Conferencing 2018

CONFERENCING Your complete guide to conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland

2018

Making an Impression • Meet in Ireland • Tracking the Trends • Team Building • Unique Venues •

The Titanic Exhibition Centre

000_Conferencing 2018_Cover.indd 1

03/04/2018 08:51

240846_Aviva_1C_AMA_CG.indd 1 1 243544_1C_Aviva_JM_Confence.indd Untitled-4 1

15/02/2017 14:51 17:08 27/03/2018 09:09 30/04/2018

Contents Conferencing 2018

01

CONTENTS

42

13

22 05 A-Z OF CONFERENCING

We’ve got some top tips for organising your next event.

08 SPREAD THE WORD

Conferencing 2018 puts together a six-month plan to help successfully market your conference.

10 IDENTITY PARADE

e explore how you can expand W corporate identities throughout a conference.

13 A LASTING IMPRESSION

Follow our advice to take your conference to the next level.

16 CAPITALISE ON COMMUNICATION

Conferencing 2018 examines the best in post-conference communication tactics.

17 ON THE MONEY

Developing an accurate budget and securing sufficient funding is one of the key steps in ensuring your next event is a resounding success.

18 CAPITAL CONFERENCING

e caught up with Dublin Convention W Bureau to discover more about business tourism in the capital.

001_Conferencing2018_Contents.indd 1

22 BUILDING A TEAM

38 OPT FOR UNIQUE

26 TAKE A BREAK

42 TECHNOLOGY

28 THE RIGHT SETTING

44 TRACKING THE TRENDS

31 EVENT GOODIES

46 EVENTS AT ASHVILLE

onferencing 2018 explores a C number of interesting and unique team building activities to help your delegates get to know one another.

We’ve got a few tips to help provide a more enjoyable event experience.

hat layout will maximise the use of W your event environment?

We’ve got some goody bag ideas that your attendees might actually enjoy.

32 COVER STORY

The team behind Meet in Ireland is doing stellar work in attracting conferences, meetings and incentive travel to Ireland, generating millions for the national economy. Conor Forrest spoke with Business Tourism Manager Ciara Gallagher to learn more about their work, resources, and vision for the future.

36 IT’S ACADEMIC

Organising an academic conference?

We bring you the lowdown on what’s involved.

T he success or failure of any event can tilt on your choice of venue – we pick out some of the most interesting options across the country.

A round-up of the latest tools available to the global events industry.

Conferencing 2018 looks at several trends predicted for the global event management sector this year.

T here’s another busy year in-store for the team behind Ashville Media Group’s Events department.

48 EVENTS

ome interesting events taking place S across Ireland in 2018.

54 DIRECTORY

Y our essential guide to Ireland’s top conferencing venues. From audiovisual services to entertainment options, this comprehensive directory covers it all. Use our detailed listings to compare facilities at a glance and find the location that best serves all of your conference needs.

03/05/2018 11:11

02

Editor’s Letter Conferencing 2018

CONFERENCING 2018 EDITOR Conor Forrest

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS Tiernan Cannon DESIGN Jane Matthews Aine Duffy PHOTOGRAPHY istock, Dublin Convention Bureau, Meet in Ireland, Klaxoon, VeDi, Ballinacurra House, Mount Druid, Delphi Resort, Ballyfin, Adventure.ie, Kippure Corporate EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION MANAGER Mary Connaughton CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jane Matthews PRODUCTION EXECUTIVE Nicole Ennis MANAGING DIRECTOR Gerry Tynan SALES DIRECTOR Paul Clemenson CHAIRMAN Diarmaid Lennon PUBLISHED BY Ashville Media Group Unit 55 Park West Road, Park West Industrial Estate Dublin 12 Tel: +353 (0) 1 432 2200 Fax: +353 (0) 1 676 6043 Web: www.ashville.com

We’ve got an issue bursting at the seams with tips, tricks, best practice and new ideas for meetings, events and conferences of every shape and size.

Read on to discover more about making an impression on your delegates, quirky ideas for breaks to keep your attendees fresh of mind, not to mention an A-Z of all things conferencing. We also take a look at how you can engage people between events and keep them thirsty for more, as well as tips on making the most of your venue.

In our cover story, we examine the burgeoning business tourism sector and discover why international conferences are choosing Ireland as their preferred meetings and events destination. Ciara Gallagher from Meet in Ireland discusses the role her organisation plays in attracting these events, and the various financial and other supports they can offer to help secure conference and event bids.

We’ve also got some advice on how to arrange an academic conference, several interesting ideas for team building activities, the latest technology for the meetings and events industry, and a look at some of Ireland’s unique event venues.

Finally, our comprehensive Venue Directory provides detailed listings covering contact information, rating, location and all relevant facilities for all of the top event locations around Ireland, making it easier for you to find the best solution to meet all of your accommodation, leisure, conference and event needs.

I hope you enjoy Conferencing 2018 and find something useful within these pages to help make your conference a success.

Conor Forrest Editor

Cover credit: Titanic Belfast

No part of this may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission from the publisher. Opinions and comments expressed herein are not necessarily those of Conferencing 2018. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this publication is correct at the time of going to press, Ashville Media Group accept no responsibility whatsoever for any inaccuracies that may occur. © 2018

Welcome to Conferencing 2018, your definitive guide to all matters relating to conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland.

002_Conferencing2018_Welcome.indd 2

06/04/2018 09:12

M&E ConfGuide18_A4_PRINT.indd 1 FC advert template.indd 1 Park_JM_Conference.indd 244233_1C_Maxus_Croke 1

28/02/2018 14:21 14:24 30/04/2018 05/03/2018 14:49

Slieve Russell Hotel Golf & Country Club

THE PERFECT ENVIRONMENT TO CONDUCT BUSINESS ONLY 90 MINUTES FROM DUBLIN

SLIEVE RUSSELL HOTEL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB BALLYCONNELL CO. CAVAN T: 049 9526444 W: WWW.SLIEVERUSSELL.IE E: SALES@SLIEVERUSSELL.IE

244149_1C_Slieve Russell_JM_Conference_V2.indd 1 Untitled-4 1

31/01/2018 14:51 09:09 30/04/2018

A-Z of Event Management Conferencing 2018

05

Check out our list of tips and tricks to make your next event that little bit more memorable.

of Conferencing 004_Conferencing2018_A-Z.indd 5

02/05/2018 09:41

06

A-Z of Event Management Conferencing 2018

per cent for those inevitable last-minute purchases – what can go wrong will go wrong!

FOOD In our opinion, this goes without saying – sample the cuisine available at your chosen venue. It would be a disaster if you don’t discover until the day of your conference arrives that the food on offer isn’t really up to scratch. At least if you check beforehand, and the standard isn’t satisfactory, you can always hire in your own caterers. A well-fed attendee is a happy attendee!

GIFTS We all like freebies – even if it’s just a branded pen or

ACCESSIBILITY

CONNECTIONS

Google search will throw

USB memory drive. If your

When choosing a venue for

Many conference attendees

up a number of diaries for

budget allows for it, keep an

a conference, it is important

take time out of their

2018; avoid dates with other

eye out for something useful

to make sure that it is fully

schedules to both learn

major conferences, music

for your delegates, particularly

accessible to all, including

something new or catch up

or sporting events, as you

something you know they’ll

those with physical disabilities.

on advancements within their

may lose potential delegates

want to bring home and use

Making an event accessible

particular field, and to take

or face transportation/

in future.

becomes an easier task if you

advantage of the opportunity

accommodation disruption.

begin planning with this in

to network. Your agenda

mind, and continue to do so

should reflect this – add

DÉCOR

throughout the process, rather

a number of networking

Whatever impact it is you’re

which fade into the

than leaving accessibility

opportunities from small

trying to create at your

background once completed

measures until last.

breakout meetings to after

conference, it will be the

– make sure your conference

dinner drinks and other

venue that leaves a lasting

isn’t one of these. Consider

social events. If you want to

impression – good or bad.

team building activities

Whether you’re hosting a

go down the technological

There are loads of great

outside of the norm, light

small or large conference, a

route, Blendology offers

venues spread right across

entertainment or even

dinner banquet is a great way

digital badges featuring tap

Ireland from which you can

branded goodie bags handed

to end things on a high note

to connect technology –

choose, but make sure you set

out at the end of the event.

(a full stomach often generates

delegates simply tap their

aside enough time to make

Anything that makes your

happier memories). This will

badges against others,

sure you have picked the right

conference stand out (for the

create ample opportunity for

with their details swapped

one that represents you as an

right reasons) is a great step.

attendees to get to know each

instantaneously.

organiser, not to mention the

BANQUET

other – networking is one

needs of your clients too!

INNOVATION There are lots of events

JOURNEYS

of the most attractive parts

DATE

of a conference for many

Obviously you want all of

EMERGENCY FUNDS

people. A final event provides

the attention on your own

When you’re putting your

particularly for those travelling

the ultimate setting in which

event – nobody wants to

budget together, it’s always a

from abroad in an unknown

people can do business.

share the spotlight! A simple

good idea to allow around ten

area. Whether it’s buses, taxis

004_Conferencing2018_A-Z.indd 6

Transportation is a key concern for many delegates,

06/04/2018 09:21

A-Z of Event Management Conferencing 2018

07

or flights, make sure you’ve

likely that most people won’t

speaker and other details.

that all of your requirements

got everything organised on

know everyone in attendance.

Facebook and Twitter pages

have been fulfilled.

their behalf – there’s nothing

Providing name tags is a

should be the minimum in

worse than people hanging

great way around this and

2018 (recent news concerning

WELCOME

around your venue, unsure of

allows delegates to introduce

Facebook aside), but you

Welcomes always leave lasting

where to go.

themselves and to identify

can also take advantage

impressions, so be sure that

staff members if they have

of LinkedIn, Snapchat,

all of your delegates are taken

any issues.

Instagram and other outlets.

care of from the moment they

can set the tone for your

ONLINE REGISTRATION

TECHNOLOGY

event and, if they’re well

If guests can register online,

Most event venues will have

organise a space where coats,

known, could increase

this will make a great

all necessary equipment and

bags and luggage can be left in

your attendance figures. In

difference to your event.

technology on hand, from

safe hands. Don’t forget to bring

Ireland, Personally Speaking

Firstly it will give you, as the

high-speed WiFi to various

extra copies of all materials,

Ltd speakers’ bureau is a

organiser, a much clearer idea

AV requirements. Be sure to

including the agenda, dining

good place to start your

of how many attendees to

doublecheck this with your

and accommodation options.

search, with recognisable

expect, as well as any specific

venue as soon as possible – if

names including Bob Geldof,

needs they might have.

something you need is missing

X MARKS THE SPOT

Matt Cooper and David

Secondly, online registration

from their list, you don’t want

If you’re in a large venue,

McWilliams.

will reduce the amount of

to discover this a day or two

things can get confusing quite

queueing time, something

before your event begins.

quickly, especially if there are

KEYNOTE SPEAKER The right keynote speaker

LATECOMERS Sometimes all the planning in

everybody appreciates!

USEFUL INFORMATION

arrive. Have a reliable member of staff on the help desk, and

a large number of stalls and information stands. Position

the world still won’t prevent

PHOTOGRAPHY

Distribute a fact sheet to all

venue maps at key locations,

the odd minor bump in the

Having a professional

delegates on the first day

and ensure recognisable

road, particularly when

photographer at your event

of your conference with all

staff members are on hand

you’re working on a very

is a must-have these days,

essential information. There

to answer any navigational

tightly timed schedule. When

for several reasons. Firstly,

should also be an information

queries.

it comes to timing, make sure

it allows you to provide

desk, in case there are any

the conference is running

high-resolution images for

major queries or confusion

ZZZZ

slightly behind the official

members of the media,

among delegates.

Organising an event can be

schedule in case of any

as well as a great-looking

unexpected delays.

gallery for your website or

VERIFY

promotional brochures.

Ensure that you have

your delegates. Ensure that you

Secondly, allowing attendees

double checked all of your

have allocated plenty of time

There’s no point in holding an

to view and download photos

arrangements. It’s a great

to relax between events and

event if you can’t get the word

of themselves and colleagues

idea to make lists – and check

talks, and allow yourself a few

out! Create an event website

or friends will foster more of

them twice – to make sure

moments to catch your breath!

and make use of social media

a connection to the event.

pages, compile blog posts using

Don’t forget to give your

the latest in SEO advice, and

photographer a list of images

make sure your audience is as

you’d like captured on the

wide as possible. Don’t forget

day, such as keynote speakers

to keep in touch with the

on stage, people taking part

media, particularly national

in panel discussions, or those

newspapers, which can be

manning trade stands.

MARKETING

quite useful in promoting your event, both before and after.

NAME TAGS

make it a tiresome occasion for

SOCIAL MEDIA An important method of spreading the word about

Particularly when your

your event and updating

conference is quite big, it’s

delegates on programme,

004_Conferencing2018_A-Z.indd 7

quite the ordeal, but try not to

06/04/2018 09:22

08

Spread the Word Conferencing 2018

SPREAD THE Marketing Tactics List It

WORD We’ve got a handy six-month plan to help successfully market your next conference.

Build up lists for your marketing efforts. Consider websites, industry publications, internet directories, industry-related annual reports, trade associations, literature from competing events, press releases and newspapers.

Stay In Touch Keep track of each delegate’s preferred method of communication. Do they prefer post mailing or emailing? Calls to mobile, home or office? If an email bounces, pick up the phone!

Mail Magic Grab attention by highlighting

I

n order to develop a successful

conference’s marketing strategy, research

conference marketing strategy,

the relevant sector and ensure that your

organisers should begin by looking

conference content is competitive and

at the conference objectives. What do you

cutting-edge. Determine the conference’s

the benefits of attending your

want to achieve? How will you benchmark

unique selling point and build this into the

conference. A simple ‘P.S., don’t

or measure your achievement? Are you

marketing strapline. Terminology such as

forget to register in time to receive

attempting too much? Do you have sufficient

‘the best...’ or ‘leading company in...’ is

a discount on your conference

resources? What is the timeline for achieving

effective in drawing potential delegates so

registration fee,’ is an effective

your objective?

way to get the call to action across.

Bespoke mailing geared towards

Common Pitfalls

a specific audience will get your

Marketing fails when

message through effectively.

the target audience isn’t considered

be sure to research these options.

When determining the

ORGANISING A GREEN CONFERENCE?

attendance goals, think about demographic

Create a digital version of your conference brochure and send by email. Soft copy marketing materials are much more eco-friendly.

factors. For example, if you’re hosting a

Online Promotion

when developing

Set up a conference website that is

the marketing plan.

easily navigated with a high level

Social, cultural,

of consistency to attract a high

technological,

level of readership. Promote your

physical,

website online through search

economical,

engine optimisation and offline in

political, legal,

marketing strategy. You must ensure that

your promotional materials.

competitive and demographic factors

the resources are available to market to a

all come into play. When creating your

wide pool of potential delegates.

008_Conferencing2018_Spread the word.indd 44

conference for dance instructors, are there enough dance schools in the region or do you need to reach out to other areas?

Issues such as this will impact on the

06/04/2018 09:24

Spread the Word Conferencing 2018

Target Your Audience Once you have established a viable target audience, being splitting this large group into bite-sized pieces, brainstorming marketing avenues to reach each segment.

You may initially establish that you are targeting ‘bankers’, which can be broken down into CEOs, directors, managers, etc.

Segmenting by sector makes your audience more specific, i.e. investment bankers,

Six-Month Plan Ideally, conference organisers need to allocate six months to market a conference. Here’s how you can spend this time wisely!

Month 1

Month 4

•

Drawing on your target audience

Follow up the postcard mail-out with

futures traders, venture capitalists and so

research, develop a marketing

phone calls to drive attendance. By

on. Marketing efforts can then be tailored

strapline to get attention.

tracking these calls you can update

to fit these smaller audiences. Though it

09

Launch an email campaign covering

contact details in your database to

may seem like a daunting task, the return

the basics (the conference date, time,

improve your delegate records.

on investment is significantly higher when

location and objectives) and use the

Complete design and production on

marketing efforts are communicated in a

event strapline.

the conference brochure, including a

If delegates who have previously

complete schedule for the event.

attended the conference will be

Draft a marketing letter tailored to each

targeted, personalise their email by

segment to send out with the brochure.

personal and relevant way as opposed to a

•

•

generalised mass mailing.

Additionally, think about stakeholder interests, competitor campaigns and internal

saying, “We will hope to see you

factors such as experience or resources.

again this year!”

Stakeholders, such as board members, can offer valuable insight into marketing strategies. For instance, if a stakeholder is a well-known figure within a target audience

Months 2 and 3

Send the conference brochure.

•

to continue to drive attendance.

segment, he/she can personalise marketing letters for this group. Check out competitor

•

Pen to Paper

Secure a full schedule of speakers and include their information in the

approach is fresh and original. Internal award, can also be helpful marketing tools.

Begin to develop the conference brochure.

campaigns in order to ascertain that your factors and resources, such as having won an

Month 5

•

Follow up the brochure with phone calls

Month 6

brochure.

Execute further marketing efforts in the

Towards the end of the third month,

immediate lead-up to the conference.

send out promotional postcards

Continue with follow-ups via telephone

repeating the information from the

and email.

promotional campaign but with

Begin developing on-site conferencing

Begin drafting your conference marketing

added detail. Include registration

materials and signage and make sure that

plan by refining your objectives. Refer to

time, conference closing time, venue

branding is consistent.

your initial objective – what did you plan to

information, session topics and

achieve? A typical conference objective might

speakers’ names. Use colours, fonts

be to raise awareness among delegates and

and images that will be reflected

position the company as a market leader.

in the brochure and remember to

Working from this, you can develop more

personalise the messages for your

specific conference objectives (e.g. gain 50

target audience(s) wherever possible.

new members).

NOTE: For best results, communicate in a personal and relevant way as opposed to a generalised mass mailing.

Conference objectives are essential for guiding the development of the marketing plan. Marketing strategies vary by sector, size and specification and, while there isn’t a specific formula for success, a key rule to remember is to keep all communications personal and relevant and use your

Conference objectives are essential for guiding the development of the marketing plan.

marketing plan in order to stay on track.

008_Conferencing2018_Spread the word.indd 45

06/04/2018 09:24

10

Identity Parade Conferencing 2018

IDENTITY PARADE Conferencing 2018 explores the various methods of expanding corporate identities throughout a conference.

T

he main focus of many events,

screen or wall, use of décor (flowers, chairs,

especially corporate conferences,

drapes, candles) in the brand colours, plus

is brand promotion. Events can

social networking, teaser advertising and

be very successful at increasing brand identity and raising awareness of associated

viral campaigns. Be creative!

Theme branding (or topic branding)

products. However, branding can take

is another way to introduce an extra

on many forms and be used for different

element to your event. Dual branding

reasons. It could be used to highlight the

is a mixture of company branding and

event sponsor(s) or to embellish your venue

theme branding. Themes often adopted

by creating a theme. The objective of your

for corporate events include ‘Power’,

conference will determine your branding

‘Growth’, ‘The Future’ or ‘Strength’.

and you can get creative from there.

Your conference objective will lead you in

What you brand and how much

deciding a theme for your conference. For

branding is used will be determined by two

example, the St Patrick’s Festival is a huge

things: your budget and the size of your

event held annually in Ireland and, while

venue. Needless to say, if your venue is small

the objective of the parade is to promote

your costs will be considerably less.

Ireland and Irish culture, the event co-

Make Your Mark There are two forms of branding: direct

ordinators will also assign a theme to the event and parade each year.

Creating a brand strategy that is based

Stand Out

and unconventional. Direct branding

on conference objectives, tied in with

Every day, consumers are bombarded with

includes signage, delegate name badges

the marketing plan and carried through

advertising and promotional material. You

and lanyards, stationery (notebooks, pens

everything from stationery to decoration

have to ensure that your branding will make

and folders distributed to delegates), flash

or signage on-site, will help you focus your

it through the noise to your target audience

memory keys, merchandise (including

marketing plan. A sound brand strategy

by carefully selecting the appropriate means

takeaway clothing, hats or padfolios) and

is the foundation of corporate identity

to suit your needs. Successful branding is

event staff uniforms. Unconventional

development. This will be the how, what,

clear, consistent, interesting and memorable.

branding, also known as guerilla marketing,

where, when and why of your marketing

Remember that your brand tells your story,

is not as obvious as direct branding and

plan; not forgetting to whom you plan

so make it an interesting one.

can include clever methods of targeting

on communicating and delivering your

marketing material and branding at

brand messages. Where you advertise,

and Cork – effectively developed a

your audience. Some examples of

your distribution channels and what you

recognisable brand and logo within their

unconventional branding include projecting

communicate visually and verbally are all

niche. They use this to promote their events

images associated with the brand onto a

part of your brand strategy also.

through advertising and photoshoots;

010_Conferencing2018_Identity Parade.indd 44

The Taste Festivals – Taste of Dublin

06/04/2018 09:28

Identity Parade Conferencing 2018

11

Before engaging in any branding and sponsorship activities, make sure that you know your brand – inside and out. to offer your sponsor a suitable package in reciprocation. The great advantage to the sponsor is that you, the organiser, can offer substantial and useful information on a specified target market. For example, Bord Gáis Energy, as an official sponsor of the GAA Hurling Championship, is able to reach its target audience by using hurling games and advertising of upcoming matches to promote its products.

If the event lends itself to the inclusion of more than one sponsor, sponsorship can

Every day, consumers are bombarded with advertising and promotional material. You have to ensure that your branding will make it through the noise

be broken down into levels. Platinum, gold, silver and bronze sponsorship packages can be offered to various companies, depending on the agreement and spend. An event such as the St Patrick’s Festival would have many sponsors and the conference branding would be organised in accordance with the levels of sponsorship. Venue sponsorship is another method of piggyback branding.

The importance of venue selection cannot be denied and the growing trend of venue sponsorship means that certain locations

signage around front entrances and all

perceives your brand, as each colour invokes

have become inextricably linked with

around their venues; and on brochures,

an emotion and allows the audience to

successful brands. By choosing a sponsored

press packs, lanyards, event tickets, event

associate that feeling with your products

venue for your conference, you benefit from

staff uniforms and chefs’ uniforms. They

and objectives. Blue is an overwhelming

that same linkage. This is most useful when

even created their own branded currency

favourite as it is seen as trustworthy,

the sponsoring brand and the event or

for the event, florins, which is used to buy

dependable and committed – hence its use

venue complement one another. National

food and drink throughout the festival.

in so many corporate logos and brands.

stadiums and arenas often associate

Building such a strong and prominent

themselves with major brands, such as the

brand identity is what has made the Taste

Sponsorship

Festivals among the most recognisable food

Probably one of the most common forms

festivals in Ireland.

of branding, and often the most effective,

conference, there are significant benefits in

is linking your brand or event with another

developing a branding strategy. Defining

brand colours are cleverly selected and

corporate identity. Piggybacking can

what your conference objectives are will

used throughout materials relating to the

create greater publicity for your event but

determine your branding needs, while

festivals. The use of colour in branding

it will have to be of equal benefit for the

building a strong brand identity can lead to

is very important to how your audience

relationship to work. You have to be able

sponsorship that will be mutually beneficial.

The Taste brand clearly stands out –

010_Conferencing2018_Identity Parade.indd 45

Aviva Stadium and the 3Arena.

Whatever the reason or objective for your

06/04/2018 09:28

12

Venue Profile Conferencing 2018

Camden Court HOTEL Defining excellence for 20 years

C

elebrating its 20th year in

high standard amenities with flat

business, Camden Court

screen smart TVs, in-room safety

Hotel has become an emblem

deposit boxes and luxurious Orla

of hospitality and excellence in

Kiely toiletries. The hotel also offers

Dublin’s City Centre. Located minutes

an opportunity for guests to revive

from Grafton Street and placed on

or unwind in Camden Court Fitness,

the exuberant Camden Street, the

a fully facilitated leisure centre that

hotel is at the centre of it all. With its

includes a gym, 16 metre swimming

optimal location in the heart of the

pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.

HDMI and VGA connections, an

city, the hotel is conveniently linked to

With its superb location, modern

all public transport systems, including

décor, amenities and unprecedented

internal PA system and microphones.

Dublin Bus, Airlink Express and the

customer service, Camden Court Hotel

Combined with a knowledgeable and

Luas tram system. Camden Court

is the preferred choice for businesses

dedicated conference team, Camden

Hotel also boasts a secure city centre

looking to arrange a meeting or

Court Hotel is the ideal choice when

car park and is only 30 minutes from

residential conference in Dublin’s City

looking for exceptional service and

Dublin Airport.

Centre. The hotel can cater up to 250

Meeting Excellence.

The modern 4-star hotel offers

delegates and has a choice of break

251 well-appointed en-suite guest

out areas to service refreshments.

bedrooms including two beautifully

Along with 12 excellently appointed

decorated suites. These fresh and

conference rooms, the facilities also

contemporary bedrooms include

include high speed wireless internet,

245218_2L_Camden Court_JM_Conference.indd 1

Camden_2L_CP_JM_CONF.indd 12

CONTACT

information

DENISE CORBOY E: dcorboy@camdencourthotel.ie W: www.camdencourthotel.com

19/04/2018 11:33

30/04/2018 15:03

Making an Impression Conferencing 2018

13

MAKING AN

Impression

Follow these steps to get your conference to a premium standard.

013_Conferencing2018_Making an Impression.indd 13

06/04/2018 09:29

14

Making an Impression Conferencing 2018

1: Speaking Prowess

5: Travelling

8: Catering

Search for a headline speaker to set the

With international corporate events a regular

While a rousing speech from a famous

best tone for your event. A politician, actor,

feature for many businesses, arranging

speaker may generate excitement about

sportsperson or leading businessperson could

transport is essential and it is imperative to

your event, why not ensure your guests’

not only attract more attendees but also adds

work with a company that has the expertise

stomachs are as well treated as their minds?

publicity and lends a sense of importance

to ensure success. Companies like Tony

Most venues will provide catering facilities

to your event. Personally Speaking Ltd

Doyle Coaches and JJ Kavanagh offer

but, if not, look into hiring catering and bar

speakers’ bureau offers a wide range of

a range of coaches for all group sizes,

staff for your event. From sandwich platters

speakers to suit every event, including well

reflecting the necessary professional image

and banquets to smoothies and canapés, the

known figures like David McWilliams, Tracy

while offering the services of their transport

choices are significant and varied. Feature a

Piggott, Jim McGuinness, Ronan O’Gara

coordinators to help with the running and

sushi station filled with Asian delicacies or a

and Matt Cooper.

planning of the event.

fajita or quesadilla bar for a Mexican fiesta.

As a treat, luxury chocolate brands Lily

2: Every Second Counts

6: Interaction

Be realistic about what you can deliver

Be conscious of your audience and why

for guests to indulge, in which can be placed

on the day and plan appropriately. Don’t

they will be coming to this event. Many

in small boxes and left at individual table

underestimate your registration period as

businesspeople will come to network and

place settings.

this will have a knock-on effect all day if it

while this may be over lunch or break-out

runs late. Be conscious that your guests and

sessions, they will appreciate you making this

9: Finish With A Bang!

delegates will want to avoid peak traffic times

time available to them. The layout of your

What better way to wow your guests and

so perhaps start your event with an early

event will be all-important so make sure you

leave a lasting impression than with a

registration and finish mid-afternoon.

provide plenty of appropriate space and

spectacular fireworks display to close the

gathering points where delegates can meet to

event? A childhood fascination is sure to take

discuss the day’s activities and interact. Make

over and your guests will leave enraptured

Businesses such as Inspire Promotional

sound introductions and keep all of your

with this inspired touch.

Products, Mace Promotions and Logo Print

participants involved.

3: The Importance of Branding all provide services to brand conference products from lanyards to pens and

7: After Hours

conference notebook to USBs. Research

Treat delegates and guests after a long day

has shown that a greater number of people

with some light entertainment. Themed

remember the name of an advertiser who

nights can be organised through several

gave them a branded promotional item

companies, with everything from an

over the past 12 months than the name

interactive Formula 1 event to a casino

of a print advertiser they saw over just the

night with professional gambling tables and

past two weeks. USBs in particular are a

black-tie croupiers (think Casino Royale). The

useful method of giving information as the

choice is endless with race nights, murder

relevant content is already on the memory

mystery games, comedians, impressionists,

stick, eliminating the need for note-taking

karaoke, tribute bands, treasure hunts and

– your conference follow up could also be

even funfairs to choose from. Or, if your

distributed this way.

audience is largely from abroad, consider

4: Translation

simply showing them the sights. Get in touch with your local tourist office to find

In a world made smaller by globalisation,

the best of local attractions or simply

more often than not many of your delegates

bring your group to see Ireland’s most

or speakers will be travelling from abroad

famous sights – the Guinness brewery, the

to attend or speak at your event. Booking a

Giant’s Causeway or the Cliffs of Moher

translation service could be a wise move to

are all well worth a look, introducing your

ensure everybody is on the same page on the

delegates to another side of Ireland and

day. A range of translation companies offer

ensuring their trip here is one that they

on-site language services for business.

won’t forget.

013_Conferencing2018_Making an Impression.indd 14

O’Brien and Butlers offer handmade truffles

Be conscious of your audience and why they will be coming to this event. Many businesspeople will come to network and while this may be over lunch or breakout sessions, they will appreciate you making this time available to them.

06/04/2018 09:31

DUBLIN

N7

M5

Naas

Blessington

Kildare

Portlaoise

0

Destination in distance from key points

Bray

76 kilometres/48 miles from Dublin.

N9

16 kilometres/10 miles from Carlow town which is served by an inter city train service.

Wicklow

Baltinglass

1

Castledermot

Kilkenny

95 kilometres/59 miles from Waterford’s south east regional airport.

N8

Carlow

76 kilometres/48 miles from Rosslare, Ireland’s primary ferry port harbour located on the south east coast.

TULLOW N80

Arklow Bunclody

Gorey

Enniscorthy

HOT

New Ross

WATERFORD

Wexford Rosslare

Phone: 05991 80100 • Website: www.mountwolseley.ie

The Mount Wolseley facilitates all your Conferencing needs

An ideal location within an hour from Dublin

• 88 kilometres/55 miles from Dublin’s international airport, within 80 minutes drive by car or coach

A Jewel in the Crown of Conference & Event Venues

• 16 kilometres/10 miles from Carlow town which is served by an inter city train service

· ·

Voted Best Conference & Hotel Venue 15 Professionally Appointed Conference & Banqueting Suites 95 kilometres/59 miles from · Capacities up to 800 Theatre Style Waterford's South East Regional Airport & 500 Banquet Style · Self Contained Exhibition Area · 143 Deluxe Bedrooms & Suites · 16 Lodges on the Resort for overflow capacity Tullow reflects an enduring historical culture with many items of · Tatler Spa of the Year & Extensive Leisure Club · Award Winning ChristytheO’Rathgall Connor antiquity including Stone Fort, Cloch a Phoill and designed 18 Hole Golf Course to be Site Areas for Outdoor Activities · Waiting Green · Discovered 500 Complimentary Car Parking Spaces

• 76 kilometres/48 miles from Rosslare, the primary ferry port harbour along Ireland’s sunny south east coast •

Contact Fionnuala Dillon to organise a site visit the Haroldstown Dolmen. Each a testament to this areas ancient and receive complimentary Afternoon Tea for 2 at sales@mountwolseley.ie past. There are also many beautiful gardens in and around Tullow, including the fabulous and romantic Altamont Gardens, see our Visitors Guide for further information.

The balanc

another pe

Club. As w

and cuisine resources.

HOTEL, SPA & COUNTRY CLUB 244247_1C_Mount Wolseley_JM_Confrence_V2.indd 1 Untitled-4 1

20/02/2018 14:53 12:11 30/04/2018

16

Communication Tactics Conferencing 2018

CONFERENCE

Communication

This will ensure no mistakes will be made when photos are published elsewhere.

Mailing Lists A listserv is a mailing list software application consisting of a set of email addresses for a specified group. Listservs are

For annual and bi-annual conferences, it falls to the organiser to engage delegates in the intervening months. We bring you the best in post-conference communication tactics to maximise the impact of your conference and get your money’s worth.

ideal for online newsletters, announcement lists, discussion groups and conferences.

Try www.lsoft.com or, for an Irish provider, check out Send.ie.

TIP: When sending out pre-conference registration mailings and postconference feedback, send via listserv and hard copy mailing to ensure you reach all delegates.

Conference Website

Photography

Set up a conference website to help delegates

Snapshots of your conference can be used in

maximise networking opportunities. In the

future brochures and promotional materials.

lead up to the event, post travel information,

You can also upload them on the conference

hotel details, conference schedules and

website or photo-sharing sites such as Flickr.

pre-conference materials. Following the

Give your photographer a list of all the key

conference, make presentations and

moments to be captured, such as the CEO

Action Plans

conference material available for download,

shaking the keynote speaker’s hand.

To inspire delegates to commit to ‘doing

while you should also consider an online

the work’ once they’ve left the conference

TIP: Make sure your website is password protected if you will be uploading confidential material.

TIP: Remember to let speakers and delegates know that photographs will be taken at the event and ask them to sign a general release at the registration desk.

Feedback Survey

Media Coverage

Surveys can demonstrate how conference

When trying to secure media coverage for

organisers add value, and how the conference

your conference, be sure to do your research

and its material has impacted delegates.

and make sure that other major events aren’t

Develop feedback questions including a

overlapping with yours. There are a number

review of logistics, from pre-conference

of marketing techniques you can employ to

communications to on-site delivery, catering

maximise coverage throughout the event,

and facilities. Ask your delegates to comment

such as organising photocalls, writing press

on each of the speakers. You can do this via

releases with teaser-research titbits and

a hard-copy survey or try an online survey

booking high-profile, celebrity speakers.

forum to allow delegate discussion before and after the conference.

environment, have them complete an action plan stating where they are now and where they would like to be in six weeks, three months and a year. In discussion groups, encourage them to brainstorm steps to achieve their goals and a system for benchmarking progress. Then, email each delegate a copy of his/her action plan at the halfway point to their end goal, along with an encouraging message.

Tip: To take action plans a step further, have delegates find a colleague and set a date to speak on the phone and discuss one another’s progress.

creator such as surveymonkey.com.

TIP: For annual conferences, compile delegate responses into a spreadsheet so that feedback can be easily tracked and presented to stakeholders at the conference debrief.

016_Conferencing2018_Communication Tactics.indd 16

TIP: If you plan on sending photos out to news desks or online news services, have a member of the event management team accompany the photographer, taking down photographed delegates’ names and organisations.

06/04/2018 09:35

Money Matters Conferencing 2018

on the

17

Variable Costs These costs are calculated per person and so can change depending on conference attendance: •

Administration (postage or an online booking tool)

Developing an accurate budget and securing sufficient funding is one of the key steps in ensuring your event is a success.

T

•

Name badges, welcome packs, etc.

•

Catering

•

Entertainment

•

Individual transportation

•

Accommodation

he challenge for any conference

Support

or event organiser, particularly for

Seeking financial support? If you’re

•

Prizes or gifts

those working with limited means,

considering bringing an international

•

Miscellaneous (licences for music or written material, unforeseen costs)

is to plan and execute a successful event

conference to Ireland, Meet in Ireland offers

while keeping within the boundaries of your

a financial support scheme for conferences

budget – no mean feat. In order to do so, it’s

– including documents and presentations

Fixed Costs

vital that you know how much you have to

during the bid process, international

These expenses remain the same

spend on your event, incorporating venue

travel when bidding, a marketing fund to

regardless of the number of attendees:

hire, expected attendance, and other fixed or

boost attendance figures and promote the

•

variable costs (see our information panel).

conference on the global stage, including

Management fees and expenses such as meals, mileage, telephone, etc.

print and web design. Funding is also

•

Personnel

PACKAGES If you can get a range of

available towards inviting decision makers to

•

Administration

services for a fixed price, that will go a long

conduct site inspections in Ireland, for travel

•

Insurance and legal

way in helping your budget. Keep an eye out

and accommodation costs for up to three

•

Cost of site inspection visits

for packages that include accommodation,

individuals. And, for those seeking to hold a

•

Promotion/advertising

meals, transport to and from the venue or

meeting on these shores, the Meet in Ireland

•

Group accommodation

hotel, and perhaps a leisure activity or some

team is also on hand to assist with welcome

•

Transportation (cars, buses, driver

form of entertainment. Make sure there

receptions, entertainment, presentation

aren’t any hidden or obfuscated costs. From

toolkits, VAT reclaim information, venue

•

Gratuities

the time a guest arrives until they depart,

sourcing and much more.

•

Audio-visual equipment, staging, etc.

•

Contingency fund (to cover

they should be provided with outstanding hospitality, discreetly and effectively.

Remember – if you can control your

meals and gratuity, tolls and parking)

emergencies or unexpected

costs at every turn, and manage to keep a

purchases)

sharp eye on your finances, you can ensure a

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Hosting a

successful event that is within your budget.

conference in a city centre location can also

•

Design and print

•

Website design and hosting

keep costs down for your attendees, through inexpensive public transport, and could prove attractive for attendees who like to explore the local area.

SHARING THE BURDEN Determine which expenses will be assumed by the client or sponsor, and by attendees.

LESSONS LEARNED Before the event, summarise your projected expenses. When the dust settles, make a tally of your actual spend and you might spot some areas that

Don’t forget to have a contingency plan in place.

If something does go wrong, a sponsor pulls out or an advertising deal falls through, or you realise that you need an expensive piece of equipment the day before your event, make sure you’ve got an emergency fund in place to keep things on track.

If you can get a range of services for a fixed price, that will go a long way in helping your budget.

could require extra attention during your next endeavour.

017_Conferencing2018_On the Money.indd 17

06/04/2018 09:38

18

Business Tourism Conferencing 2018

Business tourism in Dublin is booming, with thousands of delegates arriving to attend a variety of events in the coming years.

Conferencing 2018 caught up with the Dublin Convention Bureau’s Sam Johnston to discover more about what they’re doing to entice conferences to the capital.

018_Conferencing2018_DCB test.indd 18

11/05/2018 10:49

Business Tourism Conferencing 2018

19

n July, conference delegates from across the continent will attend the European Congress of Sports Science, with about 3,000 delegates expected to descend upon the Convention Centre Dublin. Next year, Velo-city arrives in the capital alongside some 2,000 attendees, a global cycling summit that shares experience and expertise from around the world. The big one is pencilled in for 2021 when the World Potato Congress arrives on these shores, an event dedicated to supporting the growth and development of the potato across the globe and a topic with which the Irish should be very familiar. Each of these events has something in common – their presence in Ireland was and will be aided by the hard work of the team behind Dublin Convention Bureau (DCB).

“If Ireland can’t hold a potato congress then there’s something wrong!” Sam Johnston says with a laugh.

Johnston manages the DCB team, a capable cohort of professionals who offer free and impartial services to international meeting planners, incentive organisers and associations, ranging from finding the perfect venue to providing expert local advice. The organisation predominantly focuses on association conferences and corporate meetings within the MICE sector. It’s somewhat unusual in that’s it’s a city bureau operating as part of a national tourist board – DCB is one facet of Fáilte Ireland’s wider focus.

“We source our own leads, we take leads from other colleagues in Fáilte Ireland and the Meet in Ireland team and we also help the industry to convert their own business and generate leads,” Johnston explains. “The tools that we have [include] free information, advice and support, we host site inspections, host familiarisation trips, [and] we work with the conference ambassador programme that Fáilte Ireland runs. The tools [available] for international meeting planners are the hosting of site inspections, advice, the preparation of bid documents, proposal documents, PowerPoint presentations, we provide imagery or video that might

018_Conferencing2018_DCB test.indd 19

11/05/2018 10:15

20

Business Tourism Conferencing 2018

DCB’S TOOLK I T

Sam Johnston. Photo: Chris Bellew/ Fennell Photography

• • • • • •

Expert local advice Hosted familiarisation trips Marketing support and materials Hosted site inspections Venue sourcing Advice on destination management companies, professional conference organisers and other suppliers.

Irish professionals attempting to entice a global conference or event to the capital, Johnston advises getting in touch to get the ball rolling – the organisation offers free and impartial advice, can help find the best venue for your needs, and provide assistance

While the 2017 figures are being prepared by the Central Statistics Office, in 2016 business tourism was worth €715 million on a national basis.

monetary positives. Chance meetings can

with the legwork involved. If a potential

lead to exciting opportunities or knowledge

venue lies outside of Dublin, DCB will put

sharing. “I think we’ve all heard some of the

you in touch with their colleagues across the

anecdotes around the Web Summit [about]

country. Their experience is vast, ranging

some of the technology contracts or ideas

from conferences on beekeeping and pig

that were developed and signed there. It’s the

producers to ice-skaters and aviation.

knowledge value that is brought to Dublin as

“It’s one of the great things about the

well. And it may affect us directly or it may

area we work in – the breadth of subject

affect us on a global scale because people are

matters that we’re working with conference

meeting and discussing ideas, sharing ideas

ambassadors on. Thankfully we don’t need

and sharing knowledge.”

to know very much about what they do,” says

It’s not difficult to see why the city is a

Johnston. “We help them with the logistics

popular destination for business tourism,

and finding the right people to make the

considering the various avenues of access

bid and win the bid, and then deliver the

available to international delegates and the

conference for them.”

level of venues, accommodation and other help them or help their clients make a

attractions across the city. People, Johnston

decision. And then as well as that there is

maintains, are one of Dublin’s greatest assets.

financial support from Fáilte Ireland for

Dublin & Business Tourism

“From the business tourism side of things,

events coming in, and that’s based on a

from us trying to convert business, we get a

People: Friendly, English-speaking

per international delegate basis.”

lot of feedback from our clients that they get

population.

Dublin’s Assets

a real sense of how genuine the people are, and especially those in the industry who are

Transport: Dublin Airport is one of

Business tourism is big business for Ireland,

going to be looking after them – that they are

the busiest airports in the world, with

though the majority flows into Dublin.

actually invested in our clients’ events. It’s not

40 airlines flying to 180 destinations.

While the 2017 figures are being prepared

just event #173 on their booking form. They

Dublin is the only EU capital with US

by the Central Statistics Office, in 2016

are invested in it, they want it to work, they

pre-clearance.

business tourism was worth €715 million on

want to make it work. So the people element,

a national basis. Each conference delegate

without a doubt, is one of our big sales tools,

Venues: A variety of large event venues

arriving in the city is worth around €1,600

nevermind the infrastructure that we have on

are available across the city, such as the

to the local economy, twice or perhaps three

the ground.”

Convention Centre Dublin, the RDS.

times as much as the average leisure visitor.

“Without a doubt, they have a great

What Next?

value to the capital,” says Johnston,

For planners looking to discover more about

noting that their value goes beyond mere

Dublin as a potential event destination, or

018_Conferencing2018_DCB.indd 20

Unique venues range from distilleries and galleries to cathedrals, museums and sports stadia.

06/04/2018 09:43

Venue Profile Conferencing 2018

21

Corporate & Conferencing at

THOMOND PARK STADIUM Experience modern conference and hospitality facilities at Thomond Park Stadium.

T

in the most unique of sporting and

watering menus and their highly trained

cultural surroundings.

and dedicated team provide a personal

Five state-of-the-art event suites

and professional service from start to

can be adapted and tailored to suit

finish, ensuring that your event will be a

any type of corporate event. The

truly memorable occasion.

spacious Thomond Suite features glass

Thomond Park Stadium caters

homond Park Meetings

facades providing natural daylight

for a wide variety of corporate

& Events Centre offers a

with panoramic views of the stadium

events including:

comprehensive range of

and pitch. This suite also has its own

• Corporate social events

modern conference and hospitality

entrance with space for registration and

• Meetings

facilities. The versatility of our event

reception areas. All suites have in-built

• Gala banquets and dinners

suites makes Thomond Park Meetings

state-of-the-art audio-visual systems

• Exhibitions

& Events Centre the ultimate venue for

for any display and technological

• Staff training

everything from business meetings and

requirements.

• Product launches and promotions

seminars, to largescale conferences and

Our catering partner, Masterchefs

receptions. Our dedicated Corporate

Hospitality, is one of Ireland’s leading

and Conferencing Team will ensure

corporate and event catering companies.

that your event is an unrivalled success

Their experienced chefs offer mouth-

CONTACT

information

Contact our Corporate and Conferencing team on +353 (0) 6 142 1129 or email events@thomondpark.ie.

WHEN COMMUNICATION IS EVERYTHING

CONFERENCES l SEMINARS l CORPORATE EVENTS

TO BOOK YOUR EVENT Call: 061 421100 Email: events@thomondpark.ie Visit: www.thomondpark.ie

244113_2L_Thomond 237820_2L_THOMOND_CG.indd Park_JM_Conferencing.indd 1 1 THOMONDPARK_2L_CP_JM_CONF.indd 21

01/02/2018 09/12/2015 16:22 12:13 30/04/2018 15:07

22

Team Building Conferencing 2018

BUILDING

A TEAM

Team building is a great way of getting people together in ways that they might never experience otherwise. These days people often look to find new and more interesting ways to create a bonding experience – Conferencing 2018 takes a look at some of the options.

BLINDFOLD DRIVING PROVIDER: TODD’S LEAP LOCATION: TYRONE DURATION: 45 MINUTES Anyone who has tried walking a short distance with their eyes closed will know how uncomfortable an experience it is – you can’t see it, but you know there’s a Lego block somewhere out there, just waiting to painfully disfigure your foot. With this in mind, imagine the difficulty in driving a car blind. At Todd’s Leap, each driving team gets a turn behind the wheel of the company’s Land Rover. The driver is blindfolded, while the passengers have to guide the driver through the obstacle course prepared beforehand. Can you trust your friends or colleagues to take you safely around the course, or will you wind up upside down? This offers a fantastic chance for team building as the driver is totally reliant on their team’s trust, communication and

Photo: Rob Durston

precision of commands. Nevertheless, we would still suggest using the Force if possible.

022_Conferencing2018_Teambuilding.indd 22

06/04/2018 09:44

Team Building Conferencing 2018

23

READY, STEADY, COOK PROVIDER: BALLYKNOCKEN HOUSE & COOKERY SCHOOL LOCATION: ASHFORD, CO WICKLOW For a team building exercise from which you might learn something useful for everyday life, head down to Wicklow’s Ballyknocken House & Cookery School for some hands-on learning experience. With tailor-made activities on offer from Catherine Fulvio and her team of experienced tutors, your delegates could learn a few tips and tricks in cookery classes, take part in competitive cook-offs, or improve their culinary knife skills. Menus are seasonal and international, ranging from traditional Irish to Spanish tapas. And if you can’t reach them, they’ll come to you, thanks to their mobile cookery demonstration unit. Visitors can also take part in various outdoor challenges such as archery, falconry, sheep herding and clay shooting on the 280-acre farm. “The goal of team building programmes at Ballyknocken is to reward and motivate staff while increasing bonding at all levels by using challenging and interactive activities as tools for teaching valuable communication and problem-solving skills, thereby creating an environment that fosters creativity and healthy risk-taking which can be taken back into the

MACGYVER CHALLENGE

workplace,” they note.

PROVIDER: KIPPURE CORPORATE LOCATION: BLESSINGTON, CO. WICKLOW DURATION: CHOICE BETWEEN A HALF-DAY, A FULL-DAY OR MULTI-DAY EVENT.

Photo: Design Partners

Fans of the 1980s show MacGyver will remember the innumerable times the titular character was forced to use his ingenuity and inventiveness to engineer solutions to seemingly hopeless problems – including the use of candlesticks, microphone cord and a rubber mat to create a defibrillator.

It’s in this spirit that Kippure Corporate has developed the MacGyver Challenge, which sees teams working against the clock to complete physical, mental and multitasking activities through co-ordinated teamwork, using their intelligence, speed and

WIND POWER

strength where needed. Taking place across woodland, grassland

PROVIDER: DYNAMICEVENTS.IE LOCATION: NATIONWIDE DURATION: 2 HOURS

and river valleys on Kippure

Looking to break the ice among a group of strangers with a thought-provoking

Estate’s 240 acres of land,

activity? How about allowing them to put their heads together and design a wind-

the challenge promotes trust,

powered lifting device? Developing and encouraging strategic thinking, teamwork

motivation and support among

and ingenuity, teams battle against the clock to construct a winning design that

team members and allows them

can lift a weight 1m off the ground using wind power. Participants are divided

to find hidden strengths and

into groups and are given 50 minutes to develop a ‘wind propelled or induced

boost confidence. Groups of up

apparatus’ using the provided parts. Next, they must complete a number of team

to 400 people can take part in

games to earn the funds to pay for the construction, followed by testing using wind

the exercise, which usually runs

generated by a leaf blower. One prototype is chosen from each team – the winning

outside but can be customised to

team must lift the weight but must also have managed their budget effectively.

involve some activities indoors.

022_Conferencing2018_Teambuilding.indd 23

06/04/2018 09:45

24

Team Building Conferencing 2018

JAIL BREAK PROVIDER: WWW.ADVENTURE.IE LOCATION: WICKLOW HISTORIC GAOL AND CORK HISTORIC GAOL DURATION: 2.5 HOURS. Remember how good Prison Break was (for the first season, at least)? You don’t have to cover yourself in architectural tattoos and plan a bank job to get the same experience – Adventure.ie gives you the opportunity to escape from a real gaol. Each team is provided with a challenge book providing information on a three-pronged mission. Teams Jail Break

must first find the location of a series of photos and answer the relevant questions. Next, they have to solve a

DA VINCI CODE CHALLENGE

THE RIGHT NOTES

PROVIDER: TEAMBUILD.IE LOCATION: INDOORS (NATIONWIDE) DURATION: 2-3 HOURS

PROVIDER: ORANGEWORKS.IE LOCATION: INDOORS DURATION: 30 MINUTES – 2 HOURS

around prison to discover the answer to

Based on the best-selling book by Dan

According to experts, playing music

winners being those who collect the

Brown (and the resultant film starring

has a number of benefits for our

most keys, rewarded by a well-earned

Tom Hanks and a magnificent hair-

health, including increased memory

bottle of champagne.

do), TeamBuild.ie’s Da Vinci Code

capacity, boosted team skills,

Challenge is a test of teamwork,

increased coordination and plenty

critical thinking and communication.

more besides. Enter Crescendo,

FLAT OUT

A more colourful treasure hunt than

a team-building exercise from

most, participants are provided with

Orangeworks.ie, which involves

a map – paper or digital – and must

delegates coming together to

PROVIDER: ORANGEWORKS.IE LOCATION: INDOORS/OUTDOORS DURATION: 1.5-3 HOURS

solve clues and puzzles at historical

provide an orchestral performance.

Innovation is a huge part of Formula

and religious sites as they race to solve

Experienced tutors will provide an

1 – the slightest improvements to these

the ultimate mystery (which may or

introductory lesson to the violin or

incredible machines can result in a key

may not involve the final location

viola, and will then guide delegates

competitive edge. But you don’t have to

of the Holy Grail). Fans will also be

through a composition. Crescendo

be a qualified engineer to take part in

delighted to discover the use of the

could be used as a useful interlude

Flat Out Formula One by

cryptex throughout the challenges.

during your conference, reducing

Orangeworks.ie, which sees participants

It’s not an easy task and those who

stress, sparking creativity and

build and race a life-size Formula One

complete the challenge can rightly

enhancing a positive outlook among

car. Detailed instructions are provided

feel a sense of achievement, while

attendees – just the combination you

in order to transform flat-pack materials

it’s a great way for visitors to explore

want for your event. You might also

into a racing machine, much in the

Ireland’s cities and major towns. Move

want to invest in a box of earplugs

same way you would put together an

over Robert Langdon.

for this one!

IKEA bookcase, albeit less complicated.

number of clues that will lead them the riddle. Finally, teams must complete a number of fun challenges, with the

I’M ON A TEAM BUILDING DAY…GET ME OUT OF HERE! PROVIDER: PEAK DISCOVERY CORPORATE LOCATION: DUBLIN AND BELFAST Inspired by the hit reality television show I’m a Celebrity...Get me out of here!, this interesting exercise involves teams competing against one another in challenges to collect as many gold stars as they can. Challenges include the aptly named Sensory Tent – team members are blindfolded and must follow their teammates’ directions to retrieve 10 gold stars from inside five mystery boxes. It’s not just a fun distraction – to win, teams will have to work together effectively to solve problems, build team camaraderie and communicate effectively. Unfortunately, the winner won’t get to meet Ant and Dec.

022_Conferencing2018_Teambuilding.indd 24

06/04/2018 09:45

MEMORABLE MEETINGS Located just 40 minutes from Dublin 7 Meeting Rooms 96 Guest Rooms Conference capacity for 450 guests Natural daylight in all meeting rooms Onsite complimentary car parking Complimentary WiFi

045 989900 â—? info@westgrovehotel.com â—? www.westgrovehotel.com 244151_2L_Westgrove Hotel_JM_Conference guide.indd 1

26/02/2018 12:15

my gift to the world Together, we can continue to create a future that is fair for everyone. And make a world without poverty our legacy.

For more information contact OXFAM Ireland Tel: (01) 672 7662 Email: friends@oxfamireland.org Oxfam Ireland is a member of Oxfam International, a world-wide development organisation that mobilises the power of people against poverty. Charitable co. limited by guarantee. Reg. No. 284292, CHY5988

www.oxfamireland.org/legacy

Oxfam_Half_3.indd 1

Untitled-5 1

30/04/2018 15:19

30/04/2018 15:20

26

Taking a Break Conferencing 2018

taking a break Conference meeting breaks are often the same – delegates leave the main areas to drink coffee, grab a quick snack and chat with other delegates about the previous session. If you’d like to liven your meetings up and provide a more enjoyable experience, we’ve got a few tips for you.

R

egardless of how interesting or informative your

either a violin or viola and teaches them the basics of their

conference is, sometimes you just need a break. Instead

instrument and how to play a specific composition. At the end

of simply sending your delegates out for coffee and

of the lesson, both instrument groups will come together to

biscuits, why not go for something more imaginative?

Fitness Get out and about. A recent conference we attended, for example,

(hopefully) make some beautiful music. Or, you could simply hire a singer or musician – a classical pianist could provide your event with a nice touch of sophistication.

was held in the heart of Luxembourg, a short walk from the city

Funny Bones

centre and a number of interesting historical and architectural

What better way for your delegates to relax and unwind than a bit

sights. Taking the time to stroll around the local environment gives

of laughter? Medical research shows that laughter has a host of

your delegates a chance to stretch their legs, and maybe even enjoy

benefits, including increased release of endorphins (which make

a little sightseeing. According to research published in the British

you feel good) and muscle relaxation. Enlist one of Ireland’s many

Medical Journal, exercise can provide a boost to concentration levels,

great stand-up comics to provide a little light-hearted relief.

mood and memory.

Music

Local Food Particularly if your conference has attracted international

Get your delegates involved with an interesting idea – spending

delegates, it might be an interesting opportunity for them

an hour training to play together in a string orchestra! Catalyst

to experience the local cuisine. Take half an hour from the

Ireland’s Crescendo programme provides your delegates with

conference programme and bring in a local chef to showcase the

026_Conferencing2018_Taking a break.indd 26

06/04/2018 10:12

Taking a Break Conferencing 2018

27

best of the local fare. According to BBC Good Food, foods that can

for example, found that mindfulness meditation can improve

boost brain power include wholegrains, blueberries, oily

health by reducing stress, while others have found that it has some

fish, tomatoes and sage – so try and find a recipe that

success as a cure for insomnia, though that mightn’t be required

includes as many as possible!

if one of your speakers isn’t a huge hit with the crowd.

Get ready to cook

Brainstorm

Tasting food is great, but what if your attendees enjoy getting flour on their hands? Ideal for longer breaks in your conference schedule,

Divide your attendees into small groups and provide them with a problem they must solve within a certain timeframe, or a business idea to develop into a

consider employing the likes of Neven

working plan within a certain time limit. Tailor

Maguire or Donal Skeehan to

the idea to your event and attendees. Somebody

show your delegates how to cook their own tasty treats.

Meditation Meditation might seem a little too new age-y for some, but there are some scientific indications that it can be good for your health. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon,

026_Conferencing2018_Taking a break.indd 27

should be appointed to lead each session and encourage and allow every member of the group to share their thoughts and provide input. It’s best to have a wide variety of people in each group – delegates from the same organisation or country might naturally gravitate towards one another. Diversity can be inspirational!

06/04/2018 09:51

28

Conference Layout Conferencing 2018

Making the most of your venue Conference organisers are tasked with creating an environment that will allow delegates to maximise their experience. A practical and comfortable setting with a carefully chosen layout is an important factor to the success of a conference, and there are six key formats to consider.

028_Conferencing2018_Conference Layout.indd 28

06/04/2018 10:05

Conference Layout Conferencing 2018

29

Theatre Style

Boardroom Style

A set-up involving chairs facing the front

A boardroom layout, where delegates are

of the room, theatre style is an ideal layout

seated around a square or round table facing

for conferences consisting mainly of short

one another, is just right for facilitating

plenary sessions with breakout sessions

conversation and creating an intimate

throughout the day. It is particularly

setting. Typically used for smaller meetings,

conducive to large groups as you won’t need

this format can also be used for break-out

to allow space for tables.

sessions to break up the monotony of the

Banquet Style

main plenary room.

Banquet style consists of round tables of

Hollow Square

eight to ten delegates evenly dispersed

This layout is created by arranging six to

throughout the room and is used for group

eight-foot trestle tables in a square. Chairs

events such as dinners, galas and activity-

are placed around the outside of the tables

based plenary sessions. When utilising

with the centre of the square remaining

this layout for an awards ceremony or a

open. The space created between the

meal, be mindful to leave spacious aisles to

delegates allows for a more formal approach

accommodate the traffic. A banquet style set-

to the boardroom style.

up with less than 40 delegates can feel empty, especially if the room is large. A boardroom

Crescent Round

style or hollow square style may be more

In this set-up, delegates’ chairs are arranged

appropriate in this instance.

in a semi-circle for working lunches or

Classroom Style

presentations. If you are hosting a long session in this layout, you may want to

The perfect choice when note-taking is

consider lecture chairs so that delegates are

required, classroom style seats delegates on

not taking notes on their laps. Ideal for 20 to

one side of a table facing the front of the

25 delegates, and for larger groups you can

room. Microphones can be placed on these

create crescent rows.

tables at larger conferences where speakers are expected to engage with the audience.

Lecture chairs can be used to provide a classroom layout where space is limited.

Blocked sight lines can be an issue for delegates seated at the back of this arrangement. Combat this by using platforms to create stadium-style seating, or by placing TV screens around the room.

028_Conferencing2018_Conference Layout.indd 29

When utilising this layout for an awards ceremony or a meal, be mindful to leave spacious aisles to accommodate the traffic.

06/04/2018 10:07

30

Venue Profile Conferencing 2018

The All-Star EXPERIENCE

Discover one of the world’s most versatile and unique venues at the beating heart of Irish sport and culture.

HIGHLIGHTS

● Multi award-winning events team ● 5 mins from city centre with free parking ● Connectivity for up to 40k devices ● Awarded Best Purpose Built Venue (2017)

A

n iconic Dublin landmark, Croke Park is located in the heart of Dublin city, a 15-minute drive from top transatlantic hub Dublin Airport and five minutes from the city centre. The venue is easily accessible from the M50 and the Port Tunnel and offers 600 free car parking spaces.

Croke Park confidently delivers highdensity, high-quality connectivity to events with large delegate numbers or bandwidth-hungry streaming media.

You can host even the most techintensive event with the assurance of a high-performance internal backbone to guarantee reliability. This ultra-fast HD WiFi infrastructure can support more than 27,000 people or 40,000 devices simultaneously – a first for Irish venues.

Croke Park offers meeting and event planners a total event solution in a

Croke Park_1C_CP_JM_CONF_V2.indd 30

sustainable venue that includes catering, AV, entertainment, event tech, unique time out activities and four-star hotel accommodation at The Croke Park. With 110 meeting and event spaces, the venue can cater for a board meeting for 10 or a reception for 2,000 and the campus combines more unique attractions, tour and time out options than any other venue, including the Ericsson Skyline, rooftop abseil and stadium tours.

Success and recognition has followed – in 2017 Croke Park was ranked the Best Stadium Venue in the United Kingdom and Ireland by UK magazine C&IT along with industry accolades at the Event Industry Awards – Best InHouse Events Team for the second year in a row and Best Purpose Built Venue.

The team designed and hosted the first European Event of the Future attracting

over 350 delegates and experts around the evolution of meetings and events and what the future holds. A hugely successful season of private and shared Christmas Party nights was the icing on the cake to finish the year.

Croke Park is a recognised trailblazer in sustainability best practice. It was the first stadium to obtain certification to the international Environmental Standard ISO 14001:2015 and the ISO 20121 for Sustainable Event Management Systems and has maintained 0 per cent waste to landfill for the last four consecutive years.

No two events are alike at Croke Park and the flexible spaces feature over 5,000 square metres of event space including a range of meeting rooms right up to the All-Star Suites.

The Hogan Suite is the flagship event space accommodating up to 2,000 for a reception or 800 for a theatre-style conference. It is brimming with high-tech features including motorised trussing and dramatic LED lighting with natural daylight pouring through its 6m floor to ceiling windows. Its luxury foyer overlooks the hallowed playing ground below and bespoke pieces of Irish art evoke the history of the stadium, making the foyer a dramatic setting for receptions, registration, exhibitions or refreshment breaks.

Catering is central to the Croke Park offering and customised menus are designed to complement every occasion and the full range of dietary requirements. They feature emerging superfoods, healthy indulgences and genuine farm to fork practices. Popular menus include their Working Lunch menu and new concepts include Stadium Street Food and Healthy Options which feature nutritional information.

Flexible and adaptable spaces, customisable catering, and stand out features such as HD WiFi, four-star on-site accommodation and time out activities – we’ve got everything you need right here.

CONTACT

information

T: 01 819 2300 E: e vents@crokepark.ie W: c rokepark.ie/meetings-events Social media: @CrokeParkEvents

30/04/2018 15:04

Event Swag Conferencing 2018

EVENT

GOODIES

31

demographic and consider including retro sweets or locally produced products that won’t expire too soon.

Go digital Sometimes, carrying around a physical bag can be a little awkward. A virtual goody bag eliminates any such issues – you could email each attendee a variety of freebies or gift codes for certain websites, books, apps, etc.

Experience local life Offering an experience rather than an item in your goody bag can make much more of an impression, particularly if you’re in a large city.

You could include a voucher for a local attraction like a tourist site, an amusement park or a bus tour.

Downtime is important too!

Conferencing 2018 takes a look at some ideas for event goody bags that your attendees might actually want.

O

The green road Although climate change has an apparently growing number of detractors (including certain politicians),

ne of the easiest ways of

magnifier, a nifty little device that

many people are also recognising

providing your attendees

projects a smartphone’s display onto

the need to become environmentally

with lasting mementos of an

a larger screen, making it easier to

conscious. Taking an environmentally

event is a goody bag. Often these can

watch videos. It’s the perfect gift for

friendly approach to your goody bag

be relatively standard – branded items

attendees travelling to your event,

can be good for your image. Ensure

like pens, USBs, t-shirts and so on. But,

particularly over long distances.

the bag itself is recyclable and reusable,

in order to make a lasting impression,

Screen magnifiers are cheap and can

as well as the items inside. You could

you need to get a little more creative.

be used with any smartphone.

also include a miniature grow-yourown plant kit to really encourage your

Smartphone accessories

Nostalgia trips

Most, if not all, of your attendees will

Part of the attraction behind goody

ensure your event springs to mind every

own a smart device. So why not take

bags is a sense of nostalgia – some

time they water it.

that into account? Given that people

of us might remember departing a

will spend quite a bit of time on their

friend’s birthday party clutching a

phone, taking pictures and videos,

small plastic bag filled with sweets or

tweeting or checking emails etc., provide

small toys. So why not try and rekindle

a portable power bank so they don’t

that childhood joy? Adult colouring

have to compromise on their phone

books might sound a little suspect

usage! It could also be something that

but they’ve proven a big hit over the

• Earphones in a branded case

they use on a regular basis rather than

last year or two, offering a chance to

• Umbrellas

simply tossing it in the trash. Just make

relax and de-stress. Sweets can also

• Seasonal items

sure they are pre-charged. You could

be well-received – make sure you

• Unique food items

also consider a smartphone screen

cater the confectionery to your age

• Sturdy coffee mugs/flasks

031_Conferencing2018_Goodie bags.indd 31

environmentally friendly image and

HONOURABLE MENTIONS

06/04/2018 10:16

Make Irela 32

Cover Story Conferencing 2018

032_Conferencing2018_Cover Story.indd 32

11/05/2018 10:28

ke it and 032_Conferencing2018_Cover Story.indd 33

Cover Story Conferencing 2018

33

The Gap of Dunloe, Kerry, is a favourite spot for incentive travellers.

Photo: Tourism Ireland

The team behind Meet in Ireland is doing stellar work in attracting conferences, meetings and incentive travel to Ireland, generating millions for the national economy.

Conor Forrest spoke with Business Tourism Manager Ciara Gallagher to learn more about their work, resources, and vision for the future.

11/05/2018 10:29

34

Cover Story Conferencing 2018

B

usiness tourism is undoubtedly big business for Ireland. In 2016 alone, its value to the country was a not

inconsequential €715 million. As part of a new 10-year roadmap developed by Fáilte Ireland, the aim is to grow this figure to €1.2 billion by 2028, a growth rate of 55 per cent. “[They are] hefty targets,” explains Ciara Gallagher, Business Tourism Manager with Meet in Ireland. “We’ve been having a look at everything, both in terms of our challenge with that and obviously where our opportunities lie in order to achieve those ambitious targets.”

Meet in Ireland is one of the driving forces behind this sector – Ireland’s official business tourism brand combines the resources of Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland in a bid to promote the entire island as

L-R from top: A corporate event at Cork City Gaol, one of the country’s more unusual venues. Photo: Simon Crowe. Adare Manor’s ballroom.

Guinness Storehouse. Photo: iStock

a world-class business tourism destination.

Simply put, their job is to grow the number of international conferences, corporate meetings

convention bureaux who can provide greater local knowledge and insights for particular

and incentive travel groups coming to Ireland,

areas, not to mention marketing materials, video content, presentation templates and a variety

focusing mainly on the early stages of trying to

of other materials designed to boost the potential success of a bid proposal. Financial supports

win an event. Quite a large amount of research

are also available to reduce the costs associated with the bidding process – site inspections

is done beforehand, identifying various

(travel and accommodation for up to three key decision-makers), marketing funding, overseas

international events that travel around the

travel and more. And, when the business has been won, Meet in Ireland’s Programme

world, narrowing the list to those that are open

Enhancement Fund provides an opportunity to thank the decision-makers, such as sponsoring

for bidding, checking the next available year,

a welcome reception or entertainment at a gala dinner.

and ensuring that Ireland meets all of the

The bidding process, however, is one that can often take years, particularly for association

relevant criteria. Then it’s a matter of finding

conferences – when we spoke the team had just signed off on financial support for a conference

a local contact (a member of the Irish arm

taking place in 2024, and Gallagher notes that an association conference can take five years from

affiliated with the international organisation)

the beginning of the process to when it actually arrives in the country. There are no guarantees,

and motivating them to bid for the event. That’s

and a proposal can make it through the initial stages, reach the shortlist as a potential host, but

not always an easy process – bid documentation

sometimes it just doesn’t happen. On the other hand, corporate meetings and incentive travel

has to be prepared, presentations must often

groups have a much shorter lead time and a less complicated bid process. But, as with the association

be made (sometimes overseas), and inspections

conferences, once you get the decision-makers into the country the chances of winning their

by decision-makers facilitated.

business are very high.

“Quite often when they’re members of these

“We’ve got a really high success rate – we tend to convert about 80 per cent of those that we

various different associations, it’s not

actually get into the country on a site inspection,” says Gallagher. “I suppose our job is two-fold.

necessarily their day job,” says Gallagher. “So

One – we’re actively out there seeking new business opportunities. And then secondly, we also

to take on the organisation of a very big

provide financial support to try and help our industry with those pieces of business when we get

international conference can, as you could

the opportunity to pitch for them.”

imagine, be hugely daunting.”

That’s where the full suite of Meet in

Why Ireland?

Ireland’s resources comes into play. Practical

One aspect that helps attract conferences or other events to these shores is Ireland’s broad appeal

supports include access to a conference

as a destination, something Meet in Ireland promotes at every opportunity. The scenery and tourist

ambassador programme that acts as a guide

potential is undoubtedly a factor, though moreso in relation to incentive travel. The US is one of

throughout the bidding process, working with

the strongest markets in this regard, with visitors tending to stay in the country for five to six nights.

a variety of Meet in Ireland partners

“Quite often we’d be able to sell them a two-centre option,” says Gallagher. “Most of them

including destination management companies

will want to see the capital city – this is the only chance they’re actually getting to come to the

and professional conference organisers. The

country so we do perhaps a Dublin and Kerry or a Dublin and Shannon. That type of mix

team provides connections with the regional

works really well. They are looking for what, in their mindset, is traditionally Irish, down to the

032_Conferencing2018_Cover Story.indd 34

06/04/2018 10:19

Cover Story Conferencing 2018

35

trip on the jaunting cars in the Gap of Dunloe.

Challenges ahead

It’s about making it special, it’s not about

The Meet in Ireland team has had a number of considerable wins in recent months –

[doing] something that a normal leisure

take the Confidential Dublin conference, which welcomed 90 people across three days

traveller can do. When we do something like

in March, while NCC 2018 takes place in Dublin in June of this year (320 people over

an incentive trip it has to have a really big

two days). But there are challenges on the road ahead. Political and economic uncertainty

‘wow’ element. One of my colleagues has an

in the international marketplace has led to some concern – Brexit is very much on the

incentive travel group coming to Ireland in

mind. Closer to home, accommodation capacity is proving troublesome. While the

April and they’re doing a full five-star hotel

number of hotel rooms is set to rise in 2018 and beyond, when any conferences or

buy-out – it’s a really high-end event.”

corporate meetings of significant scale arrive they have to be split across a range of

But for conferences and corporate meetings,

hotels, which isn’t always suitable.

the team focuses on much more beyond the

“Luckily enough there are an awful lot more bedrooms coming on-stream over the

green fields, such as highlighting the country’s

next couple of years, which is fantastic. But at the same time it’s not going to solve that

various clusters of industry. For example, we’re

problem of attracting really significantly large events... It’s something we need now,”

home to some of the world’s top tech companies,

says Gallagher. “[There is] the difficulty of having a lack of greenfield sites in the city

something that would be hugely appealing to

centre in order to deliver something like that, and then the planning restrictions in terms

a tech conference searching for local sponsorship

of height levels around the hotels in the city centre is also a challenge.”

and a guaranteed local audience. Gallagher

Sit-down banqueting options can also prove difficult, particularly for larger groups.

notes that focusing on Ireland’s sectoral

Gallagher notes that while the likes of the CCD or the RDS can host large events, there’s

strengths is becoming increasingly important,

a distinct lack of off-site wow venues of scale.

with Meet in Ireland preparing to launch a

“It’s the one thing that has to be a very memorable event. We’re competing with the

research project across hubs in Dublin, Cork,

likes of Vienna and Paris where they have all of their magnificent palaces where they

Kerry, Limerick and Galway in a bid to discover

host these big gala dinner events. Whilst we have lots of fabulous venues across Ireland,

more about their individual competencies.

we lack in having venues that offer large-scale sit-down options,” she says. “We’re working

“It’s about promoting Ireland and the

very closely with industry to make sure that we’re constantly improving our Ireland

various knowledge hubs within the country

offering, making sure that we are competitive and that we’re offering good value. The

that will actually attract conferences,” she says.

other thing then is around regional access in terms of growth potential for the regions

“Most people would think we’re out there

– that is a tricky one. It’s not that there isn’t the access there but when you’re talking to

selling the lush green fields and the wild rugged

international meeting planners it’s the lack of awareness of access. So when the perception

landscape – and obviously we do. But you

is there that it’s a difficult place to get to, perception is reality as far as they’re concerned.

actually need much more than that in order

It’s about overcoming that and constantly being out there meeting the international

to win the conferences.”

meeting planners and letting them know that Ireland is actually a very easy place to get

A relationship with IDA Ireland has

to. Even just the size of the island, the fact that you can get from east to west in two-

developed over the years, most recently in the

and-a-half hours, they just don’t get that. Even the two centre options, the fact that you

form of a Canadian company that is looking

can do a Kerry and Dublin or a Shannon and Dublin over a five or six-day period.

to establish a branch here and is sending 650

They’re blown away by that.”

delegates to Ireland for an annual sales meeting

If Fáilte Ireland’s target of €1.2bn worth of business tourism every year is to be realised

in October – a chance to sample what Ireland

by 2028, there’s a lot of work to do. Alongside constantly researching new opportunities,

is all about. It’s a potentially important source

Meet in Ireland is keen to spread the word about what they can do to help the MICE

of business for Meet in Ireland as, through its

industry. So, for meetings and events planners look for help and advice in bringing an

work in attracting foreign direct investment,

international event, meeting or incentive travel group to these shores, what’s the first step?

the IDA comes into contact with a variety of

“Come to ourselves as the first port of call. And make sure [people] come as early as

businesses ranging from SMEs to multinationals

possible to ensure that they can avail of all the practical and financial supports that we

working in a broad range of sectors. “We’d love

have available to them,” says Gallagher. “Not to be afraid – we are here to hold their

to work closer with the IDA in terms of securing

hand every step of the way and make sure that they will absolutely deliver a wow

those type of events that also meet their strategic

experience. I suppose the strength of the whole Team Ireland approach is really important,

needs, focusing very much on the sectors that

that everybody is here to make sure that their event is 100 per cent successful.”

they’re trying to attract to Ireland,” says Gallagher. “It’s giving these people an opportunity to sample what it’s like to get their

Planner’s Toolkit

toe in the door without any final commitment

Meet in Ireland offers a handy toolkit for meetings and events organisers:

but it also gives them an opportunity to sample

• Brand guidelines • Planner presentations • Access maps • Infographics • Free image gallery

what it’s like to do business in Ireland.”

032_Conferencing2018_Cover Story.indd 35

06/04/2018 10:20

36

Academic Conference Conferencing 2018

IT’S

ACADEMIC

Organising an academic conference can prove to be something of a different experience. Conferencing 2018 offers a few tips on budgeting, venues and organisation.

A

cademic conferences are generally

with a Call For Papers or Call For Abstracts

conferences for researchers who

– an item sent to prospective presenters that

gather to discuss their work, and

requests they submit a paper or abstract.

provide an important arena for the exchange

This call will set out the main theme

of information within a particular field. On

and topics to be discussed, deadlines for

the day, the conference is typically comprised

submission and any other relevant details.

of presentations, around 20-30 minutes each, followed by time for discussion. One or

The Beginning

more keynote speakers are usually involved,

As with any conference, initial planning

with more time allotted for their speeches

and preparation is key to ensuring your

– perhaps an hour to an hour-and-a-half.

academic conference goes off without a

Other items on the timetable include smaller

hitch. Develop a budget based on your

group discussions, panel discussions and

financial means, as this will have an impact

various workshops.

on everything going forward. Ensure that

Such conferences are generally organised

036_Conferencing2018_Academic Conference.indd 36

registration fees will at least help you recoup

by an academic society or group of

your expenditure. Academic events often aim

researchers, with larger conferences often

to make a profit, which can then be used for

handled on their behalf by a professional

future events and activities. Offer different

organiser. They are generally announced

pricing arrangements for current students

06/04/2018 10:37

Academic Conference Conferencing 2018

37

or those in unsalaried positions. Funding for

board – the last thing you need is a projector

and good food. Set on a campus spanning

academic ventures can be obtained from

or computer that simply refuses to work.

40 acres, the college can cater for events

a variety of sources, such as the institution

Once the event is over, follow up within

ranging from 20 to 2,000 delegates. The

itself, publishers, academic organisations or

a few days via email, thanking delegates

Trinity Conference Centre contains seven

businesses that are relevant in the field.

for attending and letting them know about

lecture theatres, two exhibition spaces, and

future events or publications arising from

varying sized exhibition rooms. The newer

the conference.

Hamilton Conference Centre offers an airy,

When issuing a call for submissions, ensure the chosen topic is coherent enough to ensure all submissions will be on-topic,

modern venue with five theatres and three

but also broad enough that a wide range

classrooms. Additional spaces include the

of papers will be submitted. You should

Examination Hall, The Museum Building

also consider involving keynote speakers, ideally recognisable individuals who have contributed significantly to their fields. A range of speakers’ organisations exist for this purpose – try Global Speakers Bureau or the London Speaker Bureau. You can also put word out among the Irish academic community. Make sure that you have a broad range of speakers from different backgrounds

Develop a budget based on your financial means, as this will have an impact on everything going forward.

and The Atrium. Trinity’s facilities include a professional banqueting department, campus restaurants, bar and coffee shop, an accommodation office, guided tours of the Old Library, the Long Room and the Book of Kells, as well as a high standard of AV equipment.

Moving to the west, NUI Galway provides a great conference solution in Galway city.

and with varying levels of experience – this

Its 260-acre campus is an ideal location for

makes it much more interesting.

hosting events of any size, with picturesque

When working on the programme, ensure

grounds, modern technology and a great

that you know how many slots you will have

Location, Location

available and allow some time for presenters

The best place to hold an academic

Bailey Allen Hall seats in excess of 1,000

who run over the time limit. Once you

conference is in an academic setting – the

delegates, more than 15 tiered theatres can

receive the abstracts and papers, confirm

facilities are already tailored towards

accommodate up to 360 delegates, a range of

acceptance or rejection immediately. Other

academic functions, and Ireland’s third level

boardrooms and classrooms can host between

things to consider include start or end times

institutions offer great venue options.

5 and 100 attendees, while fully equipped

(be mindful of travel needs and times), and

The University of Limerick, for example,

choice of accommodation and food. The

computer suites, free parking and free Wi-Fi

ensure there are enough refreshment breaks

has three great conference or event venues

sweeten the experience. A team from NUI

to give participants and presenters a breather.

coupled with over 60 breakout rooms. The

Galway is also on hand to provide support for

Kemmy Business School includes a theatre

facility bookings, site visits, practical advice on

contact providers in the area and negotiate a

that can host up to 320 people seated, eight

conference arrangements, and assistance with

special rate for your delegates. This reduces

breakout rooms, as well as four meeting

financial and budget matters.

the cost for attendees and avoids potential

rooms, on-site catering, an audiovisual

complexities if providing accommodation

service and an exhibition area in the foyer.

becomes part of the registration process.

The university’s Concert Hall is another

With regard to food, don’t forget to request

useful location that often hosts events and

Costs to consider

any special dietary requirements. Choose

entertainment, an all-purpose venue that

Make sure you have enough money allowed

regular food – that special Indian curry

includes a 1,000-seat tiered theatre, an

in your budget for:

might provide some flair at dinner but could

exhibition space and two large adjoining

lead to some discomfort afterwards.

rooms (not to mention the on-site café). The

• Room hire

university’s main building incorporates five

• Out-of hours staffing requirements

large theatres with a capacity of over 500,

• Lunches

If you’ve planned well in advance, everything

breakout rooms, large exhibition areas and

• Refreshments

should go relatively smoothly on the day.

several restaurants for your hungry delegates.

• Receptions

Keep an eye on time throughout and provide

As a whole, the campus offers a pleasant

• Stationery

a quick reminder when necessary. Ensure

experience with several grassy areas, pleasing

• Invited speakers (travel, accommodation,

you have adequate help for delegates seeking

architecture and world-class sports facilities.

When it comes to accommodation,

On the Day

programme information or the location of

Back in the capital, Dublin’s Trinity

various venues and facilities. You should

College prides itself on a conference service

also make sure there’s an IT professional on

with excellent facilities, great accommodation

036_Conferencing2018_Academic Conference.indd 37

Good luck!

expenses) • Design (posters, conference brochures, notes, materials)

02/05/2018 09:42

38

Unique Venues Conferencing 2018

Venues

Twıst WITH A

STEP INTO THE PAST Built in the 1820s, Ballyfin is a lavish Edwardian mansion located in County Laois. The estate is often described as though it belongs in the pages of a Jane Austen novel and was once home to the prominent Coote family. This rather opulent venue was designed by famed Irish architects Sir Richard and William Morrison. After being used as a school for several years following the departure of the Coote family, the establishment re-opened in 2011 as a five-star luxury location. With only 20 rooms on a 614-acre estate, this retreat is devoted to intimate events. While every furnishing and detail of the rich décor impresses with traditional decadence, Ballyfin is tagged as a modern corporate location fully equipped with all contemporary amenities and capabilities.

Looking for a venue with a difference?

Conferencing 2018 picks out some of the more unusual conference and meeting locations around the country.

The success or failure of any event can depend on your choice of venue. If you’ve been tasked with assembling a memorable conference or corporate retreat this year, remember, the stagnant boredom that can often come with monotone boardrooms will only generate an equally stale mood with your audience. Don’t be afraid to get creative – take advantage of the diverse range of unique venues that Ireland has to offer.

038_Conferencing2018_unique venues_V2.indd 38

06/04/2018 10:52

Unique Venues Conferencing 2018

39

DELPHI RESORT, LEENANE, CO GALWAY Your next event doesn’t have to be in a sprawling urban centre – rural environments can have a soothing effect, allowing people to get in touch with nature and experience the quieter and more relaxed side of life. Take the Delphi Resort in Co Galway. Alongside accommodation in the four-star hotel, the resort combines a tranquil location with professional facilities for events of up to 70 people. They’ve also got a more intimate setting in the nearby Aasleagh Lodge for up to 30 people, a Victorian cottage with en-suite bedrooms, adjacent self-catering cottages and fantastic views over Killary Fjord and the Delphi valley. And there’s plenty on hand to keep your delegates entertained. Kayaking, surfing, canoeing, paddle boarding, tower climbing, mountain biking and archery are just some of the diverse activities available at the adventure centre or, for a more relaxing experience, try their luxury spa.

THE SOUND OF SUCCESS Ballyfin

038_Conferencing2018_unique venues_V2.indd 39

GUINNESS STOREHOUSE One of Dublin’s top attractions, the Guinness Storehouse is ideally located close to both Luas and train stations, as well as a number of bus services, putting its accessibility on par with its historical reverence. If you’re attracting foreign attendees you’ll find it hard to find a better location that will leave them in utter amazement. Take your delegates on a tour through the many levels of this celebrated building and they’ll get a glimpse of a fascinating chapter in Irish history. When you’re finished exploring the mysteries of this legendary stout, the event facilities won’t fail to impress, accommodating from 10-2,000 guests throughout the building for intimate gatherings or large-scale functions. And you can enjoy a tipple of the black stuff in the heart of its home!

Typically host to large concerts or small operas, the National Concert Hall is adept at adjusting to accommodate the needs of any party or corporate event. The former university campus, once considered home by historical figures such as James Joyce during his studies, attracts audiences in their thousands each year. The Main Auditorium has a capacity of 1,200 people, with the Carolan and John Field rooms offering different options depending on your needs. This venue is fully equipped with AV equipment, an onsite technician, parking and natural daylight for all conference rooms.

06/04/2018 10:52

40

Unique Venues Conferencing 2018

LOW TECH, HIGH QUALITY Located close to Lough Ennell in Westmeath, Mount Druid is a pioneer in boutique camping, perfectly designed for any corporate retreat wanting to reconnect with nature – minus the rough stuff. This unusual tech-light location will easily make for a memorable event just off the M6 motorway.

The flair of rustic charm this site exudes extends to the picturesque accommodation, which includes a selection of cottages, yurts and shepherd huts. The parkland atmosphere will allow your conference group to distance themselves from outside distractions and focus on the business at hand. Three full-time gardeners work year-round to provide fresh, organic produce for the kitchen, with lamb reared on-farm and other tasty treats sourced locally. The grounds themselves offer an abundance of team building exercises and activities to entertain and delight during free hours away from the technology race.

038_Conferencing2018_unique venues_V2.indd 40

PRIVATE PARADISE When you arrive at Ballinacurra House, Kinsale, you’ll discover a simple motto – privacy is paramount. While other venues pose the risk of running into business rivals, at this location the grounds will be exclusive to your own party.

Experienced in dealing with the needs of corporate clients, their staff will ensure that every transaction and discussion is handled with competence and discretion. With a speciality in corporate events, this isolated establishment will allow you to deviate from the often stale boardroom environment. Ballinacurra House pride themselves on their ability to accommodate the needs of their clients and offer a bespoke service for each event they host.

TAKE THEM TO CHURCH Indulge in a Gothic dining experience in the oldest working structure in Ireland’s capital, situated at Christ Church Cathedral. Founded in 1030 and rebuilt in 1172, predominantly under the watchful eye of Norman baron the Earl of Pembroke (also known as Strongbow), the surrounding ruins and crypt of Strongbow and his supposed relations will certainly make any event hosted here one to remember.

06/04/2018 10:53

Unique Venues Conferencing 2018

41

TITANIC BELFAST, TITANIC QUARTER, BELFAST Located in the heart of Belfast’s Titanic Quarter where the infamous ocean liner was constructed, Titanic Belfast (featured on our front cover) commemorates the lives of those who worked in Belfast’s shipyards, the ill-fated journey of the Titanic, and the 1,517 souls who lost their lives when it sank in the North Atlantic Ocean in April 1912. It also provides a fantastic backdrop for your next event, with a number of event spaces located across the grounds. The Titanic Suites are located on the top floor of the building, with views over the slipways and Belfast Lough and capacity for between 50 and 1,500 people. The decor was chosen to reflect the interior of the RMS Titanic, including a replica of the famous grand staircase. For larger events, the Titanic Exhibition Centre offers a flexible venue complete with reception space, café, washrooms and office space for event organisers. Having played host to numerous exhibitions over the years, the centre can cater for up to 3,000 guests. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more intimate, the SS Nomadic – Titanic’s ‘little sister’ and White Star Line’s last remaining vessel – has been restored to its former glory. With room for up to 200 and kitchen facilities on board, guests can enjoy the unique experience of a ship with a glamorous past, having ferried famous passengers such as Elizabeth Taylor, Charlie Chaplin and Richard Burton across the globe.

038_Conferencing2018_unique venues_V2.indd 41

THE PLACE TO DO BUSINESS Located between Fitzwilliam Square and The National Concert Hall, No. 25 Fitzwilliam Place is the pinnacle of elegance in Dublin city. If you want a venue that commands discretion with an air of Victorian sophistication then No. 25 will provide you with the location and quality services required to impress any client or business associate. Perhaps better known as a private dining venue, each of their event spaces features floor-to-ceiling windows and natural light, making this venue ideal for intimate workshops, launches or networking events.

A DAY IN THE PARK Croke Park stadium is widely considered as the heart of sport and culture in Ireland and is located just ten minutes from Dublin Airport and a convenient five minutes from the city centre.

In your spare time you can visit the famed GAA museum or tour the Etihad Skyline rooftop before you lay your head at the fourstar luxury hotel located on-site.

Eight large suites and more than 90 meeting rooms overlook the historic pitch; the Hogan Suite can cater for up to 2,000 people and features floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Dublin’s skyline. Other highlights include up to 600 free parking spaces, over 5,000 square metres of event space, free Wi-Fi and on-site catering. Perfect for sports fans!

06/04/2018 10:53

42

Technology Conferencing 2018

within a certain area to add photos to a stream. Push notifications can also be used to prompt people to share their event photos.

TECHNOLOGY

Photo Butler’s platform makes it possible for organisers to add photo sharing capabilities to existing applications on both iOS and Android.

The tool helps organisations to learn more about their audience, capture authentic experiences, and manage and monetise photo content.

VENUE DIAGNOSIS Launched late in 2017 in Europe, VeDi is described as the world’s first online diagnostics tool for venues.

VeDi’s interface

We take a look at some interesting meetings and events technology you could use in 2018.

MEETINGS ON THE GO

costs,” said Matthieu Beucher,

French company Klaxoon offers a

Klaxoon CEO. “Work is undergoing

digital platform that allows people to

a revolution of a similar scale to that

work “intelligently” as part of a team

triggered by the launch of PCs a

and enjoy more efficient meetings.

few decades ago. Finding solutions

Its suite of tools has recently been

to collaborate more efficiently is

augmented by MeetingBoard, its

becoming a priority. As a major player

response to what it has identified as an

in this revolution, Klaxoon is able to

increasing demand for meeting spaces

team up with businesses who are also

that are affordable and easy to set up

changing the future of work through

with tools to ensure that everybody

their high-tech products or innovative

can participate.

services. Those partnerships make it

MeetingBoard is a large touchscreen

rates and allow organisers of any kind

anywhere from the reception to your

to turn their meetings or events into

break room, and works with any

cutting-edge smart meetings where

browsers or devices. It’s powered

creativity, information sharing and

by the Klaxoon Box and comes

decision-making is boosted.”

of collaborative meeting apps ready

COLLABORATIVE PHOTOS

to roll. Klaxoon has teamed up with

Photo Butler, a real-time photo sharing

major consumer electronics providers

platform, has announced the addition

in developing the MeetingBoard for a

of public photo streams to its service.

powerful and easy-to-use solution.

It’s good news for event planners, with

“We want to allow our customers to

growth, identify news ways you can promote your venue, provides management reporting and insights,

Photo: Danny Stevens

Klaxoon’s MeetingBoard.

attendees able to view and interact with

use our tools without any constraints

their event’s photostream – geofencing

due to location, facilities or hardware

can be employed to only allow people

042_Conferencing2018_Technology.indd 42

makes recommendations for business

possible to offer extremely competitive

smart device that can be set up

complete with the company’s suite

VeDi evaluates your venue and

06/04/2018 10:57

Technology Conferencing 2018

answered at any hour of the day,

and benchmarks your venue against competitors around the globe.

Produced by the UK-based Sequoia Partnership, it’s a cost-effective version of the larger scale Venue Diagnostic.

Input was given by venue and event professionals in terms of strengths, weaknesses and areas of development in a venue. Users can visit myvedi. com and complete a series of questions across five sections, with a personalised report generated featuring recommendations for improvement.

“Say hello to your one-stop, venue analysis platform, and goodbye to expensive venue consulting,” the company says. “VeDi is the world’s

43

For those worried about privacy in the digital age, Zenus says that strict security protocols are in place. Images are fully encrypted and anonymised.

whether about meeting schedules, venue directions, and more. Sciensio’s Concierge EventBot is one of these nifty tools, designed for use at noisy events by communicating via messaging services.

The chatbot, powered by artificial intelligence, uses a conversational tone to match the event and can be personalised depending on who is asking a question. Attendees can also request human assistance, while push notifications keep them updated on issues such as sessions filling up.

Interactions are logged for analysis, with metrics available for messaging

first online venue diagnostic providing

channels, topics, requests for human

a cost-effective solution for venues

assistance and more.

looking to analyse and control their business strategy. A comprehensive

face recognition, while self check-

SMALL VENUES SORTED

tool exploring five critical areas of

in options are also available for

Bizly has been described as Airbnb

your venue operations, VeDi identifies

attendees. The software works with

for event venues, allowing event

innovative ways to make the venue

any device that features a camera.

planners to search for and book small

work harder for you.”

Devices can also be connected to

event spaces in hotels. Currently

printers to produce badges on-site.

available for those across the US,

Not only does it speed up the check-

Bizly offers a curated network of

Based in Houston, Texas, Zenus

in process, but event staff can greet

venues, ease of booking, insights

employs cloud-based facial recognition

attendees by name as they arrive,

and information about each venue,

software to speed up the check-

providing a more personal touch.

and a simple registration process

WHAT’S IN A FACE?

in process. Currently, dedicated lines or devices are in place for

For those worried about privacy in

attendees, centralise logistics and

security protocols are in place. Images

coordinate the necessary details. The

are fully encrypted and anonymised,

tool is free to use, with paid upgrades

and are deleted as soon as the face

offering further features.

geometries are extracted.

“We are a leading provider of face

“The hospitality industry is at a critical point as it wrestles with the

recognition software. Our cloud-

impact of Airbnb and the rise in

based service can search a database

home sharing for business travel,”

of faces within a blink of an eye and

said Ron Shah, Bizly founder and

it can be seamlessly integrated into

CEO. “It’s abundantly clear that

any application,” the company states.

the industry’s next big growth

“Our goal is to eradicate tickets and

opportunity is corporate groups and

make waiting in line a distant memory

small meetings. Bizly delivers small

of the past. We firmly believe that

meetings revenue by seamlessly

convenience and security do not have

connecting hotels and restaurants

to compromise privacy.”

with the employees across an

GET CHATTING

042_Conferencing2018_Technology.indd 43

that allows you to send invites to

the digital age, Zenus says that strict

organisation that drive small meeting demand – a flow of business that

Chatbots are a handy way to ensure

these venues can’t easily generate on

your delegates’ questions are

their own.”

06/04/2018 10:57

44

Trends Conferencing 2018

Tracking the The meetings and events industry is in constant flux, impacted by factors such as changing budgets, consumer demands, and technology. Conferencing 2018 takes a look at some of the trends we’re likely to see this year.

Meet in Europe

meetings and senior leadership and

over the last year or so. The planning

Meeting sizes across Europe are predicted

board meetings predicted to decrease by

process should include a risk assessment,

to remain broadly the same, although we

less than 1 per cent.”

evacuation plans, a bespoke security

could see a decrease in the number of

checklist, access plans for emergency

days per meeting, according to American

Stay mindful

Express Meeting & Events’ 2018 Global

According to a number of industry

knowledge of all emergency exists, as well

Meetings and Events Forecast. A slight

experts, we will see a greater emphasis

as contingencies in the event of an issue.

increase is predicted for training meetings

on wellbeing and wellness. As event

Questions should also be asked of the

and product launches, while the overall

management software provider eventtia

venue and its staff, such as who is

spend for meetings isn’t expected to

notes, “Enhancing the attendee

responsible for certain aspects of security,

‘fluctuate significantly’. And, while large

experience is not limited strictly to

what training staff members have

cities should still be the main location for

activities and meeting content. It also

received, and whether local emergency

meetings going forward, the popularity

includes contributing to attendee

services such as the fire brigade or gardaí

of second-tier cities is on the rise.

wellness, and increasing numbers of

are aware of the venue’s layout.

services, crowd management and a

“When we break out regional numbers

companies and their meeting owners are

“As in all regions, survey respondents

to look at specific survey countries and

looking to appeal to attendee wellbeing

in Europe identify attendee safety and

meeting types, we see much greater

throughout meetings and events.”

security as important considerations in

variation in activity levels. In more than

Examples include organic food choices,

location selection,” the American Express

half of the countries surveyed,

outdoor activities that encourage

report noted. “While questions of political

respondents expect more product

mindfulness, and meditation.

and economic change and emergencies

launches in 2018, as well as increases in

do arise throughout the region, one

training meetings,” the report stated.

Security First

“When looking at Europe as a whole, the

Safety is an increasingly important option

professionals in suggesting that ‘safety is

number of attendees is expected to

when it comes to planning an event and

a top priority for all meetings and events

remain flat in 2018, with sales and

choosing a venue, given the number of

stakeholders, as is accessibility in terms

marketing meetings, internal team

incidents that occurred across Europe

of easy airlift and transportation’.”

045_Conferencing2018_Trends_DPS.indd 44

meeting planner joins other meetings

06/04/2018 11:17

Trends Conferencing 2018

Face recognition: Photo: Alexander Baxevanis/Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

45

The Quiet Man pub in Cong, Co Mayo. Cong plays host to the annual CongRegation event.

Photo: Tourism Ireland

Digital security should also be

CongRegation in the village of Cong,

Take Ireland’s Digital Media Awards

considered – you don’t want to find your

Co Mayo or health conferences in

last November, which featured a fun

files locked or infected, accompanied by

Dublin’s Liberty Hall. Ireland has a

‘80s theme and were co-hosted by

a ransom request. Consult with a

number of interesting venues ranging

comedy dance duo Lords of Strut –

cybersecurity expert to make sure you’re

from castles to sports stadiums, a great

previous editions have also been held

as prepared as possible.

way to entice your attendees to come

in a large circus tent, undoubtedly a

and discover more. Bonus points if the

memorable choice.

venue complements or enhances the

“By coordinating energising group

Apple’s iPhone X caused a stir in the tech

theme or focus of your event. For some

activities to facilitate connections, or

community and beyond thanks to its Face

ideas on Ireland’s unique meetings and

incorporating the scenic outdoors to create

ID system, a nifty innovation that allows

events venues, check out our feature

a memorable event, planners are using

the user to unlock their phone simply by

on page 38.

distinctive experiences to ensure the

Face recognition

looking at it. And there are opportunities

success of their meetings and create a

for event planners too. Facial recognition

Experience delivered

could replace the traditional event

Many event planners want to produce

feedback form – you can get a much better

an event that delegates will remember

feel for what an attendee is thinking, as

long after it has concluded, something

Incoming intelligence

happiness, sadness, boredom, excitement

that is often achieved through

The development of artificial intelligence

and much more is often clearly displayed

memorable experiences. Examples

is progressing at a rapid pace, and many

on our faces. Facial recognition could also

could include more interactive speakers

of us now have a form of AI in our pockets

prove useful as a security measure, more

who engage with their audience,

or homes – Siri, Amazon’s Alexa or

than security personnel on the ground or

breakout sessions during which

Microsoft Cortana. For the meetings and

regular video surveillance, as well as

attendees have an opportunity to work

events industry, AI is set to become the

improving check-in times.

together on related issues or topics and

‘next big thing’ in the coming years. The

build connections, cooking classes with

possibilities are endless, such as a virtual

Stand apart

lasting impact for their attendees,” writes Ryan Galvin from Plan Your Meetings.

a local chef, or sightseeing tours

assistant who can answer delegate

A growing demand has seen event

organised in the locality. Always try these

queries, a tool to match attendees with

planners increasingly search for unique

activities out beforehand if you can to

much greater accuracy based on, for

venues in order to distinguish their event

ensure they’ll be worthwhile.

example, their LinkedIn accounts, or

from the competition and surprise and

Or you could be imaginative with

engage their delegates – such as

the theme or design of your event.

045_Conferencing2018_Trends_DPS.indd 45

anticipating logistical needs based on certain patterns.

06/04/2018 11:18

46

Profile Conferencing 2018

Photo: Paul Sherwood

EVENTS AT Conferencing 2018 sat down with Ashville Media Group’s Events Department to discuss their varied event portfolio, recent successes, and some tips for event management.

Q: What is the core mission of the Ashville Media Group

Q: Can you tell us about the drive and experience of the

Events department?

Events team?

A: Our main focus is the creation of business events and

A: We’re a very driven and passionate events division

awards, and unique customer engagement for our brands – to recognise excellence within business and to showcase products and services in Ireland.

We create unique events which we own – we’re not like a regular event management company, which we believe is our biggest selling point. Our events allow brands to connect with their target audience across business and consumer sectors. Our events are self-funded and our team is constantly looking for new opportunities to develop high-quality events.

With our awards ceremonies, many reflect Ashville Media Group publications while others are developed for unique audiences that we have identified in niche markets. We aim to deliver top-class events across a range of industries including hospitality, business, and maternity, recognising the cream of the crop in each sector. For us, being transparent, honest and fair within our awards and being seen as credible is very important.

Our conferences, then, are mainly based around business and law, hosted by leading industry experts, an avenue of business which continues to grow.

046_Conferencing2017_Ashville Events.indd 46

The team really loves taking an event from concept through to reality, rolling out themes and creating activations for clients.

with a focus on excellence, as the quality of our events impacts on attendance and sponsorship. The team really loves taking an event from concept through to reality, rolling out themes and creating activations for clients.

Events people are generally very driven and multi-tasking – they might be dealing one day with the Maternity and Infant Awards in the consumer market, and the next with the InBUSINESS Recognition Awards where they’re working with senior executives and CEOs. Our team is quite diverse, with each member bringing their own unique skill-set. We’re always working, a great deal of which is completed in the background, so being a self-starter is a key attribute required for success.

Q: Can you give me some examples of recent successes?

A: The Blog Awards has been very successful since our first year in 2015 and in 2016 we upped the ante by holding the event in a circus tent – a really unique experience which generated strong, positive feedback.

We had over 500 bloggers in the room which created very strong sponsorship interactions, and it really

03/05/2018 09:16

Profile Conferencing 2018

47

reflected the brand of our headline sponsor Littlewoods Ireland, who are really excited and happy about the partnership. Last year’s event was another great success, reaching a wide audience across print, online and social media, including almost 20 million impressions on Twitter with #VbyVeryBloggies17 trending as the Sky Bar of the Year Awards.

number one hashtag in Ireland.

The Digital Media Awards has also been a great success, with both attendance and entry figures rising while other digital events are falling off within the industry. Over the last four years, the number of people attending the Digital Media Awards has doubled. Four years ago it was 400, now it’s nearly 800. This year’s awards were attended by more than 700 of Ireland’s digital industry.

Another long-term success for us is the Law Awards, now in its eighth year. That was our creation from concept and has an average attendance of 600 in the Clayton Hotel. Where there was nothing before, it has now become a staple in the legal calendar.

Q: Have you spotted any rising industry trends of late?

DMA Awards 2017.

Photo: Paul Sherwood

A: We think the biggest thing is that marketing managers are getting smarter. They are quantifying sponsorships, making sure they’re getting the most value out of their

over the course of the event. We always provide our

money. They’re being smarter around activations and

finalists and our winners with all the collateral they need

people experiencing their brands – it’s not just a case of throwing logos around. They want active and not passive sponsorship opportunities. They want to engage person-to-person.

We think there’s an increase in spend across things like attendance at events. That means companies are spending more money, they’re bringing in more corporate hospitality, they’re treating their staff more.

Overall that’s a really positive sign within the industry, as people are seeing the real value of events, and they’re willing to make the investment.

Q: How does your team continue to push boundaries?

A: We push boundaries through the development of activations and creating experiences. Every event we work on has a unique theme. We’re creating experiences for people – we don’t want attendees to simply come in and sit down, we want people to engage with the event, to have a very good sense of what the event is doing, why they’re there.

Pre and post activation is very important, using avenues like Instagram and Twitter. We employ a dedicated focus on digital and ensure that the conversation is bigger than inside the room, that we’re thinking of the wider audience.

The Blog Awards last year had a digital reach of 24 million

048_Conferencing2017_Ashville Events.indd 47

Over the last four years, the number of people attending the Digital Media Awards has doubled.

Four years ago it was 400, now it’s nearly 800.

to digitally promote and push the awards themselves.

Q: Can you share your top tips for event management?

A: First of all, start as early as you can. Say thank you to everybody you work with – you never know when you might need them to do something last minute. Stay connected and follow up with your clients, keep them aware of the results. Make sure you tell your sponsors and partners of the success of the event.

Be smart when using suppliers – never be afraid to question a cost on an invoice. Always get three quotes.

For example, we recently got three quotes for an item: one supplier was hiring the item from another supplier and including a 20 per cent mark-up in the quote.

Finally, aim for the wow factor and always try to overdeliver. Even when you’re creating a proposal or you’re pitching to a client, always try and overdeliver on what they ask. If they ask for four-star, give them three-star and five-star, because you never know what their budgets are.

Q: How can people get in touch?

A: For all events queries, you can contact the Events Department at events@ashvillemediagroup.com or phone 00 353 1 432 2200 (option 3).

06/04/2018 11:22

48

Events Conferencing 2018

SeaFest. Photo: Andrew Downes/xposure

EventsGalore Conferencing 2018 takes a look at some of the major events happening right across Ireland throughout the year.

Punchestown Festival

Jobs Expo Dublin

DATE: 24 – 28 April 2018

DATE: 28 April 2018

LOCATION: Punchestown, Co Kildare

LOCATION: Croke Park, Dublin

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.punchestown.com

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.jobsexpo.ie

A combination of fantastic sporting

Ireland’s leading employment and jobs fair

action, live entertainment, family fun

returns to Croke Park this April, having

DATE: 22 April 2018

and top notch food and drink, the

welcomed more than 70 job-seekers to fairs in

LOCATION: Marlay Park, Dublin

atmosphere at Punchestown Festival is

Dublin, Cork and Galway since 2012. The

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.sumorun.ie

unique. One of the highlights of

event matches jobseekers with employers from

Ireland’s sporting and social calendar,

all sectors, as well as a Seminar Zone with a

One of Ireland’s most unique fun runs,

the quality of the racing on offer is

variety of speakers and free professional

participants in the Sumo Run follow a

unrivalled, with 12 Grade 1 contests to

development advice at the Career Clinic.

gentle 5K track around Rathfarnham’s

enjoy. If you’re coming with the family,

Marlay Park while dressed in an inflatable

Saturday is Festival Family Day, the

The James Connolly Festival

sumo suit. Available for all ages and levels of

second biggest day of the week with

DATE: 9 – 13 May 2018

ability, everyone who takes part gets to keep

plenty to enjoy ranging from pony rides

LOCATION: The New Theatre, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

their sumo suit!

to bouncy castles.

FURTHER INFORMATION: jamesconnollyfestival.com

Sumo Run Ireland 5K

050_Conferencing2018_Events.indd 48

06/04/2018 11:40

Events Conferencing 2018

49

Now in its fourth year, the James Connolly

The Spartan Race

part. With four races and varying levels of

festival plays host to a variety of cultural

DATE: 27 May

intensity, the race begins in the Barrow,

and political events, featuring music,

LOCATION: Punchestown Racecourse,

followed by a run through the heritage

theatre, poetry, films, art, debates and talks.

Naas, Co Kildare

town and a cycle along the beautiful

Last year commemorated the centenary of

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.spartanrace.com

surrounding country roads.

Festival recalls 150 years since the birth of

The world-famous Spartan Race takes place

Taste of Dublin

the man himself in Edinburgh.

in Ireland for the first time this year at

DATE: 14 – 17 June

Punchestown Racecourse. The one-day

LOCATION: Iveagh Gardens

event is a test of fitness and endurance, with

FURTHER INFORMATION:

a variety of race classes available on the day.

dublin.tastefestivals.com

the October Revolution – this year the

International Literature Festival DATE: 19 – 27 May LOCATION: Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin

Bloom in the Park

Dublin’s Iveagh Gardens will host four

DATE: 31 May – 4 June 2018

days of food, drink and entertainment this

Described as the country’s most successful

LOCATION: Phoenix Park, Dublin

summer in Dublin city centre from June

literary event, the International Literature

FURTHER INFORMATION: bloominthepark.com

14th to 17th. Featuring some of Ireland’s

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.ilfdublin.com

Festival takes place in Dublin’s Smock Alley

best food and top chefs from around the

and gathers the finest writes in the world in

Bloom in the Park is Ireland’s largest garden

country, this year’s theme is ‘Food Lovers

a celebration of the best of Irish and

event, taking place over the June Bank

Playground’ with a wide variety of

international talent. The festival includes

Holiday weekend. Fun for all the family,

restaurants, producers, bars and exhibitors

readings, debates, workshops, performance,

there’s plenty to do and see around

displaying their creations and talents. Keep

screenings and much more, featuring new

gardening, cooking, growing food, catering

an eye out for culinary talks, wine tasting

faces and household names alike.

and entertainment for all ages.

and live entertainment.

Fastnet Film Festival DATE: 23 – 27 May LOCATION: Schull, Co Cork

Litfest 2016.

Photo: Joleen Cronin

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.fastnetfilmfestival.com Screening short films from around the world and acting as a platform for information sharing between industry professionals and filmmakers, the Fastnet Film Festival is an independent festival spread across the village hall, shops, pubs, restaurants, and galleries (as well as the sides of buildings) in the scenic coastal town of Schull.

Kilkenny Roots Festival.

Photo: Anthony Griffin Photography

Guinness Pro 14

Photo: Allen Kiely

DATE: 26 May 2018 LOCATION: Aviva Stadium, Dublin

TriAthy 2018 DATE: 2 June 2018

Rugby’s top teams collide at the inaugural

LOCATION: Athy, Co Kildare

Guinness Pro 14 final in May this year,

FURTHER INFORMATION: triathy.ie

hosted by the Aviva Stadium. The tournament was recently expanded to

Starting on the banks of the River Barrow

include two South African teams and last

in Athy, Co Kildare, TriAthy is an intensive

year’s final saw Scarlets triumph over

competition that has seen the likes of

Munster on a scoreline of 46 to 22. Who

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and former

will make it to the top of the pile for 2018?

Formula One champion Jenson Button take

050_Conferencing2018_Events.indd 49

02/05/2018 09:46

50

Events Conferencing 2018

Groove Festival, Bray.

Photo: Lucy Mulvihill

Seafest

Ireland’s premier offshore yacht race and the

plenty of family-friendly activities, and a

DATE: 29 June – 1 July 2018

second longest race in the Royal Ocean

stunning fireworks display on Buncrana’s

LOCATION: Galway city

Racing Club calendar, the Volvo Round

Shore Front in what will be a spectacular

FURTHER INFORMATION: seafest.ie

Ireland Yacht Race is held biennially and has

end to the festival.

a reputation for being one of the most An increasingly popular summer festival,

challenging offshore races in the world.

Groove Festival

attracting more than 100,000 visitors to

Admission is free to watch entrants from

DATE: 7 – 8 July 2018

Galway Harbour in 2017, Galway’s Seafest

around the globe try to accumulate the most

LOCATION: Kilruddery House & Gardens, Bray,

offers the chance for visitors of all ages to

points across 2016, 2018 and 2020 in a bid to

Co Wicklow.

discover more about our ocean, including

win a brand new Volvo V40.

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.groovefestival.ie

the creatures that dwell beneath the

Buncrana Music Festival

A music festival for all the family,

surface. It’s a weekend of fun and free

DATE: 4 – 8 July 2018

Groove takes place in the idyllic setting

events for all – enjoy seafood cookery

LOCATION: Buncrana, Co Donegal

of Killruddery House & Gardens in

how we explore the depths, shipwrecks, and

demonstrations, tours of ocean-going vessels, marine life exhibits and much more.

Bray. Sponsored by Energia, it returns Coinciding with the arrival of the 2018 Irish

for what is set to be its biggest year let

Open in Ballyliffin Golf Club, Buncrana’s

– think acts like Fun Lovin’ Criminals,

Music Festival is a five-day event packed with

The Riptide Movement and Something

DATE: 30 June – 7 July 2018

the best of up-and-coming young Irish talent

Happens, alongside the best in food,

LOCATION: Wicklow Sailing Club

performing live on the main stage. That’s

new comedy, talk zones and a new area

FURTHER INFORMATION: roundireland.ie

complemented by great food and drink,

for junior festivalgoers.

Volvo Round Ireland Yacht Race

050_Conferencing2018_Events.indd 50

06/04/2018 11:43

Events Conferencing 2018

Longitude

Rose of Tralee festival brings women of Irish

Ironman 70.3

DATE: 13 – 15 July 2018

descent from around the world to Tralee in a

DATE: 19 August 2018

LOCATION: Marlay Park, Dublin

celebration of Ireland’s culture. Alongside

LOCATION: Scotsman’s Bay, Dún Laoghaire

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.longitude.ie

the competition, there’s street entertainment,

FURTHER INFORMATION: eu.ironman.com

51

live concerts, carnival, theatre, markets, An unmissable music festival in the heart of the summer, Longitude features some of the

fireworks and much more.

The competition heats up in Dún Laoghaire this August with the arrival of Ironman 70.3.

best acts from around the world over three

The Little Festival at the Big House

days. This year’s festival will see the likes of

DATE: 18 – 19 August 2018

70.3 miles starting in Sandycove – a 1.2 mile

Solange, Travis Scott, Diplo, Khalid and

LOCATION: Wells House and Garden, Co Wexford

swim, 56 mile cycle, finishing with a 13.1 mile

many more descend on Marlay Park.

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.visitwexford.ie/

race on foot. Not for the faint of heart.

The challenging sprint, cycle and swim covers

events

Galway International Arts Festival

Electric Picnic

DATE: 16 – 29 July 2018

Wexford’s The Little Festival at the Big

DATE: 31 August – 02 September 2018

LOCATION: Black Box Theatre, Galway

House is a fun day out for all the family,

LOCATION: Stradbally, Co Laois

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.giaf.ie

packed with food, entertainment and family

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.electricpicnic.ie

fun including circus acts, comedy, puppet 2018 marks 40 years of the Galway

making, face painting and more! Entry is just

An unofficial end to the summer, Electric

International Arts Festival, which gets better

€10 per car and visitors can enjoy all of the

Picnic offers three days of escapism in a

every year. If you’re thinking of tagging

regular activities on offer too, such as the

field in Co Laois. Thousands will

along this year, watch out for Caribou (in

animal farm, adventure playground, terrace

undoubtedly brave the elements once more

their only Irish gig of 2018), Walking on

gardens, house tours and lots more.

this August to see acts including Kendrick

Cars, Kodaline, The Stunning and Gavin James, not to mention poetry, interviews and plays across the two weeks – the Irish National Opera will present a new production of Orfeo ed Euridice.

Galway International Arts Festival.

Photo: Andrew Downes

Dublin Horse Show DATE: 8 – 12 August 2018 LOCATION: RDS, Dublin FURTHER INFORMATION: dublinhorseshow.com The Dublin Horse Show is the ultimate day out for lovers of all things equine, with 1,500 horses and ponies competing in more than 130 competitions and classes across five days in the RDS. And there’s more than just the horses – Ladies’ Day for those with an eye for fashion, an entertainment programme for the younger generations, opportunities for dining and shopping, and a vibrant social scene. Don’t forget to take in the RDS Craft Awards or wander through the RDS Library Exhibition.

Rose of Tralee International Festival DATE: 17 – 21 August 2018 LOCATION: Tralee, Co Kerry FURTHER INFORMATION: www.roseoftralee.ie One of the country’s longest-running festivals, celebrating 59 years in 2018, the

050_Conferencing2018_Events.indd 51

06/04/2018 11:44

52

Events Conferencing 2018

local, national and international cinema across ten days in the city. Look out for award-winning films, cinema classics and new discoveries, as well as programmes for families, schools and mental health.

Winterval DATE: November – December 2018 (TBD) LOCATION: Waterford city FURTHER INFORMATION: winterval.ie An annual celebration of the Christmas season for all ages, Winterval is always packed with seasonal events and activities in a variety of heritage sites around Waterford city. Think Christmas parades, live entertainment, youth theatre, ice-skating and plenty more besides.

New Year’s Eve Festival DATE: 31 December 2018 – 1 January 2019 LOCATION: Custom House, Dublin city FURTHER INFORMATION: nyfdublin.com Broadcast live on RTÉ, Dublin’s annual New Year’s Eve Festival is usually worth the heavy crowds around the city centre, counting the

Cork Film Festival Photo: Jed Niezgoda International Literature Festival Dublin

country into the New Year. Featuring some of Ireland’s greatest talents live on stage, it’s a great way to usher in the new year.

Lamar, Massive Attack, and NERD. And,

Wexford Spiegeltent Festival

when you’re not enjoying the tunes, there’s

DATE: 12 – 28 October 2018

plenty of comedy, food, craft workshops,

LOCATION: Ferrybank South, Co Wexford

discussion, poetry and even circus acts to

FURTHER INFORMATION: wexfordspiegeltent.com

Punchestown.

Photo: Patrick McCann

occupy your time.

National Ploughing Championships

Wexford’s Spiegeltent Festival has grown to become one of Ireland’s biggest multi-genre

DATE: 18 – 21 September 2018

festivals, featuring contemporary music,

LOCATION: Screggan, Tullamore, Co Offaly

comedy, theatre, film, classical music,

FURTHER INFORMATION: www.npa.ie

burlesque and more. Highlights over the years have included Bell X1, Tommy

People from around the country (and not just

Tiernan, Damien Dempsey and Jason Byrne

farmers) will descend on Tullamore this

– expect big things for this year’s line-up.

September for Ireland’s largest farming and rural affairs event – the National Ploughing

Cork Film Festival

Championships. It’s not just about ploughing

DATE: 9 – 18 November 2018

as there are plenty of food, crafts, machinery

LOCATION: Cork city

and other stands to peruse during your visit,

FURTHER INFORMATION: corkfilmfest.org

not to mention baking competitions, demonstrations, sheepdog trials and more.

One of Cork’s most significant and popular

Don’t forget your wellies.

annual events, Cork Film Festival celebrates

050_Conferencing2018_Events.indd 52

06/04/2018 11:44

Venue Profile Conferencing 2018

SOPHISTICATED SERVICE

Recent investment in the Red Cow Moran Hotel has bolstered the venue’s innovative and impressive meetings and events facilities.

T

he Red Cow Moran Hotel has undergone significant investment in recent years, further enhancing one of Ireland’s top event venues. Built from the ground up almost 20 years ago by renowned hotelier and businessman Tom Moran, the Red Cow Moran Hotel has been run by the Moran family ever since.

What makes the Red Cow Moran Hotel stand out from the crowd is its customer care. As a family owned and operated business with over 40

years’ experience in the hospitality industry, the management team takes great personal pride in delivering a consistently high standard of service to its guests.

The Red Cow Moran Hotel is recognised as a national and international landmark. Situated at the Red Cow intersection, which is the gateway to Ireland’s provinces, it is one of Dublin’s most accessible and conveniently located 4-star hotels, making it the ideal base for business and leisure.

Recently the Red Cow Moran Hotel started a new chapter in its illustrious career with a significant investment and a sophisticated new look, completing a seven-storey extension and upgrade of its product and services. The hotel now boasts 275 executive-style bedrooms, a choice of bars and restaurants including a brand new Link Lounge with coffee dock

and wine bar, Tom’s Table Restaurant, a new fitness suite, courtyard garden and 21 unique event spaces.

CHOICES The hotel is superbly equipped to cater for a range of meetings and events, from smaller intimate brainstorms to larger events, gala dinners and conferences. The facilities include two dedicated executive floors and a series of exceptionally comfortable meeting rooms with two innovative Think Tank spaces. One of these, the Ayrshire Suite, has a marvellous ping pong table as a centrepiece, surrounded by bespoke benches. The second, the Jersey Suite, has a floor to ceiling whiteboard with tiered upholstered seating and casual floor cushions – both novel and ingenious settings in which to get the creative juices flowing.

The 14 new event spaces – each named after a different breed of cattle, such as Charolais, Angus, Dexter and Friesian – feature high-speed wireless internet access, screen sharing technology, large LCD screens of up to 97 inches, are fully air conditioned with natural daylight, and have access to the hotel’s courtyard garden. Each meeting room has a single playful touch – one cowhide chair added in the same spirit of fun as the look-out cow facing in the opposite direction to the rest of the herd as part of the display behind reception.

The Red Cow Moran Hotel can cater for a wide array of meetings and events, including board meetings, training sessions, seminars, workshops, conventions, conferences, exhibitions and gala banquets. The hotel can facilitate up to 800 delegates in one space and, combined with 275 bedrooms, choice of areas for breakouts and servicing refreshments and ample on-site car parking, the venue is one of Dublin’s ideal meeting and event hotels, perfectly located for travelling delegates.

CONTACT

information

Red Cow Moran_1C_CP_CONF_V2.indd 53

53

SUZANNE MULVEY E: s mulvey@moranhotels.com W: w ww.redcowmoranhotel.com

30/04/2018 15:05

54

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Aviva Stadium

Ballsbridge Hotel

Venue Directory Find the perfect venue in no time by scanning through our comprehensive guide to the best of conferencing and corporate hospitality in Ireland.

ADDRESS:

Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

+353 (0) 1 238 2388 N/A sales@avivastadiumevents.ie

+353 (0)1 637 9300 +353 (0)1 908 1561 events@ballsbridgehotel.com

www.avivastadiumevents.ie

www.ballsbridgehotel.com

UEFA Elite Stadium Aviva Stadium is in the heart of Dublin, 20 minutes from Dublin Airport and adjacent to Lansdowne Road DART station There are a range of international hotel chains and boutique hotels in the vicinity Over 40 unusual and unique spaces available for private dining up to 3,500 guests Full bar license and entertainment options available

4HHHH 20 minutes from Dublin Airport, 3 minute walk from DART rail link, 15-20 minute walk to city centre and IFSC 400

N/A

Reduced rate at Gym Plus Ballsbridge, 5 minute walk from the hotel

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby)

There are a range of golf courses in close proximity

Range of clubs nearby, preferential rates available on request

ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

A full stadium tour is available; your guests can walk in the steps of legends in this unique and engaging tour. Corporate discounts available

Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, Temple Bar, Trinity College, Grafton Street, Dublin Castle, Aviva Stadium, RDS, Croke Park

TEL: FAX: EMAIL: WEB: STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc.)

NO. OF BEDROOMS: DINING FACILITIES:

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES: LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS:

850 delegates theatre style, 600 guests banquet style, 400 delegates classroom style

3 Leanne Humphreys lhumphreys@ballsbridgehotel.com

AUDIO-VISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER:

3 (space specific, additional on request) 3 (space specific, additional on request) 3 (space specific, additional on request) Available on request Available on request

On request On request On request On request

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO-CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER:

3 (space specific, additional on request) Available on request Available on request WiFi connection upgraded to 1000Mb+ Available on request Available on request

On request On request On request 3 On request

Available on request Available on request Available on request 3

On request On request On request 3

SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory.indd 54

1000 theatre style, 1200 seated dinner 3 Leah Gunn, +353 (0) 1 238 2388 leah.gunn@avivastadiumevents.ie

Raglan’s Restaurant offers a great selection of fresh Irish cuisine using only the finest seasonal ingredients For a casual lunch or dinner, The Dubliner Pub offers a fantastic selection of fresh seasonal food in a relaxed atmosphere

26/04/2018 10:55

C ING CON FE RE N 2018 g

to conferencin d lete guide Your comp tality in Irelan rate hospi and corpo

• Impression Making an • Meet in Ireland • the Trends Tracking g• Team Buildin • Unique Venues

The Titanic re Exhibition Cent

03/04/2018

08:51

indd 1

ncing 2018_Cover.

000_Confere

C I NG CON FE RE N 2018 ncing to confere plete guide lity in Ireland Your com ate hospita and corpor

• Impression Making an nd • Meet in Irela • the Trends Tracking ding • Buil m Tea ues • Unique Ven

The Titanic e Exhibition Centr

03/04/2018

over.indd

2018_C nferencing

000_Co

08:51

1

C ING CON FE RE N 2018 g to conferencin d lete guide Your comp tality in Irelan rate hospi and corpo

• Impression Making an • Meet in Ireland • the Trends Tracking g• Team Buildin s• Unique Venue

The Titanic re Exhibition Cent

03/04/2018

08:51

.indd 1

ncing 2018_Cover

000_Confere

Follow Us

@ashvilleteam /ashvillemedia

Ashville ISSUU Untitled-6 1 Advert.indd 1

e g r a l & m u edi m , l l a m s n i Available tions a c i l b u p l a digit a’s online view on Issuu. i d e M e l l i Ashv ailable to a v a w o n e r villemedi a h s a / m o c uu. www.iss

15:36 30/04/2018 15:37

56

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

The Beacon Hotel

Breaffy House Resort

Camden Court Hotel

Venue Directory ADDRESS: TEL: FAX: EMAIL: WEB: STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc) NO. OF BEDROOMS: DINING FACILITIES:

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES: LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby) ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS:

Beacon Court, Sandyford Business Region, Dublin 18 +353 1 291 5000 +353 1 291 5005 meetings@thebeacon.com

Breaffy, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Camden Street, Dublin 2

+353 (0) 94 902 2033 +353 (0) 94 22 276 info@breaffyhouseresort.com

+353 (0) 1 475 9666 +353 (0) 1 475 9677 sales@camdencourthotel.ie

www.thebeacon.com

www.breaffyhouseresort.com

www.camdencourthotel.com

4HHHH Just off M50 motorway, serviced by Luas to Dublin city centre and near Dundrum Town Centre and Leopardstown 88

3HHH 5 minute drive from the town of Castlebar. Regular train & bus services.

Ireland West Airport 20 minute drive 260, including 8 beautifully appointed suites Mulberry Restaurant - Breaffy House Hotel & Legends, Restaurant Breaffy Woods Hotel - Open daily Healy Mac’s Bar (craft beer and live music each weekend), Breaffy House Hotel & Woods Bar, Breaffy Woods Hotel Breaffy Spa established since 2001, Breaffy Leisure Club, one of the most popular in Castlebar region Selection of Links and parkland golf courses within 20 mile radius of Resort, Westport, Claremorris, Castlebar From Lough Corrib to Killala Bay, Mayo boasts attractions such as stunning scenery, fishing, golf courses & beaches

4HHHH Next to ‘Harcourt’ Luas line. Aircoach, Dublin bus (16) and Airlink Express 757 (right outside hotel) to Dublin Airport 249 modern guestrooms plus 2 suites

2,500 3 Brenda Clarke, +353 (0) 94 9044105 Brenda.clarke@breaffyhouseresort.com

Maximum 250 persons in theatre style 3 Denise Corboy, +353 (0) 1 428 3921 dcorboy@camdencourthotel.ie

My Thai Restaurant serves Asian Fusion dishes for lunch and dinner. Bar and lobby menu is available daily at The Crystal Bar The Crystal Bar is modern and contemporary, serving lunch and dinner daily. DJs on Friday and Saturday nights Gym studio – complimentary water & towels are provided Within close proximity to local Dublin golf courses Close to Dundrum Town Centre prestigious shoppping area and the famous Leopardstown Racecourse

40 On request meetings@thebeacon.com

The popular ‘Iveagh Restaurant’ and ‘C Central Bar & Bistro’ for extensive International menu choices Full extensive bar facility with craft beers, cocktail’s and delicious food menu.

Gymnasium, 16 metre swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi with beauty salon Close proximity to main Dublin golf courses Short walk to St Stephens Green, Dublin’s premier shopping district and Trinity College

AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER:

On request On request On request On request

3 3 3 On request State of the art equipment

3 3 3 On request State of the art equipment

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER:

On request On request On request 3 On request

3 On request On request 3 On request

3 On request On request 3 On request Dedicated high-speed conference Wi-Fi

On request On request On request 3

3 Extra charge - Pre booking essential 3 Extra charge - Pre booking essential On request 3

On request 3 On request – additional cost applies 3

SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 56

05/07/2018 11:56

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Carton House

Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport

Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland

Old Airport Road, Cloughran, Co. Dublin

+353 (0)1 505 2000

57

Castlemartyr Resort

Castleknock Hotel

Castlemartyr, Co. Cork

reservations@cartonhouse.com

+353 (0) 1 866 7500 +353 (0) 1 862 3114 meetings@carlton.ie

Porterstown Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15 +353 (0) 1 640 6300 +353 (0) 1 640 6378 events@castleknockhotel.ie

www.cartonhouse.com

www.carltondublinairport.com

www.castleknockhotel.com

www.castlemartyrresort.ie

4HHHH 30 minutes from Dublin Airport and City Centre with links to train stations

4HHHH Just off M1/M50. 5 minutes from Dublin Airport with 24 hour shuttle bus. Well serviced bus route to/from city centre Recently refurbished; 118 bedrooms including 8 suites Kitty Hawks Bistro or private dining rooms available on request

4HHHH AA Irish Hotel of the Year 2014, located 15 minutes from Dublin city, 25 minutes from Airport, & with links to train stations 190 bedrooms including 26 executive rooms, 4 luxury suites and 3 junior suites Two restaurants, Earth & Vine Restaurant and 22 Bar & Restaurant

5HHHHH 30 minutes from Cork City, Cork Airport and 10 minutes from Midleton

Kitty Hawks Bar & Bistro located on the ground floor

Two public bars, 22 Bar and The Lime Tree bar

The Carton Spa and Leisure Centre offers 7 luxurious treatment rooms, relaxation room, gym, 18m pool, jacuzzi, sauna & steam room Two 18-hole championship golf courses

Fitness Suite

ESPA spa, Leisure centre – fully equipped gym, 20 metre pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub 18 hole inland links golf course, designed

by Ron Kirby

All on-site – spa, tennis, fishing, walking trails, team-building and the Kildare Art Gallery

Corporate entertainment arranged on request

Elemis Spa, Leisure centre – Fully equipped gym, 18 metre pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi Castleknock Golf Club on-site.

Luttrellstown and Westmanstown Golf Clubs a 5 minute drive from the hotel The Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo, Guinness Storehouse, National Aquatic Centre, Kilmainham Gaol and Dublin city centre

500 On request +353 (0)1 651 7710 scostello@cartonhouse.com

13 conference and meeting rooms 3 Lisa Hensel, +353 (0) 1 866 7500 meetings@carlton.ie

500 15 conference and meeting rooms Audrey Devlin, 01 640 6377 events@castleknockhotel.ie

300 delegates 7 3 +353 21 421 9000 sales@castlemartyrresort.ie

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 3 Free car parking for delegates

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 7 Additional equipment can be organised

3 On request On request 3 On request Wi-Fi

3 3 3 3 3 Wi-Fi

3 3 3 3 7

3 3 3 Complimentary Wi-Fi 3 3

3 On request On request 3

3 On request 7 3 On request 3

3 3 7 3

3 7 7 3

165 including 18 luxury period bedrooms in the Main House Three restaurants – the award-winning Linden Tree, the Kitchen Bar and the Coach House Two bars – the Coach House and the Lobby Bar

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 57

Within close proximity to numerous, top class, golf courses

+353 21 421 9000 info@castlemartyrresort.ie

103; 50 self catering lodges Bell Tower Restaurant, Franchini’s Italian, Afternoon tea, Knights Bar and The Pod Club House Bar – Knights Bar

Team building, Pony & trap, Horse & carriage rides, Lawn games, Woodland walks, Jameson Distillery tours

05/07/2018 11:57

58

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Citywest Hotel & Convention Centre

The Convention Centre Dublin

Croke Park Meetings & Events

Venue Directory ADDRESS: TEL: FAX: EMAIL: WEB: STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc) NO. OF BEDROOMS:

Saggart, Co. Dublin

Jones’ Road, Dublin 3

+353 (0) 1 401 0500 +353 (0) 1 458 8756 sales@citywesthotel.com

Spencer Dock, North Wall Quay, Dublin 1 +353 (0) 1 856 0000 N/A sales@theccd.ie

www.citywesthotel.com

www.theccd.ie

crokepark.ie/meetings-events

4HHHH 25 minutes to Dublin City and Airport.

Direct access to all major road networks and Luas routes. 2,000 free parking spaces 764 Guest Rooms & Suites

N/A 15 minutes from Dublin Airport, close to Dublin Ferry Port, excellent access to road, bus and Luas routes Within walking distance of Dublin’s 20,000 hotel bedrooms Banqueting facilities for up to 3,000 guests

N/A 15 minutes from Dublin Airport and 5 minutes from the city centre. Easily accessible from the M50 and Port Tunnel The Croke Park – 4* hotel with 232 bedrooms located right next door Private dining facilities and customisable menus focusing on quality Irish produce.

Blackthorn Café in the GAA Museum Multiple bar, function and reception facilities throughout the venue

+353 (0) 1 819 2300 +353 (0) 1 819 2313 events@crokepark.ie

DINING FACILITIES:

Three on-site restaurants for casual dining and banqueting facilities for 1,600

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES:

Range of bars and reception areas on-site

Facilites on-site, as well as a host of bars and restaurants nearby in the city centre.

Health & leisure club on-site with 20m heated swimming pool and fully equipped gym Par 70 Championship golf course designed by the late Christy O’Connor Jnr Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens, Kildare Shopping Village

N/A

Fully equipped fitness centre at The Croke Park hotel

There are many golf courses close to Dublin city centre

Dublin has a number of outstanding golf courses with Portmarnock, Royal Dublin and St. Anne’s nearby Unrivalled number of attractions on-site, including the GAA Museum, Stadium and Ericsson Skyline tours.

4,100 seated 3 Emer Sweeney +353 (0) 87 911 0099 sales@citywesthotel.com

8-8,000 Adrienne Clarke, +353 (0) 1 856 0000 sales@theccd.ie

8-2,000 8 large suites and over 90 meeting rooms Sinéad Heneghan, +353 (0) 1 819 2301 events@crokepark.ie

3 3 3 3 State-of-the-art AV system

3 3 3 3 Latest technology in AV and lighting

3 3 3 3 High-spec AV and lighting

3 3 3 3 3 Complimentary Wi-Fi up to 28,000 devices

3 3 3 3 3 Complimentary Wi-Fi up to 22,000 devices

3 3 3 3 Free HD WiFi for up to 40,000 devices On request 280 screen IPTV and signage system

AV partner on-site On request On request 3

3 On request On request 3

3 AV partner on-site Full dedicated business centre On request 3

LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby) ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS: AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER: TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER: SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 58

Dublin city centre with its major tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, shops and top hotels within walking distance.

05/07/2018 11:57

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport

Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort

Dublin City Hall

59

Finnstown Castle Hotel

Northwood Park, Santry Demesne, Santry, Dublin 9 +353 (0) 1 862 8888 +353 (0) 1 862 8800 events@crowneplazadublin.ie

Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow

Dame Street, Dublin 2

Newcastle Road, Lucan, Co. Dublin

+353 (0) 1 287 0800 +353 (0) 1 287 0848 sales@druidsglenresort.com

+353 (0) 1 222 2918 N/A Cityhall@dublincity.ie

+353 (0) 1 601 0700 +353 (0) 1 628 1088 sales@finnstowncastlehotel.com

www.crowneplazadublin.ie

www.druidsglenresort.com

www.dublincity.ie/dublincityhall

www.finnstowncastlehotel.com

4HHHH Close to Dublin Airport and minutes from Junction 4 off the M50, set in 85 acres of parkland with 350 car parking spaces onsite 209

5HHHHH Located just 30 minutes south of Dublin and 40 minutes from Dublin Airport, set in 400 acres of rolling countryside.

145

N/A City Centre, close to Luas, Dublin Bus Routes 13, 49, 77A, 123 & 151, 5min walk from Tara Street Train/DART station.

N/A

4HHHH 20 minutes from Dublin city centre and 25 minutes from Dublin Airport

Touzai Restaurant

Hugo’s Restaurant, Garden Rooms and Bar, Sycamore Lounge, Outdoor decking (BBQ), Private dining rooms, Golf clubhouse Garden Rooms and Bar, James Joyce Ballroom, Golf clubhouse

Café on Site/External catering

The Peacock Restaurant, the Wood Quay Bar and Jim’s Cellar Bar

External catering

The Wood Quay Bar, Jim’s Cellar Bar and the Library Suite

Onsite Gym

18m indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, gymnasium, spa

Close to Markievicz Leisure Centre

Swimming pool, gym, Turkish bath, tennis court

Nearby

Two championship golf courses on-site – Druids Glen & Druids Heath

Close to many courses including Sillogue Golf Course & St Anne’s Golf Course

Six championship golf courses nearby

5 miles from Dublin city centre, less than 10 minute drive to Croke Park, Butler’s Chocolate Factory and Go-Karting

Glendalough, Killruddery House, Powerscourt Estate, Mount Usher Gardens, Ballyknocken House and Druids Acres on-site for outdoor activities

Walking distance to all city attractions including the Book of Kells, Christchurch Cathedral, shopping districts & city parks

Team building activities available on request, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre close to the hotel

200 conference style

Cinnabar Red

96

400 Theatre style 3 Barbara Dunne, +353 (0) 1 287 0809 barbara.dunne@druidsglenresort.com

Karen Bannon, +353 (0) 1 222 2925 Cityhall@dublincity.ie

Up to 300 9 meeting rooms Sales Team sales@finnstowncastlehotel.com

3 3 3 On request

3 3 3 On request

3 7 7 7

3 3 3 3

3 On request 3 (Executive Boardroom) 3 On request

3 3 On request 3 Complimentary Wifi On request

7 7 7 3 Free Wi-Fi on site plus Broadband 7

3 3 7 3 7

3 On request On request 3

On request On request On request 3

7 7 7 3

3 3 3 3

1,000 Theatre style 3 Judith Graham, +353 (0) 1 862 8808 jgraham@crowneplazadublin.ie

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 59

02/05/2018 09:55

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Crowne Plaza Dublin Airport

Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort

Dublin City Hall

59

Finnstown Castle Hotel

Northwood Park, Santry Demesne, Santry, Dublin 9 +353 (0) 1 862 8888 +353 (0) 1 862 8800 events@crowneplazadublin.ie

Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow

Dame Street, Dublin 2

Newcastle Road, Lucan, Co. Dublin

+353 (0) 1 287 0800 +353 (0) 1 287 0848 sales@druidsglenresort.com

+353 (0) 1 222 2918 N/A Cityhall@dublincity.ie

+353 (0) 1 601 0700 +353 (0) 1 628 1088 sales@finnstowncastlehotel.com

www.crowneplazadublin.ie

www.druidsglenresort.com

www.dublincity.ie/dublincityhall

www.finnstowncastlehotel.com

4HHHH Close to Dublin Airport and minutes from Junction 4 off the M50, set in 85 acres of parkland with 350 car parking spaces onsite 209

5HHHHH Located just 30 minutes south of Dublin and 40 minutes from Dublin Airport, set in 400 acres of rolling countryside.

145

N/A City Centre, close to Luas, Dublin Bus Routes 13, 49, 77A, 123 & 151, 5min walk from Tara Street Train/DART station.

N/A

4HHHH 20 minutes from Dublin city centre and 25 minutes from Dublin Airport

Touzai Restaurant

Hugo’s Restaurant, Garden Rooms and Bar, Sycamore Lounge, Outdoor decking (BBQ), Private dining rooms, Golf clubhouse Garden Rooms and Bar, James Joyce Ballroom, Golf clubhouse

Café on Site/External catering

The Peacock Restaurant, the Wood Quay Bar and Jim’s Cellar Bar

External catering

The Wood Quay Bar, Jim’s Cellar Bar and the Library Suite

Onsite Gym

18m indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, gymnasium, spa

Close to Markievicz Leisure Centre

Swimming pool, gym, Turkish bath, tennis court

Nearby

Two championship golf courses on-site – Druids Glen & Druids Heath

Close to many courses including Sillogue Golf Course & St Anne’s Golf Course

Six championship golf courses nearby

5 miles from Dublin city centre, less than 10 minute drive to Croke Park, Butler’s Chocolate Factory and Go-Karting

Glendalough, Killruddery House, Powerscourt Estate, Mount Usher Gardens, Ballyknocken House and Druids Acres on-site for outdoor activities

Walking distance to all city attractions including the Book of Kells, Christchurch Cathedral, shopping districts & city parks

Team building activities available on request, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre close to the hotel

1,000 Theatre style 3 Judith Graham, +353 (0) 1 862 8808 jgraham@crowneplazadublin.ie

400 Theatre style 3 Barbara Dunne, +353 (0) 1 287 0809 barbara.dunne@druidsglenresort.com

200 conference style Karen Bannon, +353 (0) 1 222 2925 Cityhall@dublincity.ie

Up to 300 9 meeting rooms Sales Team sales@finnstowncastlehotel.com

3 3 3 On request

3 3 3 On request

3 7 7 7

3 3 3 3

3 On request 3 (Executive Boardroom) 3 On request

3 3 On request 3 Complimentary Wifi On request

7 7 7 3 Free Wi-Fi on site plus Broadband 7

3 3 7 3 7

3 On request On request 3

On request On request On request 3

7 7 7 3

3 3 3 3

Cinnabar Red

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 59

96

03/05/2018 09:12

60

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel

the gibson hotel

The Green Isle Conference & Leisure Hotel

Venue Directory ADDRESS: TEL: FAX: EMAIL: WEB: STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc) NO. OF BEDROOMS: DINING FACILITIES:

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES: LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby) ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS: AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER: TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER: SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 60

Killiney, Co. Dublin

The Point Square, Dublin 1

Newlands Cross, Nass Road, Dublin 22

+353 (0) 1 230 5400 +353 (0) 1 230 5430 Alicia.Traynor@fitzpatricks.com

+353 (0) 1 681 5054 +353 (0) 1 681 5051 events@thegibsonhotel.ie

+353 (0) 1 4123700 +353 (0) 1 459 3406 info@greenislehotel.com

www.fitzpatrickcastle.com

www.thegibsonhotel.ie

www.greenislehotel.com

4HHHH 14km from Dublin city centre and 28km from Dublin Airport. Aircoach service to and from the hotel hourly 113

4HHHH Direct from Dublin Airport in 15 minutes via Dublin’s Port Tunnel. Luas line on doorstep of the hotel 252

4HHHH No. 69 bus stops outside the hotel and goes to and from Dublin city centre. Red Luas Line approx 15 minute walk 270

Two award-winning restaurants, the contemporary Dungeon Bar & Grill and PJs, offering traditional fine dining The Library Bar or refurbished Dungeon Bar. Live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights Fully-equipped leisure centre, including 20m swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room Several golf courses nearby, including Druid’s Glen and Powerscourt Golf Course Golf, Leopardstown Racecourse, hill walking, sailing in Dún Laoghaire Marina, Dalkey Village, Dundrum Town Centre

coda eatery – looking for a taster?

Head to coda eatery, where we let the ingredients speak for themselves hemidemisemiquaver bar – contemporary Asian landscaping meets neon. What’s not to love about it!

Gym – 15 pieces of cardiovascular equipment, 24/7 access for residents and TVs on each piece of equipment Clontarf Golf Club

A range of dining options available such as carvery, bistro and main restaurant

8 minute walk to The Convention Centre Dublin. It is also located beside the 3Arena and Aviva Dublin

Walking distance to Corkagh Park with playground, pet farm. Short distance to Dublin Zoo & Tayto Park

600 theatre style in Prince Regent Suite, 400 in Albert & Behan Suite 9 rooms in dedicated centre, 12 total Alicia Traynor, +353 (0) 1 230 5460 Alicia.Traynor@fitzpatricks.com

300 delegates and 6 break-out rooms 7 On-site assistance on request Grainne Coyle events1@thegibsonhotel.ie

750 delegates 3 Sales & Marketing Team

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 On request

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 Complimentary throughout 3

3 On request On request 3 On request 7

3 3 On request 3 Free high speed Wi-Fi on site 3 Some service would be an additional cost

3 3 3 3

On request On request On request 3

On request On request 7 3

Live music in the main bar on Friday and Saturday Fully equipped gym, swimming pool, children’s pool, sauna and steam room Newlands Golf or Grange Castle golf course close by

02/05/2018 09:55

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

The K Club

Killashee Hotel Spa & Leisure

The Killeshin Hotel & Leisure Club, Portlaoise

61

Limerick Strand Hotel

Straffan Co. Kildare

Killashee, Naas, Co. Kildare

Dublin Road, Portlaoise, Co. Laois

Ennis Road, Limerick, Ireland

+353 (0) 1 601 7200 +353 (0) 1 601 7298 sales@kclub.ie

+353 (0)45 879277 +353 (0)45 879266 sales@killasheehotel.com

+353 (0) 57 86 31200 +353 (0) 57 86 31205 events@the killeshin.com

+353 (0) 61 421800 +353 (0) 61 421866 events@strandlimerick.ie

www.kclub.ie

www.killasheehotel.com

www.thekilleshin.com

www.strandlimerick.ie

5HHHHH 40 Minutes from Dublin city centre

The Byerley Turk Restaurant, Legends Restaurant and K Thai. Gala dining available in Legacy Suite for up to 320 The Vintage Crop Bar, Legends Bar & The Smurfit Bar

Gala dining for up to 600 delegates in Main Ballroom. 3 additional private dining rooms from 20-100 guests Main Restaurant, casual dining in the Bistro and a traditional Irish pub

4HHHH Exit16 off M7/M9, railway station 3km from hotel, won 7th place in Ireland’s Greenest Hotel certified by the GHA 88 including 15 executive rooms and 2 suites Cedar Bistro and Cedar Bar (Fully refurbished)

4HHHH City centre, 20km from Shannon Airport, 10 minute walk from train station

140 Bedrooms

4HHHH 40mins from Dublin Airport, 40mins from Dublin City Centre, 2 km from Naas Town. Direct access to all motorways.

141 guest rooms and suites

The Terrace Bar

The K Spa, Swimming Pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Outdoor Hot-Tub, Tennis Courts Two Championship Golf Courses on site – Home to the Ryder Cup 2006 and the 2016 Irish Open Horse Riding, Clay Pigeon Shooting, Archery, Falconry, Bike rides, Kildare National Stud, Kildare Village Shopping

Full gym, 25m swimming pool, Spa with 18 treatment rooms, hair salon and hydro-therapy pool Numerous options close by

Cedar Bar (fully refurbished) serving hot food from 12.30pm daily, Sky Sports available Zest leisure centre with a fully equipped gymnasium, 20m deck level pool, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi 8 courses within 30km, nearest course 10km

Ample space for team building on-site, walkways, gardens and off road driving centre.

Emo House & Gardens, Slievebloom Mountains, Kildare Village. Free secure car parking.

Located in the heart of Limerick city, walking distance to shopping district, King John’s Castle and Thomond Park stadium

500 Theatre Style 3 Ciara Farrell sales@kclub.ie

Up to 600 delegates 3 Orla McCabe, +353 (0)45 879277 sales@killasheehotel.com

350 3 Pauline Barry, +353 (0) 57 86 31213 events@thekilleshin.com

2-600 3 3 +353 (0) 61 421800 events@strandlimerick.ie

3 3 3 3 Natural daylight in all rooms

3 3 3 3 Natural daylight in all rooms

3 3 3 3 Natural daylight in 12, secondary daylight in 3 rooms.

3 3 3 7 Stage, podium

3 3 3 3 3

3 On request On request 3 On request Complimentary WIFI

3 3 On request 3 On request

3 7 7 3 High speed 200Mb connection 7

3 3 On request 3

3 3 On request 3

3 Limited, photocopying etc.

7 3

Staff member can assist with in-house AV On request 7 3

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 61

184 The River Restaurant and The Terrace Bar

Energize Health Club, 20m pool, sauna, jacuzzi and fully equipped gym Golf course 10km from the hotel

05/07/2018 11:59

62

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Lough Eske Castle, a Solís Hotel & Spa

Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny

Malahide Castle & Gardens

Venue Directory Lough Eske, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal

Paulstown Road, Kilkenny R95 F685

Malahide, Co. Dublin

TEL: FAX: EMAIL:

+353 (0) 74 972 5100 +353 (0) 74 972 3762 meetings.lougheske@solishotels.com

+353 (0) 56 776 0088 +353 (0) 56 776 0089 events@lyrath.com

+353 (0) 1 8169538 N/A reservations@shannonheritage.com

WEB:

www.solishotels.com/lougheskecastle/

www.lyrath.com

www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES:

The Gallery Bar and the Oak Bar. Live entertainment every Friday and Saturday

N/A 1 hour to Dublin Airport, 1.5 hours to Cork Airport, 30 minutes to Waterford Airport. 5 minutes to train and bus 139 guestrooms with a collection of deluxe, executive rooms and suites Yew Restaurant, The Grill & Bar, The Wine Cellar, Tupper’s Bar, The Atrium, BBQ area.

Gala dining available for up to 850 guests Tuppers Bar & The Terrace, The Grill & Bar, The Wine Cellar

N/A 10 minutes from Dublin Airport, only 13KM from Dublin City Centre.

Supported by bus and rail N/A

DINING FACILITIES:

5HHHHH Drive: 1 hour to City of Derry Airport, 1 hour 40 mins to Knock Airport, 2 hours to Belfast airports, 3 hours to Dublin Airport 96 guestrooms including 16 suites and a 2 bedroom Presidential Suite Cedar’s Restaurant and The Gallery Bar

LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

17m swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, gymnasium, award winning Oasis Spa with Thermal suite Kilkenny Golf Club, Gowran Golf Club and Callan Golf Club all nearby

N/A

ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

Award Winning Spa Solis, Thermal Suite, 17m pool and fully equipped state of the art gym Donegal Golf Club, an 18 links Championship Course 10 minutes drive from the Castle A full range of on-site/off-site activities list available on request

Onsite: Falconry, archery & fishing, 170 acres for team building. Offsite: Kilkenny Castle, Smithwick’s Brewery Tour. Full list on request

Malahide coastal village is 5 minutes’ walk, Irish Centre for Cycling, sailing and coastal walks

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS:

400 theatre 3 Sinead McGowan, +353 (0) 74 974 3130 sinead.mcgowan@solishotels.com

1,500 theatre 3 Sylwia Staunton, +353 (0) 56 770 5852 events@lyrath.com

80 theatre-style 7 Nicola Reynolds, +353 (0) 1 866 6793 reynoldsn@shannonheritage.com

AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER:

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 On request Natural daylight in all meeting rooms

3 3 3 7 Natural daylight in all rooms - garden view

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER:

3 3 3 3 3

3 On request On request 3 On request Built-in screens and projectors

3 3 7 3 7

3 3 3 3

On request On request On request 3

7 7 7 3

ADDRESS:

STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc) NO. OF BEDROOMS:

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby)

SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 62

Max. 42 guests for private dining in the Great Hall, 120 in the Visitor Centre Project Room and up to 500 in the gardens with marquees Yes (outside catering company)

Portmarnock Golf Links - approximately 4.5km

05/07/2018 11:59

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

The Conference & Events Venue

Midlands Park Hotel

The Morgan Hotel

63

Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort

Mansion House, Dawson Street, Dublin 2

Town Centre, Portlaoise, Co. Laois

Temple Bar, 10 Fleet Street, Dublin 2

Tullow, Co. Carlow

+353 (0) 1 634 4628 N/A Events@mansionhouse.ie

+353 (0) 57 867 8588 +353 (0) 57 867 1999 info@theheritagehotel.com

+353 (0) 1 643 7000 +353 (0) 1 643 7060 meetings@themorgan.com

+353 (0) 59 918 0100 +353 (0) 59 915 2123 info@mountwolseley.ie

www.mansionhouse.ie

www.theheritagehotel.com

www.themorgan.com

www.mountwolseley.ie

N/A Dawson Street, Dublin City Centre. Public car park, taxi rank and all public transport routes N/A

4HHHH Town centre, Beside train station, 2 minutes off M7, 45 min to Dublin, 1h 15min to Cork and Limerick, 1h 50min to Galway 115 newly renovated bedrooms and 5 new executive suites Award-winning Kellys Steakhouse, Triog Restaurant, Charter Bar for carvery & bar food, private dining for 25 to 350 guests Charter Bar, Maryborough and O’More function suites

4HHHH Westmoreland Street is 5 minutes’ walk away. Aircoach runs from O’Connell Street, Connolly Station 20 minutes’ walk 168

4HHHH Just over an hour’s drive from Dublin city, 30 min from Kilkenny, 1 hr from Waterford, 3 hrs from Cork and 2 hrs from Belfast 143

The hotel restaurant menu showcases the best of Dublin dining using the freshest of produce from local suppliers.

This newly renovated iconic location features a selection of classic and sophisticated cocktails, Irish beers and ales N/A

Fredericks Award Winning Restaurant – up to 300 delegates for conference lunch.

Private dining rooms also available Cocktail bar area, Snug Bar, Aaron Lounge and The Wolseley Bar in the golf club State-of-the-art leisure centre with fully equipped gymnasium

Within close proximity to local Dublin golf courses

18 hole championship golf course designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr.

Can cater for private dining events from 4 to 550 guests, including breakfast seminars, lunches and gala dinners Full bar facilities available in the Round Room, The Glass Room Suites and The Lounge which overlooks The Lord Mayor’s Garden N/A

N/A

Modern leisure club and Jules Spa, full gymnasium, fitness suite, weights room, 22m pool, sauna, steam room & jacuzzi A wide choice of golf courses close to the hotel for all level golfers

Located in the heart of Dublin on Dawson Street, minutes from St. Stephen’s Green, Trinity College and Dublin Castle

Slieve Bloom Mountains, Emo Court, Rock of Dunamaise, choice of gardens & heritage sites, Odeon Cinema, Kildare Village Outlet

A short stroll to Grafton Street, Dublin’s main shopping thoroughfare and to many of Dublin’s theatres

Team building activities on site. Hotel close to Rathwood and Altamont Gardens

650 theatre style 3 Dominika Zemberyova, +353 (0)1 634 4628 Events@mansionhouse.ie

2-550 delegates, 13 meeting rooms 3 Sandra Brennan, Conference Manager conference@midlandsparkhotel.com info@midlandsparkhotel.com

40 Within the hotel Jennifer McKenna meetings@themorgan.com

800 theatre style, 500 banquet style Part of the hotel Sheena McCanny, Resort Sales Manager sales@mountwolseley.ie

3 3 3 3 Upgrades for all requirements available

3 3 3 On request Built-in projectors/TVs in all meeting rooms

On request On request On request On request

In main conference room 3 3 On request Portable sound system available

3 3 3 3 3 Upgrades for all requirements available

3 On request On request WiFi access throughout the hotel On request

On request On request On request 3 On request

3 3 On request Complimentary Wi-Fi in meeting rooms 7

3 3 3 On request 3

3 3 On request 3 Conference centre on the ground floor

On request On request On request 3

On request On request On request 3

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 63

05/07/2018 12:00

64

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Palmerstown House Estate

The Alex

Pillo Hotel Ashbourne

Venue Directory Fenian Street, Dublin 2

Johnstown, Naas, Co. Kildare

The Rath, Ashbourne, County Meath

+353 (0) 1 607 3500 N/A events.dublin@ocallaghanhotels.com

+353 (0) 45 906 901 +353 (0) 45 906 922 events@palmerstownhouse.ie

+353 (0) 1 835 0800 N/A info@pillohotelashbourne.com

www.thealexdublin.ie

www.palmerstownhouse..ie

www.pillohotelashbourne.com

4HHHH Located in the Georgian Quarter, minutes from Grafton Street and nearby bus/rail/tram links. 20 minute transfer from Dublin Airport 103

N/A Ideally located 15 minutes from Dublin.

Exit 8 off M7. Free car parking

4HHHH 20km from Dublin Airport, 25km from Dublin City Centre, 12km from M50 (exit 5), 18km from M1 (Drogheda South exit) 148

Casual all-day dining

Manor House, Empery Bar & Bistro, Morrell Restaurant and Amato Suite. Private dining in the Morrell, Amato & High Chap suites Empery Bar & Bistro

Can cater for up to 350 guests (private dining), including lunches, private dinners and gala dinners Newly refurbished Time Bar & Restaurant on the ground floor.

Off road driving, Archery, Clay pigeon shooting, Falconry, Team building facilities On site – 18 hole championship course

Modern gymnasium, 16m pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, hydrotherapy area.

Jule spa on site Ashbourne Golf Course is 5km away

National Gallery, History Museum, National Library, Trinity College, Three Arena, Grand Canal Theatre, Aviva Stadium, Croke Park

Kildare Shopping Village, Johnstown Garden Centre, Japanese Gardens, The Irish National Stud

Tayto Park (4km), Puddenhill (12km), Newgrange (20km), Slane Castle (18km), Dublin City (25km) Trim Castle (22km)

400 theatre N/A 3 events.dublin@ocallaghanhotels.com

250 3 Events events@palmerstownhouse.ie

Minium 2 pax, Maximum 650 pax 3 Francesca Fennell francesca@pillohotelashbourne.com

AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER:

3 3 3 On request

3 3 3 3 Helicopter landing

3 In-built sound system 3 10ft screen, 6ft screen first floor 3 On request from our AV supplier

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER:

3 On request On request 3 7

3 3 3 3 3

3 On request from our AV supplier On request from our AV supplier 3 On request from our AV supplier

On request On request On request 3

3 3 7 Can be arranged by prior appointment 3

On request from our AV supplier 7 7 3

ADDRESS: TEL: FAX: EMAIL: WEB: STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc) NO. OF BEDROOMS: DINING FACILITIES:

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES:

Bar

LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

Access to central gym located at sister hotel a 2-minute walk away

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby)

Local golf courses within a 30-minute drive

ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS:

SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 64

20

05/07/2018 12:01

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin

RDS Venue

65

The Spencer Hotel

Powerscourt Estate, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow +353 (0) 1 274 8888 +353 (0) 1 274 9999 sales@powerscourthotel.com

Golden Lane, Dublin 8

Merrion Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

Excise Walk, IFSC, Dublin 1

+353 (0) 1 898 2900 +353 (0) 1 898 2909 info.royal.dublin@radissonblu.com

+353 (0) 1 668 0866 +353 (0) 1 660 4014 sales@rds.ie

+353 (0) 1 433 8800 +353 (0) 1 433 8811 info@thespencerhotel.com

www.powerscourthotel.com

www.radissonblu.com/royalhotel-dublin

www.rds.ie

www.thespencerhotel.com

5HHHHH Located in picturesque Enniskerry village, 30 minutes from Dublin city, 40 minutes from Dublin Airport 194

4HHHH 5 minute walk to Grafton Street and Stephens Green. Only 12km from Dublin Airport 150

4HHHH Mayor Square Luas stop behind hotel, Connolly station 5 minutes’ walk, 747 Airlink from Airport to Hotel (Stop 7397) 169 contemporary rooms and suites

Sika Restaurant, Sugarloaf Lounge & McGills traditional Irish pub

V’nV Restaurant opens for dinner from 18.00h – 21.00h

McGills, a traditional Irish pub catering for up to 120pax in the heart of the hotel facilities A state-of-the-art fitness suite and the luxurious ESPA featuring a 20-metre Swarovski Crytal-lit swimming pool.

Two championship golf courses on the Estate

SURE bar serves lunch from 12 noon till 14.30h, a full bar menu commences at 14.30h until 23.00h Complimentary access to Iveagh Fitness Club on Bride Rd with full gym and pool; less than 5-minute walk from the hotel Nearest golf club is 5km away

N/A Within walking distance of the city centre, serviced by local/national/airport bus routes.

Close to Sandymount/Lansdowne DART The RDS Conference Village works in collaboration to provide over 1,500 bedrooms within walking distance Private dining facilities for 40 - 5,000 people Yes

Fishing, archery, 4x4 off roading, horse riding, Powerscourt House & Gardens, Glendalough, Mount Usher Gardens

Ideally located nestled between St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle and Christchurch.

St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street are only a short stroll away

450 3 Lisa Ferrick, +353 (0) 1 274 8888 lisa.ferrick@powerscourthotel.com

N/A

There are a number of champion golf courses a short distance from the RDS

East Restaurant serves Asian Fusion lunch and dinner daily. Lobby lounge menu available from The Spencer Cocktail Bar The modern and luxurious Spencer Cocktail Bar, renowned for innovative flavours and concepts. DJs Thursday, Friday & Saturday The Spencer Health Club is a fully equipped health club with an 18m indoor pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi Close proximity to many golf courses

Close to city centre, Grafton Street, Sandymount Strand. The RDS is also home to Leinster Rugby and the Dublin Horse Show

O’Connell Street, Trinity College, 3Arena and Bord Gáis Energy Theatre are located within walking distance

400 pax 3 Philip Downes, +353 (0) 1 898 2904 philip.downes@radissonblu.com

12,000 delegate capacity; 10 conference/ exhibition halls, 15 breakout rooms 7 Katie Browne, +353 (0) 1 668 0866 KatieB@rds.ie

8 meeting rooms, max 155 (theatre) 7 Clare Coyle, +353 (0) 1 433 8844 meetings@thespencerhotel.com

3 3 3 3 AV menu upon request

3 3 3 3 AV menu upon request

3 3 3 On request On-site AV partners: Ion Solutions

Available in all meeting rooms Available in all meeting rooms Available in all meeting rooms Available on request 1 flip chart

On request On request On request On request On request Complimentary Wifi

3 3 On request 3 On request Complimentary Wifi

3 On request On request 3 On request Free indoor Wifi, superfast 4G

VGA or HDMI Available on request Available on request 3 Complimentary Available on request N/A

On request On request On request On request

On request 3 On request 3

3 3 On request 3

On request 3 On request 3

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 65

03/05/2018 09:09

66

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

The River Lee

Royal Marine Hotel

Slieve Russell Hotel Golf & Country Club

Venue Directory ADDRESS:

Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan

+353 (0) 21 425 2700 +353 (0) 21 427 4477 riverlee@doylecollection.com

Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin A96 K063 +353 (0) 1 230 0030 +353 (0) 1 271 2511 events@royalmarine.ie

www.doylecollection.com/riverlee

www.royalmarine.ie

www.slieverussell.ie

4HHHH City centre location, 8km from airport

4HHHH One-minute walk to DART station and serviced by many bus routes

4HHHH 90 minutes from Belfast and Dublin via M1 or M3 Motorways

182

228

222

Weir Room 120-seater venue, Weir Room private dining 60 guests

Dún Restaurant, Bay Lounge and Hardy’s Bar

Bar on the Weir

Hardy’s Bar with live music on Saturday nights

Conall Cearnach Restaurant looks out over the hotel’s gardens. The Setanta offers exquisite European cuisine The Kells Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a few drinks before dinner

Fully-equipped gym, 18m swimming pool and day spa

The Pier Health Club and sansanaSPA

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby)

In close proximity to many golf courses

Dún Laoghaire Golf Club and in proximity to other local golf courses

Fitness Suite, 20-metre swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna & smoothie bar.

On-site Ciúin spa and wellness facilities On-site 18-hole championship course and 9-hole par-3 academy course

ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

English Market, University College Cork, St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Midleton Distillery, Cork City Goal, Blarney Castle

Dún Laoghaire pier, shopping, walking, trekking, watersports, James Joyce Tower and more

Marbel Arch Caves, Florence Court House, Global Geopark, Tullydermott Falls, canoe centre

110 delegates theatre 8 meeting rooms Janice Casey, +353 (0) 21 493 7723 janice_casey@doylecollection.com

750 3 Sales Office, +353 (0)1 271 2514 events@royalmarine.ie

2-1,200 delegates 3 Sales Office, +353 (0) 49 952 6444 sales@slieverussell.ie

On request 3 3 3 1 flip chart

3 3 3 3 1 flip chart

3 3 3 3

3 3 On request 3 On request

3 On request On request 3 On request

3 3 3 3 3

On request 3 On request 3

3 3 On request 3

On request On request 7 3

TEL: FAX: EMAIL: WEB: STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc) NO. OF BEDROOMS: DINING FACILITIES:

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES: LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS: AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER: TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER: SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 66

Western Road, Cork

+353 (0) 49 952 6444 +353 (0) 49 952 6444 enquiries@slieverussell.ie

02/05/2018 09:59

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Sligo Park Hotel & Leisure Club

Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort

Thomond Park

67

The Westbury

Grafton Street, Dublin 2

+353 (0) 61 421 129 +353 (0) 61 421 100 events@thomondpark.ie

Blessington Lakes. Blessington, County Wicklow +353 (0) 45 867 600 +353 (0) 45 867 601 banq@tulfarris.com

www.sligoparkhotel.com

www.thomondpark.ie

www.tulfarrishotel.com

www.doylecollection.com/westbury

4HHHH 3.6km from Sligo Train Station and Sligo Bus Station, 51.8km from Ireland West Airport Knock 137

N/A Close to the M7, Limerick train station and Shannon Airport

4HHHH Follow the N81 past Blessington and turn left at Poulaphuca and left again into Tulfarris 80

5HHHHH City Centre; 12km from Dublin Airport; 3km from Heuston Station

Carvery Lunch, Evening Bar Menu, Evening Restaurant Menu

A modern and multi-functional venue with suites of varying sizes

Wilde, Balfes, The Gallery, The Sidecar

3

All suites feature natural lighting and private bars

3

N/A

From 2 to 250, private dining in Hotel or Manor house plus Banqueting Centre can host up to 250 The Elk Bar is a perfect casual entertainment venue plus the Banqueting Centre hosts up to 250 delegates Treatment and massage rooms, and therapist on-site

12km from Strandhill Golf, 10.5km from Rosses Point Golf

A variety of golf courses in close vicinity

7

Golf (Links courses), Adventure Sligo, Wild Atlantic Way for team building, watersports and beautiful scenery

Thomond Park Stadium & museum tour, King John’s Castle, St Mary’s Cathedral, Bunratty Castle and The Bishop’s Palace

18 hole championship course set across 3 peninsulas of the Lakes plus driving range and short game facilities Team building, archery, hiking, kayaking.

Russborough House & Punchestown Race Track 10 minutes drive

3 7 Sligo Park Hotel +353 (0) 71 919 0400

800 5 suites and 17 executive boxes Angela Foley, +353 (0) 61 421 129 angelafoley@thomondpark.ie

3 3 Christina Connolly sales@tulfarris.com

Maximum of 200 delegates 3 3 +353 (0)1 646 3387 Westbury_events@doylecollection.com

3 3 3 7

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 3

3 3 3 3

3 7 7 3 7

3 3 3 3 7

3 3 3 3 3

3 3 7 3 7

On request 7 7 3

3 7 7 3

3 7 7 3

Staff member can assist with in-house AV 7 7 3

Pearse Road, Sligo

Cratloe Road, Limerick

+353 (0) 71 919 0400 +353 (0) 71 916 9556 sligo@leehotels.com

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 67

N/A

+353 (0)1 679 1122 +353 (0)1 679 7078 Westbury@doylecollection.com

205

Balfes, The Sidecar

Fitness Suite

Centrally located on Grafton Street, within walking distance of Trinity College & St Stephen’s Green

05/07/2018 12:01

68

Venue Directory Conferencing 2018

Westgrove Hotel & Conference Centre

Wood Quay Venue

Venue Directory ADDRESS: TEL: FAX: EMAIL: WEB: STAR RATING: LOCATION: (proximity to transport links, etc) NO. OF BEDROOMS: DINING FACILITIES:

Clane, Naas, Co. Kildare +353 (0) 45 98 9900 +353 (0) 45 98 9911 sales@westgrovehotel.com

Dublin City Council, Wood Quay, Dublin 8 +353 (0) 1 222 2857 +353 (0) 1 222 3329 woodquayvenue@dublincity.ie

www.westgrovehotel.com

N/A

4HHHH 10 minutes drive from M4/Maynooth exit and the M7/Naas exit. 10 minutes drive to Sallins train station 96

N/A City Centre; close to public transport and public car parks

Assaggio Restaurant & the Oak Bar private dining options also available

A list of recommended caterers is available, or you may choose your own caterer N/A

N/A

BAR & ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES:

The Oak Bar - Live entertainment every Saturday night

LEISURE CENTRE FACILITIES:

Award winning leisure club, 20m swimming pool, fitness suites, fitness classes, steam room & jacuzzi Nearby Golf Courses include Millicent, The K Club, Carton, Palmerstown Stud & Killeen Irish National Stud, Punchestown, The Curragh, Naas Racecourse, Kildare Village, Mondello Park and many more

N/A

2 – 450 delegates theatre style 3 Catherine Killeen, +353 (0) 45 98 9904 ckilleen@westgrovehotel.com

120 theatre style. Other layouts possible 3 Ailish McCarthy +353 (0) 1 222 2857

AUDIOVISUAL EQUIPMENT SOUND SYSTEM: SCREEN: PROJECTOR:

VIDEO EQUIPMENT: OTHER:

3 3 3 7

3 3 3 3

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT LAPTOP CONNECTION TO LCD: TELECONFERENCING: VIDEO CONFERENCING: INTERNET/BROADBAND ACCESS: REMOTE CONFERENCING: OTHER:

3 3 7 3 7

3

Staff member can assist with in-house AV 7 7 3

Staff member can assist with in-house AV 7 7 3

GOLF COURSE: (on-site or nearby) ACTIVITIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

CONFERENCING CONFERENCING CAPACITY: DEDICATED CONFERENCE CENTRE: CONFERENCE CO-ORDINATOR: CO-ORDINATOR CONTACT DETAILS:

SUPPORT SERVICES TECHNICIAN: SECRETARIAL SUPPORT: INTERPRETER: DISABILITY ACCESS:

056_Conf Guide 2018_Directory_NEW.indd 68

N/A

Centrally located within walking distance of the city centre, the original City wall is in situ

3 7

05/07/2018 12:02

Ireland’s Premier Event & Conference Venue • 16,500m2 of conference & event space

• Free parking for 2,000+ cars

• 29 flexible meeting rooms with advanced AV system

• Conveniently located close to all major road networks

• 764 well appointed guest bedrooms

Call Our Sales Team Now on 01 401 0518 citywesthotel.com

244111_1C_City West Hotel_JM_Conference Guide.indd 1 Untitled-4 1

T: +353 1 401 0500 E: info@citywesthotel.com

26/02/2018 14:59 10:23 30/04/2018

COME AND SEE THE transformed Red Cow Moran Hotel Still the same excellent location & 4 star service…we just got bigger & better!

UNBEATABLE FACILITIES • • • • • •

275 Executive Style Guestrooms 21 Spaces – capacity for up to 800 Theatre 2 Think Tank Rooms New Courtyard Garden Screen Sharing Technology Floor to Ceiling White Board

• • • • • •

Tom’s Table Restaurant State of the art Fitness Suite High Speed Broadband LCD Screens (largest is 97 inches wide) Ample car parking Direct link to city centre – Red Luas line

T: 01 4593650 | E: info@moranhotels.com | Red Cow Moran Hotel, Naas Road, Dublin 22 YX80 www.redcowmoranhotel.com

RED COW MORAN HOTEL 110278 RCMH Ad.indd 1 244061_1C_Red Cow_JM_Conference.indd 1 Untitled-4 1 Conferencing

22/01/2018 15:00 10:41 22/01/2018 16:08 30/04/2018