +353 (0)87 6604010

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Web: www.longfordchamber.ie

MALLOW CHAMBER

C/O CoWork, Landscape Terrace, Mallow, Co. Cork, P51 T383

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Email: info@mallowchamber.ie Web: www.mallowchamber.ie

MULLINGAR CHAMBER

Market House, Pearse Street, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, N91 FD8C

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NORTHERN IRELAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

40 Linenhall Street, Belfast, Co. Antrim, BT2 8BA

Tel: +44 (0)28 9024 4113

Email: mail@northernirelandchamber.com Web: www.northernirelandchamber.com

SHANNON CHAMBER

Suite 14, Shannon Airport House, Shannon Free Zone, Shannon, Co. Clare, V14 E370

Tel: +353 (0)61 475 854

Email: admin@shannonchamber.ie Web: www.shannonchamber.ie

SLIGO CHAMBER

16 Quay Street, Sligo, F91 X923

Tel: +353 (0)71 916 1274

Email: info@sligochamber.ie Web: www.sligochamber.ie

SOUTH DUBLIN CHAMBER

Tallaght Business Centre, Whitestown Business Park, Tallaght, D24 K59A

Tel: +353 (0)1 462 2107

Email: business@sdchamber.ie Web: www.sdchamber.ie

TRALEE CHAMBER

HQ2, Dominick St., Tralee, Co. Kerry, V92 C799

Tel: +353 (0)66 712 1472

Email: info@tralee.ie

Web: www.tralee.ie

TULLAMORE & DISTRICT CHAMBER

Unit 2A, Second Level, Bridge Centre, Tullamore, Co. Offaly

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Web: www.tullamorechamber.com

WATERFORD CHAMBER

2 Great George’s Street, Co. Waterford, X91 AH9K

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WESTPORT CHAMBER

The Leeson Enterprise Centre, Altamont Street, Westport, Co. Mayo, F28 ET85

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CHAMBERS IRELAND

11 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, D02 FY84

Tel: +353 (0)1 400 4300

Email : info@chambers.ie Web: www.chambers.ie

CORPORATE PARTNERS

AN POST

General Post Office, O’Connell Street Lower, North City, Dublin 1, D01 F5P2

Tel: +353 (0)1 705 7000 Email: customer.services @anpost.ie Web: www.anpost.ie

GAS NETWORKS IRELAND

Headquarters Gasworks Road Cork, T12 RX96

Tel: 021 453 4000 Web: www.gasnetworks.ie

ZURICH

Zurich House, Ballsbridge Park, Dublin 4, D04 E5N4 Tel: 1890 400 300

Email: customerhelp@zurich.ie Web: www.zurichinsurance.ie

10 Molesworth Street, Dublin 2, D02 R126

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Two Gateway, East Wall Rd., East Wall, Dublin 3, D03 A995

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Email: info@esb.ie Web: www.esb.ie

UISCE ÉIREANN

Colvill House, 24-26 Talbot St, Dublin 1, D01 NP86

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AIB

ESB

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ABBOTT IRELAND

Block G, Cherrywood Business Park, Loughlinstown, Dublin 18, D18 T3Y1

ADVERTISING STANDARDS AUTHORITY FOR IRELAND

7 Herbert St, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 2, D02 K838

Tel: (01) 613 7040

Email: standards@asai.ie Web: www.asai.ie

BANK OF IRELAND

40 Mespil Road, Dublin 4, D04 C2N4

Tel: + 353 1 661 5933 Web: www.bankofireland.com

CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF ARBITRATORSIRISH BRANCH

The Distillery Building, 145 - 151 Church Street, Dublin 7

Tel: +353 (0)1 707 9739

Tel: +353 (0)1 469 1500 Web: www.abbott.ie

Email: info@ciarb.ie Web: www.arbitration.ie

ARAB-IRISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

34 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin 2, D02 P620

Tel: (0)1 662 4451

Email: info@aicc.ie Web: www.aicc.ie

BRIGHT HR SOFTWARE LIMITED

Block W, Eastpoint Business Park, D03 Y564

Tel: 1800 279 841 www.brighthr.com/ie

COASTLINE SOLUTIONS

8A Appian Way, Ranelagh, Dublin 6, D06 C9N3

Tel: + 353 (0)1 235 2166

Email: info@coastlinesolutions.com Web: www.coastlinesolutions.com

DIAGEO IRELAND

St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8, D08 AX97

Tel: +353 (0)1 453 6700

Email: consumerinfo @diageoirl-info.com Web: www.diageo.ie

EIRGRID

The Oval, Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, D04 FW28

Tel: +353 (0)1 677 1700

Email: info@eirgrid.com Web: www.eirgrid.com

EMBASSY OF BRAZIL

Block 8 - Harcourt Centre Charlotte Way, Dublin 2, D02 K580

Tel: +353 1 4756000

E-mail: brasemb.dublin@itamaraty.gov.br Web: dublin.itamaraty.gov.br/en-us/

EUROPEAN MOVEMENT IRELAND

8 Lower Fitzwilliam Street, Dublin 2, D02 W426

Tel: +353 (0)1 662 5815

Email: info@europeanmovement.ie Web: europeanmovement.ie

DUBLIN AIRPORT AUTHORITY PLC

Old Central Terminal Building, Dublin Airport, Co. Dublin, K67 XY76

Tel: +353 (0)1 814 1111

Email: customerrelations@dublinairport.com

Web: www.daa.ie

ELI LILLY AND COMPANY (IRELAND) LTD.

Saint Kevin’s, Dunderrow, Co. Cork, P17 NY71

Tel: +353 (0) 1 661 4377

Web: www.lilly.ie

ENTERPRISE IRELAND

The Plaza, East Point Business Park, Dublin 3, D03 E5R6

Tel: +353 (0)1 727 2000

Email: client.service@enterprise-ireland.com Web: www.enterprise-ireland.com

FINE GRAIN PROPERTY

11 Fitzwilliam Pl, Dublin 2, D02 X529

Web: www.finegrainproperty.com

KPMG

1 Stokes Place, St. Stephens Green, Dublin 2, D02 DE03

Tel: +353 (0)1 410 1000

Email: webmaster@kpmg.ie Web: www.kpmg.ie

NATIONAL BROADBAND IRELAND

3009 Lake Dr, Citywest, Dublin 24, D24 H6RR

Tel: +353 (0)1 818 624 624

Email: contactus@nbi.ie Web: www.nbi.ie

JOHN SISK & SON

Wilton Works, Naas Road, Dublin 22

Tel: +353 (0)1 409 1500

Email: info@sisk.ie Web: www.johnsiskandson.com

PENINSULA BUSINESS SERVICES

East Point Business Park, Alfie Byrne Rd, East Wall Dublin 3, D03 Y564

PERMANENT TSB

56-59 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, D02 H489

Tel: 1890 500 121 Web: www.permanenttsb.ie

Tel: 1890 252 923

Email: info@peninsula-ie.com Web: www.peninsula-ie.com

SEAI

St Kevin’s, 3 Park Place, Hatch Street Upper, Dublin 2

Tel: +353 (0)1 808 2100

Email: info@seai.ie Web: www.seai.ie

SKILLNET IRELAND

5th Floor, Q House, 76 Furze Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18, D18 E268

Tel: +353 (0)1 207 9630

Email: info@skillnetireland.ie Web: www.skillnetireland.ie

SSE AIRTRICITY

South County Business Park, Red Oak South, Leopardstown, Dublin 18, D18 W688 Tel: 1850 812 220

Email: customerservice @sseairtricity.com Web: www.sse.com/Ireland

THE BAR COUNCIL OF IRELAND

158-159 Church Street Dublin 7, D07 YX89

Tel: +353 (0)1 817 5000

Email: thebarofireland @lawlibrary.ie Web: www.lawlibrary.ie

THOMAS

MCDONOGH & SONS LTD

Dockgate Building, Dock Road, Galway, H91 V6RR Tel: +353 (0)91 560700

Email: thomasmcdonogh@mcdonogh.ie Web: www.mcdonogh.ie

THE LAW SOCIETY OF IRELAND

Blackhall Place, Stoneybatter, Dublin 7, D07 VY24

Tel: + 353 (0)1 672 4800

Email: general@lawsociety.ie Web: www.lawsociety.ie

WESTERN DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

Dillon House Ballaghaderreen Co. Roscommon F45 WY26

Tel: +353 (0)94 986 1441

Email: info@wdc.ie Web: www.westerndevelopment.ie