Business Limerick Magazine 12/08 by Business Limerick

DECEMBER 2008 € 3.50

"Limerick Crying Out For Leadership says Michael McNamara www.businesslimerick.ie

Inside: • J. P. McManus Tournament 2010 • 100 Jobs for Co. Limerick • € 20 Million Boost for Limerick

.....

A Souvenir Tribute to the Munster Players of ‘78

Marking the 30th Anniversary of The Historic Encounter

INTERVIEWS WITH PLAYERS FROM BOTH HEMISPHERES BY LEN DINNEEN & FRANK COLLINS

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FROM THE EDITOR

December 2008

CONTENTS 04

BL COVER STORY Michael McNamara 'Limerick Crying Out for Leadership and a Strategy'

BL NEWS The First Tee Ireland

BL NEWS € 1 Billion to SME Consumers

BL NEWS resourceTM Renew Sponsorship

BL GALLERY Out and About with BL

BL NEWS Open of No1 Perry Square

BL GALLERY EXTRA Chamber President's Dinner

BL ARTICLE 10 Top Things Every Company Director Should Know

Business Limerick

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Business Limerick

FOR BUSINESS LEADERS

Editor Frank Collins frank@businesslimerick.ie Mobile: 086 245 1153

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Advertising Manager Marguerite Finnan mags@businesslimerick.ie Mobile: 087 245 1153

Photography Michael Cowhey

Advertising Sales Yvonne Sheehan yvonne@businesslimerick.ie Mobile: 086 8072088 Business Journalists Brian McLaughlin brianmclaughlin@eircom.net Accounts Manager Mary Cassela maryc@businesslimerick.ie

Photographic Contributors Press 22 Kieran Clancy - PicSure Dave Gaynor Keith Wiseman Contributors Mal Keaveney Mick Galwey Padraig O’Connell Published by Business Limerick Publications Ltd.

Directors Frank Collins Marguerite Finnan

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Business Limerick Magazine is published monthly by Business Limerick Publications Limited. © 2008 Business Limerick. All Rights Reserved. The information contained in the magazine is believed to be accurate and authorative, however it is not intended to substitute for legal, accounting, tax or other professional advice. Statements and opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Business Limerick. No responsibility can be assumed for any unsolicited materials and submission is construed as permission to publish without any further correspondence and the fee payable (if any) at our usual rates. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publishers.

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Another First for Shannon Shannon has had its fair share of bad news with the cancellation of the Aer Lingus Shannon/Heathrow route and the introduction of the ‘Open Skies’ policy. Shannon resilience in the face of adversity has again surfaced with the announcement of a new pre-clearance facility at the airport. This is a most opportune and welcome boost to the airport and it is the first facility of its kind in Europe. Another first for Shannon and it brings with it the potential for the airport to reinvent itself as the gateway from Europe to the U.S.A. With and immigration clearance service already in place, Shannon will now have the ability to allow passengers complete all inspections and avoid delays on arrival in the U.S. It will also give Shannon the opportunity to expand new direct routes into any domestic American airport destination. The increase in westward traffic to avail of this service will bring a welcome injection to the airport’s revenue opportunities through landing fees and landing charges. The obvious staff and employment levels needed for the handling and operation of the new pre-clearance procedure is also most welcome news. But most importantly, the level of profile that Shannon Airport will generate on the world stage is priceless to the region as a whole. This high profile will serve as an attraction to tourists to visit the West of Ireland. Well done to the Shannon Airport Authority for their hard work in securing this lucrative facility for Shannon. On the subject of profile, no money would buy the positive profile generated at the opening of Thomond Park a few weeks ago. A Limerick venue on the World stage, what an incredible moment in sport and a memorable occasion. Congratulations to Munster Rugby teams, both the heroes on and off the field, to the people who helped create a bit of history on that magical evening. A Happy and Peaceful Christmas to all our readers from all at Business Limerick.

Frank Collins Editor frank@businesslimerick.ie

'Limerick Crying Out for Leadership and a Strategy'–

says College Head Michael McMamara

The head of the HSI Limerick Business School has accused banks “all over the World of reckless lending”. Michael McNamara, College Director told Business Limerick in an exclusive interview: “we are living in very challenging times. We have been here before and often the setbacks in an economy can produce a better and at times more caring and respectful society. I think that the excesses of the past eight to ten years were caused by reckless lending by the banks all over the World especially in America and the obvious boom and burst of the property bubble here in Ireland.

Those of us who still have jobs and employment, myself included have a responsibility to reach out and assist those who are losing their jobs and are at risk of unemployment. “The Celtic Tiger created an ethos of spend spend spend on the false perceived equity of property. This stagnated the entrepreneur who was not encouraged as he was in the early nineties to be innovative and self-motivated as the culture in the past few years was buy a bit of land - take a punt on property and/ or hide behind a veil of bureaucracy and now you see where that has got us. The false and perceived equity on property

during the boom years became an ATM machine which funded all the madness. “Where are the new entrepreneurs in our city? We need to get people thinking of ideas for business and Government needs to encourage them. HSI would not be here unless our founder took the risk in 1951. I am worried by the lack of encouragement for initiative in both the public and private sector. In Limerick we are facing a huge challenge, look at the number of businesses and shops for sale. We should start at the Saturday market and set up proper stalls and centres for people to trade. Train people in how to start their own business” he said.

Keeping an eye on Business

Asked how he saw the next few years from an employment perspective he declared: “I think that there will always be positions and work for those who are prepared to be flexible and will engage in multiskilling. There will be jobs for those who are flexible with IT and excellent Microsoft Skills, but in the future they will have to be able to use a payroll and accounts package, update the website, do basic trouble shooting on the PC, customer service and above all be flexible. “We need to see more work experience programmes set up for those who are not at work. It was a great success during the last recession. I know people today who are directors of companies they joined in the Eighties in a work experience capacity. They were paid their expenses, but it gave them confidence and experience. “I see accountancy as always a sure thing when it comes to employment. There will always, in good and bad times, be jobs for good accountants, accountancy technicians, childcare and IT professionals. “Moving forward the Irish Government along with senior civil servants have a moral and social responsibility to facilitate a Mid-West development strategy to include and to be led by key players from private business along with senior representatives from State bodies including education, training, development and investment. Look back in the dreary Fifties we had people in both the public and private sectors like Brendan O Regan who took the initiative to set up the Shannon Free Zone and Shannon Duty Free and with it a prosperity that could never have been envisaged in those times.

“This great city is crying out for leadership and a strategy. I would use Munster Rugby and Thomond Park the way Manchester uses football. “Thomond Park is our calling card around the world. Millions of people watch Munster play at Thomond Park Limerick. This great venue can sell the Brand Limerick to the World. Well done to Pa Whelan and his team. We need more people like this who get off their cosy couches and get it done. Everytime there is a match at Thomond on Sky we should have a 30 second promo for our city. It’s time we became loud and proud about Limerick, we have nothing to apologise for” stressed the college head. Outlining what HSI was going to do to support this “great city” and the MidWest region during the current economic recession, he said that from Monday December 1 and on the first Monday of each month HSI staff will be available at no charge to assist those who are unemployed or at risk in preparing their CV, doing mock interviews and printing it for them. “Secondly, thanks to the excellent support we have from Fas we have highlighted training courses with them which will help people get back to work. Fas has funded up to 70% of a range

of IT support courses including A+, Network+ Microsfort MCSA, Microsoft Project, ACCA, ECDL to Advanced level. Fas has a huge role to take in these recessionary times and are looking at training areas to assist people to get back to employment”. Referring to the current controversy surrounding Fas, he considered it unfair the way Fas has got bad Press as there are people in Raheen who worry about the region. “There are some great people working for Fas. The travails of those at the top don’t reflect the work being done on the ground” he said. HSI are increasing the number of scholarships next Autumn ‘09 under the Nora Mc Namara Bursary scheme to 15. These are administered with the help of the local newspapers, the Limerick Leader, Limerick Post, Limerick Observer and the Clare People. In his capacity as Chair of the Northside Regeneration agency he declared: “we at HSI are continuing to support those from Limerick Regeneration areas to pursue further education. Last year, through the Nora McNamara bursary, we provided funding of €10,000 for students from the Regeneration areas. In 2009, we hope to increase this to €20,000.

“The focus of this group will be to foster innovation, research, enterprise and to develop a plan to attract future investment. This group would require powers of action and must not be lost amongst the hundreds of committees and quangos that have been set up and unfortunately have been slow and costly in completing their work.

www.businesslimerick.ie

..... Keeping an eye on Business

Regeneration is so important for our city. All the citizens have a responsibility to buy into it. Brendan Kenny and John Fitzgerald’s Masterplan is the most important document to come out of the City” he considered. HSI now has four different divisions its Business School approved by both FETAC, ACCA, and HETAC, the English Language School approved by the Department of Education and ACELS its external training division, a division that works with FAS to deliver training courses in Limerick Tipperary and Clare. HSI Outplacement and Coaching is opening in March ‘09 which will assist those who need career advice and coaching. Michael McNamara pointed out that since 1951 over 45,000 students have passed through the halls of the HSI campus on O`Connell Avenue. The programmes on offer have changed and evolved over the years since the college was started by Nora Mc Namara, but the HSI ethos of developing programmes that are practical and employment focused has always remained unchanged. Today there are over 1,000 students on courses training as accountants, administrators, IT specialists, designers, child care staff, managers, and international students who want to learn English, Business Studies and Intercultural Skills. There

are 400 international students from Asia, India, Pakistan, Eastern Europe, Brazil and England.

wrote ‘There, amidst the clanking of the Royals you confiscated by early scribbling and saw enough in them for publication’.

He continued: “we are always striving to make our institution more and more open and attractive to mature learners. I forecast in the future a greater flexibility in the delivery of courses, more blended online learning and really wonder whether in 10 years time students will need to spend the same amount of time in college and university as they did in the pre-computer era. Education has to become more flexible thereby giving more access to all to build up credits under the National Framework”.

Michael Mc Namara said he felt a responsibility to take over the school when his mother retired and he gave up broadcasting as a presenter at 2 FM and Lyric FM. Well-known on the airwaves he trained with household names such as Pat Kenny, Gerry Ryan, Ronan Collins and Marty Whelan. He has two sons Connor who works as a sports commentator for the BBC and Brian who is employed in the international office at the Waterford Institute of Technology. To relax he swims at Banna Strand in Kerry and from his radio days he is still interested in media and music. “While I am a child of the Sixties of the Beatles and The Doors, today I like the Kaiser Chiefs and Duke Special a young Belfast songwriter performer”. He has no regrets giving up his days broadcasting. “I look at it like a footballer. I had my era and for the last fifteen years I have been Director here and it’s a new challenge”.

The college is owned by the McNamara family set up by the Director’s mother Nora in its present location and it became to be known as ‘Mrs Macs’. She was a teacher who at the time had to retire when she got married and she started her own school over fifty years ago at Richmond House. The present school has been extended at a cost of E2.5 million and the new extension was called the Nora McNamara Building. Well-known Limerick poet John Liddy who was a student dedicated a poem to her called ‘Rainbow Road’ and also wrote a poem with her as the subject titled ‘Unsung’ she was one of the people who discovered his poetic talents and he

He concluded: “I am very proud that we can run this institution with very little public funding. We receive no subvention and our staff are not paid by Government. We depend on students and employers to pay fees and the support of agencies like Fas, the Paul Partnership, community schemes and Enterprise boards”.

Paraic Treacy, Michael McNamara, Alan Real, Glen Anderson, Kate Donnelly and Aileen Cherry.

www.businesslimerick.ie

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Sunday Times Sales Increase

Notice of Tax Deadline

The latest Audit Bureau of Circulations figures for the Sunday Times achieved record sales in the Republic for September and October. A €1 million brand advertising campaign coupled with a complete redesign of lay-out, are acknowledged as the reason for this increase.

The Irish Taxation Institute has advised that taxpayers have one month left to claim tax relief on expenses incurred in 2004. Taxpayers who are eligible to tax relief must claim these within four years of incurring the cost.

Etihad’s GAA Sponsorship Wins Award

J.P. McManus Tournament in 2010

Eddie joins The Star ‘Show me the Money’ and ‘Rip-off Ireland’ presenter, Eddie Hobbs has joined The Star newspaper as a financial analyst and journalist.

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has won the ‘European Sponsorship of the Year’ award in the business to consumer category for its sponsorship of the GAA Hurling All Ireland Senior Championship. The awards, hosted by the European Sponsorship Association and held at the Radisson SAS Royal Hotel in Brussels, are respected across the multi-billion dollar global sponsorship industry with Etihad competing with Vodafone, Shell, Royal Bank of Scotland and Puma for the prestigious title.

‘Rod’ plays Thomond Park AIKEN Promotions have confirmed that Rod Stewart will play in Thomond Park on July 4th. Tickets are on sale from Friday 5th December. This is a major coup for Thomond Park following the recent announcement that Elton John will headline in the rugby ground in June.

Thomond Tops Viewing Figures

Job Cuts in Element Six Element Six have announced cuts of 150 workers. Formerly DeBeers, Element Six currently has 620 employees in its Shannon Industrial Estate plant. The company is owned by South African company, DeBeers and Belgian firm, Umicore. DeBeers set up in Shannon Duty Free Zone in 1960 and are regarded as one of Shannon’s most dependable employers. Element Six manufacture and cut industrial diamonds.

Over 1 million people tuned into the opening of the new Thomond Park and the match between Munster and the All-Blacks. These viewers were not disappointed as the event proved to be great television! The match ball arrived by helicopter, the Munster Haaka, the young spectator’s joy on receiving the match ball at half time, the return to the pitch by both Munster and the All Blacks to applaud the crowd, coupled with the pulsating 80 minutes of top-class rugby – That’s entertainment!

J. P. MacManus

The world’s greatest golfers, including the world No. 1 Tiger Woods and our own Padraig Harrington, will converge on Adare Manor in July 2010 to participate in the J.P. McManus Pro Am golf tournament. The tournament raises millions of euro for local charities. Last held in 2005, it was a major success. “We were very fortunate that forty-nine thousand spectators attended the tournament from all parts of Ireland and helped contribute to the fund-raising venture. Through their generosity, in excess of €30 million was raised for local charities supporting the hospice, the disadvantaged and the local hospital.” said J.P. McManus. The target is to raise a similar figure, €30 million in 2010 to benefit these deserving local charities.

Your professional eyecare service Specsavers is located at:

Cruises Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 312 811 www.businesslimerick.ie

Crescent Shopping Centre, Dooradoyle, Limerick. Tel: 061 302 120 7

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IDA Jobs Going To MAN-Enabled Towns The announcement that US digital technology firm DTS are locating their European Headquarters in Limerick's National Technology Park, creating up to 50 high-quality positions, has highlighted new analysis showing the huge impact that the Government's fibre optic MANs (Metropolitan Area Networks) are having on foreign direct investment. Conal Henry, CEO of e|net, who manage the state-owned MANs, commented, "There is no doubt that MAN-enabled towns are getting significant competitive advantage in terms of IDA job creation. The 27 MAN-enabled towns have increased their share of IDA inward investment from 24% in 2004 to over 75% in 2007 and 2008. Simply put, these towns are now habitually getting the vast majority of new FDI." "While the MANs don't create jobs on

their own â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we see them as removing a key barrier to those who would wish to invest in regional Ireland. Other research undertaken by e|net last year revealed that 32,000 private sector jobs rely directly on the MANs for communications."

significant win for Ireland. Ireland faced stiff competition from a number of European locations for this investment, and it is encouraging to see that we hold our position as a premier location for such a critical investment by a global company."

This decision by DTS to locate in Limerick will create up to 50 new positions over the coming years, across a variety of disciplines, including licensing, management, administration, business development, marketing, sales, finance and potentially research and development. Recruitment has commenced and ten positions have already been filled.

The Minister went on to comment about the possibility of using this as a reference for further inward investments, "The DTS HQ will be an important reference for IDA Ireland in its work to attract future higher technology companies to locate investments here."

Speaking on the DTS decision to invest in Limerick, Minister for Defence, Willie O'Dea, said, "This investment by DTS, a globally recognised and leading international technology company, is a

DTS first shot to fame when it introduced its revolutionary audio technology with the release of the film "Jurassic Park" in 1993. In addition to delivering an advanced entertainment experience, the company's products are used in a vast number of consumer electronics products worldwide.

Ray Cummins Picture Framing 15 Catherine Street Limerick

Our Framing Centre is a locally owned business that has been servicing Limerick and the Mid West for over 20 years.

Our talented and experienced staff will expertly frame your artwork and do it with the lowest custom framing prices guaranteed. We specialise in Oil Paintings, Water Colours, Prints, Posters, Tapestries and Certificates

Contact Ray on t: 061 415573 8

m: 087 9674482 www.businesslimerick.ie

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Contractor Appointed for €3.5 Million Project Shannon Development has appointed Paddy Burke Builders Ltd from Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare, to undertake a €3.5 million contract to refurbish Rinneanna House (formerly Aviation House) at Shannon Free Zone in Co. Clare. “We are delighted to be undertaking this project which is part of Shannon Development’s continued commitment to enhance Shannon’s reputation as one of Ireland's premier locations for modern internationally traded manufacturing and international services. The project is the first building to be regenerated as part of our Shannon Free Zone Master Plan. The implementation of the Master Plan will result in large scale development of offices, laboratories, factories and warehouse accommodation for the next generation businesses. It will have a beneficial impact for, not only the Shannon Free Zone itself, but also Shannon International Airport and Shannon Town complex; for counties Clare and Limerick gateway; and for the

Shannon Region,” says Vincent Cunnane, Chief Executive, Shannon Development. Rineanna House is a five storey office block of almost 42,000 sq. ft. which was constructed at the main entrance to Shannon Free Zone by Shannon Development in 1982. Work will involve substantial internal and external refurbishment with a view to offering the property for lease as a fully refurbished next generation building with an open plan layout adaptable for lease either on a single, or multi tenant basis. The main contractor is Paddy Burke Builders Ltd, and the project is being managed by Integris Project Manager. The design team comprise; Architects Quinn Savage Smyth; Quantity Surveyors Eamonn Cotter Partnership; Mechanical/ Electrical Services -White Young Green; Health & Safety - Paul Johnson Associates. The refurbished office building will be available for new lettings from February 2009.

“a kind a different” “This Christmas what desolate place would be A world without a flower! It would be a face without a smile, A feast without a welcome. Are not flowers the stars of the earth Are not our stars the flowers of the heaven“ “If you don't want standard Christmas floral displays Flowers Forever is the place. !!! Our creative arrangements have resulted in a "wow" from everyone that has seen them because of that wonderful unexpected touch. Our talented team of floral designers are at ease with both classic and modern designs and our work graces many of the Mid West’s highest-profile events -while others claim it, our customers tell us we are the best florist in the Mid West area. As our name suggests our flower creations are forever exquisite! “Specialising in custom floral designs, whether traditional or cutting edge we create products that you wont find just around the corner . Whether you are celebrating Christmas, birthdays ,anniversaries, weddings or just saying thank you to a loved one in life or in death - whatever the occasion our hallmarks are bright colours, unusual flowers, creative flair and the most up to date trends in the industry. “Whether corporate or private; classic or contemporary our experienced florists are skilled in creating an individual and memorable flower creation for you. With our enthusiasm for stunning and appropriate designs and our passion for customer satisfaction you just can’t better. “We understand your purchase is as much about emotions as it is about flowers this Christmas and so this is our chance to make this season of Christmas perfect for you. We’ve been sharing the joy of flowers with our customers for many years and our talented staff are the professionals who can make your Christmas - a kind - a different”.

Pictured at the Shannon Development Contract Signing for Refurbishment of Rinneanna House (formerly Aviation House) are seated l-r: Paddy Burke of Paddy Burke Builders Ltd., Vincent Cunnane, Chief Executive, Shannon Development; James Buckley, CEO Integris Project Manager. Standing l-r are: Michael Carton, Project Manager Integris Project Manager; Cathal Quinn, Quinn Savage Smyth Architects; Margaret Flannery, Edward Cotter Quantity Surveyors; and Sasa Radojicic, White Young Green Civil Engineers. www.businesslimerick.ie

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Absolute House Plans On The Move Due to increase growth in business, Absolute House Plans are pleased to announce their move to new spacious premises in Eastlink Business Park on the Ballysimon Road. They have been based in their Annacotty premises for the last four years and have built their business and have grown to be one of the market leaders in the architectural design field. They offer a complete and comprehensive range of services normally not available in the one business. “We are often called a one-stopshop where all your architectual- needs are met here in our new office”, says Ian Daniels, MD. “Many of our clients, with the economy downturn, have decided to extend their homes rather than relocate, and extensions and attic conversions have become a major part of our business. We offer a complete planning application pack, where we compile, prepare, produce and present all relevant needed documentation and information for a valid application to local councils, and to date, we have 100% success rate on planning applications. Our design team will

Micheal Reddy, Architectural Technician, Ian Daniels, Managing Director, Padraig Brennan, Energry Consultant, Bradley Wade and Brenda O'Connor, Absolute House Plans Ltd, Eastway Business Park.

meet and discuss the home of your dreams and give advice and expertise to ensure your dream home isn’t a nightmare!.”

customized style to suit your personal needs in a perfect home.”, said Ian. Absolute House Plans, Unit 72, Eastlink Bus. Park, Ballysimon Rd., Limerick T: 061 603700 M: 087 2957 494, E: info@absolutehouseplans.ie W: www.absolutehouseplans.ie

Absolute House Plans have a compact team of 5 architects at your service, small enough to give your design individual attention. “We can provide the ‘wow!’ factor in design, a

Business as Usual at The Shannon Shamrock Hotel The Shannon Shamrock Hotel, Bunratty Co. Clare is delighted to confirm that they will be open for business as usual following the recent take over from Dunne Group. Crystal Partners initially purchased the Hotel in Oct 2004. The Dunne Group leased the hotel and operated it up until its recent examinership.

team are committed to improving and continuing this service for the future. On a lighter note... the party season is approaching fast and The Shannon Shamrock Hotel is sure to have everyone talking!! Watch out for our upcoming events, entertainment, live gigs, Christmas party night special offers and our Spectacular Wedding Extravaganza!!

The Shannon Shamrock appreciates the support of the local community and would like to thank everyone for their continued support. Contact us: Tel: 061 361177 Email: sales@theshannonshamrockhotel. com, web: www.theshannonshamrockhotel.com

Crystal Partners have since taken back the Hotel, and are wholly committed to operating the Hotel in its full capacity. Crystal Partners would like to reassure everyone associated with the hotel, that it is business as usual. Crystal Partners realise that it is a very difficult time for service related industries in Ireland, but strongly believe that The Shannon Shamrock Hotel has long term viability. It is our intention to implement a plan that ensures the hotel will continue to trade successfully going forward. The Shannon Shamrock Hotel has a renowned reputation for quality and service. Our dedicated and professional 10

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The Cheese Revolution Continues Cheese makers from across Ireland were out in force recently at the Cashel Palace Hotel in Tipperary to celebrate the 25th anniversary of CÁIS’, (the Association of Irish Farmhouse Cheese Makers). Supported by Bord Bia, this celebratory event was a great success with consumer and trade guests sampling over 40 unique and delicious varieties of Irish farmhouse cheese.

Commenting on the event, Eileen Bentley, Manager of Small Business, Bord Bia said, “Bord Bia is delighted to support CÁIS on its 25th anniversary. The event provided a wonderful opportunity to learn more about, and savour, the superb selection of Irish farmhouse cheeses available in Ireland. It was an enjoyable evening and suitably marked the significant achievements and success of the sector.”

The events of the day kicked off with the opening of the fantastic ‘cheese hall’, where 25 cheese makers were on hand to explain the cheese making process, address any culinary queries and offer some of their best recipes and top tips. Visitors were then invited to take part in a number of trade workshops, which ran throughout the afternoon. An evening reception was held to honour and celebrate the work of the Irish farmhouse cheese makers. Notable guests at the reception included keynote speaker, John McKenna of the Bridgestone Food Guide, Aidan Cotter, CEO of Bord Bia, Giana Ferguson, founding member of CAIS, Marian Byrne, Department of Agriculture, Loretta O’Rourke, Tesco Ireland, Deirdre O’Toole, Superquinn and Eileen Bentley, Bord Bia.

Commenting, Mark Duffy, Chief Executive of Bank of Scotland (Ireland), said: “The unavailability of credit has become a real issue in recent months. Something needs to be done about this, so today we have pledged a €1bn fund to get credit back into the economy. The first stage of this was last week’s launch of a €100m fund to provide badly needed credit to first time home buyers. Today, we are pleased to www.businesslimerick.ie

Christmas is just around the corner and this month I am going to share a couple of quick, easy and very tasty Italian finger food ideas. • • • •

Wrap parma ham around rosemary breadsticks Assemble a plate with lots of tasty antipasti such as sundried tomatoes, artichokes, organic buffalo mozzarella, olives…. Serve Traditional Panettone cake with Moscato D’Asti wine Impress your dinner guests with Cantucci biscotti paired with sweet Vin Santo wine

These are just a few interesting suggestions but call into the shop for more great ideas to keep your guests feeling in the festive mood.

Dan Cahill from Cahiil Cheese, Newcastle, Co Limerick.

€1 Billion To SME Consumers Bank of Scotland (Ireland) is pledging €1 billion of lending to support needy consumers and business customers in 2009. In particular, the Bank will focus on supporting mortgage customers in personal banking through Halifax and SMEs in business banking. This will be done through the incremental allocation of specific schemes and funds aimed at those customers who are most in need during these difficult times. Last week we launched the first of these funds, aimed at first time buyers and today we are announcing a €100m fund for the hotels sector (see below).

Olio & Farina, bringing the Italian culture of taste to your table.

announce a further €100m fund for the hard pressed hotel sector to help it over what is going to be a very difficult year ahead. It is our intention to launch a series of working capital initiatives in the form of loans, supports and venture capital to business customers and value for money schemes for personal customers over the coming months.” €100m Hotel Support Fund: This fund is primarily aimed at the hotel industry that has been hard-hit by the slowdown in the Irish and global economies. The Fund incorporates a Seasonal Loan facility that enables customers to take payment breaks of up to four months during the year or opt for interest only repayments. Consumers: Following the €100m First Time Buyer Fund announced last week, Halifax will be developing further schemes next year to support consumers, particularly house buyers, in a move that will help restore confidence and get Ireland moving again.

We can prepare beautiful gifts to suit any budget from small gift bags to larger gift boxes and baskets. We want to take all the hassle out of Christmas, we offer a very comprehensive service which includes delivery as well as impeccable service, glamorous packaging and an excellent variety of product. So why not drop in and have a cappuccino while you can choose from over 350 products, from oils, wines, pastas, pates, sweets and non food items such as olive wood utensils which we will present in a beautiful gift bag or one of our wooden boxes. The wooden box and elegant Italian style packaging, finish the look so that the recipients feel that the quality of the presentation is matched by the quality of products inside. Contact: Tel.: 061 319133

Susan Mulvihill has been running the 1st O&F franchise in Ireland located at 2 Little Catherine Street Limerick since November 2005. You can visit Susan in the shop or contact her by mail limerick@olioefarina.com regarding the above recipes or for any further information. 11

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Racecourse Manager Moves

New Toys for Banogue Crèche

Angus Houston Limerick Racecourse Manager

Limerick Racecourse General Manager, Angus Houston, will be leaving his post at the end of 2008. Houston has been in charge of the Operation at Greenmount since August 2000, prior to it's opening in October 2001, as Ireland's first new Racecourse in 51 years. He leaves to take up the position of Executive Director of The Ricoh Stadium in Coventry. Houston said "After eight wonderful years at Greenmount, and in Irish Racing, my family and I are heading back to the UK in the New Year, after the 2008 Christmas Festival in Limerick. The opportunity to work at one of the UK's top multi-purpose Sporting Stadiums presents an enormous and exiting challenge, and Kele and I are looking forward to moving to the Midlands, closer to both our families. Managing Limerick Racecourse has been an unbelievable and unique experience, and given me the stepping stone to progress my career; I am deeply indebted to The Chairman and Directors for giving me the opportunity". Chairman of Limerick Racecourse, Mark McMahon, commented, "Angus has been a fundamental part of the success story of Limerick Racecourse, and we will be very sad to see him go. He will be a hard act to follow, and we wish him and his family every success with their new venture." 12

Banogue Community Creche, Banogue, Croom, Co. Limerick. Judy Tighe, Branch Manager AIB Croom (left) with Alesha South (4) and Nicola Farrell, acting Manager, Banogue Creche.

New toys and play equipment are being enjoyed by the children who attend the ‘Tots to Teens’ crèche, in Banogue, Co. Limerick, thanks to funding of €10,000 from AIB Croom. The donation, given as part of the AIB Better Ireland Programme, was used to buy indoor and outdoor play and crèche equipment, including bikes, a playground bench and a sand and water table. ‘Tots to Teens’ is a community crèche that aims to provide quality affordable childcare for children from 0-13 years. Full time, playschool, and before-andafter school places are available to all the children in the community. The crèche opened in January 2008, and there are now more than 90 children attending every week - including two-thirds of all the children from the local national school. ‘Tots to Teens’ provides a vital service for local families, as Nicola Farrell from the crèche explains: “This community crèche was the first of its kind to open in all of east Limerick, and no other community crèche operates within 10 miles,” she says. “The services we have are being used by children from all backgrounds, including children who have difficulties in their home lives, and are accessible for children with disabilities.

Our services provide access to a stable home-like environment with nutritious food and educationally stimulating equipment. Highly qualified staff work with parents and, where appropriate, with the staff of the local national school to ensure all children receive as much help as possible especially in the after school homework club. Thanks to the AIB Better Ireland Programme, we can now offer more activities to our children.” Speaking on a visit to the crèche, Judy Tighe, Branch Manager, AIB Croom, said: “We would like to congratulate ‘Tots to Teens’ for the wonderful service they provide for the children of Banogue. It’s great to see at first hand how the funding is being used, and what a positive impact it is having on the children in their care. At AIB Croom we’re delighted to be supporting such a worthwhile local project.” The ‘Tots to Teens’ Banogue Community Crèche was one of the 185 winning groups in the 2008 AIB Better Ireland Programme that each received €10,000 in funding from their local AIB Branch. Log onto www.aib.ie/betterireland for the full list of 185 winning groups. www.businesslimerick.ie

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"Aer Lingus Future at Shannon Requires Consideration" "Aer Lingus services at Shannon must be continued. The effect of not doing would have a devastating effect on the Shannon area in a period of unprecedented challenges," says Helen Downes, chief executive - interim, Shannon & District Chamber of Commerce. Appealing for cohesive action at influencer level to ensure that Aer Lingus maintains its transatlantic routes into Shannon, Ms Downes adds: "While Shannon Airport Authority is actively engaged in communications with Aer Lingus, it is also

The Finance Shop

imperative that all stakeholders keep the airline's retention at Shannon high on their agenda. A strong pro-Shannon voice is imperative." Commenting on the options available to Aer Lingus, Ms Downes continues: "Aer Lingus has served Shannon Airport well for almost sixty years. While challenging times call for challenging actions, in this instance, an even greater challenge will have to be faced should Aer Lingus be forced to change its operations at Shannon."

100 Jobs for County Limerick The potential to create up to 100 new jobs in the county was confirmed last week with the announcement by Enterprise Ireland of a â&#x201A;Ź1.4 million investment in the construction of 3 new Enterprise Centres in Croom, Ballylanders and Broadford. In addition a new business development manager will be appointed for the Enterprise Centres planned for Kilmallock and Kantoher. The Enterprise Ireland Community Enterprise Centre Scheme is a highly successful partnership between the state, Enterprise Ireland and the local communities and will leverage additional funding for the Centres from Limerick County Enterprise Board and Limerick County Council. The combined investment will stimulate the growth of local enterprise and

entrepreneurship, and will provide the essential local space and facilities for the growth of successful young businesses in the community. Catherine Hogan, Senior Regional Development Executive with Enterprise Ireland congratulated the successful Communities on their commitment and hard work in getting their applications together and thanked Limerick County Enterprise Board and Limerick County Council for their ongoing assistance in driving the projects forward. Picture L-R: John Crilly, Chairman, Ballylanders Development Association, Jerry Moloney, Mid-West Regional Director, Enterprise Ireland, Denis Brosnan, Chairman, Croom Development Association, Catherine Hogan, Regional Development Executive, Enterprise Ireland, Mike Pierce, Chairman, Broadford Development Association, Jimmy Feane, Director of Services, Limerick County Council, Carmel Fox, CEO, Ballyhoura Development Association, Ned Twoomey, CEO, Limerick County Enterprise Board at the announcement.

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The Finance Shop Ltd. is delighted to announce that Niall South has rejoined the company as Financial Consultant. Niall has over 18 years experience in the financial services industry and he also previously worked with Citibank, Irish Nationwide Building Society and more recently Permanent Tsb. He looks forward to meeting his many previous clients in his new role and would also be delighted to hear from new clients who are seeking independent financial advice in the areas of Mortgage, Life Assurance, Pensions and Investments. Niall and his colleague, Tom Browne, have access to almost all of the mortgage lenders in the Irish market and because they have agencies with a wide range of life assurance companies, they can ensure that a client is able to obtain the most competitive life assurance and serious illness cover. They are based at Old Windmill Court, Lower Gerald Griffin Street, Limerick and they are more then willing to arrange appointments outside of normal office hours, to suit individual client's needs. You can contact them on (061) 469640 or by email on Tom@thefinanceshop.ie and Niall@thefinanceshop.ie .

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Gallery

Patrick Keane, Roisin O'Dwyer, Deirdre Downes, President Network Limerick and Aidan Liddy, Keane's Jewellers, at their Evening Event at Keane's Jewellers.

His Excellency Mr Valdis Zatlers, President of Latvia, Mrs Lilita Zatlere, Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wife with His Worship, Mayor of Limerick, Cllr John Gilligan and Kieran Lehane, Deputy City Manager signing the visitors book at Limerick City Hall during his visit to Limerick.

Angela Mannix, Gaye Moore, Network Limerick and Elaine Lyons, showing some of the Keane's Jewellers at their Evening Event at Keane's Jewellers.

Gary Neville, Neville Design Group who created the brand identity for the very successful Technology Fair in Thomond Park pictured with organisers Colin Cummins, Brendan Ryan and Elaine Doyle at the event which took place recently.

Ellen O Connell of Slow Food Limerick & Region with David O Mahony of Limerick Market Trustees Board - modelling Clodagh McKennas apron range at Slow Food Limerick & Region 1st Birthday celebration.

Anne, Emer & Josephine Clifford, with Anne Fox at Slow Food Limerick & Region 1st Birthday celebration.

29 O'Connell Street, Limerick, Tel: 061 418692 14

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Sean Lally Manager Strand Hotel Limerick, pictured with Helen and Con Carey of AAL at the 007 Heaven Corporate Event at Strand Hotel, Limerick in celebration of the release of Quantum of Solace.

Eamonn Ryan City Enterprise Board and Nicky Doherty at the 007 Heaven Corporate Event at Strand Hotel, Limerick in celebration of the release of Quantum of Solace.

Jim Browne, National President of Engineers Ireland and Maria Kyne, chairperson of Engineers Ireland, Thomond Region at the Engineers Ireland dress dance in the Strand Hotel.

Gathered at the Strand Hotel, Limerick for the Engineers Ireland dress dance, were front row from left; Annette Harte, chairperson of the west region, Jim Browne, National President of Engineers Ireland and Maria Kyne, chairperson of the Thomond region. Back row from left; Sean Lenihan, engineer with Clare County Council, Seamus Barett, engineer with Limerick County Council, Con Sheahan UL, Paul Devaney, Engineers Ireland, midland region, Brian Cunninghan, chairman of the Cork region, Jacques Barnard, White Young Green, Civil Engineers, Kieran Horgan, ESB, Ger O'Sullivan, Shannon Airport Authority, Brian Downes, Tobin Engineering and Seamus Lynch, vice chairman of the Thomond region.

Jennifer Mulholland, Debbie Mahedy, Lynne Kenny, and Neasa O'Donnell from the UL Areana at the 007 Heaven Corporate Event at Strand Hotel, Limerick in celebration of the release of Quantum of Solace.

Beth Treacy, Pat O'Sullivan (judging panel), and Suzanne Treacy at the launch of Mid-West Arts, Media and Culture Awards.

Friendship Wines Christmas Hamper Launch 2008' , Joe Crowley of Friendship Wines with Minister for Defence, Willie O"Dea.

Hilary O'Carroll, Colour Me Beautiful consultant; prizewinner Nuala Hennigar; and Orlaith Ryan of Vision 2 Opticians at Colour Me Beautiful Styling Session, held at Vision 2 Opticians on 6 Henry Street recently.

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Pat Murray and John Lyons, Leanbh Partnership, Ursula Cullen, Aisling O'Loughlin, TV3 and Brian Harrington, Limerick Marriott attending the Fashion Show at the Marriott Hotel.

Richard and Sorcha Curtin at the Official Opening of their Shop, Sequola Lane with a Model in the Living Dress.

Valerie Bagnall, Sales Manager of the Marriott Hotel, Liam Dwane, BT and Aisling O'Loughlin, TV3, attending the Fashion Show at the Marriott hotel. Sarah and Geraldine Lynch at the Official Opening of Sequoia Lane.

Elaine Divilly, Limerick Now, Niall Kerins, General Manager of the Marriott Hotel and Laura Ryan, Limerick Co-Ordination Office, attending the Fashion Show at the Marriott Hotel.

Two tickets to NY on the Delta Air Lines service prizewinners Mr John and Mrs Dympna Ryan from Cappawhite, Co. Limerick with Fiona Ryan from Delta Airlines.

IRISH RECRUITMENT CONSULTANTS Deloitte & Touche House, Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quay, Limerick 061/313744, admin@irishrecruitment.ie www.irishrecruitment.ie

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Andrea and Caroline Corr attended a wedding at the Dunraven Arms Hotel last weekend. They are pictured here with Hugh Murphy, Manager, Dunraven Arms Hotel.

Mayor of Clare Councillor Madeleine Taylor Quinn; Cllr. Richard Nagle, Chairperson, Clare Tourism Forum; and Maureen Cleary, Marketing Executive, Clare Tourism Forum Pictured at the launch of the new Clare tourism brochure at the Templegate Hotel in Ennis lately.

Dominic Considine, Siobhan & Liam Dwane, attending the Opening of the Cornstore, Thomas Street.

Linda Frawley, John & Bernie Costello, Chris O'Meara, attending the Opening of the Cornstore, Thomas Street.

Ciara Canty and Marisa Murray, attending the Opening of the Cornstore, Thomas Street.

William Van Neldon, Linda Frawley, Padraig Frawley (proprietor) and Laura Anglim, at the Official Opening of the Cornstore, Thomas Street.

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Irish Hospitality Sector Steps Up To Meet Economic Challenges The economic downturn and resultant decline in consumer spending has presented the Irish hospitality sector with a unique opportunity to reinvent itself, says leading software provider Avvio. Limerick-based Avvio, who provide software and services to 85% of Ireland's 5-star hotels, said the pressure being placed on accommodation providers to boost flagging business has resulted in them adopting a collaborative approach to reversing the sharp drop in domestic and foreign visitor numbers to Ireland. David Collins, Commercial Director, Avvio, said that the current economic climate has forced the Irish hotel industry to rethink its strategy for generating business and look for solutions that add value and enable their business to be remodelled, re-engineered and strategically repositioned for growth. In recent weeks, Avvio has powered two new hospitality websites, which offer hundreds of deals on hotel rooms across Ireland.

Hoteldeals.ie, developed by Irish hotel consultant David O'Connor, features a range of deals on spa weekends, dinner specials, golf breaks, mid week and weekend breaks, as well as a host of last minute offers. Already a large number of Irish hotels have signed up to the service and the site will continue developing its hotel base over the next number of months.

began trading in February 2002 and currently employs over 40 people at its offices in Limerick and Dublin, as well as having a sales presence in London and Bangkok. The firm delivers online results for some of Ireland's bestknown hotels, including Ashford Castle, Dromoland Castle, The Merrion Hotel, The K Club, The Dylan, Bewley's Hotels and Moran Hotels.

Meanwhile, Avvio has signed a contract with one of Ireland's leading Corporate Hotel Booking and Venue Search companies, MustBook.ie, to power its hotel booking service for corporate clients. This is the first online booking system of its kind in Ireland specifically for the corporate market.

Meanwhile, Avvio this week announced plans to expand its own International and domestic operations through a Business Expansion Scheme.

"The success, to date, of these two websites is evidence of the accommodation sector's shared desire and ability to adapt to new challenges," commented Mr. Collins, who has worked in the hospitality sector for over twenty years. Avvio, which boasts over 700 clients,

Mr. Collins said, "In order to accelerate the deployment of our offering through strategic international partnerships and channels, both geographically and vertically, we are seeking capital to move us into a higher gear now." "We will accelerate our growth by doubling the business in size every year for each of the next three years, executing a global franchise model over the next year, continuing to invest up to 20% of turnover in world class R&D, partnering with the best and most cost effective local partners for non-software services; and achieving Return on Investment on a par with blue chip tech companies," commented Mr. Collins. Mr. Collins said that the firm had also appointed a reseller in Asia and has been encouraged by some early sales wins from the region. With its Business Expansion Scheme, Avvio is seeking a minimum investment of EUR5,000 from external investors, with a deadline of December 31st. Further information on Avvio is available from LoCall1890 302000, invest@ avvio.com or at www.avvio.com.

David Collins, Avvio and David O'Connor, hoteldeals.ie 18

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New Brand Announced for WYG Ireland WYG Ireland, the multidisciplinary engineering, environmental, planning and surveying & project management consultancy has revealed a new brand identity. Previously known as White Young Green Ireland, the new WYG brand comes after a period of organic growth and acquisition, with recently acquired brands including P H McCarthy & Partners, a leading engineering consultancy and Malachi Cullen & Partners, a civil and structural engineering consultancy. Both companies will now fully operate under the WYG Ireland brand. The company is also rebranding its surveying and management services business to Nolan Ryan Tweeds. This brings together the Nolan Ryan Partnership, a project management and quantity surveying practice that was acquired by WYG Ireland in 2006, with Tweeds, a WYG company and one of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading cost consultancy practises. Nolan Ryan Tweeds will be part of the WYG group. Ray Moore, Managing Director, WYG Ireland, said: "A strong brand is a very powerful asset and we needed to evolve an identity that would modernise and strengthen WYG, particularly at a time when distinguishing competitive advantage is crucial. "We have made a number of successful acquisitions and our new dual brand approach in Ireland will allow Nolan Ryan Tweeds to flourish within a new flexible brand framework." WYG Ireland including Nolan Ryan Tweeds employs over 650 people and has offices in Athlone, Belfast, Cork, Derry, Dublin, Kilkenny, Limerick, Naas, Sligo and Waterford.

John Ryan, managing director, Nolan Ryan Tweeds and Ray Moore, managing director, WYG Ireland are pictured launching the new WYG Ireland brand. 19

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International Sevens €20 Million Boost for Limerick Shannon Development are delighted to announce the launch of the inaugural Limerick International Sevens Tournament (LIST) that will see clubs from England, Scotland, Wales, France, Canada , Australia and Ireland taking part in a festival of Rugby Union and Rugby League in Easter 2009 from April 10th – 12th. Limerick has long being known as the spiritual home of Irish Rugby and with the new 26,000 capacity Thomond Park Stadium as its centrepiece the Limerick International Sevens offers touring clubs a fantastic opportunity to sample the passion of Limerick rugby in a competitive and social environment. The Limerick International Sevens Tournament was initiated by Shannon Development as part of their sports tourism strategy and will take place for an initial five year period during which over 12,000 players will take part in an event that will be worth €20 million to the region. Speaking at the announcement, John King, Tourism & Heritage Director, Shannon Development said, “The development of sports tourism is an integral part of Shannon Development’s tourism strategy. Identifying and securing key mobile tourism events has been central to our work over the past number of years and we are delighted to have initiated this new International Rugby Sevens Tournament, which is unique in the fact that it is a cross code rugby tournament involving union and league clubs. We are delighted to be bringing this event to Limerick with it proud sporting tradition, and we are confident that it will build on the success of the All Ireland Corporate Games. These two high profile events will between them generate an estimated €50 million and provide a major boost for the economy of the Limerick area over the next five years,

benefiting the tourism and hospitality sectors including accommodation providers, bars, restaurants and visitor attractions. We are particularly pleased that local rugby clubs in Limerick will also benefit financially from the Rugby Sevens event by hosting each of the individual divisions.” Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Limerick Cllr John Gilligan, said, “I’m delighted that Shannon Development has secured this major rugby festival for Limerick. Our passion for the game here is world renowned and it’s wonderful that touring clubs can sample that atmosphere while enjoying everything that Limerick has to offer. I particularly welcome the contribution that the event will bring to Limerick rugby clubs and to the local economy which is set to benefit to the tune of €20m.” The LIST is set to become an annual Easter date for touring clubs and will feature clubs from Ireland, France, England, Wales, Scotland & Australia and will have six divisions Senior Men’s 7s, Veteran Men’s 7’s, Ladies 7s, U-21 Men’s 7s and Rugby League 9’s Mens and Ladies. Each division will be held in one of six venues around Limerick namely the famous Shannon, Garryowen, Old Crescent and UL Bohemians clubs in addition to the Limerick Institute of Technology and University of Limerick. The venues for the finals on Sunday is yet to be confirmed and will be dependant on Munster’s Heineken Cup commitments, the condition of the playing surfaces and local rugby fixtures . Thomond Park Stadium will act as the focal point of the weekend in any case with each club registering on the Friday evening and further social events taking place within the stadium throughout the weekend. Should Munster secure a home quarter final appearance, the buzz and atmosphere

John King, Shannon Development, Eoghan Prendergast, Shannon Development Limerick, Eleanor Fitzgerald, Holman Lee Agency, Mayor of Limerick, John Gilligan, Marcus Buckley Bennion, Tournament Organizer and Pat Daly, Shannon Development at the launch of the Inaugural Limerick International Sevens Tournament (LIST).

around Limerick will be something not to be missed and act as perfect complement to a weekend of quality rugby. Speaking at the launch Marcus Buckley Bennion, Tournament Organiser, said, “The appeal to any Welshman, Scotsman or Englishman not to mention fellow Irishmen to represent their own club in one of the world’s most famous rugby city is enormous. Add in the fact that we will be catering for both rugby union and rugby league and the Limerick International Sevens has the potential to draw participants from a very wide pool. We are delighted that Ed Daly, Munster Rugby Development Officer has agreed to come on board as Tournament Director and his experience and knowledge of the game will ensure that the event will be a success on the pitch. Munster’s European Cup commitments allowing, the opportunity to host the final stages of each of the six sections in Thomond Park Stadium offers every team an unbelievable incentive to take part in what promises to be a memorable event.” The 2009 Limerick International Sevens Tournament will see over 1,500 players take part in what will become an annual Easter trek to the spiritual home of Irish Rugby. The tournament is open to all accredited rugby union and rugby league clubs and there is no limit to the number of sides each club can be represented by. The event is being promoted by Ubique Event Management who are responsible for the highly successful All Ireland Corporate Games which are taking place in Limerick for the next 4 years. Clubs who are interested in securing an early spot in what promises to be a sold out tournament can contact Ed Daly, Tournament Director, the Limerick International Sevens Tournament on 00352 (0)61 748 125 or by clicking on www.limerick7s.com.The Limerick International Sevens Tournament was initiated by Shannon Development s part of their sports tourism development strategy and is endorsed by Rugby League Ireland, the Limerick Coordination Office and Sporting Limerick. The Tournament Director will be Ed Daly, Munster Rugby Development Officer and Assistant Tournament Director will be Brigid Ryan, Munster Rugby Women’s Development Officer. The local steering committee also includes Eoghan Prendergast, Shannon Development/ Garryowen RFC, Laura Ryan, Limerick CoOrdination Office, Donn O’Sullivan, Limerick Post/UL Bohs RFC, Kieran O’Brien, Sporting Limerick and Barrie Collins, OB Sport. The Limerick Marriott Hotel is an Associate Sponsor of the event and details of further sponsors will be announced at a later date. www.businesslimerick.ie

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10 Things Every Company Director Should Know In Ireland, now more than ever before, the importance for Company Directors to know their obligations and duties is paramount. In these difficult times, Directors of insolvent companies are increasingly faced with possible restriction and disqualification orders being made against them, as well as the consequences of being held personally liable for company debts. It is therefore of vital importance that anyone who is appointed Director of a company be that executive, non-executive is fully aware of his or her duties and obligations, irrespective of whether they take part in the day to day running of the company. Failure to keep their responsibilities and duties at the forefront of the Director’s mind can result in Directors being held liable in the courts for their acts or omissions with consequential legal and financial implications.

correctly and comprehensively. Any such records may not be falsified or destroyed. Further to this is the requirement on Directors to prepare annual accounts and arrange the performance of annual audits of the company. 5. Due to the fiduciary nature of the relationship between the Directors and the Company Directors are required to disclose their interests in any contracts to be entered into by the company and any such disclosure must be recorded in the minutes of meetings concerned. 6. Directors must ensure that they keep company registers up to date. These include the registers of members, directors and secretaries. There is a statutory duty on Directors to ensure that all filings and notices to the Companies Registration Office are up to date.

The following is a brief synopsis of some such responsibilities, set by both common law and statute, which can be viewed almost as “Ten Commandments” for Company Directors.

7. Directors must ensure that the annual general meeting and any extraordinary general meetings of the company are convened when necessary.

1. Directors must exercise their powers in good faith and in the interests of the company as a whole. The company’s interests and the Director’s personal interests must not conflict with one another. The interests of the company are paramount and therefore Directors are prohibited from fettering their discretion in any way which would inhibit them from exercising their duties in the company’s best interests.

8. Under the Companies Acts 1963-2006, a company is prohibited from entering into certain transactions with any of its Directors or persons connected to Directors. Directors must ensure that such prohibited transactions are not entered into by them or by the company or where the transaction is possible with the proper statutory procedures being followed.

2. Directors must not make an undisclosed profit from their position as Directors. Due to the position of trust occupied by Directors, they may not derive a secret profit from their position and they are obliged to account for any such benefits accruing to them. 3. As officials and agents of the Company, Directors are obliged to carry out all of their functions with due care, skill and diligence. The degrees of these requirements vary as a Director is not required to exercise a greater degree of skill, due care or diligence than could be reasonably expected from a person possessing his level of knowledge and experience. 4. Directors are required to maintain proper books of accounts in order that the financial position of the company may be easily and accurately determined. This must be done www.businesslimerick.ie

9. If a Company is insolvent the Director must ensure that it does not carry out any reckless or fraudulent trading otherwise they be held personally liable (without limitation of liability) for the company’s debts and/or receive a criminal conviction. A Director may be found guilty of reckless trading if either (a) he was a party to the carrying on of the business of the company and having regard to the general knowledge, skill and experience that may reasonably be expected of a person in his position, he ought to have known that his actions or those of the company would cause loss to the creditors of the company, or any of them, or (b) he was a party to the contracting of a debt by the company and did not honestly believe on reasonable grounds that the company would be able to pay the debt when it fell due for payment as well as all its other debts, including contingent liabilities. A person is guilty of fraudulent trading if they

are knowingly party to the carrying on of the business of a company with the intention of defrauding the creditors of the company or the creditors of any other person 10. In the event of Company Insolvency, the Company Director’s must ensure that they act honestly, responsibly and in co-operation with the liquidator, receiver or examiner, as appointed. Where Directors act in breach of their duties, liability on the part of the Director may take the form of several different sanctions. An action may be brought by the company against a Director rendering him personally liable for loss caused to the company by his misconduct or whereby he obtained a profit at the loss of a Company. The actions of Directors are now monitored closely by the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement who can enforce civil and criminal penalties against Directors in relation to breaches of their duties and responsibility. Undoubtedly the role of a Director in any Company can be rewarding and fulfilling on many levels for those who are aware of their duties, however, as the economy contracts and pressure is placed on Directors to ensure Companies remain profitable, a thorough knowledge of one’s duties will help Directors avoid the pitfalls the go with the position.

Michael Gilroy is a Partner in the Company and Commercial Department at Connolly Sellors Geraghty, Solicitors and can be contacted at 061-414355 or mgilroy@csg.ie This article contains a general summary of the law and developments and is not a complete or definitive statement of the law. Specific legal advice should be obtained before taking any action. 21

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American Chamber Welcomes Shannon Pre Clearance Facilities The CBP agreement between the Irish and US Governments was be formally signed by Minister Dempsey in Washington earlier this week and will allow for passengers to undertake all necessary inspections (including full customs and immigration clearance) before departing Shannon for the US. Welcoming the development, Mr Bill Doherty, Chair of the American Chamber of Commerce Mid-West region said; “Preclearance facilities at Shannon will make it easier for airlines to do business in Ireland and will save time for business people travelling between Ireland and the US. It also opens other opportunities for the airport in terms of attracting corporate aviation and freight services to Shannon to avail of this facility. Once passengers have cleared inspection at Shannon, aircraft will be free to fly directly to domestic airports anywhere in the US. When the

facility opens next summer, Shannon will become the first airport in Europe to have this facility and this presents a great opportunity to further develop the airport and the region as a location of choice for foreign direct investment”. “The negotiation of this pre-clearance facility highlights how innovative thinking within Government and by management at Shannon Airport and the unique relationship between Ireland and the United States of America can be harnessed to deliver economic benefits for Ireland”, he added. “This year we have seen new investment in the mid west region by Zimmer, Microsemi and Cook Ireland. The presence of over 100 US multinational companies in the west, mid-west and south region highlights the importance of enhanced infrastructure at Shannon to retaining and growing this investment”.

American Chamber Member Companies participating in the Mid West Region include: Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, Adhesives Research Ireland Limited, Analog Devices BV, Avocent International Ltd, Cook Ireland Ltd, Dell Products Europe BV, Digital River Inc, Doonbeg Golf Club, Dromoland Castle, Enterasys Networks (Distribution) Ltd, GE Commercial Aviation Services Ltd, Genesis Lease Ltd, Genworth Financial, Intel Shannon Ltd., Mentor Graphics, Microsemi Ireland, Molex Ireland, Ltd, Monster Cable Int'l Ltd, Proctor & Gamble, RR Donnelly Global Turnkey, rXi Ventures, Schenker (Ireland) Ltd., Shannon Development, Shannon Foynes Port Company, Shannon International Airport, Shannon LNG, Stryker Orthopaedics(Limerick), Teleflex Medical, Vistakon, Wyeth Nutritionals Ireland, Work Area Recovery Solutions.

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River Shannon Corridor Studies The River Shannon is central to Ireland’s heritage and a focus of different interests for many people be it angling, cruising, generating electricity, water supply, tourism and attractive development sites. Looking forward, planners and strategists of Ireland’s public bodies are faced with the difficult but vital task of balancing competing interests along the Shannon: conserving important natural, social and built heritage while allowing for social and economic development. Making the right decisions requires a detailed knowledge of the current status, environmental and heritage value of the Shannon's shores and hinterland. To help with that task, the Heritage Council, in partnership with local authorities, Waterways Ireland, and Shannon Development has produced five Shannon Waterway Corridor Studies. Together, these studies provide the most comprehensive account of the Shannon's strengths and weaknesses, opportunities for development and threats to its unique appeal. Speaking at the Heritage Council Shannon Waterway Corridor Study Seminar Beatrice Kelly, Head of Policy and Research commented, “These corridor studies are a first step towards informing and co-ordinating activities and development along the Shannon. Key recommendations emerging from these plans include focused strategies relating to the conservation of heritage on the islands of the Shannon lakes, a recreational and interpretation strategy for the lower Shannon area and an assessment of the carrying capacity of the Upper Shannon for additional recreational boating”.

Celebrating Oct. 31st. 1978

Munster V. All Blacks

Recently, over 80 stakeholders from the Shannon catchment area attend ed a seminar held by the Heritage Council to discuss the corridor studies, and how best to plan for the future of the river. The seminar has been arranged to publicise the usefulness of the plans to local authority planners and relevant NGO’s. An example from Canada, the Rideau Canal, World Heritage Site, will give the discussions an international perspective, as the pressures such as water pollution, invasive species, and inappropriate development along shorelines are common to many waterways. An interactive map of the Shannon allowing users to access the information and recommendations in the study is available on, www.heritagecouncil.ie. The studies are also on CD ROM, please contact the Heritage Council at 056 7770777.

Limited Edition Prints Now Available Print Size: 635 by 450 mm. Edition of only 380 Prints. Cost of Print @ € 170. Mounted Print @ € 190.

Ideal as a Corporate or Personal Gift. Enquiries to Neil O'Dwyer at: 087 - 416 55 27 Prints can be purchased securly online at:

www.murals.ie www.businesslimerick.ie

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Rathbane G.C. Affiliate Venue for The First Tee Ireland

John Coyle, Professional Golf Instructor, Brendan Grace with John Warren, Chief Executive, First Tee Programme, receiving a cheque for 4,000 euro from the Brendan Grace Golf Classic at Rathbane Golf Club.

Mike Nolan, Captain of Rathbane Golf Club, John Coyne, Professional Golf Instructor with John Warren Chief Executive First Tee Programme at Rathbane Golf Club.

The First Tee of Ireland is a youth development program taught in a seamless fashion through the game of golf. Using golf as the context, young people learn life skills that will benefit them both on an off the golf course including communications, self management, goal setting and exercising judgment.

Respect, Confidence, Responsibility, Perseverance, Courtesy and Judgment.

Educate Through Sport Foundation, a non-profit charitable organisation (CHY 16474) was created to oversee the development of The First Tee in Ireland.

More specifically, The First Tee Coach believes that if you: (a) expose young people to the inherent values of the game of golf (i.e., context), (b) surround them with caring The First Tee Coaches (i.e., external assets) (c) teach them life skills (i.e., internal assets), then you increase the probability that they will acquire and demonstrate The First Tee Nine Core values.

The island of Ireland was officially designated as a Chapter of The First Tee on October 24th, 2005 with the launch taking place at the magnificent Druids Glen Golf Resort just outside of Dublin. Ireland is the first Chapter of The First Tee to be established in Europe and are currently the fifth international chapter behind Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and Singapore. Their teaching philosophy is based on Nine Core Values ™. This is a youth development organisation that teaches participants to understand the meaning and application of our Nine Core Values in their daily lives. The instruction is delivered in a seamless manner using the game of golf as the platform for each and every lesson. The Nine Core Values are: Honesty, Integrity, Sportsmanship, 24

Value acquisition and positive youth development are most likely to occur when young people are in an appropriate context for self-discovery, surrounded by positive external assets.

The Brendan Grace Golf Classic was launched in Killaloe earlier this year by ‘his grace’ and golf professional, John Coyle, and the fundraiser proved to be a major success. Brendan Grace, is one of Ireland’s greatest performers and his work for children's charities has won him many accolades. The event was won by the Tony Finnan team from The Quill Bar in Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. Well known Irish comedian Pat Shortt also participated in the event. After golf, the players

were treated to some wonderful food & entertainment at Brendan Grace’s Bar in Killaloe. The charity golf classic generated €4,000 for The First Tee Ireland. On October 27th 2005, Rathbane Golf Course was inaugurated as the second Affiliate Venue of The First Tee of Ireland joining Druids Glen Golf Resort in this esteemed position. Commenting on the appointment, Liam McCabe, MD of Mack Trading - Amenity Management said “We are delighted to become an Affiliate Venue of The First Tee of Ireland by conducting onsite programming at Rathbane Golf Course. We pride ourselves on our youth development policy and we are fully committed to expanding our support through The First Tee of Ireland” T0-day, 788 students are currently registered with TFT Ireland and active in programs at 15 venues around the country. 64% (502) are male and 36% (286) are female. Some 45% (354) of the students were active in programs in 2007. These students have now moved to more advanced levels within the Life Skills Experience curriculum and are enjoying the exposure to the game of golf and beginning to understand the meaning and application of the Nine Core Values in their daily lives. www.businesslimerick.ie

.................................................................................................................................... BL | CHRISTMAS GREETINGS

Christmas Greetings The Chairman and the staff of Limerick City Enterprise Board wish all of our clients a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. We would like to extend many thanks to you for your support And look forward to working with you in 2009.

Would Like To Wish All Their Customers A Very Happy Christmas At Metro Office Supplies we strive for our And Prosperous New Year Customers total satisfaction. We work hard to keep our service levels and pricing second to none.

From a single pencil to complete office Kit outs we are delighted to serve both existing and potential customers with the highest level of customer care. Thank you for your much appreciated business and we will see you in the new year.

Declan and Mary Edwards would like to wish all their Customers a wonderful Christmas and to thank everyone for their continued support.

Metro Office Supplies, Unit 2 Crossagalla Enterprise Centre, Ballysimon Road, Limerick Ph : 061 432000 • Fax : 061 432001 • email : metrosales@eircom.net website: www.metrooffice.ie

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, From All The Team at Business Limerick Magazine BUSINESS LIMERICK PUBLICATIONS Pillar House, Old Quarter, Ellen St. Limerick. Tel: 061 467518 Email: info@businesslimerick.ie, Web: www.businesslimerick.ie • BUSINESS LIMERICK MAGAZINE • CITY MATTERS • LIMERICK CHAMBER YEARBOOK • THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD www.businesslimerick.ie

.................................................................................................................................... BL | CHRISTMAS XXXXXXXX GREETINGS

Christmas Greetings We wish you all a Happy Christmas & a Peaceful New Year.

Mike & Allyson O’Mara would like to thank all those who have supported them over the past year. Your custom is greatly appreciated.

If you would like a copy of our Gift Brochure give Mike a call at 061 313394 or 087 2795764

Our opening hours are 10.30 to 7.00 Monday to Saturday. We are open until 8.00pm on Fridays and will be open on Sunday 7th & 14th of December from 1.00pm to 5.30pm and Sunday 21st from 10.30am to 6.00pm

If you would like to be in with a chance to win a 6 bottle case of wine please refer to this ad when calling to the shop.

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year from all the team at Flowers Forever. Tel: 061 307123

Local and National Delivery Service

Raheen Roundabout, Raheen, Limerick Email: flowers4ever@eircom.net • www.flowersforever.ie

Phone in Credit Card Service

Providing the solution to all your staffing needs

Staff Solutions wish all our candidates and clients a safe and Happy Christmas and the very best for 2008 Staff Solutions: Aidrianne Quaid Joan Mc Gowan and Susan Rowley,

Unit 2, Belfield House, Ennis Road, Limerick Tel 061 329250 Fax 061 329252 info@staffsolutions.ie • www.staffsolutions.ie www.businesslimerick.ie

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Christmas Greetings Wishing our clients and customers a very Happy Christmas from all the team at G@A LIMERICK

CORK

Unit 6E, Docklands Business Park, Dock Road, Limerick.

Atrium Business Centre, Blackpool Business Park, Blackpool, Cork.

t: 061

312 777

t: 021

421 7487

Your professional eyecare and hearing service

"Merry Christmas to all our many friends and customers from Specsavers".

Anne Power and Sinéad Clohessy Specsavers

Specsavers is located at:

Cruises Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 312 811 • Crescent Shopping Centre, Dooradoyle, Limerick. Tel: 061 302 120

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers over the year and to especially wish them...

A HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR Further information : Call : 061-313333 www.businesslimerick.ie

“Leave the car at home and let Bus Eireann do the driving”

“BUS EIREANN, GETTING YOU THERE” Buy online at www.buseireann.ie 27

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Team Building With Funireland TEAM BUILDING "It is amazing what can be accomplished when nobody cares about who gets the credit" - Robert Yates FunIreland are the official Teambuilding Partner to DELL Inc. We have numerous different Packages for Teambuilding. We have fun based activity programs both indoor and outdoor and we also have Executive Corporate Packages designed specifically to develop changed behaviours and improve team performances. We specialise in tailoring a Teambuilding Package to suit your needs, specifications and requirements. FUN TEAMBUILDING/TEAMBONDING ACTIVITY BASED - OUTDOOR TeamBuilding Challenges are fun, engaging and highly participative. They encourage groups to think outside the box while at the same time, it will be apparent that success comes from pooling all of the skills, resources and experience within the Team or in other words TEAMWORK. We call this session TeamBonding...

We can run our programs at your site, Hotel grounds, sports facilities or anywhere there is some outdoor space where we can set up the numerous physical and mental challenges. This program is centred on fun and having a good time while working together to complete the challenges. Contact us now for fun Teambuilding. TEAMBUILDING EXCERCISES - INDOOR We have numerous challenges and Tests that can be used in an indoor or meeting room envoirnment. Thes are designed to develop Teamwork within a group and highlight areas where a group can succeed by becoming a good and effective Team member. We have Teambuilding Challenges, Group Survival Tests, Team Strategy Challenges, Ice Breakers, Initiative Problems and Tasks, Trust Activities, Leadership games, etc. All of our Teambuilding Programs contain a detailed and concise overview prior to completion and a comprehensive debrief after event. We can also complete individual analysis and profiling if required. EXECUTIVE TEAMBUILDING There is no better way to boost your executive team's performance than to have them share in the experience of a coordinated

Teambuilding program or the excitement of an Activity Day. We have put both of these aspects together to give you the first program of it's kind in Europe. Contact us now for a presentation. SPECIAL EVENTS Department or Company Night Out, (Groups of 50 +) Break away from tradition and do it a bit different this year One nights private and exclusive Entertainment in a Limerick City Centre 5* Club Entertainment to comprise one of Casino Night, Race Night, Murder Mystery, Irish Night, Traditional Irish Wake?, Mardi Gras, 70's etc. etc. Private Room and Bar, hostess service, Finger food and complimentary cocktails, High end Disco and DJ, Spot Prizes, Free access to late night bar and disco ACTIVITY DAYS, TEAMBUILDING DAYS AND MOBILE EVENTS We offer a variety of Teambuilding courses that are designed specifically to suit your group. Our emphasis is always on fun and enjoyment throughout. Other activities include: - It's a Knockout - Clay Pigeon Shooting, Treasure Trail Challenges, Olympic Challenge, Multi Activity Days.

Team Building Events THE THE DAVINCI THE APPRENTICE EXPERIENCE DRAGONSDEN

THE APPRENTICE We set the tasks to push your team to limits of their ability to negotiate, bargain, plan and communicate. The challenge is compounded by the fact that your Team use a City as their main tool to attempt to complete the unique set of tasks... and by the way you will also have some serious fun.

DA VINCI EXPERIENCE Secret societies, hidden messages, puzzles & codes, master works of art, powerful inventions and a race against time.Will Mona Lisa smile on you or will this be The Last Supper? This exciting team advanture combines the best elements of a treasure hunt with fun activities?

DRAGON'S DEN This is based on the BBC hit show where you become a venture capitalist for an afternoon. We will set up the criteria and put you through your paces in relation to the development of a business concept. Then you will have to face the Dragons.

Dublin: +353 (0)1 6530768 Limerick: +353 (0)61 320292 Galway: +353 (0)91 354563 Web: www.funireland.com 28

www.businesslimerick.ie

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â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Beauty Parlourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Beauty Parlourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; invites you to pamper and spoil yourself this holiday season with an extensive range of indulgent treatments on offer. Emma Tier, owner and beautician, prides her salon in offering the most lavish of treatments. Along with manicures, pedicures, waxing, spray-tanning and make-up for special occasions, Emma and her team also offer specialised treatments such as Decleor facials, Hot-stone massages and Apilus computer controlled permanent hair removal. Emma takes pride in having 10 years experience under her belt and says â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why not treat yourself or your loved ones this Christmas with a Gift Set or Gift Voucher available from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Beauty Parlourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.â&#x20AC;?

GIFTS

#RAFT )NNOVATIONS OFFERS AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF GIFTS INCLUDING )NTERNATIONAL BRANDS )RISH CRAFTS UNIQUE HAMPERS AND QUALITY PROMOTIONAL GIFTS

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Beauty Parlourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; opens late Monday and Tuesday until 7pm and Wednesday, Thursday and Friday until 8pm. Contact Emma - 061-458467 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Beauty Parlourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Unit 2, The Woodview Shopping Centre, Woodview Park, Limerick.

RECOGNITION SOLUTIONS

/UR CHOICE BASED REWARD SCHEMES ALLOW COMPANIES TO OFFER EMPLOYEES A CHOICE OF BRANDED GIFTS 7E OFFER PROVEN SOLUTIONS THAT ADDRESS PERFORMANCE RETENTION AND MORALE

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2EWARD.ET IS DESIGNED TO REINFORCE RECOGNITION AND REDUCE THE WORKLOAD FOR ADMINISTRATORS 2EWARD SCHEMES ARE CUSTOMISED WITH YOUR LOGO PERSONALISED MESSAGE AND PRE AGREED GIFT SELECTION

#RAFT )NNOVATIONS #ORPORATE 'IFTS ,TD 1UIN 3TREET ,IMERICK 4EL s %MAIL INFO CRAFTINNOVATIONS IE WWW CRAFTINNOVATIONS IE Emma Tier, owner and beautician, The Beauty Parlour.

Peter Campbell - Golden Days 2 Daysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of Limerick Football Club. Thinking it would be a one off edition, its popularity gave way for a second edition. I would hope that the format of front cover page programmes and a selection of old action shots and team photos will rekindle your thoughts of yesteryear. I am sure many will remember our travels to away games at Milltown, Flowerlodge, Maradyke, St. Melâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park and Jolka Park to mention just a few, and also our ventures into European football which included such places as England, Spain, Italy, Bulgaria, Switzerland and Holland.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

As for the future its great to hear that â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Marketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; could once again become our home and lets all wish the club well in their endeavours to continue to provide this proud city with lots more â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Golden Daysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

In the recent past I compiled a selection of memorabilia which was titled â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Golden

Golden Days Prints Available @ â&#x201A;Ź20.00 Contact Peter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 087 1370712

Peter Campbell with Mayor John Gilligan and Padraig Maguire, Theresa, Glen, Vivenne and Charlie Campbell, John Kennedy, Brian O'Brien and Ralph McMahon, attending the Limerick Soccer Memorbilia which go on sale for 25 euro unframed and proceeds go to the Neonatal Unit, Maternity Hospital.

It is with great joy that we can look back over the last half century or more to those great magical times of senior soccer especially at our headquarters www.businesslimerick.ie

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Limerick Fundraiser Exceeds Headway’s Expectations Headway, who work with people living with acquired brain injury, received an early Christmas present on Saturday (15th November) in the shape of a bumper profit from their inaugural ball in Limerick at the Radisson SAS Hotel and Spa. €22,000 profit was raised by the charity who has a centre on Steam Boat Quay in Limerick city offering rehabilitative training. Catriona Tierney, who was MC for the night, was delighted. ‘We were on tenderhooks in the run up to the event. It was all nail biting stuff, especially in the current economic climate! But the people of Limerick turned out in force to make the evening such a success.

So much work goes into organising something like this, from staff and volunteers. And it wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of so many local businesses that donate services and items to help to raise funds on the night. Keanes the jewellers were especially generous, donating a spectacular Italian inspired 18-carat white gold pavé set diamond pendant as the star prize.’ It is estimated that about 30,000 people in Ireland are living with an ongoing disability due to an acquired brain injury, which can be a result of, for example, an accident or concussion, a stroke or brain haemorrhage. The service in Limerick currently has 29 clients on two full time rehabilitative programmes, but would like to expand the service to meet the needs of those on their waiting lists. Oliver Stapleton, who was auctioneer on the night, was very clear why he got involved. ‘Headway do great work, and I know that it is the auctions and the like that happen on the night, that really raise the funds for a charity. Without these vital fundraising events the service will not be able to expand to meet the growing number of people seeking help from Headway.’ For further information on acquired brain injury or Headway’s services, click on to www.headway.ie or call their lo-call support line on 1890 200 278.

Denis Mangan - Manager Headway Limerick.

Allison Bingham - who spoke of her experiences of injury at the inaugural ball in Limerick at the Radisson SAS Hotel.

Catriona Tierney and Aisling Kiniry - who is a rehabilitation officer at Headway in Limerick.

Enterprise Ireland’s International Markets Week 2008 Over 110 companies attended International Markets Week at the Enterprise Ireland regional headquarters in Westpark, Shannon, making it the biggest attendance ever at the event outside of Dublin. International Markets Week is a key 30

annual event in the Enterprise Ireland calendar, bringing together client companies with Enterprise Ireland's marketing staff from its global office network. It is a unique opportunity for companies to discuss their growth and development in international markets and to plan their export strategies with

EI representatives from over 30 markets world-wide. In all, over 240 individual client meetings took place, making this an efficient and effective way for Irish companies to address the key issues relating to their company's export / international marketing strategy. www.businesslimerick.ie

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Unprecedented Four Day Savings Event! prices by up to 50% across their stores. This amazing event will allow customers who have been loyal to Blarney & Meadows & Byrne for many years, to continue their tradition of shopping for their Christmas goodies there, but this year, they will have the added benefit of lower prices, which will ensure that they stay conscious of their budgets with all the talk of recession, and doom and gloom! Starting this Friday, and for four days only, Blarney Woollen Mills & Meadows & Byrne will respond to the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic downturn, and offer their recession hit customers a one stop shop for all their Christmas Gift ideas. From Friday, December 5th until Monday, December 8th ONLY, both stores will be dropping their

Blarney Woollen Mills & Meadows & Byrne are synonymous with quality and convenience, given their locations far from the madding crowd with ample parking space and any with on site restaurants. They offer a convenient hassle free shopping experience, which many of their loyal customers look forward to as part of a relaxing day out. Add to this equation, the excitement of up to 50% savings across the

stores, and we know that this weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event will prove too tempting to miss! So we look forward to welcoming you this Friday through Monday at Blarney Woollen Mills & Meadows& Byrne for this unprecedented savings event, which must end Monday!!

Exclusive Offer for Business Limerick readers

www.businesslimerick.ie

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Historic Moment for Shannon The US and Irish Governments initiated a new era for Shannon Airport with the announcement of a pre-clearance agreement that will pave the way for Shannon to become the first airport in Europe with these facilities for transatlantic services.

Joe Crowley, Friendship Wines

Exclusive Wines including

Champagnes & Liqueurs Exclusive Hampers including

Boxes & Baskets ines Hampers & W ly now at great ces Reduced Pri Limerick Self Storage Unit, Docklands Business Park, Dock Road, Limerick

tel: 061 455225 mobile

087 7607495 sales@friendshipwines.ie www.friendshipwines.ie

Local and Nationwide Delivery Service available. 32

The pre-clearance agreement between the two Governments, which will be formally signed by Transport Minister Noel Dempsey in Washington on Monday, will allow for passengers to undertake all necessary inspections before departing Shannon for the US. Up to now, only immigration clearance was provided at Shannon, with customs and agriculture inspections taking place on arrival in the US. The unique agreement has the potential to establish Shannon as an international aviation gateway between Europe and the United States. This will open a significant range of opportunities for transatlantic traffic growth across commercial and corporate business. Only airports in Canada and the Caribbean have preclearance facilities for the US in place to date. Welcoming the announcement, Shannon Airport Authority Chairman Mr Pat Shanahan said the historic agreement will lead to a significant advantage for Shannon over other European airports as well as raise the profile of the Airport and West of Ireland brands considerably, not just in the US but throughout the world. In addition to fast-tracking access for passengers flying from or through Shannon to US international airports, pre-clearance will, he said, also enable services to be established directly into any domestic US airport. This will make Shannon an ideal airport for low-cost transatlantic carriers and open the way for significant corporate jet business into any location in the US. “This agreement has the potential for Shannon to emerge as a major transatlantic aviation gateway. It has the potential to significantly increase the number of transatlantic flights daily in and out of Shannon, which will strengthen revenue through increased landing and handling charges and support employment levels at the airport in the process.

“Becoming the first Airport in Europe to have these facilities in place will be a very timely boost for Shannon Airport considering the current global economic downturn as well as the full onset of Open Skies. This proud first is in keeping with the tradition of an airport that, among other aviation milestones, was the first transatlantic gateway between Europe and the US in the 1940s and the birthplace of duty-free worldwide. “A lot of work has gone into securing this agreement and we would like to thank Minister Dempsey and his officials at the Department of Transport, as well as those at the Departments of Justice and Foreign Affairs, their US counterparts and the Dublin Airport Authority for their efforts,” he said. Shannon Airport Director Mr Martin Moroney said that having pre-clearance at Shannon will also reduce processing costs and connection times for airlines, again enhancing the airport’s attractiveness to carriers, not least those already operating transatlantic services at Shannon. “The benefits of having pre-clearance facilities for the US will extend way beyond Shannon Airport as it will create very real opportunities for the West of Ireland in general and not least through the exposure of this region to the world’s corporate sector, many of whom we anticipate will avail of these preclearance facilities in Shannon on the way to the US,” he said. “The fact that Ireland is the first European nation to sign such an agreement shows the very unique relationship between this country and the US. Pre-clearance has been a key driver for Canadian airports, which have reported growth in US passenger numbers far exceeding their initial expectations since they put their clearance in place. Given Shannon's strategic location between Europe and the US and Ireland’s historic ties with the States, we are determined to capitalise on this opportunity.” Work will commence without delay, he added, on a passenger screening area, inspection area, post-clearance passenger holding lounges, secure and segregated baggage holding area and staff offices – all of which will be required for this new facility. These facilities have been designed in cooperation with the US Department of Homeland Security. www.businesslimerick.ie

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Larry Moloney, Seamus Dennison, Pat Whelan, Andy Leslie, president NZRU, Sean Canny and Terence Brannigan (Sponsor).

Charlie O'Hurley, Philip Danagher, Terence Brannigan (Sponsor), Ger Clark, Greg Oliver and John Noonan, president with players Conan Doyle, Lorkan Burke, Willie Staunton, Anthony Kavanagh.

resourceTM Renew Sponsorship At an address to over 500 business people at the Greenhills Hotel in Limerick on the afternoon prior to the Munster v All Black game recently, Terence Brannigan, Chief Executive Officer of resource™, Ireland’s leading support services company, confirmed the company would maintain a substantial six figure, three year sponsorship deal with Garryowen F.C. resource™, which acquired the previous sponsor of Garryowen F.C in November 2006, is a multi-disciplinary support services company providing cleaning and hygiene, security, reception services, car park management and other support services. resource™ operates across the Island of Ireland and GB offering a range of services to large, multi site, blue chip companies. resource™ employs over 15,000 people in UK and Ireland.

and we currently employ over 1,500 employees in the region.” said Terence. resource™ has 7,500 employees on the Island of Ireland and has a total workforce of 15,000. They are recognised as the biggest support services company in Ireland and the fourth largest in the U.K. They have offices in Limerick, Cork and Galway and Terence is keen to acknowledge the strong team and excellent client base resource™ has in these areas. Terence Brannigan was a leading member of a consortium which formed in 2006 trading as ‘Maybin’. Then, the purchase of Grove Services, C.C.L. in Limerick in 2006 and the subsequent addition of ‘Pall Mall’ company in the U.K. ultimately forming their new company ‘Resource’.

Speaking at the event in Limerick today, Terence Brannigan, Chief Executive of resource™, said, “We are proud to be continuing as the official sponsor of Garryowen F.C., a tremendous rugby club with a staunchly loyal support base. I would also like to take this opportunity to express my condolences to the family and friends of Shane Geoghegan following his tragic death.”

In 2007, resource™ turn-over was over €120 million. This year, Terence sees his turn-over projected to €240 million.

Terence Brannigan told Business Limerick that he has been involved in various sponsorships, but the level of support that he has received since their Garryowen RFC sponsorship has been exceptional and is proud to be align his company with their rugby successes and the successes of resource™.

“In October of this year, resource™ was awarded the Best Cleaned Premises (Healthcare) for work at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin. This was a major achievement for us. This coveted award recognises excellence in service which is something resource™ prides itself upon. As we continue to expand, this is what we would like to become famous for - delivering great service” said Terence.

“We have invested in expanding our services in the Mid-West

Pat Whelan, Tony Ward, Larry Moloney and Seamus Dennison, Garryowen's Munster heroes 1978. www.businesslimerick.ie

“Personally, I am delighted to see our company grow to reach today’s level and look forward to developing our company to its true potential nationally and internationally.”

Tony Ward, Sean Canny and Terence Brannigan. 33

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The Potential for HEIs to Become Strong Drivers of Regional Competitiveness The decision by the Minister for Education and Science to conduct a comprehensive review of the Irish higher education system is welcome. There is an urgent need to develop a clear vision for the sector and to identify the expected outcomes to be achieved by higher education institutions (HEI) over the next decade. This project will provide an opportunity to consider important issues such as third level funding and value-for-money. However, it is also important that the review considers an often over-looked aspect of the sector – the potential for HEIs to become strong drivers of regional competitiveness. The OECD has pointed out that HEIs can play a variety of roles in their regions: knowledge creation through research and technology transfer; knowledge transfer through education and human resources development; and cultural and community development where innovation thrives. They can enhance the human capital, pool of knowledge and attractiveness of the local area by generating and supporting knowledge-based industries, as well as providing professional updating of the workforce. The Government’s Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation (SSTI) acknowledged the importance of regional innovation and, following its publication, a number of technology transfer initiatives have been put in place. However, these schemes still provide no more than a low percentage of the total resources of HEIs. HEIs can play an important role in the development of industry clusters and networks through supplying qualified staff, 34

disseminating knowledge and providing traditional services such as technology transfer, licensing, consulting and problemsolving services. But engagement with the local business community tends to be laid on institutes as a ‘duty’, a ‘third task’ that is not explicitly linked to the core functions of research and teaching. HEIs and firms, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, often have divergent objectives and priorities, and difficulties in identifying partners. Academics may be uninterested in tackling seemingly mundane problems while firms may lack sufficient information or time to track down the appropriate expertise within the HEIs. Therefore, mainstream education funding needs to address this ‘market failure’ and reward regional engagement. The SSTI is also largely focused on product innovation. It needs to be further developed to reflect the importance of services. Services are the main driver of the economy, employing almost two thirds of the workforce. As a recent report by Institutes of Technology Ireland points out, research in the creative arts and social sciences offers new opportunities for the services sector and has the potential to generate profitable commercial activity. While HEIs have an important role in knowledge creation, they also have the equally important role of knowledge transfer through the provision of workrelated training programmes. And these two aspects of regional innovation are inextricably linked. Flexible and workbased learning programmes can facilitate the interplay between HEIs and local business.

Such knowledge transfer can culminate in improved employability, job creation and closer links between business and education. These partnerships can also increase the relevance of education programmes through placements of students and researchers in business. The potential for HEIs to become strong drivers of regional competitivenessand extent of a third level institution’s regional engagement depends to a significant extent on the role that the institution chooses for itself. Some institutions are more entrepreneurial because they have established relationships with local business and they have embarked on institutional reform to strengthen their management and to create professional outreach activities. Indeed, both of the two major third level institutions in the Mid-West – Limerick Institute of Technology and the University of Limerick – are notable in this regard. The potential for HEIs to become strong drivers of regional competitiveness the government can also create an appropriate policy framework such as a supportive environment for HEI-business interaction and appropriate incentive structures to facilitate regional engagement by education institutes. HEIs can play a key role in joining up a wide range of national policies at a regional level. These policies include science and technology, education and skills, business, culture, health sport, environmental sustainability and social inclusions. The forthcoming review provides an important opportunity to co-ordinate decisions on priorities, resources and strategic regional issues. It should not be missed. www.businesslimerick.ie

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BT and The Wheel Roll Out Charity Memberships BT and charity body ‘The Wheel’ join forces to launch the ‘Member Sponsorship Programme’, offering charities ICT support

helping charities and community groups get the best from the internet, operate more efficiently and develop a range of skills in this area”.

BT has joined forces with the umbrella body for charities, The Wheel, to launch their ‘Member Sponsorship Programme’ which will see BT provide charities in Limerick with free membership to The Wheel. The donation will see up to 30 charities from Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway utilise The Wheel’s expertise in the area.

Deirdre Garvey, Chief Executive Officer, The Wheel, commented, “Voluntary organizations face the same challenges as businesses when it comes to running their organization and delivering outcomes. Therefore having the assistance of a group

like The Wheel, which is familiar with the challenges they face and which can both provide practical help and assistance as well as representation is of great benefit. It means that the managers of charities can focus on what is truly important in their lives i.e. the cause that they were set up to support.” For more information please log on to: www.btireland.ie, www.wheel.ie.

The Wheel is a support and representative organisation for the community, voluntary and charitable sector in Ireland. Member charities are offered training and advice to help them run their organisations more effectively. A major element of the partnership between BT and The Wheel will focus on the ICT element highlighting to each group the help with ICT training and support when they sign up. Chris Clark, CEO, BT, speaking about the launch said, “We are delighted to join forces with The Wheel and provide so many charities with this much needed support. This initiative forms part of our wider CR strategy which is focused on

Deirdre Garvey, Chief Executive Officer, The Wheel and Chris Clark, CEO, BT.

Limerick County Council First To Install Solar Panels Limerick County Hall and Library Headquarters have become the first stateowned buildings in the country to install Photovoltaic solar panels to reduce their carbon footprint and energy usage. Limerick County Council estimates that the project, delivered by leading solar electricity provider Cool Power Ltd, will reduce the local authority's fossil energy consumption in the buildings by 15%.

to install PV arrays around the building, initially for the new County Hall. Limerick County Council will monitor the new system for the next year to get

accurate data on energy consumption but it is estimated the Council will reduce it dependence on mains electricity by 10 to 15%, generating electricity seven days a week. PV arrays installed by Cool Power

Photovoltaic (PV) technology converts sunlight into electricity. The majority of existing solar technologies used in stateowned premises throughout the country use sunlight to heat water only. Limerick County Councils' new naturally ventilated state-of-the-art County Hall was opened in 2003 and, since then, Limerick County Council has been looking at ways of complementing its highly efficient design with new technologies to provide sources of renewable energy. In 2006, the Council started looking at different proposals 36

www.businesslimerick.ie

.................................................................................................................................... BL | MARKETING

Many Happy Returns! By late December only bargain hunters and those returning faulty or unwanted goods will inhabit our shopping streets. Both shoppers and retailers can retain their seasonal cheer with a calm approach and knowledge of their rights and obligations under the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1990. The Act specifies the terms considered implicit in every sale made with consumers:

❆ The goods must be of merchantable quality. This means that goods must be fit for the purpose for which that type is commonly intended. The product must be as durable as one could reasonable expect, having regard to the price and description. The seller is not liable for any defects that were brought to the attention of the buyer prior to the contract being formed. ❆ Goods offered must correspond with the way they are described. A description can take many forms, e.g. an oral statement from the seller, a newspaper advert or the picture on the package or website. ❆

Goods must be reasonably fit for the purpose for which they are intended. Assuming the buyer has indicated the particular purpose by which the goods will be used, retailers are liable unless they make it clear, prior to purchase, that the goods are unsuitable for that purpose.

❆ Goods must conform in quality and quantity to the sample that is presented to the buyer. A fruit merchant displaying the best fruit as a sample and then filling the order with damaged fruit is in contravention of the Act. REMEDIES Should a product be defective, the retailer, not the manufacturer, has a contractual responsibility to resolve the matter. If the product does not conform to the implied terms, the buyer is entitled to either (a) a refund of the purchase price, (b) a credit note or (c) replacement of the good. The seller is not legally obliged to refund or exchange products when the buyer has merely had a change of mind or has misused the product after purchase. The retailer is reasonably entitled to

look for proof of purchase. This need not necessarily be a receipt, the retailer’s brand may be on the good or perhaps the salesperson remembers you. It makes sense therefore to keep receipts and it is a strong argument for shopping locally. THE SALES Contrary to popular belief, the consumer retains the same rights during a sale, except where the goods are clearly marked as seconds. It is a criminal offence for a retailer to display a notice such as “No liability accepted for faulty goods”. Sale stock must have been on offer at the advertised original price for at least a month before going on offer at the reduced price. GUARANTEES A guarantee is a written statement by the manufacturer that they will service or repair goods over and above the obligations contained within the Act. A guarantee gives the consumer the choice of having the goods fixed by the manufacturer but does not replace the consumer’s statutory rights.

Joy for Customers: ❆

Contact the retailer as soon as you become aware of a product defect

❆

Direct your complaint to the person authorized to resolve your problem.

❆

Bring the product and evidence of receipt with you.

❆

Explain the problem in a calm and polite manner. Sales staff are entitled to the same dignity that you would expect in your work place. Allow the retailer the opportunity to clarify the situation and suggest a solution.

Joy For Sellers ❆

From the outset, treat every complaint as genuine and deal with it in a courteous manner. Ignore any insulting behaviour.

❆

Express regret at the situation, being careful not to admit liability until you can ascertain the facts.

❆

Establish that the product is indeed faulty, whether it was used in a reasonable manner and ascertain proof of purchase.

❆

Passing on the complaint to others gives the customer the impression that nobody is interested. Advise the customer of any likely delay when investigating the fault and resolve the complaint as quickly as possible.

The vast majority of Limerick retailers are more than happy to refund or exchange faulty goods. Research indicates that the repeat purchase rises significantly where customers receive an appropriate response to their complaint. Due to space constraints, this article is intended as a general outline to the provisions of the Sales of Goods Act. Further information is available from the Office of Director of Consumer Affairs.

QED

MARKETING SOLUTIONS

Tel: 086 8190890 eamon@qedmarketingsolutions.com

www.businesslimerick.ie

Knowledge is Vital in Business Eamon Dillon, MMII(Grad.) MBA 37

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............................................................................................................................... BL | NEWS

W&G Baird Scoop Top Industry Accolade Co. Antrim based printers W&G Baird is celebrating winning another top accolade at the 2008 Irish Print Awards in Dublin. The printing company that dates as far back as 1862 was named, 'Irish Magazine Printer of the Year', beating of f stiff competition from other printing firms across Ireland.

and finishing solutions. The company has also rece ntly been awarded full Forest Stewardship Council accreditation (FSC)

allowing customers the ability to choose products from socially and environmentally sustainable sources.

Sales Director of W&G Baird, David Hinds commented, "We pride ourselves in delivering a highly professional and reliable service to all our customers. From complex advertising and design projects that require that extra dimension, to magazine printing that sets itself apart. Our latest investment in press technology has shown that the company's commitment to deliver the highest printing standards to our clients throughout Ireland". W&G Baird was acquired by the current management team in May 2006. Since that time the new owners have created one of Ireland's most modern and comprehensive ranges of in-house printing

TrevorBrennan, Patrick Moffett, Henderson Allan and David Hinds, W&G celebrating being named Best Magazine Printers in Ireland at the 2008 IrishPrint Awards.

Elegant Hamper & Gift Co It's time to order your Christmas Hampers! We specialise in

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(incl Gourmet gift baskets)

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(incl wine box and champagne box presentations) Special requirements to suit your needs any specifications can be catered for Hampers carefully hand packed A local Limerick company serving the Midwest Business community

How to order - visit our website at www.eleganthampers.com and follow the easy instructions Elegant Hamper & Gift Co. Loughmore Road, Raheen Business Park, Limerick. Tel: 061 500501 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 061 500502 â&#x20AC;˘ Email: info@eleganthampers.com

www.businesslimerick.ie

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It’s Not All Doom and Gloom It’s not all doom and gloom as BES Scheme is set to offer individuals and companies new investment opportunities

companies. These funds are now fully committed to the following companies based in Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Donegal, Tipperary and Dublin:

Horwath Bastow Charleton in Limerick is pleased to announce details of the 2008 Pinnacle BES Fund aiming to raise €10million for investment in qualifying companies.

• An asset-backed hydro electricity generating company with grid connection & power purchase contracts. • A well established and experienced internationally traded technology service company. • A mushroom cultivator with long term sales and compost provision contracts with major operator. • Two windfarms owned by two separate financially strong promoters. Asset-backed with grid connection and power purchase agreements. • A highly profitable asset backed moulding company.

Bucking the recessionary trend, leading business advisors Horwath Bastow Charleton in Limerick have announced the launch of the 2008 Pinnacle BES Fund following the success of the 2007 Pinnacle Fund aiming to raise €10,000,000 to invest in BES qualifying companies in 2009. The Pinnacle BES Funds are raised and managed entirely by Pinnacle Capital Partners Ltd from the offices of Horwath Bastow Charleton Limerick. The Fund offers an excellent tax-based investment vehicle to investors: *Pinnacle BES Fund has enhanced Risk Management features due to increased investment limit (€2 million per company) and their dedicated BES team. *BES is one of the few sources of TotalIncome-Relief available to investors. *Relief is available in full against income earned in the current year – do not need recurring tax exposure. *Horwath Bastow Charleton in Limerick has extensive experience in this area having raised, invested and advised on over 35 BES transactions worth almost €40 million. *The Fund offers investors a well managed tax-efficient opportunity to invest in strong BES-qualifying companies with sound growth potential and solid management.

Why BES? Keith Mc Guigan of Horwath Bastow Charleton in Limerick is urging tax investors to look closely at this type of investment. “The BES scheme is, undoubtedly, one of the best tax based investments in this country. The limit of €150,000 means BES is the largest tax break available to the individual Irish taxpayer and it is one of the few sources of total-income relief available. Most taxpayers will be able to satisfy their total tax shelter needs in one investment, saving themselves considerable time and effort,” Mc Guigan commented. The current credit crunch puts the fund in a strong position at the negotiating table, and also has attracted stronger companies to look at BES as a source of funding than in the past. In this climate, the impetus for good projects to deal with a BES fund is greater than ever. It is now much more difficult for companies to get finance from banks, and many venture capitalists (VCs) are not releasing funds for the time being.

"Because of the tightening credit environment, the calibre of companies contacting us looking for investment is unprecedented and we're in a position to negotiate stronger and better deals for our investors. The 2007 Fund achieved an average Cap of €1.18 per €1 invested. If the fund exits at this Cap it would double the investors’ net investment.” notes Mc Guigan. BES is a short term investment. Funds are only committed for 5 years from the date of the issue of shares. Tax relief is available against the income tax due in respect of the tax year in which the investment is made. If they wish investors can elect to claim the relief in the following year i.e. the year when the shares are issued. Mc Guigan realises that in the current economic climate BES investment may be vital for strong growing enterprises. “In a recent Government commissioned survey of indigenous companies, many indicated that they used BES funds to expand their workforce and grow their business. The increase in the funding limit to €2,000,000 accompanied with the difficulty in obtaining and the high cost of finance mean that the quantity and quality of companies seeking investment has risen. This is great news for investors,” Mc Guigan added. Investors in the Pinnacle BES Fund will spread their risk across a range of strong qualifying Irish companies in different sectors to secure a more balanced portfolio. For further information on the Pinnacle BES Fund, please contact Keith Mc Guigan or Eimear Quin, Horwath Bastow Charleton in Limerick on 061 310 311 or email keithmcguigan@hbcl. ie / eimearquin@hbcl.ie. Information is also available at www.pinnaclebes.ie

* Investments of between €5,000 and €150,000 will be accepted before the closing date of 31 December 2008. *Investors will receive easy to understand biannual reports outlining both the financial and operational performance of the companies invested in. The Pinnacle Fund is the only fund of its kind being promoted and managed outside of Dublin. Very few other key investment decisions are taken in the regions as all the banks and most venture capital head offices are in Dublin. As you will see from the investments made from the 2007 Pinnacle BES Fund our focus is very much regional. The 2007 Pinnacle Fund The 2007 Pinnacle BES Fund raised €6.5 million in December 2007 to invest in qualifying 40

At the launch of the 2007 Pinnacle BES Fund launch & seminar at the Clarion Hotel, Limerick were Willie O' Dea TD Minister for Defence and Brian McEnery, Partner, Corporate Finance, Horwath Bastow Charleton, Limerick

www.businesslimerick.ie

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Irish Express Cargo Achieve AEO Certification Irish Express Cargo, IEC, a Flextronics Global Services company, has successfully been recognised as the first company in Ireland to achieve Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status. The award was presented by Josephine Feehily, Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners, on Friday 28th November in Limerick. This is a certification status for companies moving goods internationally, affecting not only importers and exporters, but also manufacturers and logistics companies. It has been developed by the EU as a response to global terrorist attacks and threats and to make the movement of goods into, through and out of the EU more secure. AEO will become very important in European trade facilitation. AEO Certification ensures effective public private partnership between the EU customs authorities and traders operating to share responsibility for the implementation of best practice in supply chain security and trade facilitation. Having acquired AEO status, traders will be given specific benefits that designed to counterbalance the potentially negative effect of trade security initiatives introduced in the aftermath of "9/11". AEO status is attributed according to uniform criteria in all 27 Member States of the European Community. The long-term intention is that, under mutual recognition agreements, an AEO in the EU may be recognized and given benefits in up to 166 countries worldwide.

Declan Coyne, Freight & Customs Manager, Irish Express Cargo, John Scanlan, Managing Director, Irish Express Cargo and Charlie O'Connell, HEO, Customs Limerick.

By attaining AEO certification, a company will be able to show its customers that it has met “Industry Best Practices” in this critical area. While AEO certification is voluntary, it acknowledges a company's experience and high standing in this area. It is very important that Irish companies adopt the certification process early in order to capture the competitive advantage that early certification offers to companies competing in the global market. The US has introduced a similar standard for its traders, Customs - Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT). This has been in place since 2002 and, although it is also a voluntary scheme, by mid-2004 over three quarters of the top 100 US importers had signed up for participation. The EU and the US are in discussions to agree that the AEO and C-TPAT certification status will be mutually recognizable. From an EU perspective this should ease the movement of goods into the US. For US multinationals operating in the EU, mutual recognition of C-TPAT by EU authorities would reduce duplication of security measures undertaken for C-TPAT and required to meet EU AEO status. Many other trading nations and regions like Australia and APEC are also introducing AEO certification regimes and work is in progress to agree mutual recognition of all certificates on a global basis. www.businesslimerick.ie

Stay at the Imperial Hotel this December to March & receive a €30 voucher to spend at Escape Salon & Spa! Offer Valid Sunday - Thursday, subject to availability, terms & conditions apply. For details of our Winter Wonderland offers, please log onto:

www.flynnhotels.com The Imperial Hotel with Escape Salon & Spa South Mall, Cork Tel: 021 4274040

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Limerick FC Near To Moving Home Limerick FC are currently in the process of reviewing their financial model with a view to securing additional investment into the club and that the much anticipated move back to the Market’s Field for the 2009 season is currently being discussed with representatives from the FAI and Bord na gCon. Jason Hughes, who has already been capped by Ireland at underage level this year, has been invited on trial by Championship high flyers Birmingham City. The recent ‘Evening with Giovanni Trapattoni’ demonstrated to all involved with the club that there is an underlying desire within corporate Limerick to support Limerick senior soccer. The proposed move to the Market’s Field in addition to the development of the new training facility at Knocklisheen are an integral element of how the club will aim to generate additional revenue outside of the regular match day income. The club will move in the new premises at Knocklisheen from January 1st. Club owner Jack McCarthy is seeking additional investment partners that will inject the funds necessary to continue their good work. McCarthy stated upon his purchase of Limerick FC that he would not be in a position to offer endless finance to the club and that the involvement of the local business community would be an integral part of the club’s long term strategy. With the US market so heavily affected by the global downturn, the need to copper fasten additional investment into the club is becoming more prevalent by the day. The owner and chief executive have met with a number of individuals who have either approached the club or have been approached by the club with a view to supporting the club financially. All the discussions to date are at an early stage and will be judged fully on their individual merits in terms of what they can bring to the club in the long term. The club hopes to meet with further individuals in the coming week and is still actively seeking further investment. The club would therefore like to make a call to any members of the corporate sector who are considering getting behind Limerick FC and its extremely promising team of young local talent to get in touch with the club to discuss how they can contribute to a bright future for the club. The club will be launching a series of additional fundraising initiatives that will include a Golf Classic and Greyhound Race Night in the near future. 42

Step Up To The Plate “I am proud of how we have regrouped and of what we achieved in Limerick 37 through hard ‘graft’ and commitment by so many good people. We had some great results on the pitch as we built our squad and some great achievements off the field. We secured our own training facility in Knocklisheen, and now we are on the doorstep of returning senior soccer in Limerick back to its spiritual home, the Market’s Field.” said Andrew Mawhinney, CEO Limerick 37. In a frank interview with Business Limerick, Andrew spoke of his frustration now as to what the future holds for Limerick 37. “With the Market’s Field almost certain to be our home ground next season, we have come up against a major financial obstacle at the club. Jack McCarthy, the Irish American ownerwho invested over €150,000 last season can no longer afford to put money into the club.

to stand on its own feet! This is more than an investment in our club but an investment in the future of this Region. If enough companies could pool together, it would lighten their financial burden and secure the future of Limerick 37. We are so near the Market’s Field and a chance to return to those glory days, when Limerick played host to Europe’s finest with visitors like Southhampton, Tottenham Hotspurs, Manchester United, Torino, Beirne and Real Madrid. We just cannot afford to lose out on this opportunity and stop our momentum now when we are so close! It is now widely recognized that the club is running at a very professional level and I am asking for a chance to complete the job. “We need investors in Limerick 37 and we need them now!” concluded Andrew.

“I am appealing to corporate businesses in Limerick to step up to the plate and support Limerick 37 in its hour of need, until it will soon be able

Kieran Houlihan, Chick King sponsor of the Limerick FC End of Season Awards pictured at the presentation ceremony held in the Greenhills Hotel with Billy Barrett and Ralph McMahon winners of Lifetime Contribution Awards and Jack McCarthy, Owner of Limerick FC. www.businesslimerick.ie

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............................................................................................................................ BL | NEWS BL NEWS New quayside with River Walk and People’s Piers

New Appointment for Aramark

Riverchance Existing quayside

www.riverchance.com is a new webbased showcase for projects about Limerick City and its identity. The projects seek to give viable answers to how Limerick can strengthen its identity as a city and become a successful and functional regional capital which offers its inhabitants social, cultural and economic prosperity. Riverchance.com, launched in November of this year, is a product of an analysis of urban Limerick undertaken by SATA, an architectural studio working in parallel with Thompsons Architects at Ballinacurra House. To date riverchance.com showcases two projects entitled “Riverwalk” and “Support Road”. The Riverwalk project proposes a continuous pedestrian walkway along the city centre riverfront joining the historic King John’s Castle to the ambitious future plans for redevelopment at Limerick Port. The project acts as a catalyst to re-invigorate Limerick’s river front by forming 1 mile of continuous walkway to link all the cafés/bars, cultural and leisure activities currently undertaken on the riverside. This activity is enhanced by the addition of a new urban beach, weir walk, bustling riverside market, riverside piers and a linear track for pedestrians, runners and cyclists. Riverwalk creates an active edge to the Shannon and gives all the poten-

Existing parking at the Potato Market

tial and energy of the Limerick riverside a singular and strong identity. The project is a catalyst for change in Limerick and provides a motivation for the people of Limerick to reengage with the city centre and its most potent asset, the river Shannon. Riverchance proposes realistic and economically viable projects. The pragmatic phasing of “Riverwalk”, for example, splits the project into smaller more manageable sections making the vision of a consolidated riverfront an achievable goal. At the same time, short term delivery of initial phases increase footfall and provide economic stimulus to encourage the projects long-term roll-out. The project proposes to build upon recent successful developments in Limerick city, such as The City Council’s pedestrianisation of the city centre and the transformation of the principally residential north bank of the river, with a walkway at O’ Callaghan strand and the Treaty Stone boardwalk at Clancy strand. Riverchance.com is receiving very positive feedback from the Limerick community and people are encouraged to view the site and offer feedback on the forum.

If required; All information on the projects is available on the riverchance.com website. For further information please contact Mark Thompson at 061-227755 or by e-mail: riverchance@sata.ie

Brian Fahy, Business Development Manager

ARAMARK Ireland, Ireland’s premier contract catering and facilities management company, has appointed Brian Fahy as Business Development Manager for the Southern region. In his new role, Brian will have responsibility for managing ARAMARK’s new business pipeline in the Southern region, helping to meet the company’s growth objectives and targets. Before joining ARAMARK, Brian worked with Bunzl Rafferty Hospitality where he was Sales Executive for the Southern Region for 18 months. Prior to this, Brian held senior management positions in hotels in Ireland and overseas including The Montenotte Hotel in Cork, The Fitzpatrick Hotel in Chicago and The Wyatt Hotel in Westport. Brian graduated in Hotel & Catering Management from Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology and is a member of both the Irish Hospitality Institute and Marketing Institute of Ireland.

www.businesslimerick.ie New River Plaza

............................................................................................................................... BL | FINANCE

Withstanding Economic Uncertainty Keeping a business healthy in times of economic uncertainty is now a very real prospect for many Irish business owners. Each business needs to assess the impact of the slowdown on their business and consider the following issues as the slowdown continues to impact: 1. Differentiating between profits and losses and cash is key to any business. Cash is the real indicator of how a business is performing regardless of profits or losses in a given period. Prepare monthly projected cash flow forecasts giving a clear indication of the businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; position. Be able to project where you will stand three months in advance. 2. One major issue for efficient cash flow management is excessive cash resources tied up in stock for resale or production. By monitoring sales week by week, a business should be able to gauge whether they justify the stock levels held. 3. Manage Debtors effectively. Being tough with customers may be unpleasant, but it's an important safeguard against the effects of a prolonged economic slowdown. Assess the credit-worthiness of all customers. If you are a small business employing a credit controller for a number of hours per week at an early stage in a downturn may indicate to customers that you fully expect payments to be as prompt as previous times and that drawing out the payment process is not to their benefit.

4. Negotiate with suppliers for better prices or short-term reductions. If a cash shortage has arisen talk to creditors about additional credit terms. 5. Look at the different areas of your business and assess the viability of each in the current climate. Monitor the different areas the business operates and explore which are viable in the long term. If there is a product or service that is no longer economic to provide, drop it and continue with more popular ones. 6. Review all overheads with a view to scaling down until economic conditions recover. Look at fixed and variable costs. What among the variable costs can you cut back on or put off for later? What among the fixed costs can you find a better deal on or negotiate more favorable terms for? 7. Extending borrowings during a downturn should be considered seriously and investment undertaken only if the capital expenditure cannot wait until the economy has recovered. Talk to your bank to see if you can negotiate better repayment terms on loan and leasing obligations. Review the financing of each section of the business for example stock

loaning, debtor finance and property finance to ensure that the business is maximising finance. 8. Review your staffing levels as this is a critical area. Salaries/wages are one of the largest costs of doing business. Therefore, any reduction in the hours worked through work practice changes or layoffs has an immediate cost saving benefit. Be careful that reducing staff does not impact on customer service and quality. 9. By ensuring a competitive pricing structure for products and services, a business maintains the loyalty and custom that it has built up over the years. 10. Seek outside assistance. Use your accountant or financial advisor to assist in a review of your business to ensure that it is in the best position to deal with a slowdown. Finally, it is important to remember that a loss in a given year or in a number of years is not the end of the world when the business has managed cash flow well during good times and built a solid reserve. Managing your business through an economic downturn is now the next challenge.

BDO Simpson Xavier is Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading firm in the area of advice to entrepreneurs and owner managed businesses. Diarmuid Hendrick is General Practice Partner in the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Limerick offices. The office can be contacted on 061- 41 44 55. BDO Simpson Xavier will not accept responsibility for loss or damage to any person as a result of refraining from acting as a result of the information contained in this article. Professional advice should always be sought before acting on any matter referred to in this article. Diarmuid Hendrick 44

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Aer Arann Completes Review Of Operations Jobs Saved - Some Route Changes Proposed job cuts at Aer Arann have been reduced by 30% and a major new route has been announced as the airline completes its review of operations. Further new route announcements are expected as Aer Arann moves to implement a cost reduction programme designed to secure the long-term future of Ireland’s regional airline. Up to 30 positions, primarily among flight crew and cabin crew, which were scheduled for redundancy, will now be retained with the creation of a new Isle of Man base to serve the Isle of Man to London City route announced this week. It has now been confirmed that the total number of redundancies will be limited to 70. Aer Arann had expected to make up to 100 staff redundant but the airline signalled its intent to seek new charter and contract lease business in an attempt to reduce that number. “This retention of jobs is a welcome immediate result to a sustained effort to implement a dynamic new business model and a strategy that reflects the economy generally and an aviation industry globally that is under severe pressure” said Aer Arann CEO designate Paul Schütz. The continuing focus on the airline’s contract lease business and the new Isle of Man development will allow Aer Arann to retain a core fleet of 11 aircraft on scheduled services and 1 aircraft on contract lease. This is a significant improvement on the anticipated fleet reduction although some aircraft will be redeployed and the number of aircraft based in Cork and Galway will reduce by one in each airport. However a new base will be opened on the Isle of Man and an ATR 72-500 will be located there.

Schütz continued. Aer Arann will be introducing schedule changes in the New Year which will concentrate its operations on routes that continue to perform well. These changes, effective from January 12th, will see services on some routes cut back or suspended. The airline is also opening new routes where it has identified specific business opportunities. “Route reductions like this are normal for the winter schedule”, explained Paul Schütz, “and while the cuts may be a little deeper in these recessionary times routes that are suspended will be kept under review and may return in the future when the demand is there to support them”. “We will also continue to seek new route opportunities so that we can strengthen our position as a leading regional carrier”, Paul Schütz continued. Key points of today’s announcement: • Expected redundancies reduced by 30% • New Isle of Man base and London City route • More new route announcements expected • No change to services between Dublin and Galway, Donegal, Derry, Sligo or Knock. • Moderate fleet reduction and redeployment • Three routes suspended • No permanent route cancellations – Suspended routes will be reviewed in 2009 • Some schedule timing changes to the winter operation – to be reviewed in 2009

“The significant point from today’s announcement is that we have limited the impact on jobs, on the fleet reduction and on route suspensions”, said Paul Schütz. “We will now implement our new business plan and mix the deployment of our fleet over the contract lease and charter market. We will also develop our scheduled routes to the maximum potential, addressing the need for a service that is not being provided by the larger carriers”, Paul Schütz concluded. New Route Effective January 19th 2009 • Isle of Man - London City Suspended Routes Effective January 12th • Galway/Waterford - Amsterdam • Kerry - Manchester • Cork-Glasgow - Prestwick * Some services around the Heineken Cup Final and Six Nations Rugby will be operated. Schedule Changes Effective January 12th • Cork - Dublin • Cork - Cardiff • Galway - London Luton • Galway - Manchester • Galway - Edinburgh • Waterford - Birmingham • Waterford - Manchester All other current Aer Arann routes remain unchanged. Seasonal routes scheduled to return in the Summer Schedule include flights from Galway, Waterford and Cork to Lorient and from Cork to Nantes, La Rochelle, Jersey and Southampton. Other possible summer routes are being examined.

“We will continue to focus our efforts on niche routes linking the regions with major urban centres where we can build passenger numbers by offering a reliable, cost effective and quality service to both business and leisure travellers”, Paul 46

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Deirdre Sheehan Temps & Interim

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www.premier.ie

.................................................................................................................................... BL | RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH

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eara Chris O’ M l Manager, ra e oth, n o e b G r floo Padraic to our first ur, s e u n d re e p e w o tr lo h n e fabu usly t s Local ilings with the concep ce t h h g ig u h ro b in s aga on one Frawley ha urants to or. Midway, ri ta s te re in ’ d e re n sto res a desig of his ‘Corn urant, featu a major ta s n re e e e b th g of havin viding the rk’s side Limerick, kitchen pro ition to Co n d e d p a o id n m a e s sight into attraction t few years. a unique in s h la it e w th r r te fo n e pu fine food. dining scen on of this ti ra a p re p ended the bles are att e ground ta th d it ce h a p ly s in ll a we ost cert ed staff, m rmed The in Padraic has fo a s n tr a ly tr b a s a cc d he h by impe spects of running an Bar’ venue le in all a b a m e g To d le ld w ‘O o ice. of the kn the former ine and serv et into one w e , tr d S o s fo a m . o in Th e settings els st impressiv Pot of Muss region’s mo ed with the rt ta nd s a e m W a e cre ew kid on th ine, garlic, ‘n w e e th it h g m w o in e in ushro s Although b ortobello M Cornstore is P ; e s th , rb k e c h ri h e s fre t salad block’ in Lim y a rocke the city’s b f o d e ie n n o a p g min oat’s ccom reggiano; G rapidly beco g spots. a in o n in d ia d ig e rm rd a rega rved with on and p most highly rostini se nt reputati C e ll e e xc s e e e h s roast red y C In fact it fig jam, d we eagerl n e a d , a it s m e vi r m u ho duction, preceded o balsamic re tion from ta d vi n a in rs r e u o epp emary anticipated anager, p s with ros m w la g C n ti b e ra rk ma and C ic bread. sales and nc and garl la b e . rr e m u li b Laura Ang 10oz fillet ay evening event, the d ri in F a a m n e o th in wilted For We dropped buzzing. my mash, a s a re w c t n n o ra acon stau teak ushroom, b and the re inviting s t m s o a m d a n s a a h n floor h or spinac sauce; pa The ground quick drink y cream d a n r ra fo y l b b a a e d b id n , a inted stylish bar, am with m oden floors o re W B . a a e re S a d g and a frie as a meetin rmingled red leeks e te tt in u b g n , ti s a e e oth s blanc; potato intimate bo e beurre ements, g iv n h c a rr d a n ir a a nd ch isotto with of lemon with table a d Prawn R n rroundings a u s r r te s la b u o c erbs, and p L in specta e back-dro nd fresh h a th s d u n g a s ra g a p in as nd Turf; soaring ceil rough the iality, Surf a c th e p rs S e e in s d u o y app the H humm of h t. n restaura

www.businesslimerick.ie

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Blanc from Sauvignon a , ce vi d a was an 2006, which yal Dave’s o d e R ri 2 , if e to S ta , o d ise p atience ealan teak, lyonna f time and p er New Z s o p t p in e lo lo p A ir d . S e n z a ic o o 10 jestic aise excellent ch t a truly ma with béarn u , r’ o s e n p g w ro in k ra ‘p e p e f to s tiger orders o sics to New has gone in with side French clas m o fr s e sauce, and in w t. ns. range of very budge autéed onio nilla Crème tes to suit e a ri V chips and s u ic axter, vo s B s fa la d ra C rl u o a n W ert, the hef! M a s c s h e e it D w th r e fo to m d ts An Crè bined Complimen ons com late pot de ti ; a it co u o re c h c is C b ; e d ry a na Brule shortbre earned the hose culi cardamom ervice has g with w s in d rb d e u p P u orange and s r e tt mendation h the ad and Bu emon wit hest recom L ig h d le e il h th Cherry Bre C nd Cornstore foodies. anglaise, a Limerick’s s s . e warm sauce d in la s a u s B it u from citrus fr d Soufflé with have create nd his team l, but a a a y e le m to w a w ra e t F n s ic ence here, ore than ju at. Padra nce and tre ining experi This was m e d ri e e u ess they xp iq e n u le for the succ ine a enjoyab d is e ly u n h c ti g s u e ve ro d ti o d th innova Limerick an and most axter. She B rve! Excellent ra u a M richly dese d chef, a d e n h a y b d o d fo create hest sea n to the d the fres u get dow d the yo e in d b n m e m co has source m and reco t the town ats locally ssic We k out wha c la c e h r c fo d n ve a quality me ooking re r lo nts with he ing about! B is Cornsto ie lk th d ta d re n g te e a in e b t re s c ly be e has as justifiab 9000. cuisine. Sh enjoyed h ce ded, 061-60 n n e innovative e ri m e m xp e co re ry is a n e culi d now to b wonderful in Cork, an rs a ye o tw for over k. d in Limeric experience nd elegant a rs e ff o re e sto ngs a sens The Corn e which bri ic rv e d s te e a iv n s juve unobtru lity to this re a it p s o h d of old worl setting. and s manager n o ti ra e p o ett, ced us to Dave Corb er, introdu li e m m o s ith over reluctant wine list. W g n li a e p p a y the their most available b s e in w t n re €4.50, twenty diffe reasonable ry ve a t a ing e followed glass, start r choice! W fo t il o p s we were

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Limerick Chamber Presidents Dinner 7th November 2008 in Thomond Park

Dave O'Hora Southern Advertising. Maria Kelly, Limerick Chamber, Brendan Kenny Regeneration Agency.

Limerick Chamber President Sean Lally and his wife Elaine Lally.

Pat Daly, Shannon Development, Mary Daly, Southern Advertising, Sean Lally Limerick Chamber President, and Denis Healy Healy Financial Engineering.

Frank Collins Business Limerick, Ann Lyons Craft Innovations, Maria Kelly, CEO Limerick Chamber, Joe Crowley Friendship Wines(Wine Sponsor) & Martina McGrath Limerick Chamber.

Minister Brian Lenihan T.D.(Guest Speaker) with Limerick Chamber President Sean Lally and Maria Kelly, CEO Limerick Chamber.

John O Donnell, Limerick Chamber President Sean Lally, and Harry Fehily Holmes Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Malley Sexton.

Betty Mc Loughlin, Maura McMahon, Maria Kelly, Martina Mc Grath & Orlaith McMahon, all Limerick Chamber.

Eamon Dillion Q E D , Ann Lyons Craft Innovations. Peter Mc Namara Enterprise Ireland.

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Limerick Business Community Gets Some CLARITY Over 20 business leaders attended the Limerick Chamber Leadership Seminar: ‘Hidden Giants: How to Lead Your Business Successfully’, held on Thurs, Nov 20th, 2008 at the South Court hotel, Raheen. This extremely well received event was organised in conjunction with LEAP, the Galway-based Business Advisory company. The guest speaker Mike Gaffney (LEAP) addressed areas critical to long term success in business, in particular: How to become a Great Leader – through Self Awareness. Commenting on the high level of attendance at the event, Mike Gaffney, LEAP, said, that ‘business

owners recognise the need for effective leadership in their companies and are hungry to apply practical leadership ideas which will improve their impact (as a leader), straight away. LEAP is delighted to be able to help owners with this challenge. We are delighted with the response we received from the business community in the Limerick region to this event and we would like to thank everyone at Limerick Chamber who contributed to its success.’ Speaking after the event, Limerick Chamber CEO Maria Kelly commented: ‘We have received a very positive response from those that attended the seminar. Now more than ever business

Martina McGrath – Limerick Chamber, Maria Kelly – CEO Limerick Chamber, Bernie Moloney – Limerick City Enterprise Board and Maura McMahon – Limerick Chamber.

Ian Cumiskey – DB Computer Solutions, Pat Finucane – Carrig Landscaping and Colm O'Brien, Carambola Kids. www.businesslimerick.ie

owners need to acquire the skills to lead their businesses and not just manage through tougher times. The Hidden Giants Leadership Seminar provides some great insights into how this can be achieved and would be helpful to anyone running a business.” In response to the interest and enthusiasm shown in this topic, LEAP is running a focused 2-day Leadership programme for Irish business owners in the Limerick area. This programme provides owners with practical insights into how they can effectively lead their business. Places are limited and there is a 10% discount available to Limerick Chamber members.

Maria Kelly – CEO Limerick Chamber and Mike Gaffney(Guest Speaker/Sponsor) – LEAP.

Nana Luke – eTeams International Limited and Lil Buckley – Carambola Kids. 51

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New Model of Co-operation in Region Michael O’Leary, Chief Executive, Ryanair Keynote Speaker at Annual Shannon Chamber President’s Lunch “After six years of sustained growth, low inflation, bull markets and easy credit, the Shannon region is confronted with a host of challenges that were set off, or at least exacerbated by, the credit crunch that began in August 2007,” said Shannon Chamber president Ian Barrett in his address at the chamber’s inaugural annual president’s lunch in Shannon.

Calling on the Government and banking sector to work out a mechanism for the release of funds for genuine business expansion to help member businesses meet real consumer needs and, not to revert to increasing taxes to meet current account spending shortfalls, Mr Barrett called for “a creative budgetary stimulus package to get confidence back into consumers and business

“Ryanair will have carried 1.9 million passengers through Shannon by March 09,” he added. “Any potential link up with Aer Lingus would have to look at re-establishing the Shannon – Heathrow connectivity link; it’s a major business requirement and provides the most suitable connectivity options for many companies operating out of the Mid West region,” he cautioned.

“Now is the time for “While business all stakeholders in the people in the region greater Atlantic Way can manage – though region – politicians, certainly not as county and city conveniently as before – to get to their corporate councils, tourism and headquarters or offices industrial development abroad – it’s certainly agencies, and industry not as easy to get representatives – to customers to come work together to develop to the Shannon region a new model of formal conow that the Heathrow operation in the region. link has gone.” It would represent a very powerful and influential Speaking about the economic, social and travel tax budget political bloc of people as proposals, Mr Barrett the overall west and midwest region comprises Michael O'Leary, chief executive, Ryanair, keynote speaker at Shannon Chamber's Annual said that Shannon over 800,000 people President's lunch the Oak Wood Arms Hotel Shannon with (from left): Helen Downes, interim chief Chamber and other executive and Ian Barrett, president, Shannon Chamber and, Damian Gleeson, Grant Thornton. today and is expected to interested groups had grow to over one million people within 10 people alike and for Government to lobbied successfully for the elimination years,” he added. present a realistic three-year plan for of the inequity between how Dublin restoring the country’s finances.” and the regional airports were treated Citing the Atlantic Way concept as under these tax proposals. a template for future co-operation, Congratulating Shannon Airport Mr Barrett pointed out that the key Authority on securing agreement “It would have been ideal if this ingredients of the success of initiatives for the provision of the new customs regressive tax had been scrapped such as the Atlantic Way is that it is and border protection facilities at in its entirety. It certainly does not focused on the broad needs of the region Shannon which will play a major role complement the tremendous joint rather than on the local parochialism of in underpinning transatlantic services marketing efforts being put in by each local entity. at the airport, Mr Barrett said: “The Shannon Development, Ryanair and challenge now for the Shannon region is the tourism trade to promote tourist “Chambers of Commerce from Mayo how to further leverage these stopovers traffic into this region through Shannon to Kerry are setting the example having and increase the amount of corporate Airport. recently met in Westpark to develop this business that can be done in Shannon broad regional approach and consensus through them.” “The current management team at to development along the Atlantic the airport have successfully grown Corridor. There is no let up in working Welcoming keynote speaker, Michael services and passenger numbers over and lobbying for the region and the O’Leary, chief executive of Ryanair, Mr the last few years and removed all the Chambers of Commerce are willing to Barrett said that Ryanair has been a tumbleweed. We would certainly not play even greater roles going forward,” tremendous asset for Shannon and is like to see it return because of the he added. the airport’s biggest customer. travel tax,” concluded Mr Barrett. 52

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snowwhite.com… probably the best Christmas dot comedy ever! The team who have been producing high quality panto productions for the last 12 years in Limerick City are delighted to present their production of Snowwhite.com this festive season. Penned by Mike Finn and starring Dame Myles Breen, the CentreStage Productions panto Snowwhite.com will run for 22 performances in LIT Millennium Theatre from Saturday 27th December until Sunday 11th January 2009. This team have staged record breaking panto productions including Cinderella, Beauty and The Beast, Aladdin, Down to the Woods, Jack and The Beanstalk and last year’s sell out panto, Nevereverland. Once again Myles Breen will lead a fantastic cast in his role as Mrs. Squeamish. Myles is well known for his great comic timing and quirky jokes in panto, as well as for classy dresses and colourful hats as the Dame. He is loved by all the young audience members and keeps the adults on their toes! According to CentreStage Productions Director Richie Ryan “Snowwhite. com is a must see panto for all the family. We have huge pride in the quality of our shows and we are bringing costumes and sets in from previous West End productions. Snowwhite.com is a feast of comedy, music and dance suitable for all ages!” According to script writer Mike Finn “Snowwhite.com tells the story of Snow White who is officially the prettiest girl in the kingdom. That’s according to mirrormirror.com, her evil stepmother’s website. Her stepmother, who happens to be the Queen, isn’t a bit happy. Neither is Sir Sydney the Squeamish, who has to take Snow White into the woods and kill her. The seven dwarfs, on the other hand, are very happy, ‘cos Snow White is prepared to be their house keeper (for a small fee). But, will the Queen succeed in her dastardly plan to kill Snow White? Will Sir Sydney, find the courage to stand up for himself? Will Mossy the Plonker loose his head? And what, exactly, is the strange contraption know as a ‘Dwarf-o-matic’? Find the answers to these and other questions at the all singing, all dancing panto, snowwhite.com” . Snowwhite.com is presented in association with LIT Millennium Theatre and sponsored by Limerick’s Live 95fm, Supermac’s, Limerick Marriott Hotel, and Specsavers, Limerick .

snowwhite.com … it’s a dot comedy! Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without Panto!

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Mid West Arts Media and Culture Awards with Nicky Woulfe The Mid West Region has a proud and distinguished heritage in the fields of the Arts Media and Culture. However despite the very hard work and endeavours of those involved in these fields, they are seldom acknowledged at a public and community level. Limerick City, Clare and Tipperary are acknowledged as having one of the most competitive media environments in the country, built around the huge volume of news and stories generated by their vibrant industrial, educational, cultural, aeronautical and sporting traditions. Many of the country’s most renowned writers and journalists invariably began their careers in this region. Traditionally the region enjoys one of the most enviable arts and music traditions in the country and in the world. Counties Clare and Tipperary have a global reputation for their music and dance, and Limerick’s reputation as an embryo for arts, music and dance innovation has developed considerably in recent times. Given this huge level of arts, media and culture activity in the region, I have long believed that it should be acknowledged and I have put together a proposal to deliver an Arts Media and Culture Awards Night. The awards will be given for work in the year 2007. They will be decided by a panel of judges selected from the arts, media and culture fields in the region and

nationally, who have good track record and a lot of experience in their various areas of expertise. Martin O Brin, Chairperson/ Chairman of Limerick Choral Society, Teacher of French, Irish and English, and renowned Arts Observer, Activitist and Participant. There is nothing going on in the Arts, Media or Culture fields in the region that he doesn’t know about, and is well respected for his knowledge and interface with the Arts and Culture world. Philip King, Musician, Film Maker Bill Whelan, Musician, Composer and Director Mary Coll, Theatre Administrator, Writer, Poet and Arts Critic Gerry Stembridge, Writer, Scriptwriter, Theatre and Film Director David O’ Connell, Editor, Westmeath Offaly Independent John Downing, Political Editor The Star, Michael O Suilleabhan, Director, World Music Centre Ciana Campbell, Broadcaster and Freelance Journalist Michael McNamara, Broadcaster and Director of HSI Business School Its envisaged there will be a number of awards in the Arts, Media and Culture areas, as well as a special Judges Award, and an overall ‘Richard Harris Hall of Fame Award’ which will also be selected by the Judges to acknowledge outstanding achievement in these areas.

Pat O'Sullivan, Martin O'Briain, Major John Gilligan, Minister Peter Power and Nicky Woulfe a the launch of the Mid-West Arts, Media & Culture Awards. 54

The panel has been selected for their expertise, knowledge, and affection for the region, but also for their exceptional talent and ability to exact an unbiased and professional view. Best Art Exhibition In addition to these awards we have plans to present two Special Awards, to include a Judges Special Award for outstanding achievement in all of the above three categories, along with the very special Richard Harris Lifetime Achievement Award, which will be chosen exclusively by the Judges. Editors of the local Papers, local radio, local photographers, national media are supportive of the idea of an Awards Night, and they have promised extensive editorial and pictorial exposure, which will have huge publicity for whoever turns out to be the Main Sponsor. I am looking for you and your company to consider sponsoring this ceremony which would be run to a highly professional level by Woulfe Event Management. Your only commitment would be your financial sponsorship. All other arrangements including the night itself, the launch, the attendance of Ministers, the handling of the Press brigade, the VIP treatment of any of your representatives will be looked after by Woulfe Event Management.

Liam Aherne, Michele McMahon and David O'Connor at the awards launch. www.businesslimerick.ie

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Artrite with Mark Whelan The festive season is here once again and with it a host of vibrant and colourful exhibitions which will take place over the Christmas period. Limerick Printmakers host their annual Winter Members Exhibition from Thursday November 27th through to December 28th. The exhibition is a selection of work from its forty plus members, including works by Gavin Hogg, Ya Nan Wang, Des Mac Mahon, Mary O Dea, Fiona Quill . There is a yearly invitation to members of the public to become Friends of Limerick Printmakers. Scheme participants donate 250 euros for one year to the studio and in return receive a Box Set of limited edition collectable prints by current studio members. They will also receive a 10% discount on all works purchased from the gallery, and invitations to all events and exhibitions held at the gallery. This years Box Set will be available the opening night onwards.

Thinkk Creative will host two exhibitions during the Christmas season Snow On The Waters Edge by EJ Peters and Brian Mc Mahon from November 27th through to December. Thinkk Creative also hosts an exhibition by Limerick based Contact Studios: From This Studio open on December 13th at 7 p.m.. Contact Studios have been in existence since 1997, having fostered the careers of over 70 artists, many of them LSAD graduates. This year Contact Studios present works from LSAD bursary award winners, Cathriona Moran(2007), and Laura McMurrow(2008), From This Studio also includes works by Carl Doran, Vivian Brogan, Michael Delehory.

Munster V. All Blacks

The central image shows the celebrating Moss Keane flanked by try scorer Christy Cantillon, with Les White on his other side. Tony Ward, who converted the try, and kicked two drop goals on the day also features. Brendan Foley is also shown in the lineout against the All Blacks Andy Haden. The legendary Kiwi captain, Graham Mourie, can be seen in the lower left hand corner. Moving across left to right, shows Pat Whelan turning to celebrate after Cantillon's try. Jimmy Bowen's great try making run is shown next, and Seamus Dennison's crunching tackle on Stu Wilson, which was felt by everyone in Thomond Park, and further afield according to some, also features. Above this, the All Black Haka is performed before the game. The other Munster players, Greg Barrett, captain Donal Canniffe, Colm Tucker, Moss Finn, Seamus Dennison, Donal Spring, Larry Moloney, Gerry McLoughlin, and manager Tom Kiernan are also depicted.

Celebrating October 31 st. 1978 Limited Edition Prints

Celebrating this historic occasion in Munster's proud rugby tradition, by being the only team to defeat the mighty All Black touring side of 1978, this print captures the euphoric celebrations at the final whistle, with some key moments and individuals from the game itself.

Mark Whelan is a Limerick born poet. He is a co-founder and on-going committee member of Cuisle: Limerick City International Poetry Festival. www.businesslimerick.ie

Limerick City Gallery of Art Hosts the second edition of Presence. Presence 08 features twenty one artists associated with Limerick . This annual series of

Munster played themselves into Irish rugby folklore forever. Limited Edition of 380 Lithograph Prints, 64 by 45 cms. Each print has been Numbered, Embossed, Signed by the artist, and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.

Christmas exhibitions celebrates the wonderful range of talent and diversity in contemporary Irish art. Artists exhibiting include Jack Donovan, Charles Harper, David Lilburn, Kate Hennessey, Emma Berkery, Lorraine Wall. Limerick City Gallery of Art in association with Limerick Chapter of the Irish Georgian Society host Seeing Georgian Limerick, a jointly commissioned exhibition to commemorate 50 years of the Irish Georgian Society. Four artists Kieran Clancy, Sean Lynch, Eamonn O’Mahony and Deirdre Power have been invited to photograph Georgian Limerick. The exhibition celebrates the architectural character and the historic importance of the townscape. Both Presence and Seeing Georgian Limerick are open at the LCGA from Thursday November 27th.

Cathedral Concert

Regina Nathan

A Christmas concert in the picturesque and magnificent, candlelit surrounds of St. Mary’s Cathedral should prove the perfect warm-up for the on-rushing festive season. Featuring Irish and international soprano, Regina Nathan. Joining Regina will be the award-winning Limerick Musical Society, Cantette, children’s choir, Seoda, the Boherbuoy Brass and Reed Band and Limerick County Youth Choir. Seasons Greetings-An Evening of Wonderful Music will be staged for one night only on Thursday, December 11th at 8pm. 55

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Exhibition:

Art Studio Officially Opened

Seeing Georgian Limerick

Councillor Maria Byrne officially opened artist, Annemarie Bourke’s new studio and gallery at 98 O’Connell St. Limerick. Over sixty of Annemarie’s works are hanging in her front room studio and art collectors and friends wished her well at the launch.

27th Nov – 4th Jan 2009 Limerick City Gallery of Art in association with Limerick Chapter of the Irish Georgian Society is delighted to announce Seeing Georgian Limerick, a jointly commissioned exhibition to commemorate 50 years of the Irish Georgian Society.

“It is a wonderful occasion to fulfil a dream to open a studio where I can indulge in my passion for painting and also have a showroom or gallery where people can relax and enjoy the fruits of my labour. Here they can see me work and commission paintings that they require. Commissions for corporate presents, retirement gifts and wedding gifts are very popular”, said Annemarie.

She also runs regular workshops in her studio where painting enthusiasts are encouraged to develop new skills and release the artist within. Annemarie has created a wonderful sanctuary here for lovers of art and the luxurious décor in her new studio reflects on Annemarie’s creative side. Annemarie speaking at the opening said “A painting given as a gift marks an occasion and becomes an heirloom”. Her new basement studio is located at 98 O’ Connell St. and is well worth a visit. Tel 061 410510. Web: www.artannemarie. com.

Four artists Kieran Clancy, Sean Lynch, Eamonn O’Mahony and Deirdre Power have been invited to photograph Georgian Limerick. The exhibition celebrates the architectural character and the historic importance of the townscape, which are often not fully recognized. To ask the four artists to photograph what they see in Georgian Limerick, was an invitation to reveal what has been hidden by familiarity and neglect; architectural coherence, moments of monumentality. Images can show what is normally unseen; the richness of the interior decoration, the life of the lanes. Taken from oblique perspectives the photographs have the potential to uncover an unfamiliar Georgian Limerick. With the power of photography to focus attention and even to transform the ordinary and taken-for-granted it is hoped that the exhibition will help to define the character and value of Georgian Limerick. Admission Free For further details contact Limerick City Gallery of Art

Cllr Maria Bynre, officially opening Annmaire Bourke's art studio in O'Connell Street.

Noel Earlie, Davina Walsh and Eugene Pratt, attending the Official Opening of Annmaire Bourke's art studio in O'Connell Street.

Sinead Dartnell and Victoria Treacy, Blue Willow, attending Annmaire Bourke's studio opening in O'Connell Street.

Leanne Harty and Micheal Delohery, attending the Official Opening of Annmaire Bourke's art studio at O'Connell Street, Limerick.

Majella O'Neill Collins Exhibition: BODY OF WATER

29th Nov - 23rd Dec

West Cork Arts Centre, North St, Skibbereen, Co. Cork

Tel: 028 - 22090, Fax: 028 - 23237, Email: westcorkarts@eorcom.net 56

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More Tales of Limerick WELL-known Corbally writer, Denis O’Shaughnessy has produced another new book on his favourite subject: Limerick. The book, ‘More Tales of Limerick’ is a follow up to his successful publication of two years ago, ‘Stories of Limerick,’ and is in local bookshops from this week. Denis, who saw the need some years back of recording unpublished and hidden facets of the social history of his native city, has been compiling this latest collection of stories (32 in all) for the past two years. This latest publication, in his long list of books on Limerick, promises to be as interesting and as popular as his previous publications, which have all sold out and have become collector's items. This latest compilation of stories is hugely diverse, ranging from notable breach of promise cases tried in the courts of Limerick, to accounts from no less than five sources, of the firing of Big Gun at the Strand Barracks during the Civil War. Rugby enthusiasts are well catered for in the book, with several stories, including the author’s personal memories (plus some hilarious incidents) of Thomond Park down the years. It has been often been said that there was invariably a Limerick presence in world history making events. One of these was the great Nazi propaganda showpiece, the Berlin Olympics of 1936,

and in Denis’ book, two Limerick people in attendance at the games have left us their impressions of a nation girding its lions as it prepared to set out on world conquest.

productions. The author is a custodian of the diversity, traditions and multiplicity of characters of his native city, digging up and reserving facets of life that would have passed into oblivion but for his acumen.

There was a time in Limerick when, on the smallest pretext, you could wind up with a nick-name. Whole families have been nicknamed, and Denis has come up with a collection of no less than 500 individual monikers, many of them anything but complimentary! He also includes another collection of old Limerick words, expressions and colloquialisms. When the city rose up against the young Maoists and their Little Red Book in 1970 is a story that captures the conservatism of Limerick of 1970, and when the Mayor, Stevie Coughlan, and the ‘Limerick Leader’ were condemned nationally for practically condoning the attack on the Maoist shop in Castle Street. These are but a flavour of what to expect in ‘More Tales of Limerick’, which also includes some previously unpublished photographs, including some unique rowing photos in his reminiscences of Limerick Regatta in the Docks era. This hugely entertaining publication will not disappoint the many readers who have come to look forward to Denis’ bi-annual

Crooning at Christmas Starring Liam O’Brien Having sold out three consecutive nights last December in our Upstairs venue, Liam O'Brien returns with his festive hit show Crooning at Christmas. Now in its fourth year and moving to the Warehouse for a fully seated spectacular, the show is a tribute to Christmas swing and Yuletide crooning, showcasing all the great hits made famous by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bing Crosby and more. Joining him on stage will be the wonderful Kathleen Turner and Limerick's own Lisa Bresnan - all backed by jazz maestro David Irwin and the Million Dollar Swing Band. A feel good evening of entertainment featuring hits like White Christmas, Chestnuts Roasting, Rocking Around the Christmas tree and many more, guaranteed to get you in the swing this Christmas. Tickets €18 including booking fee available on www.dolanspub. com or by calling 061 314483.

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Lisa Bresnan and Liam O'Brien perform to a capacity crowd at the Crooning for Christmas Concerts, Upstairs in Dolans recently.

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Living For The City Triathlon Team Another month has passed and the team is progressing nicely. Everyone is training hard and even though the triathlon is still 5 months away such is the challenge of a triathlon that the training volume is already quite high. Swimming as expected is proving to be the most difficult of the three disciplines. Dedication to improving technique and consistency are key to constant improvement. Lisa Horgan is working hard with the triathletes on improving technique and doing a great job. A few participants ,who only 2 months ago were struggling to do 20 m before stopping, are now doing 1000 – 1500m without stopping. This is a fantastic improvement.

On Sundays rain,hail or soon to be snow the team takes to the roads for a cycle and distances of between 40 – 60km are being covered. Eamonn Horgan is giving great tips that are proving very helpful and again terrific improvements are there to be seen. Running is progressing too and on Saturday evenings the team does a run of between 6-10km. Throughout the week all team members have a strict training and nutrition programme to follow and everyone is doing very well. We are looking in good shape going into the turn of the year. Such is the dedication that training sessions are planned for Christmas day and the Christmas period.

Tel: 089 061 4168011 424936 web :: www.davesheahan.ie www.davesheahan.ie web email :: davesheahan@davesheahan.ie davesheahan@davesheahan.ie email

Why Exercise?: Inproved Effectiveness and Efficiency The benefits of having a healthy mind and body are numerous but one that is very important for anyone in business is improved effectiveness and efficiency. When one is unfit and unhealthy everything seems a drag, things take longer and fatigue is always evident. When one has a healthy mind things change

dramatically. Your mind is more alert and decisions can be made quicker. Deadlines are met earlier. You actually will get more done which means more business which means more financial and personal gains. So if you want to improve your business life then get exercising and witness your business grow.

Why use Nutritional Supplements? Nutritional Supplements are widely used in countries such as America and Australia but there is much ignorance and lack of education as of yet in Ireland. With today’s busy lifestyle and with people pursuing a healthier lifestyle nutritional supplements are a must in every household. Whether young or old there are certain supplements that everyone should be taking. You may have symptons like constant fatigue, lack of energy, loss of memory, bad concentration, bad circulation, dry scalp and skin, bad nails, low immune system as well as many other such conditions even more serious.

On the other hand you might find that your metabolism is quite slow and you find it hard to burn fat. You may find it impossible to gain muscle. You might be an endurance athlete who can never find that reserve near the end of a workout to kick you home or it takes months to knock a minute off your time. You may be someone who finds it impossible to eat frequently and healthily. You may feel hungry every night and need a solution that won’t cause you to store fat. Supplements have a role in everyone’s life so talk to a professional and get a supplement plan that will meet your needs.

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Myth Vs Fact: Myth: Aerobics is better for shaping up than weight training. Fact: To transform your physique, you must train with weights. For the next few weeks I will be dispelling common myths regarding training and nutrition and educating you as to the facts. When people talk about losing weight what they are really looking for in most of the cases is to change their shape. Most of these people will rely on walking and dieting to do this. While this will help raise your metabolism and burn fat it will not achieve the shape which people are looking for. In order to burn fat and achieve shape one must do cardiovascular work to raise metabolism and burn calories, incorporate proper balanaced nutrition to raise metabolism and feed the body and most importantly must do resistance training to raise the metabolism and shape the body. You see you could walk 4 hours a day and lose loads of weight but the muscles will still be soft and saggy and thus you will not have the shape you desire. When you do weights you tighten the muscle and make it solid and sculptured. It is the only way you can get that tight toned look. So continue walking and eating correctly but make sure you do some form of resistance training as well or you will never reach the end of the road. www.businesslimerick.ie

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Shane Geoghegan Forever Remembered By Limerick Sporting Folk with Mal Keaveney

Limerick Sport is still reeling from the senseless killing of Shane Geoghegan, an innocent young victim of the city’s ongoing gang feud. Described as “one of the brightest and best,” the likeable 28-year-old died in a hale of bullets on his way home from the rugby international between Ireland and Canada from Thomond Park with friends in a nearby house in the Kilteragh Estate, Dooradoyle a short few weeks back. He was mistaken for a big-time drug importer. In his earlier playing days, he lined-out with Crescent College Comprehensive and Shannon but was attached to Garryowen FC for the last few seasons. Earlier in the weekend of his horrific killing, Shane had played with Garryowen Thirds in their contest with great rivals Shannon. And back in the Spring, Shane had captained the Light Blues to success in the North Munster Gleeson League.

The funeral mass for Shane Geoghegan, at St. Joseph’s Church in Limerick, was attended by around 2,500 mourners, clear evidence of the special place he held in the hearts of so many, and the revulsion felt by plenty to this most unnecessary loss of life. President of Ireland Mary McAleese sent her condolences, Taoiseach Brian Cowen was represented by his aide-de-camp, Mayor of Limerick John Gilligan attended as did most of his fellow city councillors, while Bishop of Limerick Dr. Donal Murray delivered a message to the congregation. “The senseless killing of an innocent, good man with his whole life before him was further evidence of the futility of this evil feud and the callous inhumanity with which it is pursued,” stated Dr. Murray.

“He was a man you could always count on and was never found wanting on the field,” commented one playing colleague. “Shane played a captain’s role and winning the league was made all the more special with Gagsy as captain. What can you say? We’re in bits about this. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.” Garryowen Chairman Ger Clarke noted something special in Shane when he led his side to glory back in March. “As Shane was going up to collect the cup, he called on the Thomond players to join in the photograph being taken. When he made his victory speech he did it with such style, covering everything that needed to be said, I said to myself, Garryowen’s future is in good hands, Shane will make a great club president in the future,” he said. Niall Collins TD summed up this terrible atrocity when he described it as “the outrage of all outrages.” “I knew Shane well. A lovely guy and a thorough gentleman, a fine cut of a fellow,” said Collins, who featured alongside the deceased during his own playing career in Dooradoyle. “Shane was as sound a guy as you could meet. Now the inevitable has happened with this feud – a fine person has been murdered. He is walking home and these fellows chase him. They are callous bastards.” www.businesslimerick.ie

during his teaching time at Crescent Comprehensive. A pencil sketch of Shane rested next to his Garryowen FC draped coffin, along with a rugby ball while colleagues from Air Atlanta, where he worked as a fitter, brought up a model aircraft in his memory. The Garryowen flag, of course, has as its emblem a five-pointed star, representing the city’s five parishes. Shane’s younger brother Anthony ended the service with a few lines from the David Harkin poem ‘Remember Me’: “Do not shed tears when I have gone but smile instead because I have lived,” which brought mourners to their feet in applause. Mourners rendered another spontaneous applause as his coffin was borne from the church, on its final journey to his resting place in the Old Cemetery in Mungret, a 3km stretch walked by the majority of the attendance where there were greeted along the way by more outbursts of appreciative applause.

Shane Geoghean, R.I.P.

Others present included Defence Minister Willie O’Dea, former Ireland manager Eddie O’Sullivan, a host of internationals such as Jerry Flannery and David Wallace, along with a full compliment of Shane’s own playing colleagues from Garryowen FC. Assistant Garda Commissioner Kevin Ludlow and Superintendent Frank O’Brien were also present, as were other members of the investigating team. The chief celebrant at his funeral mass was Fr. Jim Maher, who taught Shane

In a club statement, Garryowen described Shane as a role model for a younger generation and decided to retire the number three jersey across all its teams for the remainder of the season. “From here on, we will be strengthened in the knowledge that every Garryowen team that takes to the pitch will have Shane as our 16th man, there beside us. Solus na bhFlaitheas go raibh aige,” it concluded. As a mark of respect, a minute’s silence was observed ahead of the 30th anniversary Munster/Nez Zealand rematch which marked the province’s historic 1978 victory over the touring AllBlacks at Thomond Park, and the opening of the new €40 million stadium. Shane is survived by his parents Tom and Mary, brother Anthony and fiancée Jenna Barry. ‘Requiescat in Pace.’ 59

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A Great Moment in Sport By Mick Galwey Now that Thomond Park is officially open, the fear of Thomond Park losing its mystique and atmosphere can be put to bed, particularly after The All Blacks game. We have been looking forward to it since it was announced, but never in our wildest dreams did we expect this spectacle, especially with so many senior squad players missing. The whole build up was something that Munster Rugby and indeed Limerick can be very proud of. We never saw people seated in Thomond Park 30 minutes before a match. The game itself was one of those great moments in sport for those of us lucky to be there. Starting with the Munster Hakka, the crowd went wild, and then the respect of the Thomond Park crowd for the New Zealand Hakka. But little did we know that a Munster team with a lot of unknown players were about to produce the game of their lives. It summed up what is great about the Munster Jersey when you are faced with playing the best team in the world. This was as good a performance by Munster as any of the home countries managed. The senior players stepped up to the mark, Peter Stringer, Mick O’ Driscoll, Frankie Sheahan and our four Kiwis were not intimidated by their fellow countrymen. But notably a lot of our younger players came of age, Donnacha Ryan, Timmy Ryan, Niall Ronan to name but a few. Not even the All Blacks would have experienced an atmosphere anything like this before. Munster clapped them off the field and the All Blacks came back onto

the field and returned the applause to Munster supporters. To sum it up, it was a great opening of Thomond Park and we look forward to many more great occasions there. Last weekend, we had a tight game away to Llanethli Scarlets in the Magners League. Hopefully it will stand to us as we are back on Heineken Cup duty this weekend. We are going to have a very tough assignment away to Clermont Auvergne which I believe is going to be our toughest pool game. Last year, we experienced how good they are and even though we lost, we had to play very well in the 2nd half to get a bonus point. Clermont are one of the top sides in French Rugby and even though they lost to Sale Sharks in their 1st game at home, we can expect a backlash. Our home and away games with Clermont will give us a better view and determine where we stand in the group. Despite a number of injuries, we are capable of beating them at home and away. The Autumn Internationals have come and gone and Declan Kidney hasn’t learnt a whole lot about his side, as our game against Canada was a walk-over. We didn’t perform against the All-Blacks, but it was good to beat Argentina which put us in the 2nd tier in the World Cup draw. It was nice to see local players, Keith Earls getting his deserved caps, a good run in the Heineken Cup games over the next few weeks will

Mick Galwey

further his chances of claiming a first team spot for his country in the 6 nations. It was also great to see Donnacha Ryan getting his first cap, coming on as a sub against Argentina. Hopefully for both, this will be the start of many more caps. Our World Cup draw was favourable getting Australia and Italy; not as daunting as our last World Cup where we had Argentina and France. Having watched Australia play Barbarians, they are certainly not short of young talent and should be one of the favourites to win the World Cup.

The Limerick Clubs are doing well in the All Ireland League. The big thing this season is to finish in the top 8 to qualify for the proposed Super League next year. Shannon, Bohs and Garryowen, after shaky starts, are all in contention. Young Munster will have to repeat the heroics of their Cork Con match on a few occasions to be up there, but without doubt they will give it a go. In the Division 2, Bruff have continued on from their great success of last year. Up from Division 3 and repeating their New Zealand All Blacks with the management team of The Limerick Strand Hotel, where the team stayed during their stay in Limerick performances of last for the monumental match against Munster

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year and now sitting 2nd from the top in Division 2. Old Crescent are also on a very good run having won 3 out of their 5 matches. Thomond find themselves close to the bottom but no doubt will ‘circle the wagons’ and rally again. Sadly, Irish Rugby has lost 3 great clubmen over the last month. Shane Geoghegan was an innocent victim in tragic circumstances and a sombre thought for everyone in sporting circles in Limerick and throughout the country. My condolences to his family, friends, and Garryowen FC. We also lost a well respected rugby

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pundit and lover of the game in Niall Cantrell and again my thoughts are with his family, friends, and Old Crescent RFC. Finally, the passing of a great personal friend and a friend to everyone who was lucky enough to have met him, Frankie Flynn. Everybody knew Frankie as the man who sang the “isle”, but he was much more than that. A gentleman to the core, a great family man and his loyalty to Shannon RFC was unprecedented. Our

thoughts are with his wife Violet, and his large circle of family and friends. Rest in Peace. “Happy Christmas to everyone involved in sport in Limerick and hoping that 2009 will be as enjoyable and successful.”

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Women's Enterprise Day Inspires Entrepreneurs ‘Survive, Thrive and Grow’ was the theme of this year's National Women's Enterprise Day, which was attended 26th November by over 300 delegates in the Mullingar Park Hotel, Mullingar. Hosted by the County and City Enterprise Boards, delegates heard that women entrepreneurs are making a significant contribution to the economy by starting new businesses at record levels. Over 1000 women are setting up a new business every month with 8 per cent of these entrepreneurs expecting to employ 20 people or more within five years. The challenge is to create the conditions in which these entrepreneurs can survive, thrive and grow to realise their ambitions. To capture the full benefit of this entrepreneurial activity for the benefit of Ireland and local communities, delegates heard that now more than ever, women need to be supported in business to give them the necessary confidence, knowledge and skills to thrive and grow their businesses to their full potential. Women have certain strengths that will stand them in good stead in a tough economic climate, according to Paula Fitzsimons, Strategy and Management Consultant and MC of National Women’s Enterprise Day. She pointed in particular to their steady approach to business, their risk adverse nature and their openness to seeking independent advice, which fosters confidence during periods of economic difficulty. Set-up in 1993 by the Government to promote and encourage job and enterprise creation at local level, County & City Enterprise Boards are responsible for assisting entrepreneurs by providing financial assistance in the form of grants as well as entrepreneurial and capability development, which includes information, advice, training, mentoring and management development. There are currently thirty-five Enterprise Boards operating in Ireland and one of their objectives is to increase the level of female entrepreneurship nationally.

Pictured were Christine Charlton Chair of National Women’s Enterprise Day Organising Committee and CEO of Westmeath County Enterprise Board and Nicola Byrne, Managing Director of Call 11890 Ltd.

This event is hosted by the County & City Enterprise Boards and funded under the National Development Plan (NDP) Gender Equality Unit in the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform ‘Services to promote Women in Business / Entrepreneurship’. Partner agencies in the event are the Department of Justice Equality & Law Reform, Gender Equality Section (prime sponsor), FAS and Enterprise Ireland.

New Mobile System at Thomond Park Choice Communications, a leading Corkbased distributor of mobile communications devices, has just completed the installation of an ultra-modern, two-way radio system at Thomond Park in Limerick, the recently revamped home of the reigning European Cup rugby champions, Munster. The project, carried out in partnership with major international security firm Group 4 Securicor (G4S), involved the installation of 70 Entel HX482 compact two-way radio sets, which will be used to aid crowd control and ticketing procedures, and by medical staff at the stadium. Choice Communications - part of national mobile communications firm, Commercial Wireless - worked closely with G4S and the management team of Thomond Park Stadium to implement a highly efficient yet 62

cost effective communications system for Thomond Park. The stadium has just reopened following a multi-million euro refit, which has seen its capacity more than doubled. Paul Giltinan, Managing Director of Choice Communications, said: “Thomond Park is one of the most visible sporting landmarks in Munster and, indeed, in Ireland. So we were hugely honoured to be able to play a role in the revamping of the stadium by helping to install the new radio system”. “Our objective, in partnership with G4S, was to put in place a completely modern communications system that would be wholly secure and that would meet the needs of the stadium management team. We feel the system that has been installed is in line with the rest of the world class

facilities that have been created for the new Thomond Park,” said Mr. Giltinan. Established in 1990, Choice Communications - which became part of the Commercial Wireless group in 2005 - has also worked on a number of other projects with G4S, including the Mahon Point Shopping Centre, in Cork, the new McDonagh Junction shopping centre, in Kilkenny, and the Bulmers brewery, in Clonmel. The company has a wide range of customers, including several blue chip corporate customers, in the Cork and Munster region. Key customers include Cork City Council, the Musgrave Supervalu Group, EMC, Beamish & Crawford, Heineken Ireland and the Southern Health Board. www.businesslimerick.ie

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DECEMBER 2008

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Insurance. Think about how will you protect your living and keep up your mortgage payments in the event of unemployment, sickness or injury? Redmond will recommend an Insurance Plan so you will be covered for those unexpected circumstances. Savings & Investments. The idea of making your money work as hard as you do is appealing to all of us! Redmond’s team of specialists will advise you depending on your Financial goals, current financial situation, investment experience, time horizon and attitude towards risk all determine your Investment “personality” and the Investment option that is best for you. Of course, all investors are different - some want to guarantee their investment, others are more ambitious and want to invest in assets with a higher potential for growth, even if that means taking on more risk. Not all investment funds will be right for everyone. They will look at all the options with various institutes and any risks there may be and find the combination of funds that most suits your needs... Call Tommy today on 061 446629. Thomas Redmond T/A Redmond Mortgages & Pensions is regulated by the Financial Regulator. www.businesslimerick.ie

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Trading Through The Downtourn Established over fifty years ago Wm. O’Brien Plant Hire has been through tougher times than Ireland’s current economic situation. William O’Brien senior built the business through a time when Ireland was asserting its sovereignty and taking the first tentative steps towards Europe. The first programme for Economic Expansion was brought in by a government led by Sean Lemass which saw the beginning of Foreign Investment in Ireland resulting in the beginning of a more industrialised Ireland and a move away from the traditional farming background. William O’Brien Senior began working in his birthplace of Kerry. He started out by clearing off old country estates and old golf courses such as Mallow golf course using earth moving equipment like JCBS. He then moved into the Crane Hire business and began to buy machines and establish his Plant Hire Business. He quickly understood that there was a need for waste disposal so he became involved in that aspect of the business. He then set up a plastics business which spawned many other local plastics businesses in Cork. He was a real Entrepreneur and where he saw opportunities he went for them.

downturn. Finbarr Warren, Managing Director of the company says “We saw the signs over six months ago and we stepped up our credit control at that stage. It’s important to get your cash flow in order – to make sure creditors and debtors are up to date. It’s also important not to have too much excess stock at all times. This is particularly important in the plant hire business with regard to spare parts some of which can cost thousands of Euros. Tyres alone cost an average of €1600”.

makes sure that the business is not overly reliant on one or two large clients. It is important to spread the risk out among the clients and to deal with reputable companies who have a solid business reputation. New customers to the plant hire company are encouraged to pay in cash to avoid losses later on and keep a steady cash flow system in operation.

An Upside to the Downturn? Finbarr maintains that the key aspect of surviving the downturn is by knowing and understanding the business and the key customers. If there is to be an upside to the downturn it is that it allows companies to slow down and to concentrate on reestablishing contact with clients that you may have previously been too busy to speak to. It could also be a time to use key staff in other areas, perhaps by researching other sectors where growth could be expected. At Wm. O’Brien plant hire the company has invested in the Terex® AC700 the largest self mobilising crane in Ireland which will be kept busy in the development and construction of wind turbines, an area of expected growth over the coming years. This is a bigger and more solid market and it is exactly the type of proactive decision making which will result in real and sustainable business over the coming years.

The company built its reputation and the business and helped to change the face of Ireland working on various projects It is the companies that adapt throughout Ireland including the to the recession without burying GPO in Dublin, Knock Cathedral their heads in the sand that will “ A room with a view” Tony O’ Connor & Mick Cotter, Crane Operators and and on buildings along the Grand survive and thrive in the future. Banksmen at Wm.O’Brien Plant Hire who between them have over seventy Parade in Cork. It traded through It is clear that the team at Wm. eight years of experience look out over Bishopstown. the difficult years of the 80s when O’Brien Plant Hire, many of whom unemployment in relation to the lived and worked through tougher general population was at an extreme Finbarr’s advice included not jumping the times before, have learned how to cope high and when emigration was one of the gun in terms of sales. At Wm. O’Brien Plant and have developed solid strategic plans only options available to the majority of the Hire a sale is not considered a sale until that will enable growth for this company in population. Yet in the face of these difficult the item has been paid for. Full ownership the years to come. times Wm. O’Brien Plant Hire continued of a deal is given to the sales team right to trade and to grow in business. up to receiving payment. If payment is a For more information on Wm O’ Brien problem for some customers they are Crane Hire please log onto www. Surviving and Thriving in Tough Times encouraged to spread their costs perhaps cranehireireland.com or call 0214543881. Undoubtedly, having seen tough times by leasing. before the company has learned how to deal with the task of trading through the The team at Wm O’ Brien Plant Hire also 64

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Grant Thornton Chartered Accountants, Mill House, Henry St, Limerick. Tel: 061 314622 / 061 312744 Fax: 061 317691 / 061 418038 Email: limerick@grantthornton.ie Web: www.grantthornton.ie

ADVERTISING AGENCY Southern Advertising Killoran House, Catherine Place, Limerick. Tel: 061 310286 Fax: 061 313013 Email: info@southernadlimk.com Web: www.southernad.ie

HDS Partnership Registered Auditors – Accountants – Tax Consultants – Business Advisors 2nd Floor,RiverPoint, Lower Mallow Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 445000 Fax: 061 445060 E-mail: mail@hds.ie Web: www.hds.ie Horwath Bastow Charleton Accountants and Business Advisors Horwath House, The Red Church, Henry St. Limerick. Tel: 061 310311 Fax: 061 318899 E-mail: info@horwath.ie Web: www.hbcl.ie Moore Stephens Patrick McNamara Accountants and Business Advisors Pamdohlen House, Dooradoyle Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 229666 Fax: 061 302144 Email: info@msmcnamara.ie Web: www.mspatrickmcnamara.ie John Quirke & Co. Racefield House, Dooradoyle, Limerick. Tel: 061 301260 Fax: 061 307863 Email: jonhquirkeandco@eircom.net O’Donovan Caulfield Lavin 1 Mt. Kenneth Place, Henry St, Limerick. Tel: 061 411000 Fax: 061 411001 E-mail: info@odcl.ie O’Hurley Blair Irwin 3rd Floor, Mount Kenneth House, Henry St, Limerick. Tel: 061 401122 Fax: 061 401144 E-mail: info@obi.ie Web: www.obi.ie

www.businesslimerick.ie

Spark Marketing Communications 100 O’Connell St, Limerick. Tel: 061 409251 Fax: 061 409255 E-mail: info@sparkmarketing.ie Web: www.sparkmarketing.ie AIR CONDITIONING Batt O’Connor Air Conditioning Contact: Batt O’Connor Ballykenneddy, Ballingarry, Co.Limerick Tel: 069 68407 Fax: 069 68407 Mobile: 086 8122220 Email: bocac@eircom.net ARCHITECTS & BUILDING ENERGY RATING ASSESSORS Brian O’ Donoghue Tait Business Centre, Dominic St., Limerick. Tel: 061 410318 Fax: 061 414315 Mob: 086 8122271 E-mail: architecturalservices@eircom.net ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, BUILDING ENERGY RATINGS ASSESSMENTS & PROJECT MANAGEMENT Absolute House Plans Ltd. Unit 72 Eastlink Business Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick. Tel/Fax: 061 603700 Mob: 087 2957494 Email: info@absolutehouseplans.ie Web: www.absolutehouseplans.ie ARTISTS Una Heaton Tel: 086 3735015 Email: unaheaton@eircom.net Web: www.unaheatonart.com

Carmel T. Magigan Tel: 086 8197726 Email: ctmadigan@eircom.net Web: www.carmelmadigangallery.com AUCTIONEERS DTZ SHERRY FITZGERALD Hibernian House, 105 Henry Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 418111 Fax: 061 418112 Email: limerick@dtz.ie Web: www.dtz.ie G.L Auctioneers, Valuers & Property Consultants 65 O’Connell Street, Limerick. Contact: Geraldine Leddin Tel: 061 467188 Fax: 061 467190 Email: info@propertylimerick.com Web: www.propertylimerick.com John Shaw Auctioneers M.I.P.A.V. 1 Lower Mallow Street, Limerick Tel: 061 311133 Fax: 061 314666 Email: john@johnshawauctioneers.com Web: www.johnshawauctioneers.com Frontline Estate Agents 28 Mallow St, Limerick. Tel: 061 400544 Fax: 061 400585 E-mail: frontline@iol.ie Web: www.property.ie/frontline

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ACCOUNTANTS BDO Simpson Xavier Business and Financial Advisors 4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172 Email: info@bdosx-limerick.com Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

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BAR, BISTRO & NIGHTCLUB Aubars 49-50 Thomas Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 317799 Fax: 061 317572 Email: sales@aubars.com Web: www.aubars.com BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Peter Clohesseys Bar & Sinbin Nightclub Howleys Quay, Limerick Tel: 061 468100 Fax: 061 404863 Email: eimear@peterclohessey.ie Web: www.peterclohessey.com BISTRO The Cornstore, 19 Thomas Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 609 000/ 609 001 Fax: 061 409 334 Email: info@cornstorelimerick.com 65

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BUILDING CONTRACTORS Ace Services Glenameade Pallaskenry, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 393 049 or 061 393 982 Fax: 061 393 303 Email: aceservices@eircom.net BUILDING SUPPLIERS Ballysheedy Building Supplies Ballysheedy, Co. Limereick (next to ‘ Weigh In’ bar) Tel: 061 445660/ 061 445666 Mob: 087 2490666/ 087 6983444 BURGLAR ALARMS & SECURITY SYSTEMS Clifford Security Alarms 16 Wickham Street, Limerick Tel: 061 313033 / 440151 Fax: 061 317412 Email: info@cliffordsecurity.com Web: www.cliffordsecurity.com BUSINESS BANKING Allied Irish Bank (AIB) Contact: Kieran O’Regan Lower Cecil Street, Limerick Tel: 061 406200 Fax: 061 409002 Email: kieran.j.o’regan@aib.ie Web: www.aib.ie Anglo Irish Bank Anglo Irish Bank House, 98 Henry St., Limerick Tel: 061 461800 Fax: 061 461898 Web: www.angloirishbank.com Bank of Ireland 125 O’ Connell St., Limerick Tel: 061 419791 Fax: 061 418554 E-mail: david_p.kennedy@boimail.com Bank Of Scotland Ireland Bank of Scotland House, Shannon Street, Limerick Tel: 061-209300 E-mail: info@bankofscotlandireland.ie Web: www.bankofscotlandireland.ie KBC Bank Ireland plc, Riverpoint, Bishops Quay, Limerick Tel: 061 448600 Fax: 061 468468 Email: damien.quigley@kbc.ie Web: www.kbc.ie 66

Permanent TSB Sarsfield Street – 061 318922 Dooradoyle – 061 484846 William Street – 061 317933 Email: info@permanenttsb.ie Web: www.permanenttsb.ie Ulster Bank Midwest Business Centre 14 Henry Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 316757 Fax: 061 312971 E-mail: midwestbusinesscentre@ulsterbank.com Web: www.ulsterbank.com BUSINESS COACHES Action Coach Business Coaching Unit 1 C, Annacotty Business Park, Annacotty, Limerick. Tel: 061 338682 Fax: 061 338682 Email: joepower@actioncoach.com Web: www.actioncoach.com/joepower BUSINESS ENTERPRISES O’Callaghan Enterprises Head Office 47 Upper William Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 414224 Fax: 061 405171 Web: www.ocallaghanenterprises.com BUSINESS ORGANISATIONS Limerick Chamber 96 O’ Connell St, Limerick Tel: 061 415180 Fax: 061 415785 Email: info@limerickchamber.ie Web: www.limerickchamber.ie Shannon & District Chamber of Commerce Shannon Business Centre, Shannon, Co. Clare Tel: 061 360611 Fax: 061 360440 E-mail: admin@shannonchamber.ie Web: www.shannonchamber.ie BUSINESS SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS Business Computer Solutions Ltd BCS House Dock Road Limerick Tel: 061 311 311 Lo-Call: 1890 818 400 Fax: 061 311 313 Email: direct@bcs.ie Web: www.bcsdirect.ie

BUSINESS TELEPHONE SYSTEMS Lantel Networks Ltd Roselawn House, National Technological Park, Limerick. Tel: 061 3503580 Fax: 061 350360 Email: info@lantel.ie Web: www.lantel.ie BUSINESS TRAINING ORGANISATION FAS FAS Services To Business Raheen Business Park, Raheen, Limerick Tel: 061-487975 Fax: 061-229447 E-Mail: des.murphy@mw.fas.ie Web: www.fas.ie CAR DEALERS Clareview Motors Ennis Road, Limerick Tel: 061 221000 Fax: 061 221060 E-mail: info@clareviewmotors.com Web: www.clareviewmotors.com Pat Keogh BMW Tipperary Road, Limerick Tel: 061 422600 Fax: 061 422622 Email: info@patkeogh.com Web: www.patkeoghbmw.com Pat Keogh NISSAN Tipperary Road, Limerick Tel: 061 313355 Fax: 061 312311 Email: info@patkeogh.com Web: www.patkeogh-nissan.com Lyons Of Limerick & Nenagh Main Ford Dealers, Ballysimon Road, Limerick Tel: 061 413344 / 067 33442 Fax: 061 413699 / 067 33436 E-mail: sales@lyonsoflimerick.com Web: www.lyonsoflimerick.com

CompuCount Ltd. 18 Cois Luachra, Limerick. Tel: 061 305033 Fax: 061 305291 Email: sales@compucount.ie Web: www.compucount.ie www.businesslimerick.ie

ISS Facilities Unit 11, Ashbourne Business Park Dock Road, Limerick Tel: 061 500300 Fax: 061 500301 Contact : Brian Kelly Mobile: 087 9159108 Email: brian.kelly@iss.ie Web: www.iss.ie

CATERING Country Fresh Catering Bulgaden, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick. Tel: 063 20001 Fax: 063 20165 E-mail: bulgadencastle1@eircom.net Web: www.bulgadencastle.com

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE SERVICE Elite Cleaning Service Rose Cottage, Woodpark, Castleconnell, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 372133 Fax: 061 372627 E-mail: elitecleaning@eircom.net Web: www.elite-contract-cleaning.com

Mortell Catering 49 Roches Street, Limerick Tel: 061 415457 Mob: 087 7973419 E-mail: mortb@eircom.net Web: www.mortellcatering.com

Noonan Services Limited Docklands Business Park, Dock Road, Limerick Tel: 061 312077 Fax: 061 315712 E-mail: nsllimerick@eircom.net

CCTV & ACCESS COMMUNICATIONS Advanced Monitoring No.2 Pillar House, Little Ellen St. Limerick Tel: 061 319 375 Fax: 061 311 805 Mobile: 087 2596955 / 087 2395039 Email: advancedmonitoring@eircom.net CHARTERED SURVEYORS, VALUE ENGINEERS, & PROJECT MANAGERS Bruce Shaw Partnership Bruce Shaw House, 6 Hartstonge Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 493515 Fax: 061 493516 E-Mail: contactus@bsplim.ie Web: www.bruceshaw.ie CLEANING Clean Habit B2 Smithstown Industrial Estate, Shannon, Co. Clare. Tel: 061 361461 Fax: 061 361868 Email: mary@cleanhabit.com Web: www.cleanhabit.com Complete Cleaning & Maintenance Services Director: Pat McLoughlin Roxboro Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 409596 Mob: 087 9622222 Fax: 061 409591 www.compclean.ie www.businesslimerick.ie

COACH HIRE Martin’s of Limerick Annacotty Business Park, Biddyford, Annacotty, Co. Limerick. Tel: 061 333100 Fax: 061 333102 Email: martinscoaches@eircom.net Web: www.martinscoaches.ie COMPUTER NETWORKING SALES & SUPPORT Action Point Unit 8B, Plassey Enterprise Centre, National Technology Park, Limerick. Contact: David Jeffreys Tel: 061 337 632 Call-Save: 1850-ACTION/ 1850 228 466 Fax: 061 301 924 Email: info@actionpoint.ie BCS Computers BCS House Dock Road, Limerick Tel: 061 311 311 Lo-Call: 1890 818 400 Fax: 061 311 313 Email: direct@bcs.ie Web: www.bcsdirect.ie Fitzpatrick Computer Group Mill House, Henry Street, Limerick Tel: 061 493300 Fax: 061 417219 Email: sales@fcg.ie Web: www.fcg.ie

O’Connor Network Services (ONS) Ardnataggle, O’Briens Bridge, Co. Clare Tel: 061 343412 Fax: 061 343413 Mobile: 087 8118690 E-mail: info@ons.ie Web: www.ons.ie PAQ IT Solutions PAQ IT House, Mayorstone, Limerick. Tel: 061 326792 Fax: 061 326791 Ennis: 065 6868333 Galway: 091 755666 E: info@paqit.com W: www.paqit.com CONSTRUCTION Roadbridge Ltd Ballyclough, Ballysheedy, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 419855 Fax: 061 414767 E-mail: headoffice@roadbridge.ie Web: www.roadbridge.ie CONTRACT & EVENT CATERERS Masterchefs Hospitality Epicurean House, Robert Street, Limerick Tel: 061 411522 Fax: 061 402021 Email: sales@mhm.ie

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

CARPETS & FLOORING Provincial Floor Coverings Raheen Business Park, Raheen, Limerick. Tel: 061-227100 Fax: 061-227000 E-Mail: sales@pfl.ie Web: www.pfl.ie

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

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CORPORATE GIFTS Craft Innovations Corporate Gifts Ltd. 5 Quin Street, Limerick Tel: (061) 415198 Fax: (061) 415208 Email: info@craftinnovations.ie Web: www.craftinnovations.ie Friendship Wines & Hampers Contact: Joe Crowley Tel: 061 455225 Mob: 087 7607495 Email: joe@friendshipwines.ie Web: www.friendshipwines.ie DINING FURNITURE SOLUTIONS G & A Manifold (Showrooms) Unit 6E, Docklands Business Park, Dock Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 312777 Fax: 061 313434 Email: to info@gamanifold.ie Web: www.gamanifold.ie 67

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

........................................................................................................................ .... BL | DIRECTORY DISPLAY SignLynx Contact: Jack O’Loughlin Franklin Motor Yard, Cahernorry, Ballysimon, Limerick. Tel: 061 333736 Mob: 086 8094420 Fax: 061 333737 Email: jackoloughlin@signlynx.ie Web: www.signlynx.ie

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DRAINAGE & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES Walsh Environmental Services Drainage & Environmental Specialists The Cottage, Lower Meelick, Co. Clare Tel: 061 325757 Fax: 061 325700 ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS Des Ryan Electrical Ballyneety, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 351643 Mobile: 087 9121561 Email: info@desryanelectrical.com Web: www.desryanelectrical.com EVENT MANAGEMENT Funireland Event Management Little Orchard, Dooneen, Crecora, Co. Limerick. Tel: 061 320292 Fax: 061 320294 Email: info@funireland.com Web: www.funireland.com Woulfe Event Management, Tower View House, Glenview Avenue, Farranshone, Limerick. Tel: 061 321979 Mob: 087 7631999 Email: woulfeeventmanagement@eircom.net Web: www.woulfemanagement.ie FINANCIAL CONTROL / ACCOUNTING / BOOK-KEEPING SERVICES Hogan Financial Management Ltd 50 O’Connell Street, Limerick Tel: 481444 Fax: 061 481445 Email: info@hoganfinancial.ie Web: www.hoganfinancial.ie FITNESS EQUIPMENT Gymfix ( Irl) Ltd. Unit 1, Dromkeen Industrial Park, Dromkeen, Limerick. Tel: 061 388000 Fax: 061 388011 Fax: info@gymireland.com Web: www.gymfixireland.com 68

FLORIST Flowers Forever Designer Florist Rachel & David Hannon Raheen Roundabout, Limerick. Tel: 061 307123 Fax: 061 307123 Email: flowers4ever@eircom.net FOOTWEAR RETAILER Michael Gleeson Shoes 26 William Street, Limerick Tel: 061 417407 FREIGHT FORWARDING & LOGISTICS International Cargo Services ICS House Raheen Business Park, Raheen, Limerick Tel: 061 500 800 Fax: 061 500 801 Email: ciaran@intlcargo.com Web: www.intlcargo.com GLASS AND MIRRORS Mirror and Glassworx Unit 1b, Annacotty Business Park, Limerick. Tel: 061 333630 Mob: 087 2808184 Fax: 061 333631 Email: info@mirrorandglassworx.com Web: www.mirrorandglassworx.com GOLF COURSES Castletroy Golf Club, Golf Links Road, Castletroy, Limerick. Contact: Patrick Keane Tel: 061 335 753 Fax: 061 335 373 Email: manager@castletroygolfclub.ie Web: www.castletroygolfclub.ie Limerick County Golf Club Ballyneety, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 351881 Fax: 061 351384 Email: lcgolf@iol.ie Web: www.limerickcounty.com Limerick Golf Club Ballyclough, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 414083 Fax: 061 319219 Email: lgc@eircom.net Web: www.limerickgc.com

GRAPHIC & WEB DESIGN Customer Care Solutions Anne Sheehan, Harbour House, Locke Quay, Limerick. Mobile: 087 6684819 E-mail: info@customersolutions.ie Web: www.customersolutions.ie Edgewater Graphics Contact: Hugh Charlottes Quay, Limerick Tel: 061 318318 Fax: 061 318308 Email: hugh@egraphics.ie Web: www.egraphics.ie GRAPHIC, WEB & FILM DESIGN Irish Design Front (IDF) Marine Village, Killaloe, Co.Clare Tel: 061 375412 Mob: 086 8176337 Email: info@idf.ie Web: www.idf.ie GYM/ PERSONAL TRAINING DAVE SHEAHAN GROUP Dave Sheahan Personal TrainingSouthcourt Hotel, Raheen & Lahinch Road, Ennis. Dave Sheahan Gym Windmill Street, Limerick Dave Sheahan, Just for Her - Courtfields, Raheen Tel: 061 424936 Email: davesheahan@davesheahan.ie Web: www.davesheahan.ie HANDHELD EDI SOLUTIONS CompuCount Ltd. 18 Cois Luachra, Limerick. Tel: 061 305033 Fax: 061 305291 Email: sales@compucount.ie Web: www.compucount.ie HEALTH & SAFETY O.T.S. Ltd (Operative Training Services)

GRAPHIC DESIGN CONSULTANCY Optic Nerve Design Group The Mill, Glentworth Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 316955 Fax: 061 316965 E-mail: info@opticnerve.ie Web: www.opticnerve.ie

Roselawn House, National Technology Park, Limerick Tel: 061 633236 Email: office@otslk.com www.businesslimerick.ie

HOME FURNISHINGS Limerick Paint Supplies Pennywell Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 411292 Thomondgate, Limerick. Tel: 061 329828 Fax: 061 415874 Mob: 087 2503448 HOTELS Castletroy Park Hotel, Dublin Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 335566 Fax: 061 331117 Contact: Ursula Cullen Email: ucullen@castletroy-park.ie Web: www.castletroy-park.ie Hilton Hotel Ennis Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 421800 Fax: 061 421866 Email: reservations.limerick@hilton.com Web: www.limerick.hilton.com Limerick Marriott Hotel Henry Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 448700 Fax: 061 448701 Contact: Ursula Cullen Email: ursula.cullen@limerickmarriott.ie Web: www.LimerickMarriott.com The Castleoaks House Hotel Garden Suites and Riverside Holiday Homes Castleconnell, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 377666 Fax: 061 377717 E-mail: info@castleoaks.ie Website: www.castleoaks.ie Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel & Revas Spa Adare, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 605100 Fax: 061 396073 Email: reception@woodlands-hotel.ie Web: www.woodlands-hotel.ie www.businesslimerick.ie

The George Boutique Hotel O’Connell Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 460 400 Fax: 061 460 410 Contact: Mr. Altaf Khan Email: thegeorge@lynchotels.com Web: www.lynchotels.com The South Court Hotel, Adare Road, Raheen, Limerick. Tel: 061 487 487 Fax: 061 487 498 Contact: Mr. Diarmuid Ring Email: southcourtreception@lynchotels.com Web: www.lynchotels.com HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE ASSESSORS Auray Assessors Specialists in Property Claims Tel: 061 317264 Fax: 094 9541723 Email: aurayassessors@eircom.net Web: www.aurayltd.com

INK REFILL & TONERS Ink Refill Depot 7B Denmark Street, Tel: 061 446446 Fax: 061 446456 Email: Brendan@inkrefilldepot.ie Web: www.inkrefilldepot.ie INSULATION Aerobord Ltd. Askeaton, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 604600 Fax: 061 604601 Email: mail@aerobord.ie Web: www.aerobord.ie INSURANCE BROKERS & ADVISORS Robert Ryan Insurance 3 Newenham Street, Limerick. Tel:061 319268 Email: robert@ryaninsurances.ie IT INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT Avocent International Avocent House,

HR Consultants The HR Channel Contact: Fiona O’Carroll Ballycarney, Clarina, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 353154 Mobile: 086 2051727 Email: fionaocarroll1@eircom.net

Shannon Free Zone,

HUMAN RESOURCES CONSULTANT AND EXECUTIVE & BUSINESS COACH Elaine Ryan & Associates Unit 7, Elite Business Park, Smithstown, Shannon, Co.Clare. Tel: 086 2381555 Email: elaineryanhr@eircom.net Web: www.elaineryanandassociates.com

Ballysimon Road,

INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISERS GK Wealth Management Ltd 20 The Crescent, Limerick. Tel: 061 448420 Fax: 061 312882 Email: info@gki.ie Web: www.gkwealth.ie

Shannon, Co. Clare. Tel: 061 471877 Fax: 061 471871 Email: info-europe@avocent.com Web: www.avocent.ie KITCHEN & BEDROOM FURNITURE Betterbuy Kitchens 41 Eastlink Business Park,

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

C&M Safety Ltd Contact Name:Margaret Culhane The Curlews, Killeaney, Glin, Co. Limerick Tel:068 34527 Fax: 068 34562 Email: info@cmsafety.com Web:www.cmsafety.com

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

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Limerick. Tel: 061 413144 Fax: 061 774313 Email: david@betterbuy.biz Web: www.betterbuy.biz LABEL MANUFACTURERS Impact Labelling Systems Ltd. Contact: Richard Fox 77/78 Eastlink Business Park, Tipperary Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 437990 Fax: 061 437995 Email: info@impactlabelling.com LETTING AGENTS & PROPERTY MANAGERS Castle Estates

INDUSTRIAL Sercom Solutions Sarsfield Rd: Raheen Business Pk; Raheen, Limerick. Tel: 061-226600 Fax: 061-226640 EMail:kevin.vaughan@SerComSolutions.ie Web:www.sercomsolutions.ie

50 O’Connell Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 440411 Fax: 061 311907 Email: limerick@castle-estates.ie Web: www.castle-estates.ie 69

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

........................................................................................................................ .... BL | DIRECTORY LIFE & PENIONS Niall Cantrell Life & Pensions (Tied Agent of Eagle Star) Kilmore, Co. Clare (via Limerick). Mobile: 087 2545718. E-mail: niallcantrell@eircom.net

MARKETING Customer Care Solutions Anne Sheehan, Harbour House, Locke Quay, Limerick. Mobile: 087 6684819 E-mail: info@customersolutions.ie Web: www.customersolutions.ie

LIFE & BUSINESS COACHING Pathfinder 31b Cecil St. Limerick Tel: 061 215750 Mob: 086 8123834 E-mail: pathfinder@o2.ie

Molly D Marketing Castlecrine, Sixmilebridge, Co.Clare Tel: 061 369898 Mob: 086 2371508 Email: dympna@mollydmarketing.ie Web: www.mollydmarketing.ie

LIFT SERVICES Mid Western Lifts Corcanree Business Park Dock Road, Limerick Tel: 061 400123 Fax: 061 400121 Email: info@mwls.ie Web: www.mwls.ie LUXURY DEPARTMENT STORES Brown Thomas 16 O’Connell Street, Limerick Tel: 061 417222 Fax: 061 412191 Email: ldwan@brownthomas.ie Web: www.brownthomas.com MARQUEE HIRE O’Donovan Marquees Birdhill, Co. Tipperary Tel: 061 379328 Fax: 061 379328 Email: podmarquees@eircom.net Web: www.odonovanmarquees.com MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS Profiles at Work Executive Coaching, Training, Psychometric Testing Ballyheefy, Killaloe, Co. Clare Tel: 061 376461 Fax: 061 375496 Mob: 087 2640028 Email: amckles@eircom.net Web: www.profilesatwork.com MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY SERVICES May Day Management Consultants Tait Business Centre, Dominic Street, Limerick Tel: 061 316960 Fax: 061 314161 Email: info@maydaymanagement.ie Web: www.maydaymanagement.ie 70

MARKETING CONSULTANTS Martin Mc Guire & Associates Dock Road, Limerick Tel: 061 228822 or 061 229233 E-mail: martinm@martinmcguire.com Web: www.martinmcguire.com MARKETING RESEARCH & CONSULTANCY BDO Simpson Xavier 4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172 Email: info@bdosx-limerick.com Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com MODULAR CONTAINERS, CABINS & OFFICES Ballysimon Containers Eastway Business Park Ballysimon Road, Limerick Tel: 061 312530 Fax: 061 313520 Email: morgan@asp-ire.ie Web: www.asp-ire.ie MODULAR OFFICE ACCOMODATION Asp-ire Advance Space Providers Ireland Eastway Business Park Ballysimon Road, Limerick Tel: 061 312530 Fax: 061 313520 Email: morgan@asp-ire.ie Web: www.asp-ire.ie MORTGAGE & FINANCIAL SERVICES Mary Larkin Financial Services 38 Roches St, Limerick. Tel: 061 411822 Fax: 061 411840 Email: larkin@indigo.ie ODCL Financial Services and Mortgages 1 Mount Kennett Place, Henry Street,Limerick. Tel: 061 411000 Email: financial@odcl.ie

MORTGAGES, PROPERTY, MAINTENANCE & INVESTMENTS Moore Stephens Patrick McNamara Financial Planning & Mortgage Solutions Life & Pensions – Mortgages – Investments – Wealth Management Pamdohlen House, Dooradoyle Road Tel: 061 229666 Fax: 061 302144 Email: fsinfo@msmcnamara.ie Web: www.mspatrickmcnamara.ie Redmond Mortgage & Pensions 1A Hartstonge Place, Upper Hartstonge Street, Limerick Tel: 061 446629 Fax: 061 446809 Mobile: 087 8290736 E-mail: tommy@redmondmortgages.com OFFICE EQUIPMENT Gerry Webb Office Equipment 72 Wolfe Tone Street, Limerick Tel: 061 467380 Fax: 061 467380 Mobile: 087 2625768 Email: webfurniture@eircom.net OFFICE EQUIPMENT / PRINTING & STATIONERY Curley Copy Centre Little Ellen Street, Limerick. Contact: Eileen Tel: 061 315331 Fax: 061 315171 Email: jhcurley@eircom.net OFFICE FURNITURE SYSTEMS G & A Manifold (Showrooms) Unit 6E, Docklands Business Park, Dock Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 312777 Fax: 061 313434 Email: info@gamanifold.ie Web: www.gamanifold.ie Metro Office Supplies Unit 2 Crossagalla Enterprise Centre, Ballysimon Road, Limerick Tel: 061 432000 Fax: 061 432001 E-mail: metrosales@eircom.net Web: www.metrooffice.ie OPTICIANS Vision 2 Opticians 6 Henry Street, Limerick Tel: 061 469310 Fax: 061 469309 Email: info@vision2opticians.ie Web: www.vision2opticians.ie www.businesslimerick.ie

PACKAGING IPS Industrial Polythene Solutions Contact Name: Sean O’Carroll Annacotty Business Park, Annacotty, Limerick. Tel: 061 508980 Fax: 061 508984 Email: sean.ocarroll@ipslimited.ie Web: www.ipspackaging.ie PEST CONTROL Curtin Pest Control Rosmadda Business Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 419901 Fax: 061 419504 E-mail: scpestcontrol@eircom.net Web: www.curtinpestcontrol.ie Rentokil Pest Control Ballysimon Road, Limerick Tel: 061 412588 Fax: 061 310836 Email: pcsales@rentokil.ie PENSIONS & INVESTMENTS Karl Daly Pension & Investment Ltd. 2nd Floor, Riverfront Building Howleys Quay, Limerick Tel: 061 318701 Fax: 061 318702 Mobile: 086 2602326 Email: karl@karldaly.com Web: www.karldaly.com or www.ssiaideas.ie PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURER Schwarz Pharma UCB (Schwarz Pharma Ltd) Shannon Industrial Estate, Shannon, Co. Clare. Tel: 061 714100 Fax: 061 714101 Email: info@ucb-group.com Web: www.ucb-group.com PHOTOCOPIERS MJ Flood (Ireland) Ltd. (Sales & Service) 23 John Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 312211 Mob: 087 7815252 Fax: 061 415595 Email: limerick@mjflood.ie Web: www.mjflood.ie www.businesslimerick.ie

PHOTOGRAPHY Brendan Gleeson LIPPA NUJ 25 Cherry Avenue, Caherdavin Lawn, Limerick Tel: 061 453253 Mobile: 087 2159325 Email: gleesonphoto@eircom.net www.bgleesonphoto.com

PUBLIC RELATIONS Echo Marketing 5 The Mews, Hartstonge Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 409353 Mob: 087 9892463 Email: aileen.galvin@echomarketing.ie

John O’Brien Photography High Street, Limerick City Tel: 061 412833 Email: obrienphotos@oceanfree.net Web: www.jobrienphotography.com

Molly D Marketing Castlecrine, Sixmilebridge, Co.Clare Tel: 061 369898 M: 086 2371508 Email: dympna@mollydmarketing.ie Web: www.mollydmarketing.ie

PLANT HIRE & SALES Newport Plant & Tool Hire Ballymackeogh, Newport, Co. Tipperary. Tel: 061 373737 Mob: 086 0664137 E-mail: info@npt.ie Web: www.npt.ie PUBLIC TRANSPORT BUS SERVICES & PRIVATE HIRE Bus Eireann Colbert Station Limerick Tel: 061 313333 Fax: 061417166 Email: info@buseireann.ie Web: www.buseireann.ie PRINTING Mc Kerns Print & Design Glentworth Street, Limerick Tel: 061 417611 Fax: 061 419816 Email: mckernsgs@eircom.net Mc Namara Printers Smithstown Industrial Estate Shannon, Co. Clare Tel: 061 361782 Fax: 061 363271 Email: sales@mcnamaraprinters.ie Web: www.mcnamaraprinters.ie PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS Able Marketing 50 Thomas Street, Limerick Tel: 061 417575 Fax: 061 410055 Email: sales@ablemarketing.ie Web: www.ablemarketing.ie PROPERTY DEVELOPERS Tiernan Properties Arthurs Quay House Arthurs Quay, Limerick Tel: 061 412462 Fax: 412251 Email: info@tiernanproperties.ie Web: www.tiernanproperties.ie PRIVATE HOSPITALS Barringtons Hospital Ltd Tel: 061 490500 Fax: 061 312939 Email: info@barringtonshospital.com Web: www.barringtonshospital.com

MKC Communications Contact: Niamh Quinn 22 Log Na gCapall, South Circular Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 303779 Fax: 061 305802 Mobile: 087 1220119 E-Mail: niamh@mkc.ie Web: www.mkc.ie O’Brien Communications 30 Ashbrook Grove Ennis Road, Limerick Tel/Fax: 061 457999 Mobile: 086 6019214 Email: Kieran@obriencommunications.ie PUBLIC RELATION CONSULTANTS Fianancial Dynamics Cois Na Sionna, O’Briens Bridge, Co. Clare Tel: 061 372643 Mobile: 087 2497290 Fax: 061 372645 Email: eugene.hogan@fd.com Web: www.fd.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

OVERSEAS PROPERTY Balkan Property Investments Ltd (BPI) 4 Pery Square, Limerick. Tel/Fax: 061 313200 Email: info@bpigroup.ie Web: www.bpigroup.ie

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

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PUBLIC RELATIONS & EVENT & MEDIA MANAGEMENT Woulfe Event Management Tower View House, Glenview Avenue, Farranshone, Limerick. Tel: 061 321979 Mob: 087 7631999 Email: woulfeeventmanagement@eircom.net Web: www.woulfemanagement.ie RADIO STATIONS (NATIONAL) Limerick Live 95 FM P.O Box 295 Radio House, Richmond Court, Dock Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 461900 Fax: 061 419595 E-mail: mail@live95fm.ie Web: www.live95fm.ie

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

........................................................................................................................ ..... BL | DIRECTORY RTÉ lyric fm Cornmarket Square, Limerick. Tel: 061 207300 Fax: 061 207390 Email: lyric@rte.ie Web: www.rte.ie/lyricfm Contact: Aodán Ó’Dubhghaill & Julie Knight

RECRUITMENT SPECIALISTS Work Access Ltd. 1st Floor, Pillar House, Little Ellen Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 493095 Fax: 061 409345 Email: info@workaccess.org Web: www.workaccess.org

RECRUITMENT BDO Recruitment BDO Simpson Xavier 4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172 Email: info@bdosx-limerick.com Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com

RESTAURANTS Poppadom Award Winning Indian Cuisine Unit 2C, Robert Street, Corn Market Square, Limerick Tel: 061 446644 www.poppadom.ie

Brooks Recruitment Hotel & Catering 86 O’Connell St., Limerick. Tel: 061 413022 Fax: 061 312799 E-mail: info@brooksrecruitment.com Web: www.brooksrecruitment.com

Thai Gourmet The White House No.2 Glenthworth Street, Limerick Tel: 061 312012 Fax: 381773 Email: gourmet@eircom.net Web: www.thaigourmet.ie

Irish Recruitment Consultants Deloitte & Touche House, Charlottes Quay, Limerick Tel: 061 313744 Fax: 061 417553 Email:admin@irishrecruitment.ie Web:www.irishrecruitment.ie Manpower Limerick Branch 1 Michael Street, Limerick. Contact: Niall Harris Tel: 061 312230 Fax: 061 312280 Email: limerick@manpower.ie Web: www.manpower.ie Richmond Recruitment Hibernian House, Henry St: Limerick. Tel: 061-413111 Fax: 061-416699 E-Mail: midwestjobs@richmond.ie Web: www.richmond.ie Staff Solutions Unit 2 Belfield House, Ennis Road, Limerick Tel: 061 329250 Fax: 061 329252 E-mail: info@staffsolutions.ie Web: www.staffsolutions.ie RECRUITMENT CONSULTANCY RECRUITMENT WEBSITE IrishJobs.ie Head Office South Block, The Malthouse, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2. Tel: +353 1 670 9900 Fax: +353 1 670 9901 Email: info@irishjobs.ie Web: www.irishjobs.ie

SECURITY Avantguard Security Solutions Avantguard House Coonagh Cross, Limerick Tel: 061 323832 Fax: 061 323834 Mobile: 086 6004350 Email: pryan@avantguard.ie Web: www.avantguard.com Advance Securities Imperial House, Roches St., Limerick Tel: 061 411197 Fax: 061-400695 E-mail: info@advancesecurities.com Web: www.advancesecurities.com Westside Security Systems Ltd. Private Security Licence Number: 00095 Rathuard, Donoughmore, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 419610 Mobile: 086 8164444 Email: wsa@eircom.net Web: www.westsidesecurity.com SECURITY SHREDDING & CONFIDENTIAL WASTE DGD Papers Ltd. Bay M1, Raheen Business Park Limerick Tel: 061 491333 Fax: 061 491335 Email: info@dgdpapers.com Web: www.dgdpapers.com

SIGNAGE SignLynx Contact: Jack O’Loughlin Franklin Motor Yard, Cahernorry, Ballysimon, Limerick. Tel: 061 333736 Mob: 086 8094420 Fax: 061 333737 Email: jackoloughlin@signlynx.ie Web: www.signlynx.ie Sign It Ltd Unit 6, Eastway Business Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 469900 Fax: 061 417502 Email: Sales@signit.ie Web: www.signit.ie Sign & Print Unit 3 Takumi Building, Raheen Business Park, Limerick. Tel.: 0 61 487000 Fax.:0 61 484881 Email : sales@sign-print.ie Web : www.sign-print.ie Signsplus Unit 7, Eastlink Business Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 437950 Fax: 061 437940 Email: sales@signsplus.ie Web: www.signsplus.ie SOLICITORS Holmes O’Malley Sexton Bishopsgate, Henry St: Limerick. Tel: 061-313222 Fax: 061-310414 E-Mail: info@homs.ie Web: www.homs.ie TAXATION BDO Simpson Xavier Personal and Corporate Tax Advisors 4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172 Email: info@bdosx-limerick.com Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com TEAM BUILDING Funireland Team Building Specialists Little Orchard, Dooneen,Crecora, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 320292 Fax: 061 320294 Email: info@funireland.com Web: www.funireland.com

www.businesslimerick.ie

WINE MERCHANT Davide Wines Davide Bisaschi Selected Wines Italian Wines Specialist Tel: 085 7593228 Email: davide@davidewines.com

VALUER Jim O’ Shea Auctioneers Mungret Village, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 210055 Fax: 061 210248 Mobile: 087 2361439 Email: info@auctioneer-oshea.ie Web: www.auctioneer-oshea.ie

WINE RETAILERS Fine Wines Fine Wines Group, Tipperary Road, Ballysimon, Limerick Tel: 061 417784 Fax: 061 417276 Email: mdaly@finewines.ie Web: www.finewines.ie

WATER COOLERS & DISPENSERS Crystal Clear Leamy House, Hartstonge St: Limerick. Tel: 061-454962 Fax: 061-454449 Mobile: 087-2561239 E-Mail: info@crystalc.ie

The Wine Buff 17 Upper Mallow Street, Limerick Proprietor: Mike O’ Mara Tel: 061 313394 E-mail: mike.omara@thewinebuff.com Web: www.thewinebuff.com

WATER CONSULTANTS Allied Aquatech Water Treatment Consultants 3 Kyle House (office & shop) Henry Street, Limerick Tel: 061 319777 Mobile: 086 1555568 Fax: 061 319778 Email: pjdawson@eircom.net Web: www.h2o4u.ie WASTE MANAGEMENT AND DISPOSAL Mr Binman Luddenmore Grange, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick Tel: 061 351127 Fax: 061 351918 Email: info@mrbinman.com Web: www.mrbinman.com WEB DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT IEG DESIGN Contact: Padraig O’Connell Railway Road, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick. Tel: 063 20869 Fax: 063 20775 Email: poconnell@iegdesign.com Web: www.iegdesign.com WEIGHT LOSS Motivation Weight Control Clinic 58/59 Thomas Street, Limerick. Tel: Limerick 061 411699 Cork: 021 4272735 www.businesslimerick.ie

THE A – Z OF BUSINESSES

TRAINING & CONSULTANCY Procad Training Portal House, Raheen Business Park, Limerick. Contact: Adrian Carmody Tel: 061 498900 Fax: 061 304080 Email: training@procadgroup.com Web: www.procadtraining.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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Give A Gift This Christmas BTkids has joined forces with Temple Street Children’s University Hospital to urge BTkids shoppers to “Give A Gift” this Christmas. Simply pop into any BTkids store in Dublin, Cork or Limerick and give generously to those less fortunate this festive season. Each BTkids store has erected a special Christmas tree to gather gifts for the children at Temple Street Children’s University Hospital. The gifts will then be collected and delivered on Christmas Eve. Click here for a list of gifts that the Temple Street Children's University Hospital would love to receive. While leaving your gifts under the tree you can also take the opportunity to post your letter to Santa Claus in the North Pole Post Box that is in store at the moment and will be delivered straight to the North Pole just in time for Christmas….but don’t forget to include your return address as Santa wants to write back to you and although he knows where you live not all the postmen do! Pop into any BTKids Store and give generously to those less fortunate this Christmas and while you are leaving your gifts under the BTKids Christmas tree you can post your Santa letter through the BTKids postbox and await your reply... Your kind gift will bring a smile to a childs face.

To subscribe to our Business Directory Listing please contact: Yvonne Sheehan on 061 - 214738 or Email: yvonne@businesslimerick.ie

Conn

......................................................................................... BL | TECHNOLOGY

.TEL Domain Will the next TLD be as big as .com? Some mobile marketing seers think so. Trademark holders, heads up. Another top level domain (TLD) is getting closer to launch and your mark could be at risk - what's been dubbed the phone book for the mobile Web.

for centralizing and publicizing contact, location and marketing information.

number quickly, for example, the .tel page is easy to enable.

David Steinberg marketing manager of dotster:

For a business user, he added, this means you can keep all your contact information for retail in one place, or list all sales reps perhaps by using sub-domains. "If your customers are only on a mobile device, they can find you and call your number right away."

From December 3, 2008 until February 2, 2009, trademark owners can register .tel domains for their brands and company names, providing them with a "live" comprehensive listing in the first global, mobile-optimized online directory, according to Telnic, the main registry operator of the new .tel TLD.

"You've got a service out of the box" once you've registered your .tel domain, You don't need to pay for hosting a Web site as you would with a .com domain, or hire a Webmaster or deal with server management in any way with a .tel address. That's because the address is stored at the DNS (define) level, with encryption features tossed in.

Why such buzz about the .tel domain? it just might become the Google of the mobile world. The .tel addresses are stored at the DNS (Domain Name Server), which is encrypted. What it does, explained Justin Hayward, communications director for Telnic, is provide a communications hub

"You've got SEO [search engine optimization] built in, and it's all machinereadable," Plus, you can add structured data and tags to the domains so that search engines for mobile devices can categorize your site's information much better. If you need to publish a crisis

by Padraig O'Connell

Developers are fast developing a suite of applications for the .tel domain that look and act much like a broadband feature, with iPhone and Outlook integration as if you're on a broadband device.

Websites of the month: http://www.caracolasparesort.com/ (overseas property website )

http://www.digitalhorizons.ie/ (3 d modelling)

www.businesslimerick.ie

Connolly A4 PoS

12/4/08

5:20 PM

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Quality, Service & Value For 38 great years we say

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