chamberlink ISSUE 05 2017
Full Speed ahead Confirmation of M20
Chamber Reflects on OUtcomes
CELEBRATING SUCCESS
CORK Chamber’s DUBLIN DINNER
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CONTENTS
04 >>
BUSINESS NEWS
Connecting Cork with the USA
4 5
<< 06 Our City Streets
Connecting Cork with the USA Cork Means Business
INFLUENCE 6
Our City Streets...
COVER STORY 8-9 Full Speed Ahead: M20 10-11 Budget 2018 – Cork Chamber Reflection
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BUSINESS SKILLS
Multi-Cultural WorkforcesCommunication & Engagement
FEATURE
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We have had a strong start to quarter four with a huge sense of confidence in the business community. Most notably we had the pleasure of hosting An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at a packed Páirc Uí Chaoimh during a busy Budget week. At this breakfast briefing the ongoing collaboration of Cork and Limerick Chamber, in parallel with multiple stakeholders was validated by the announcement that the M20 will move to planning and design. This announcement is a welcome boost for balanced regional development and a significant vote of confidence in the growth potential of the Atlantic Corridor. The socio-economic report commissioned by Cork and Limerick Chambers earlier this year confirmed that the M20 has the potential to support up to 5,400 new direct jobs in the region, which would benefit the Exchequer by up to €128m per annum. The M20 will be of huge benefit to our country overall, and we will continue to work with all stakeholders to see Ireland’s newest motorway delivered as soon as possible. There has been continued expansion of companies in the region including an R&D facility at Pepsi and a €300m commitment from Janssen Sciences to expand their manufacturing plant at Ringskiddy. Cybersecurity firm Smarttech are adding an additional 30 jobs to their team. Dairygold opened their Nutritional Campus, and An Taoiseach announced a national food hub which will help create new products, feed into the agri food sector and help diversify Irish goods in advance of Brexit.
Through our ‘Connecting Cork’ initiative the Chamber continues to work on growing Cork’s awareness internationally and advocating its strength as a business location. Over the past 6 weeks we have hosted visitors from Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania and a breakfast event for the Mayor of San Francisco Ed Lee. Chamber delegations also visited Chicago, Australia and China meeting key business influencers and decision makers. The achievements listed above are nonexhaustive. They simply offer a snapshot of the cumulative impact of working together to drive a thriving Cork and combined with the M20 announcement, confirms our belief that Cork can truly drive the Southern region to make Ireland a stronger, more diverse and resilient economy. I encourage you to check out our activity across training, events and of course the Cork Company of the Year Awards to ensure your company avails of all the opportunities that the Chamber provide to connect, promote and grow together.
Conor Conor Healy, CEO conor@corkchamber.ie
Multi-Cultural Workforces Communication & Engagement
14-15 Celebrating Success: Cork Company of the Year Awards 2018
NETWORK 16 17
Upcoming Events Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2017
SNAPPED 19 Chamber Annual Golf Classic 20-21 Recent Networking & Informational Events
BUSINESS FEATURE 22-23 GDPR: Looking forward to 2018
CONNECT 24-25 26 27 28 30
New Connections Members News Member Spotlight: OfficeMaster New Chamber Faces On the Move
Tickets for Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2018 will go on sale on Friday 15 December
Cork Chamber, Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, Cork T23 TD90 T: 021 450 9044 E: info@corkchamber.ie W: www.corkchamber.ie
Chamberlink is published by Cork Chamber and is a bi-monthly publication exclusive to members. The opinons expressed in Chamberlink are not necessarily those of Cork Chamber, neither do they accept any responsibility or liability for any legal implications arising there from. Registered in Ireland no. 13918
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business news
Connecting Cork with the USA This September, Cork Chamber representatives travelled to Chicago to promote Cork at the Irish Network USA Annual Conference, which brought together over 200 Irish professionals from over 15 US cities. Guests at the conference included Ireland’s new Ambassador to the US, Dan Mulhall, Consul General in Chicago Brian O’Brien, Vice Consul Justin Dolan, and Senator Billy Lawless, the first Irish emigrant to be appointed to the Oireachtas.
Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber with Mayor of San Francisco Ed Lee. On returning from Chicago, the Chamber hosted a breakfast event to welcome the Mayor of San Francisco, Ed Lee, who led a delegation of nearly 90 people to Cork, including representatives of the civic, business, arts and investment communities in San Francisco. As a sister city of Cork since 1984, there are strong ties between Cork and San Francisco. Cork’s business relationships with the West Coast extend from the San Francisco Bay Area into Silicon Valley, and there are currently over 30 companies from the wider state of California with a presence in Cork. There has been particularly strong investment from companies in sectors such as life sciences and IT/tech, which have formed the strong clusters in these sectors that Cork is now known for globally. While companies from the West Coast have been investing in Cork since our very first FDI investment from Apple in the 1980s, it is positive to see that more recently, the flow of investments is also starting to reverse, with Cork companies such as Voxpro and PCH establishing a presence on the West Coast in the last decade. San Francisco has also been a source of inspiration to PAGE // 4
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About Irish Network USA The purpose of the Irish Network USA (IN-USA) is to promote and bolster business, cultural, sporting and community ties between the USA and Ireland. • 3500+ members • 20+ chapters across the USA • 200+ events held annually many Irish start-ups, and cutting-edge accelerator programmes such as the SOSV accelerators are seed-funding start-ups that are at the forefront of developing new products in the field of synthetic biology, via IndieBio in San Francisco and RebelBio here in Cork. In the last six weeks, Cork has received visitors from a further three states in the American North West including Newport (Rhode Island), Quincy (Massachusetts) and Harrisburg (Pennsylvania). The representatives of the business and investment communities in these states are keen to build connections and long-term relationships with the Cork region. Below is a snapshot of the three US states that have actively looked to engage with Cork in the last few months. We are lucky to have excellent resources in our state agencies, with both Enterprise Ireland and IDA being globally recognised for their supports and services to indigenous enterprises and inbound investors. In addition to these resources, we must look to maximise the opportunities that are presented to us via other channels, which may bring potential benefits to Cork. If you feel that your business could benefit from an introduction to any of the agencies in these locations, in particular with a view to supports that they may offer to scaling companies that wish to expand and setting up a presence in the US, please contact katherine@corkchamber.ie Rhode Island The State of Rhode Island has a flourishing life sciences industry and as the ‘Ocean State’ equally a strong
maritime focus with great proximity to Boston and New York. Testimony to their growth in the past 18 months, GE Digital, Johnson & Johnson, Virgin Pulse and Cambridge Innovation Center have all relocated to the state. Inc.com recently named the capital city, Providence, among its best 6 cities to start a business. In the last 17 months, Rhode Island has invested $26M into life sciences alone and funded 34 R&D partnerships between companies and universities. The state features No. 1 for Academic R&D Growth per US Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Quincy The city of Quincy is located just 7 miles south of Boston along the eastern seaboard and is home to a population of over 94,000. A landmark city on the lifesciences corridor that runs from Somerville to Braintree, via Boston, Quincy is recognised with a Platinum rating from MassBio*, the highest rating for a community seeking to attract and support biotechnology companies. The city is home to names such as State Street, Boston Scientific and Granite Telecommunications. (*MassBio represents 1,000+ biotechnology companies, academic institutions, disease foundations and other organisations involved in life sciences and healthcare.) Pennsylvania Pennsylvania’s economy is the nineteenth largest in the world, with a GDP that’s larger than Argentina and Sweden! The Pennsylvania workforce numbers 6.5 million, with a 12+ million consumer base, and the state is one of the fastest growing exporters in the US. Companies that have operations in Pennsylvania include: GlaxoSmithKline and BAE (United Kingdom), B. Braun and Bayer (Germany), Gruma Corp & Grupo Bimbo (Mexico), Nissin Foods, Olympus (Japan), Teva (Israel), and Foxconn (Taiwan). Strong sectors include life sciences, agri-food, advanced manufacturing as well as energy, and it is the 3rd largest producer of energy in the US.
Cork Means Business
Expansion and future development announcements major boost for Cork PepsiCo, Inc. has launched its new R&D Nutrition Centre at Little Island, Co. Cork from where the company will specialise in the development of future fruit and vegetable products. PepsiCo has a long successful history in Cork spanning almost 45 years and we are delighted that Cork has also been chosen as home of its future product development using the latest technologies and innovation. The decision to further invest here and add 40 new high-skilled jobs across R&D activities demonstrates Cork’s strong talent and research offering, as well as our region’s proud history as a destination of choice for innovators of new food David Murray, PepsiCo; Orla Flynn, Vice President for Academic Affairs, CIT: Dr. Jan Weststrate, Senior Vice President products with significant contribution in this Nutrition R&D, PepsiCo, Cliona Murphy, Vice President Research & Development, PepsiCo and Cork R&D site lead; Simon Coveney, TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs & Trade and Conor Healy, CE Cork Chamber at the official opening of regard from UCC and CIT. Janssen Sciences Ireland UC has announced an expansion of its Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork facility that will allow it to meet the critical needs of patients around the world. The expansion plans involve an investment of more than €300 million that will increase the existing manufacturing space by an additional 19,100m2, provide employment for up to 450 people during construction and an extra 200 people once completed. Kyran Johnson, General Manager, Janssen Supply Chain Ireland, said “this expansion project is a significant vote of confidence in our team and one which will increase our manufacturing footprint very significantly, allowing us to continue to meet critical patient needs in the areas of Multiple Myeloma, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Crohns Disease.”
New PEPSICO R&D Nutrition Centre in Little Island, Cork to lead PEPSICO’S European Fruit and Vegetable Innovation. Picture Darragh Kane
Taken at the expansion announcement are Jim Breen, Lead, Biologics Expansion, Johnson & Johnson; Liz Dooley, Director Operations (Biologics), Janssen Supply Chain Ireland;Remo Colarusso, Vice President, Manufacturing and Technical Operations,; Kyran Johnson, General Manager, Janssen Supply Chain Ireland; Martin Shanahan, CEO, IDA Ireland; Carin Huibers, Global Platform Leader, Parenterals, Janssen; John Fenton, Senior Finance Manager, Janssen Supply Chain Ireland and Tommy Fanning, Head of Bio-Pharmaceuticals and Food, IDA Ireland. Picture: Darragh Kane
Cork Age Friendly City Programme - first Annual Report We are proud, as representatives of the Cork business community, to have been part of the strategy development and now the implementation steering groups for the Cork Age Friendly City and the Cork Age Friendly County initiatives. Recently, the first annual report of Cork Age Friendly City Strategy was launched and reported on the ambitious targets set out in May 2016 and which will remain in place for the lifetime of the strategy to 2020. This strategy was developed by the Cork Age Friendly City Alliance, an interagency partnership comprising representatives from the public, not-for-profit and community organisations, together working to proactively enhance the liveability of Cork City for older citizens. The thematic actions have focused
on Community Support and Health Services; Communication and Information; Transportation; Outdoor Spaces and Buildings; Civic Participation and Employment; Respect and Social Inclusion; Social Participation and Housing. Cork Chamber has been actively engaged across all thematic areas with the main focus being in communications and information provision towards promoting the Age Friendly Business programme. This programme recognises the efforts and improvements made by businesses to provide more Age Friendly services and products. It is a recognition programme, is low to zero cost, and invites business of all sizes and types to participate and be listed as an Age Friendly Business. Participating businesses have
experienced increased footfall and higher turnover as they reach out to a growing demographic, estimated to be worth over €10 billion. To get involved in this programme please contact michelle@corkchamber.ie/ 021 4530132 chamberlink
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influence
our City streets…
We have the vibrant culture, the bustling streets busy with footfall, a foodie and hospitality reputation for which we are renowned and a retail offering that boasts the high street to the niche and truly unique. Without a doubt, we are fortunate to live in a city region that is bursting with activity and all of which is added to by the range of events and activities hitting the streets through out the year. Feel Good Friday, PARK(ing) Day, Culture Night and the Purple Flag weekend are but a few of these events and give us a good flavour of what’s been happening. These initiatives, some national, some international and some ‘Pure Cork’ have been coordinated and developed by active partnerships and collaborations across the city, all focused on celebrating and engaging with residents and visitors alike.
recent Feelgood Friday happening on the 29 September. This inititative creates a ‘pop up’ festival-like atmosphere across the City with live music, competitions, workshops, special offers with local businesses getting on board, and has been hugely successful in driving good vibes and smiles on a Friday afternoon and evening.
As part of PARK(ing) Day Churchfield Community Trust created a temporary parkleton South Mall. Picture: Darragh Kane
Pictured before the Purple Flag assessment for Cork City Centre, Ann Doherty, Cork City Council; Chief Superintendent Barry McPolin; Seamus Coghlan, Cork City Council; Eddie Mulligan, Purple Flag Ireland, Lawrence Owens, CEO Cork Business Association; Frits Potgieter, Imperial Hotel; Paul McGuirk, Cork City Council, Superintendent John Quilter; Thomas McHugh, Cork Chamber; Paul Montgomery, Purple Flag Committee and Carmen Cronin, Purple Flag Ireland. Picture: Jim Coughlan.
The City centre has again been successful in its bid to achieve the Purple Flag award status for 2017. The Purple Flag, originally awarded in 2015, is an international accreditation with successful cities and towns distinguished as vibrant, diverse, enjoyable and well-managed locations to enjoy an evening or night out. The application process brings together stakeholders from across the public, private and voluntary sector in Cork to meet the awarding criteria. The Cork City Purple Flag weekend ran on the 6-7 October and saw buildings across the city turn purple for the weekend.
PARK(ing) Day took place on Friday 15th September and is an annual worldwide event where parking spots are transformed into temporary public parks, adding an extra splash of green to the City for the day. Passers-by are invited to take a minute, to sit down and relax and enjoy this extra public amenity space for the day. Since its inception in 2005, this project now occurs annually in hundreds of cities and in dozens of countries on every continent. In Cork City there were four locations on Bridge Street, McCurtain Street, South Mall and Western Road.
Cork Culture Night celebrations in The English Market. Picture:Gerard McCarthy
Culture Night also caused a stir on the streets this September with close to 220 events and over 113 venues taking part. This annual national event took place on Friday 22 September and is hugely popular as a celebration of arts, heritage and culture.
Cork City Samba Band Getting that Electric Feeling with Feel Good Friday. Picture: Jim Coughlan.
Feelgood Friday was up and running again in 2017. This home grown initiative was run for the second year and again proved hugely successful, creating a buzz on the streets and all to the fantastic beats of Cork City Samba band. The initiative which takes place on the last Friday of every month from May to October has just come to an end for 2017, with the most PAGE // 6
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Now as we roll up to the busy Christmas period, we can all get behind this vibrant City atmosphere, supporting our local retailers, producers, artists and service providers. Whether you are looking for stocking fillers, or a well-deserved gift for your good self, and whether you are looking to the high street or for a unique one-off gift, there is plenty at our fingertips here in Cork. There’s also plenty to enjoy atmosphere-wise as GLOW will once again be hitting the streets of Cork City in the run up to Christmas.
Michelle O’sullivan // policy & research executive
e: michelle@corkchamber.ie // t: 021 453 0132
cover story
Full Speed Ahead
Taoiseach’s confirmation of M20 in new National Investment Plan a Major Breakthrough
The announcement by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD at our Cork Chamber breakfast briefing, that funding has been secured for the M20 to commence planning and that the project will be included in the Government’s new 10-year investment plan, is welcomed as a huge boost for balanced regional development. The confirmation of the 80 kilometre M20 Motorway moving ahead happened at our sell-out event in Páirc Uí Chaoimh, attended by 400 people from across business, national and local Government and the President and CE of Limerick Chamber. The commitment to Ireland’s second city region was furthered by the additional announcement of a new national food innovation hub to be based in Cork, which will help create new products, feed into the agri-food sector, and help diversify Irish goods in advance of Brexit. Both announcements confirm our belief that Cork can truly drive the Southern region to make Ireland a stronger, more diverse and resilient economy. More broadly, the commitment to double capital investment by 2021 is something that the business community is very much in favour of. The ongoing commitment to the Dunkettle Interchange and the renewed commitment to the M20 is critical for the region. However, other key projects such as the Northern Ring Road, the M28 Cork-Ringaskiddy, and the N22 CorkKerry are urgently needed.
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar addresses Cork Chamber’s Business Breakfast. Picture: Darragh Kane
Infrastructure is about investing in assets for Ireland. It is about building a resilient nation. The best time to build enabling infrastructure was 20 years ago and the second best time is now. We look forward to the National Investment Plan announcements later this year, and the support of Government in continuing to grow the potential of Cork. The Cork 2050 vision developed in partnership between Cork City Council, Cork County Council, business and citizens, as well as the Cork Chamber submission to the National Planning Framework, maps out the further capacity and ambition for growth of Cork. Looking at future population growth, we are planning to accommodate 846,000 people and another 120,000 jobs. The Taoiseach referenced Budgetary measures to alleviate homelessness and the need to increase the supply of
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housing. We are hopeful these measures will assist the provision of urgent new supply coming to market so we can better house our existing population as well as those looking to Cork as their future home. That said, the solution to housing is multifaceted and we would like to see incentives to attract institutional investment in the rental sector to boost delivery of diverse highdensity city living in locations such as our Docklands. Looking ahead, as Irelands second city region, Cork is growing; in size, population, energy and potential. We have the ambition, the skills and diversity of growth that promotes economic resilience, laying the path for future investment. We will continue to press our Taoiseach and Government to support us in realising this vision.
M20 will trigger huge possibilities for Atlantic Corridor foresight of this investment decision. “ “The socio-economic report commissioned by Cork and Limerick Chambers earlier this year confirmed that the M20 has the potential to support up to 5,400 new direct jobs in the region, which would benefit the Exchequer by up to €128m per annum. The M20 will be of huge benefit to our country overall, and in light of its importance we look forward to seeing Ireland’s newest motorway delivered as soon as possible.” An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar answers Chambers’ call for M20 route to be completed, at Cork Chamber’s Business Breakfast, run in association with the Irish Examiner at Pairc Ui Chaoimh. Pictured are Conor Healy, Chief Executive, Cork Chamber; Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber; Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland; An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar; James Ring, Chief Executive, Limerick Chamber and Ken Johnson, President Limerick Chamber. Picture: Darragh Kane
The confirmation by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD of the M20 moving ahead is welcomed by Cork and Limerick Chambers, who collectively represent more than 1,700 businesses.
Conor Healy, Cork Chamber, commented: “The confirmation of the much-awaited M20 finally going ahead is a significant vote of confidence in the growth potential of the Atlantic Corridor, and we commend Government in the
Ger O’Mahoney, PwC Cork, Deirdre Clune MEP, Mark Whitaker, Johnson and Perrott, Cliona Murphy, PepsiCo and Michael McGrath TD. Eoin Gunn, AIB, Anne-Marie Linehan, JW O’Donovan and Vicki Crean, AIB. Sinead Johnston, EBridge Training and Ciara Flaherty, Springboard PR. Tom McCarthy, McCarthy Development and John Higgins, EY.
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Reacting, Dr. James Ring, Limerick Chamber CEO, said: “This is one of the most significant moments in terms of rebalancing the national economy. This now means we will have a seamless motorway from Cork to Limerick and Galway, which creates enormous possibilities for economic development along this Atlantic corridor.
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Tim Lucey, County Manager; Mayor of Cork County Cllr Declan Hurley; Ann Doherty, CEO Cork City Council; Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs; Michael Creed TD, Minister for Agriculture; Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber and Lord Mayor, Cllr Tony Fitzgerald. Maria Tracey, Springboard; Tara McCarthy, TDR Quantity Surveying with Tena Glaser and Fiona O’Donoghue, Carrigaline Court Hotel. Pictures: Darragh Kane
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Cover Story
Budget 2018 – Chamber Reflection
Earlier this month, Government published its much anticipated budget for the coming year. In our submission to the Department of Finance and Public Expenditure earlier this year, we recommended that Government should focus the Budget on five areas based on feedback received from our 1,200 members. These areas were: 1. Competitiveness 2. Capital Investment 3. Tax Reform 4. Small Business Support 5. Supporting Local Economies Under each of the headings above, we outlined policy proposals for Government to consider. We have repeated calls for the implementation of all of these proposals in our engagement with Government representatives throughout the year, as well as in our lobbying activities. Overall, Cork Chamber welcomed the budget as steady step towards building a stronger economy and society, with due recognition of the risks posed by external threats.
We were pleased to see that many of our recommendations were included in the budget, in particular recommendations on increasing the level of capital expenditure in order to fund more infrastructure, the inclusion of a “Brexit package” to assist SMEs and our agri-food and tourism sectors, the introduction of an employee share ownership scheme, and increased investment in childcare. Rather than the €500m fiscal package announced in the Summer Economic Statement, Budget 2018 saw a total €1.2 billion of new spending announced, split on a 2:1 basis in favour of spending. Approximately €800m of this comes from new revenue raising measures. However we were disappointed at the lack of delivery on increasing equity between the self-employed and PAYE workers. In addition to this there was no change in the Captial Gains Tax regime which was a missed opportunity to further enhance Ireland’s competitiveness in the run-up to Brexit.
The table below provides a simple overview of our key asks in the content of Budget 2018:
Capital Investment
Budget 2018: Outcomes
Increase investment in infrastructure to 4% of GDP. Provide investment for large-scale expansionary infrastructure projects to enable growth across Ireland, to improve competitiveness, and to protect against Brexit challenges.
The goal to bring Ireland’s public investment levels to among the highest in the EU by 2021 was outlined, with a plan to double 2015 levels of capital expenditure by 2021. An additional allocation of capital expenditure of €4.3 billion over the next four years, up to the end of our existing Capital Plan in 2021, was announced.
Transport Major investment in Ireland’s road network. Increased maintenance expenditure for existing transport stock. Investment in ports and port access routes. Commitment to investment in high quality public transport must be identified. Electrification of public transport fleet to help address climate targets.
The Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport will recieve €414m in total for transport investment. There will be a €9.6m increase in funding for transport.
Housing Increased public investment in social housing and enabling infrastructure
Numerous increases to the funding available for the delivery of housing by Local Authorities and private investors were announced. Housing funding allocation will be €1.83bn for 2018.
Education and Skills Increased investment in Higher Education facilities. Refocus the National Training Fund (NTF) to reflect current employment levels. Greater provision of enterprise-led training tailored for SMEs.
The NTF levy will increase from 0.7% to 0.8% to provide €47.5m of additional investment in the Higher and Further Education Sectors in 2018. The levy will rise to 0.9% in 2019 and to 1.0 % in 2020. Education spending for 2018 will be over €10 billion, or 16.6% of total Government expenditure.
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Further detail on specific projects will be outlined in the National Investment Plan due to be announced later this year.
Capital Investment
Budget 2018: Outcomes
Pensions Incentivise enrolment in private sector pensions Ensure administrative ease for SMEs to establish and participate in sustainable pension schemes
Not delivered. An increase in the State pension of €5 per week was announced.
Childcare Continue investment in accessible, affordable, high quality childcare services
An additional €20m will be allocated in support of childcare.
Establish a Rainy Day Fund from 2019 onwards
The Rainy Day Fund will be established in 2018 and Government intends to transfer at least €1.5 billion to it from the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund to begin with.
Competitiveness
Budget 2018: Outcomes
Retain the 9% VAT rate on tourism and hospitality sector as an important support to help the sector combat Brexit challenges
The 9% VAT rate on tourism and hospitality is being maintained.
Allocate an additional €12m towards the tourism marketing budget for Tourism Ireland to market Ireland overseas
€112 million will be spent on marketing Ireland overseas and on improving our tourism infrastructure. We await clarity on the breakdown of this spend.
Reaffirm commitment to maintaining Ireland’s corporate tax rate at 12.5% providing tax certainty on corporate tax rates
Ireland’s Corporate Tax Rate will remain 12.5%. The amount of income that companies can ‘write off’ on intellectual property (intangible property) will drop from 100% to 80%.
Tax Reform
Budget 2018: Outcomes
Reduce the marginal rate of income tax for all workers. Commitment to a review of the entry point to the higher rate of tax to address competitiveness
Tax reform to deliver parity between self-employed and PAYE workers including changes Earned Income Tax Credit for self-employed
Deliver on commitment to introduce an Employee Share Ownership Scheme tailored to the needs of SMEs and smaller companies
The entry point to the higher rate of tax will increase from €33,800 to €34,550. The 2.5% USC rate will be reduced to 2%, while the ceiling for this rate will be raised from €18,772 to €19,372. The 5% of USC will be reduced to 4.75%, thereby reducing the top marginal rate of tax on income up to €70,044 to 48.75%. This was partly addressed. We called for the Earned Income Tax Credit to be brought in line with PAYE/ Employee Tax Credit. Goverment committed to increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit by €200, bringing it to €1,150, a difference of €500 compared to PAYE workers.
A new scheme, the ‘Key Employee Engagement Programme’ will support SMEs attract and retain key employees in a competitive labour market. KEEP will allow SMEs provide employees with a financial incentive linked to the success of the company with advantageous tax treatment on employee share options.
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The recruitment of over 40 staff across the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and enterprise agencies was announced with the aim of increasing Ireland’s ability to respond to the challenges and opportunities arising from Brexit.
Other Points of Note: • • • •
Stamp Duty on commercial property to increase from 2% to 6%. Lending function for private sector developers, ‘Home Building Finance Ireland’ with an initial €750m from ISIF. Welfare increase of €5 per week for all recipients of social welfare. An indication that Government intends to amalgamate USC and PRSI in the long term, while maintaining a broad tax base.
Sarah Foley// policy & research executive
e: sfoley@corkchamber.ie // t: 021 453 0139
chamberlinK
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THERE'S NO BUSINESS WITHOUT SHOW BUSINESS...
Cork Opera House is the regions largest independent theatre. In 2017, Cork Opera House productions exceeded all box office expectations. We are looking for success orientated, independent thinking companies to partner with us. Together we will create more wonderful productions for your staff & the people of Cork to enjoy. Step onto the big stage, contact Martin Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donoghue for more information by calling 083 1790722.
www.corkoperahouse.ie
BUSINESS skills
Multi-Cultural Workforces – Communication & Engagement BiznetCork Skillnet is delighted to announce the development of our bespoke Multi-Cultural Workforces - Communication & Engagement Programme.
We recently identified a strong requirement for training in this area for the Cork region and following much research; company and stakeholder engagement a robust and comprehensive 2 day programme has now been finalised. The workshop has been designed to raise awareness and understanding of cultural differences in the international work environment, to enhance practical cross-cultural communication and work skills and improve confidence when communicating across cultural and language barriers. It will offer participants a unique opportunity to learn about cultural norms, values and beliefs; gain a higher level of self-awareness and personal fulfilment while enhancing positive impact on colleagues, clients or business contacts from diverse backgrounds. It is designed for existing and new staff who wish to develop high level cross cultural intelligence & Interpersonal skills to operate effectively and efficiently in a multicultural environment. Companies that invest in this social learning will reap the rewards as culturally fluent companies able to perform on the global stage.
Do you work in a multi-cultural environment? Does your work involve communicating with people from different cultures & backgrounds? Do you have to work across time zones and different international locations? The 2 day programme will include a psychometric profile (the assessment can be taken in 32 different languages) and will cover the following: • Culture • Self-Awareness • Cross-Cultural Interpersonal Skills • Delivering Organisational Results in a Multi-Cultural Environment • Presenting/Pitching the benefits of cultural diversity • Review of Learning & Putting it into Practice
www.corkchamber.ie/training
The programme is scheduled to run on the 20 & 21 November next and is available at a reduced rate for Chamber members. Please contact Aoife Dunne, Business School Manager for further details. t: 021-4530141 e: aoife@corkchamber.ie
Aoife Dunne // Business School Manager e: aoife@corkchamber.ie // t: 021 453 0141
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FEATURE
Celebrating Success
‘Cork Company of the Year’ Awards 2018 Launched Cork’s most esteemed and longest running business awards were launched by Cork Chamber, in partnership with Vodafone Ireland recently for 2018. The Cork Company of the Year Awards attract significant attention as they celebrate the best of business across varying sectors and sizes, from the emerging to SMEs to large indigenous and multinational organisations. The strength of these awards lies in its meticulous, phased judging process managed by an experienced panel of business leaders coupled with the extensive profile the finalists receive across multiple print and digital platforms. Bill O’Connell, President of Cork Chamber, said; “We are delighted to have Vodafone as our partners and the Irish Examiner as our media partners which together has enabled us to grow and strengthen these awards. The Cork Company of the Year Awards offer businesses an excellent platform to champion their success and put themselves in the spotlight. Companies and their diverse workforces are central to their communities and throughout this year’s judging process we are looking to highlight those that have active CSR initiatives in place. We look forward to Cork’s vibrant businesses putting themselves forward and we encourage all to enter.” Dairygold were awarded the impressive accolade of Overall Winner of Cork Company of the Year 2017. Speaking of the impact of that win, Jim Woulfe, Chief Executive, stated, “We were very
“Companies and their diverse workforces are central to their communities and throughout this year’s judging process we are looking to highlight those that have active CSR initiatives in place. PAGE // 14
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Pictured at the launch of Cork Company of the Year Awards 2018, are Bill O’Connell, Cork Chamber President, Barbara-Anne Richardson, Cork Chamber John Higgins Chair of the Judging Panel and Debbie Power, Vodafone. Highlighting some of the attributes that the judges look for as they search for the best of business, from new emerging companies to SME’s to large indigenous and multinational organisations. Picture: Gerard McCarthy honoured to accept the award as an organisation so deeply embedded within the Cork region. The award recognised the successful execution of our business strategy, capital investments programme, key strategic partnerships and the economic benefits that are being delivered to communities across Cork and the wider Munster region, all made possible by the commitment and support of our organisation’s many stakeholders”. Sales Director, Vodafone Ireland, Leo O’Leary added, “Vodafone is delighted to continue our involvement with the respected Cork Company of the Year Awards, which each year recognises the best of what Cork has to offer in terms of innovative companies that are growing, developing their teams and expanding internationally. Vodafone is committed to supporting companies who embrace today’s dynamic landscape with innovation and adaptive work practises. These awards provide an excellent opportunity for teams to come together and share and learn from this process. “
The four award categories for 2018 are: • •
Emerging Cork Company of the Year (less than 3 years in business) Cork SME Company of the Year (less than 50 employees)
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Cork Large Company of the Year (50-200 employees)
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Cork Corporate of the Year (more than 200 employees)
To complete the entry form or to nominate a company please visit: www. corkchamber.ie
Closing date for entries is Thursday 26 October 2017 Winners in each category along with the Overall Cork Company of the Year will be announced at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner held on 2 February 2018 which is one of the largest business events of the year, where close to 1000 business people, including the country’s leading business and political figures, will be in attendance.
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The search is on... Cork Company of the Year Awards 2018 #1: Pictured at the launch of Cork Company of the Year Awards 2018 John Higgins Chair of the Judging Panel with Anna Marie Coughlan, Everyman. #2: Pictured at the launch of Cork Company of the Year Awards 2018, are Charles Daly and Pat Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Orthoxel with Barbara-Anne Richardson, Cork Chamber and David Heffernan, IITC. #3: Kevin Cullinane, Cork Airport and Kieran Fergusion, Investec. #4: Mary Power, Westboro Partners and Joanne Higgins, COPE Foundation.
#5: Kevin Buckley, Spearline and Ruth Appelbe, Indaver Ireland. #6: Deborah Barrett, Cork Chamber at the launch of Cork Company of the Year Awards 2018. #7: Leanne King, TeamWork with Maria Desmond, Enable Ireland #8: Sarah Prendergast and Majella Cronin, MSD. #9: Sean Kelly, Everyman and Helena Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien, Montenotte Hotel.
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Network
Upcoming Events
Attending events affords your business the opportunity to meet with potential suppliers, meet new clients, build on existing relationships and hear inspiring speakers. To book go to www.corkchamber.ie
counting Connections
Cork Chamber Annual Christmas Lunch
Thursday 16 November 5.30pm – 7pm FREE for members
Friday 8 December Fota Island Resort 12.30pm - 3pm
Cork Chamber is proud to partner with AIB Bank on South Mall for the November Business After Hours Networking Event. 66 South Mall has been home to the Bank since 1867. The Munster & Leinster Bank was founded in 1885 and started to operate with 66 South Mall as its headquarters. By 1908 it became necessary to establish an office to meet the growing demands of Cork’s merchant and business community.
Cork Chamber’s Annual Christmas Lunch returns on Friday 8 December.
One hundred years on, AIB Bank continues to proudly support the people and businesses of Cork. AIB at 66 South Mall, looks forward to welcoming you to the November Business After Hours event. Join with your fellow Chamber members for the best networking night in town – you can bank on it!
The calibre of guest speakers at the Christmas lunch has always been exceptionally high with previous speakers including actor, comedian and writer Pat Shortt, Olympian Rob Heffernan, Endurance Swimmer & Motivational Speaker Steve Redmond and veteran broadcaster John Creedon.
The Chamber’s Christmas lunch is the social event of the festive season attracting over 300 attendees every year. This year’s lunch will be held in the fabulous Fota Island Resort and with plenty of festive food and drink, music, fantastic raffle prizes and more. It is the perfect event for entertaining clients and colleagues.
Our Special Guest speaker will be announced in the coming weeks so keep an eye on Cork Chamber’s social media accounts. As always, this event will be held in partnership with the Marketing Institute in Cork and we hope to have a great mix of members from both organisations on the day. Why not book a table for you and your team and make a day of it?! Watch our Weekly bulletin and online channels for upcoming announcements! Tickets are sure to sell out quickly so book early to avoid disappointment.
Tickets for Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2018 will go on sale on Friday 15 December
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Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2017 Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2017 will be held on Tuesday 21 November at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY. Over the past six years, this flagship national event has grown to become one of the most popular and prestigious events in our calendar, attracting close to 600 business thought leaders, political decision makers and dignitaries.
founders of Voxpro, Dan and Linda Kiely. Voxpro is one of Cork and Ireland’s largest indigenous businesses, now employing approximately 2,700 people globally.
The Cork-Dublin dinner celebrates Ireland’s two biggest city regions. Internationally, cities are attracting more people and investment with Cork and Dublin leading this trend nationally. Looking ahead, Ireland’s two main cities will remain central to protecting our future growth and prosperity as a nation by becoming home to more talent and people, developing new employment opportunities, and driving our national economic growth.
When Dan and Linda founded the company in 2002 it consisted of six people working in a room above a pub in Cork City. Today the company is Ireland’s largest international provider of customer experience, technical support and sales operations partnering with global tech giants like Google, Nest and Airbnb. Voxpro has offices in Dublin, California, Georgia, Bucharest and Manila but the global headquarters remain in Cork, a fact both Dan and Linda take great pride in.
On the night of the dinner, we will bestow the Outstanding Achievement in Business Award and this year Cork Chamber is proud to honour the
We are delighted to have the continued support of EY as the headline sponsor of the dinner and Kernel Capital as networking reception sponsor.
This unique event offers you the opportunity to build national connections and enhance existing business relationships, celebrate the best of Irish business, or simply entertain your clients, prospects and colleagues at a black-tie dinner not to be missed! Tuesday 21 November, 7.00pm Clayton Hotel Burlington Road Tickets: €150 / €1500 per table of 10 Black Tie Event book now to avoid disappointment!
www.corkchamber.ie/events
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Out & About Annual Golf Classic in association with City Life
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On the Course
The Irish Guide Dogs
All the team in Irish Guide Dogs would like to extend a big thanks to the staff and members of Cork Chamber for this wonderful support from the Golf Classic. These funds will enable us to provide mobility and independence to our Clients on both our Guide and Assistance Dog programmes. Right now we support almost 1000 Clients across the country with mobility support and safety supports through our dogs and our Instructor staff. Irish Guide Dogs has now been providing our services for over 40 years and we hope, with support like this from the Chamber we can be confident going into the next 40 years.
Irish Heart Foundation
About 80% of heart disease is preventable and that is why the Irish Heart foundation has invested in programmes that specifically target risk reduction. Our Mobile Health Unit has been on the road for over 6-months now and has visited Cork City and the surrounding area on a number of occasions. Something as simple as a Blood pressure check can detect your risk so that is why it is vital to keep the Health Unit on that road and getting to as many communities as possible. As we are nearly fully funded by public donations this money is so important to fund this. Thank you once again to everyone for their continued support.
Cafe Velo
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Castlemartyr Resort
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Him @ The Modern Gent
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City Life
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Human+Kind
Classic Drinks
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Irish Examiner
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Clayton Hotel Cork City
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Johnson & Perrott Motor Group
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Clayton Hotel Silver Springs
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Kilkenny Shop
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Maryborough Hotel & Spa
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Cola Design and Print
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Musgrave Group
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Cork Golf Club
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PepsiCo
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Cork International Hotel
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Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork
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Dennehy’s Health and Fitness
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The Ambassador Hotel
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Electric
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The Everyman
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Fitzgerald #8 Menswear
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The Montenotte Hotel
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Heineken Ireland
Annual Golf Classic 2017
The charity hole-in-one competition sponsored by Jaguar at Johnson and Perrott raised €1,130. The funds were donated to the Irish Heart Aidan Forde; Bryan Hyland and John Higgins celebrate Foundation and the Irish Guide Dogs after both charities were drawn at with Paul O’Connell after his hole-in-one which saw random.
#1: him win a brand new Jaguar XE from charity ‘Hole in One’ sponsors Johnson and Perrott. #2: David McCarthy, Irish Guide Dogs and Fundraising Dog Jodi accepting the donation from Cork Chamber representatives Naoimh Frawley and Donna Miskell. #3: Mark Hopkins, Tom Houlihan, Dave Hopkins and Graham Keane. #4: Niall O’Shea, VHI; Rob Reardon, Captain Cork Golf Club; Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber and Eamon Dwyer, City Life celebrate finishing their round. #5: Cillian Horgan in action watched by team mates Niall O’Sullivan, Gay Brennan and Olan Wixted. #6: Martin Corkery, Stephen McCann, Brian Murphy and Bill Liao. #7: Naoimh Frawley and Donna Miskell from Cork Chamber with Anne Riordan, Irish Heart Foundation. #8: John Kingston putting, watched by team mates Ken Hegarty, Mark Erangy and Tadhg Horgan. Pictures: John Sheehan
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Thanks to all Sponsored our by Supporters
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Cafe Velo
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Castlemartyr Resort
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Him @ The Modern Gent
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City Life
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Human+Kind
Classic Drinks
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Irish Examiner
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Clayton Hotel Cork City
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Johnson & Perrott Motor Group
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Clayton Hotel Silver Springs
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Kilkenny Shop
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Maryborough Hotel & Spa
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Cola Design and Print
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Musgrave Group
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Cork Golf Club
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PepsiCo
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Cork International Hotel
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Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork
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Dennehy’s Health and Fitness
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The Ambassador Hotel
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Electric
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The Everyman
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Fitzgerald Menswear
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The Montenotte Hotel
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Heineken Ireland
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Out & About
It has been a very busy couple of months at Cork Chamber! Here is just a taste of what’s been going on. See the full photo galleries at www.corkchamber.ie Thursday Morning Throw-in Almost 300 guests attended Cork Chamber’s September Business Breakfast at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, held in association with the Irish Examiner. #1:
Barbara-Anne Richardson, Cork Chamber; Bob Ryan, Stadium Operations Manager, Páirc Uí Chaoimh; Conor Healy, Chief Executive, Cork Chamber; Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber; Aidan Forde, Irish Examiner; Anna Geary, former Cork camogie player, presenter and motivational speaker; Ger Canning, MC; Tomas Mulcahy, former Cork hurler and analyst with RTE’s The Sunday Game and Martin Kelleher, Musgrave Retail Partners. Picture: Larry Cummins
Connecting Cork and the US Cork Chamber and NGINX hosted a business breakfast for the delegation from San Francisco. #2: #3:
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Mayor of San Francisco Ed Lee with Wouter Groeneadijk, Peter Kelly, Ronan Kirby, Chelsea Wilson, Stephen Spillane and Áine Long from NGINX. Eimear O’Mullane, Cork Chamber; Joan Walsh, Partnership International; Michael Connolly, San Francisco Deputy Chief of Police; Sean Sullivan, SeaBrook and Kieran Ferguson, Investec. Pictures: Darragh Kane
Ratio Project Partners #4:
Representatives from 9 EU project partners including Cork Chamber during the Interreg Europe Regional Actions to Innovate Operational Programmes (RATIO) study visit to Skibbereen.
GEtting to Grips with DAta Protection Seminar on getting to grips with GDPR hosted with it@cork. #5: #6: #7:
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Caroline O’Driscoll, Chairperson it@cork; Ivan McCutcheon, Cork Chamber; Bill O’ Connell, Cork Chamber President and Gillian Bergin, it@cork. Marie Murphy, Fort Privacy; John Keyes, Office of the Data Protection Commissioner; Raluca Saceanu, Smarttech and Bryan McCarthy, Ronan Daly Jermyn. Karen Dillon, Johnson & Perrott with Michelle Johnson, ASA Marketing. Pictures: Gerard McCarthy
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women in leadership executive lunch in association with Network Cork #1: #2: #3:
Barbara-Anne Richardson, Cork Chamber; Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber, Keynote speaker Caroline O’Driscoll, Partner, KPMG and Co-founder I Wish; Ciara Wilson, President of Network Cork and Cllr Ken O’Flynn, Deputy Lord Mayor. Andrea Wilkerson, Roisín O’Sullivan, Mairéad O’Leary and Sheila O’Donovan, KPMG Josie O’Kelly, Fota Island Resort and Donna Mannion, Clayton Hotel Cork City. Pictures: Darragh Kane
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october business breakfast #4:
Aidan Forde, Irish Examiner; Sinéad McSweeney, VP Public Policy and Communications EMEA and MD Twitter Ireland; Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber and Barbara-Anne Richardson, Cork Chamber. Picture: Denis Minihane
Business On Board Cork Chamber and France Ireland Chamber of Commerce lunch on board the Pont Aven. #5: #6: #7:
Claire Murphy and Gillian Bergin, Dell EMC. Frank Brennan and Susan Brennan from Republic of Work with Raymond Kelleher, Trigon Hotels. Mark and Susan Exshaw from Nat Ross pictured on the Pont Aven. Pictures: Gerard McCarthy
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Leigh Gillen, Cork Chamber, Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber, Tony Barry, CFO VoxPro, Megan O’Keeffe and Tony Foy, VoxPro. Veronica O’Keeffe and Sinead Maguire from Laya Healthcare. Pictures: Miki Barlok
new Members welcome Breakfast New Members meet, network and pitch at welcome breakfast in association with AIB. #10: #11: #12:
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Oonagh Conolly, Linda St Leger and Lily Smith from AIB with Caroline Horgan, Alliance Packaging. Brian O’Dwyer, Leasing Company of Ireland and Dan Murphy, Malvern Hill Corporate Services. Jo Weekes, Watson Marlow and Declan O’Sullivan, DAOL Design, Print, Sign. Pictures: Gerard McCarthy
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Business Feature
GDPR: Looking forward to 2018 The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will come into effect on the 25th May 2018 and will change the European privacy landscape. An article in issue 4 of ChamberLink featured an anecdote about a popular UK based pub-chain choosing to delete their 650,000 strong customer mailing list. This decision was apparently made due to the privacy risks it presented and how these risks outweighed the potential value that monthly email updates offered. Given the current landscape of increasingly common and publicised cyber security incidents, ranging from ransomware attacks on some major healthcare providers, to leaked Game of Thrones episodes, it is understandable how this UK based pub-chain would weigh up their options and choose to eliminate a set of data with potential revenue increasing uses. In addition to the more publicised incidents of data protection breaches, more attention is being paid to the upcoming General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which was adopted by the European Parliament and Council in April 2016. The legislation is set to come into force on May 25th 2018.
A few weeks ago the UK Government unveiled their new Data Protection Bill, which bore a striking resemblence to the GDPR GDPR is the new European Union General Data Protection Regulation, as the name may imply, and is the most significant step forward in data protection regulation the EU has made for two decades as it replaces the Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC. PAGE // 22
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In Ireland, currently, our main law governing data protection is the Data Protection Act 1988 along with the 2003 Amendment Act which brought our laws into line with Data Protection Directive 95/46/EC. GDPR introduces some key changes and stricter controls around how data protection is to be enforced on businesses and other groups who handle or store personal data (meaning cloud software is not exempt) and ultimately seeks to harmonise regulations across EU member states.
For data subjects As data collection practices evolved over time, legislation around these practices did not evolve in tandem. The GDPR seeks to bring data protection legislation into the 21st century across the EU. In particular, this can be seen in the increased territorial scope the regulations bring into force. GDPR applies to all companies processing personal data of any data subject in the EU, whether or not the company is located within the EU. As you can imagine, this measure is designed to reassure citizens of the EU that any company they interact with will handle their data in a safe and consistent manner as mandated by law. Further to this, GDPR clarifies how consent for data collection or storage is to be gathered and recorded from data subjects and going forward a more accessible and easily understandable data protection notice must be issued when collecting data. This increased scope is coupled with stricter penalties for non-compliance or failures to protect personal data under the new Regulation. Organisations, companies or other bodies who store personal data, can be fined up to a maximum of 4% of their annual turnover or €20 million, whichever is of greater value if found in breach of GDPR. These are the high end fines however for serious breaches, with a lower tier of 2% of annual turnover or €10 million
For the typical FTSE 100 company, a 4% fine would be of a value of around €250 million whichever is greater, for basic noncompliance with the Regulation and for more minor breaches such as not notifying a supervising authority about a breach that has occurred. In addition to these fines, data subjects have the right to file claims directly for damages and distress.
For your business the main changes are: • Data Protection Officers (DPO) • Right to Access • Breach Notification • Right to be Forgotten and Right to Restriction • Right to Object • Data Portability • Privacy by Design and by Default
In 2016 Deloitte was ranked the largest professional services firm globally
By way of example we expand on Data Protection Officers and Right to Access below: Data Protection Officers (DPO) In Ireland, under current data protection law, data controllers are required to register with and subsequently notify our local Data Protection Authority (DPA), the Data Protection Commissioner (DPC), of data processing activities. For Irish companies who only process the data of Irish citizens and complete this processing in Ireland, this isn’t too complicated. However, for multinationals or companies who have to deal with data from multiple countries, these notification requirements can become cumbersome. GDPR will simplify this process by removing the need to register and notify each local DPA, instead, greater governance and accountability, internal record keeping and the appointment of a DPO, whose details will be communicated to the DPA, will be mandatory for controllers or processors who carry out regular and systematic monitoring of personal data on a large scale, or when the personal data being processed relates to criminal convictions and offences. The DPO can be a full-time employee or an individual hired on a consultancy basis but they must be sufficiently independent (i.e. must not hold a role that has a conflict of interest), suitably qualified and report to the highest level of management. Right to Access Under GDPR, Data subjects will still have the right to enquire with an organisation if their personal data is being processed by the organisation, for what purpose and where. The data controller is also required to furnish the data subject with an electronic copy of said data, upon request, in an easily readable format. The changes that the GDPR introduces to this right is the abolishment of the fee for such requests and shortening of the turnaround time for the data to be furnished to the data subject from 40 days to one calendar month.
European Data Protection Board An independent European Data Protection Board (EDPB) will be made up of a Supervisor and representatives of all national DPAs to issue guidance and ensure future compliance of the GDPR across the EU. In addition, the Article 29 Working Party has issued guidance in a number of areas to date with more guidance due in the coming weeks and months. The above are only some of the areas where the GDPR may affect your business. Whether you store or actively process personal data as part of your operation you are likely to be impacted by this Regulation. While the prospect of making changes to your business under the threat of large fines may cause some, like the UK-based pub chain, to make drastic decisions, others will see this is an opportunity. GDPR compliance can imbue consumer trust in your brand as well as protect your business from potential harm. It can also be used as a chance to create a competitive advantage, with better meta-utilisation of your data, new insights and strategies to be created and followed through on. At Deloitte we can help to ensure your company is fully prepared for the future of GDPR, but also, with a specialised team and years of experience, we can assist you in making this a growth opportunity. Since the announcement of the Regulation, Deloitte has been creating useful and insightful articles and primers for your business, these are all available online and cover both the issues as well as the opportunities that these regulations now pose. Whether you’re starting from scratch on GDPR compliance or need assurance that the work you’re completing or set to complete will protect your business, Deloitte are available to assist.
For more information on GDPR, data protection or privacy please contact Deloitte to get in touch with our Deloitte Ireland Privacy Team who offer tailored assessments to meet your needs. For more information please contact:
Eileen Healy Partner | Risk Advisory Email: ehealy@deloitte.ie Tel: 021 4907074 / 0861643082
Alan Tyrrell Asst. Manager | Risk Advisory Email: atyrrell@deloitte.ie Tel: 021 4907020 / 0873769332
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Connect
NEW CONNECTIONS
We welcome the following new members - connect and do business Accountants/Auditors TD O’Neill & Co. Limited TD O’Neill & Co. has over 20 yrs of experience in providing accounting, auditing, tax and general consultancy services to the commercial and business sector. We have a proactive philosophy and are committed to providing our clients with an efficient and value-added service. Contact: Tom O’Neill T: 021 4276605 E: tom@tdoneill.com W: http://tdoneill.com Advertising/Marketing/Market Research OnTheQT.ie OnTheQT.ie is an innovative tourism website and digital media company. We promote gems using video and blog content through the eyes of the locals, along with innovative digital marketing strategies for our clients. We are globe trotters who are passionate about travel. Contact: Stephanie Lynch T: 087 6453990 E: OnTheQT.ie@gmail.com W: https://www.ontheqt.ie Airlines/Airports Qatar Airways Airline Contact: Patrick McKinney T: 01 4773075 E: pmckinney@ie.qatarairways.com Building Contractors/Providers Conack Construction Ltd Construction Company, head office in Limerick, with offices in Cork and Dublin. Recently entered into the top 50 companies in Ireland soon to enter the top 30. Contact: Paula Shinners T: 061 310002 E: info@conackconstruction.com W: www.conackconstruction.com KCC Architectural KCC design, supply, install, service and maintain a wide range of products including door hardware & accessories, signage, automatics, movable walls, steel glazing, access control, riser door systems, concealed frame doorsets, hermetically sealed doors and more for a variety of industries such as healthcare, hospitality, financial, retail, leisure, commercial and residential. Contact: Norman White T: 0214351200 E: norman.white@kccarchitectural. com W: www.kccarchitectural.com
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Business Continuity Services Lean Green Services LEAN GREEN SERVICES deliver excellence in lean programme management and sustainable development services for our clients to achieve the highest quality and added value for their business, customers and the environment. Contact: Derek Hannick T: 086 8557210 E: derek@hannick.ie Charities Spinal Injuries Ireland Spinal Injuries Ireland is the only support and service agency in Ireland for people who have sustained a spinal cord injury and their families. We provide a person centred service to assist people to engage fully in society. Contact: Fiona Bolger T: 01 2355317 E: info@spinalinjuries.ie W: www.spinalinjuries.ie Consulting Engineers/Quantity Surveyors Sweco UK Limited With over 14,500 employees Sweco is Europe’s leading multidisciplinary engineering consultancy providing expertise in the fields of energy, highways & roads, light rail, sustainable buildings and water. Contact: John Nolan T: 021 206 3921 E: john.nolan@sweco.co.uk W: www.sweco.co.uk Verde Environmental Group Verde Environmental Group is a group of companies providing cost driven environmental consultancy and contracting services to industrial, commercial, insurance, government and residential sectors. Verde is dedicated to the provision of innovative and tangible solutions for the ever increasing number of environmental problems encountered in the world today. Contact: Clare Whitely T: 021 236 4679 E: clare.whitely@verde.ie W: www.verde.ie Food/Drink Heart of Spain Providing finest food products from artisanal and small family business in Spain. Contact: Alejandro Garrote T: 087 4574134 E: heartofspain.ireland@gmail.com
Engineering Jones Engineering Group Jones Engineering Group is a leading International Engineering Contracting Group of companies providing mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, fire protection and maintenance solutions to world class clients. The Group comprises of a number of engineering contracting companies which collectively can deliver the complete range of engineering services. Tim Ferris 021 4510700 tferris@joneseng.com http://www.joneseng.com SimoTech SimoTech provide Automation and Manufacturing Information Systems Professional Services and Project Management to the Process Industry” Founded in 2000, originally as PDAS Ltd, we are proud to have provided Manufacturing Automation System services to multi-national clients such as Amgen, Pfizer, Merck, Abbott, Eli Lilly, Renewable Energy Corporation and Elkem on capital projects in Europe and the USA. Contact: Marian Mc Gurrin T: 021 4834930 E: mmcgurrin@simotechnology.com W: http://simotechnology.com Entertainment/Leisure/Tourism Water Rock Golf Course Water Rock Golf Course opened in 1994 and is open to members, societies and visitors. This high quality sand based greens course is set in the beautiful surroundings on the banks of the Owenacurra River and brings varying challenges for all caliber of golfer. The course lies in the hinterland of beautiful East Cork, has a full bar and restaurant facilities, and is just 15 mins drive from Cork city. Contact: Claire O’Brien T: 021 4613499 E: waterrock@eircom.net W: www.waterrockgolfcourse.com Graphic Design Via Brett Transforming key brand messages into effective visual and written communications through design User Experience for Digital and Printed Media. Contact: Andrew Brett T: 086 8610973 E: andrew@viabrett.com W: www.viabrett.com
Financial Services/Pensions/ Investment Alter Domus Fund Services (Ireland) Limited Alter Domus is a leading provider of Fund and Corporate Services, dedicated to international private equity & infrastructure houses, real estate firms, private debt managers, multinationals, capital markets issuers and private clients. Our vertically integrated approach offers tailormade administration solutions across the entire value chain of investment structures. Contact: Thomas Blaise T: 021 4847001 E: Thomas.Blaise@alterdomus.com W: www.alterdomus.com Healthcare Providers Crotty Orthodontics Specialized Orthodontist. Invisaline certified, platinum provider, plus member of the European Advisory Board. Special interest in clear aligner and cosmetic brace treatment. Contact: Owen Crotty T: 021 4291104 E: info@crottyorthodontics.ie W: www.crottyorthodontics.ie Injury Solutions Medical Doctor Rooms Contact: Victoria Luke T: 087 6471604 E: victorialuke@eircom.net Insurance/Financial Services Campion Insurance We are one of the largest brokers in Ireland with eleven branches across the country. We specialise in Commercial and Personal Lines Insurance alongside Health Insurance and Financial Services. We pride ourselves in our ability to remain close to our customers at a local level whist harnessing our national presence to get the best deals from insurance companies for our customers. Contact: Robert Tyrrell T: 087 2582407 E: robert@campionins.com W: www.campionins.com Management Consultants Compass AFM Enhancing the Performance of Facilities & Energy Management Within Your Organisation Contact: Dominic Murnane T: 026 23616 E: dmurnane@compassafm.com W: http://www.compassafm.com
IT Services Clarke Analytics Ltd Clarke Analytics specialises in the area of data analytics consulting and training. The company uses a low risk, low cost business driven agile methodology required to be successful with extensive experience in the analytics technology space and a wide network of collaborative partners. Industries of excellence are smart manufacturing, supply chain and healthcare. Contact: Helen Clarke T: 022 30970 E: helen@clarkeanalytics.com W: www.clarkeanalytics.com Enguard Enguard is an Irish owned company which offers a bespoke cyber security and data protection framework. Enguard’s framework ensures small and medium sized businesses build sustainable futures by ensuring compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This framework also provides compliance with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Contact: Anita Murphy T: 0818 252052 E: anita.murphy@enguard.ie W: www.enguard.ie The Project Foundry The Project Foundry is a professional project management services company. We specialise in project management for enterprise level technology & business transformation projects, PMO design & build, validated and non-validated computerised systems delivery, infrastructure delivery management, change projects (e.g. GDPR) and the aircraft leasing sector. Contact: Peter Blissett T: 087 6128430 E: peter@theprojectfoundry.com W: http://theprojectfoundry.com/ Sevencollab.com Business Development I.T. Brian Nolan T: 021 4505454 E: brian@sevencollab.com W: https://sevencollab.com Media/Publishing/Video Production Aperture Media Aperture Media is a digital video production company specialising in Television, Commercials, Corporate Video and Digital Media. Contact: Daniel Fleming T: 021 2428340 E: info@aperturemedia.ie W: www.aperturemedia.ie
Media/Publishing/Video Production Madra Mór Productions Madra Mór Productions are a video and live event production company. A full portfolio of our work is available at www. madramorproductions.com Contact: Brian Dwyer T: 087 6144934 E: madramor@ madramorproductions.com W: www.madramorproductions.com Sky Media Ireland Sky AdSmart is the revolutionary approach to TV advertising which levels the playing field, so businesses of all shapes and sizes can benefit from the advertising impact of TV. With Sky AdSmart different ads can be shown to different households watching the same programme. This means Irish brands and businesses can now advertise on national channels, but to relevant audiences. Contact: Gareth Genockey T: 086 0129812 E: gareth.genockey@sky.ie W: www.skyadsmart.ie Motor Traders Juma Plant Sales Ltd Export of used plant and machinery. Contact: Muhammad Tajammal Hussain T: 086 8657842 E: sales@jumamachinery.com W: www.jumamachinery.com Property Developers Brightland Ltd. Property Development Contact: Christopher Murnane T: 086 7955083 E: cmurnanesafety@gmail.com Time Square Construction Operations Ltd Property Development, Construction and Building facade specialists. Time Square Construction Operations specialise in the development of luxury residential, commercial, hospitality and mixed-use projects, general contracting and construction management. Headquartered at the Port of Cork in the heart of Cork City, our Irish Division is now bringing its international expertise to the local market. Contact: Conor Lee T: 085 1327909 E: clee@timesquareconstruction.com W: www.timesquareconstruction.com Recruitment/Executive Search Employ Ex-Military Recruitment agency dedicated to placing irish military veterans in employment. Contact: Deborah Egan T: 089 2350871 E: employexmilitary@gmail.com W: www.employexmilitary.ie
Recruitment/Executive Search Barden Recruitment We’re experts in accounting, finance and tax recruitment. We’re laser focused on your future. Here to help you achieve your ambitions – whether that’s a new job or building a successful team. Our consultants are ready to advise you and our trademark Barden Career Model will define and guide your future. So get in touch, because the future doesn’t just happen. We make it happen. Contact: Jonathan Olden T: 021 2376124 E: jolden@barden.ie W: https://barden.ie Retail Cork Window Blinds & Munster Awnings Cork Window Blinds: Founded in 2001, Cork Window Blinds supplies all types of window blinds to the commercial & residential market. We discus a solution that meets your exact specification. Munster Awnings: founded in 2010, have a large range of Awnings,retractable roofs systems, Windbreakers & Umbrellas and supply to commercial & residential markets. Extending your season, enhancing your brand Contact: Gavan O’Sullivan T: 021 4857545 E: info@corkwindowblinds.ie W: www.corkwindowblinds.ie Security Services BH Consulting BH Consulting offers a range of information security consulting services, such as helping to design a high-level security strategy or responding to specific cybersecurity incidents. We provide consulting to customers on: Cybersecurity policies, Cybersecurity strategy, Cloud security Information governance and compliance, Cyber incident response & forensics Data protection and EU GDPR. Contact: Ian Travers T: 01 4404065 E: info@bhconsulting.ie W: http://www. bhconsulting.ie Software/Software Services Nuix Ireland Limited Nuix protects, informs, and empowers society in the knowledge age. Leading organisations around the world turn to Nuix when they need fast, accurate answers for investigation, cybersecurity incident response, insider threats, litigation, regulation, privacy, risk management, and other essential challenges. Contact: Joe Hanly T: 021 4849123 E: joe.hanly@nuix.com W: www.nuix.com
Services Coco Beauty Spa and Clinic Coco Beauty Spa and Clinic Coco College of Beauty Therapy Contact: Lisa O’Mahony T: 021 4878717 E: info@coco.ie W: www.coco.ie Solicitors/Legal Services Ahern Roberts O’Rourke Williams & Partners Ahern Roberts O’Rourke Williams & Partners are a successful firm of solicitors, providing a full range of legal services, from our offices in the Old Rectory, Carrigaline, County Cork, P43 W921. We provide a personal and efficient service to our local, national and international clients. Contact: Colm O’Rourke T: 021 4374444 E: colm.orourke@arw.ie W: www.arw.ie BHK Solicitors Law Firm Contact: David O’Keeffe T: 021 7013700 E: dokeeffe@bhk.ie W: www.bhk.ie T-Shirt Printing The TeeShop by HairyBaby HairyBaby has recently branched out into t-shirt printing for small business with their new venture TheTeeShop. Get your business logo on cool t-shirts for your staff and in small quantities too. Contact: Daragh Murphy T: 021 4355856 E: info@theteeshop.ie W: www.theteeshop.ie Transport Enterprise Holdings Ground transportation solution provider. Rent any type of vehicle, for any length of time. Contact: Simon Green T: 01 4290200 E: simon.j.green@ehi.com W: www.enterpriseholdings.com Wholesalers Touchdown Brand Partners TouchDown is the partner of choice for premium consumer electronic brands looking to establish a sales and distribution network in EMEA. Our years of experience in the market combined with our highly successful track record of early product identification and adoption gives us a unique perspective on what is required by growing brands entering the EMEA marketplace. Contact: Fraser Heaslip T: 021 6010006 E: info@touchdownpartners.com W: www.touchdownpartners.com
chamberlink PAGE // 25
Connect
members news
Members events, award wins, openings and more
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It’s a hat trick! Having recently won Sky Bar of the Year Award as well as the Irish Accommodation Services Institute (IASI) Award, the team at the Montenotte Hotel were thrilled to pick up the Best City Hotel Award at Ireland’s Gold Medal Awards. David Manning, Deputy General Manager, Helena O’Brien Sales & Marketing Manager and Brian Bowler General Manager. Picture: Gerard McCarthy Pictured at the UNESCO Learning Cities Reception, hosted by EY at the Old Head Golf Club, Kinsale are John Higgins, EY (Cork); Paul Walsh, VP Intel Security & Ireland site lead and Neil Gibson, EY Chief Economist. Picture: John Allen Fiona Edwards-Murphy, founder of ApisProtect, which was named Bank of Ireland/ IGNITE Business of the Year 2017. Picture: Gerard McCarthy Ronan Daly Jermyn receives ISO 27001 Certification. Rory Delahunty, Chief Information Officer, Ronan Daly Jermyn; Michael Brophy, CEO, Certification Europe; Richard Martin, Managing Partner, Ronan Daly Jermyn; Tom Noonan, Chief Operations Officer, Ronan Daly Jermyn.
FRIENDLy BUSINESS JCI Cork Friendly Business Awards 2017 are proudly sponsored by Cork Chamber, Clayton Silver Springs Hotel, The Evening Echo and national sponsor Bank of Ireland. JCI Cork are delighted to announce the overall winner of the Friendly Business Awards 2017 - Elite Pilates. At the awards 6 business were recognised for their outstanding achievements in areas such as customer care and disability access. And The Winner Is... • Best Customer Care – Pinocchio’s Toys and Gifts • Best Community Impact – Himalaya Yoga Valley • Best Eco Friendliness – Griffin’s Garden Centre • Best Shop Layout – Brocade & Lime • Best Disability Access – Wild Goose Restaurant • Best Digital Experience & Overall Winner – Elite Pilates
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chamberlink
John Keating, Toastmaster, Annie FitzGibbon, Cork Chamber, Sian Horn, Elite Pilates, Overall Winner of the JCI Friendly Business Awards 2017, Carol O’Sullivan President JCI Cork 2017, Orla Lenahan, JCI Cork, Lia Boyland, Bank of Ireland, Norina O’Callaghan, Clayton Hotel Silversprings Cork and Nicola Cullinane, Evening Echo.
Member Spotlight with Leonard O’Sullivan Commercial Area Manager at OfficeMaster
Explain OfficeMaster to someone unfamiliar with the business?
OfficeMaster is part of the FieldMaster organisation, established in 1973. Our main area of expertise is consultation, design and planning of office environments along with the supply and fit out of business furniture solutions. Being in business almost 45 years, our expertise and services offered in relation to workplace design is considerable. Through our portfolio of brands and products, we offer a great deal of choice for large and small offices. We can aid prospective clients with a consultation process so as to identify immediate and possible future needs. Our design capability allows us to provide potential floor plans on CAD and 3D mock up. The supply of business furniture solutions is quite diverse and we are agents for a number of prestigious manufacturers, such as Senator, Allermuir, Quadrofoglio, Triumph and Nowy Styl. We work with a large client portfolio of multinationals, SME’s and small business owners across all sectors. No enquiry or project is too big or too small for the OfficeMaster team. Give us a call or check out our website at www.officemaster.ie for further information.
What differentiates your organisation from others?
In an industry that is often focused on product only, we create inspiring spaces for workplaces. We cater more for solutions, delivering efficient and effective working environments. Our experience allows us to suitably consult, design, supply and fit out for our diverse client portfolio. Many challenges faced by organisations include, what furniture type best suits your business needs? How do you successfully migrate to an open office environment? How do you allow for greater collaboration? Look at some of the projects we have completed and you can see different solutions identified to suit different client scenarios.
The OfficeMaster Team
Leonard O’Sullivan heads up our Cork office at City Gate in Mahon supported by a friendly and experienced team of professionals. Leonard has over 15 years’ experience in providing business solutions and is a certified ergonomics assessor. Our Sales Director is David Cooke who is passionate about quality and service for our customers. David is an office interior specialist and certified ergonomics assessor with over 20 years’ experience in office fit outs. Other members of our team include Jacqui Kielthy, General manager and Caroline Walsh, Customer Service Supervisor. Both Jacqui and Caroline bring a wealth of experience to their roles and manage all aspects of the business.
The Changing Shape of The Modern Workplace The way our workplaces look and behave has been undergoing a great deal of change in recent years. From an organisational perspective, there has been a need to make property portfolios more cost effective, whilst also providing an engaging environment. The need to both attract and retain the best talent whilst allowing that talent to collaborate and be innovative are
key design indicators. The workplace should be a destination, a place where people can meet, share ideas and collaborate within a comfortable and ergonomic environment. Embracing emerging technologies and a flexible working environment, this approach to workplace design has been proven to increase efficiency and productivity.
Building 1000, 2nd Floor, City Gate Mahon, Cork T12 W7CV Ireland Tel - 00353 21 2066 100 sales@officemaster.ie
www.officemaster.ie chamberlink PAGE // 27
Connect
NEW CHAMBER FACES
Leigh Delaney
Deirdre Griffin
Donna Miskell
Receptionist & Administrator Leigh works as receptionist and administrator within Cork Chamber. Leigh’s role includes assisting members with their enquiries and providing admin support to the Chamber team
Membership Executive Deirdre Griffin works as Membership Executive within the Membership Team. Deirdre’s role involves building strong relationships in order to grow and support the member network, as well as ensuring members are maximising their Chamber membership
Events & Communications Executive Donna works with the Events Manager with the organisation and administration of the Chamber’s extensive calendar of events. Donna also works with the Member Services Team to support the creation of event related communications.
AR TS LOV ER?
THE BEATING HEART OF THEATRE IN CORK
Get your business involved!
Become a Corporate Member | Sponsor a Production Sponsor a Seat | Hire our Venue SUPPORT CULTURE IN YOUR COMMUNITY FOR 2018 For further information contact Anna Marie Coughlan, annamarie@everymancork.com | 021 4557822
www.everymancork.com
Early Bird Sale: Open until Fri 27 Oct ‘17 subject to availability
Remaining seat sale: Mon 30 Oct ‘17 – Fri 30 Mar ‘18 subject to availability
MUNSTER RUGBY 10 YEaR TickETS Thomond Park Premium SeaTing
Key Benefits include: Exclusive Premium seating in the East or West Stand for all Munster Rugby Pool Stage European Cup games and PRO14 games in Thomond Park.
Hospitality Discount.
Guaranteed option to purchase your seat for any knock out stages in Thomond Park.
Access to tickets for Home 6 Nations and Autumn Internationals, Away European Cup games.*
Exclusive access to 10-Year bar in the East & West Stand.
Reduced Ticketmaster fee for online sales.
Exclusive entrance to the Stadium.
For full details visit munsterrugby.ie
*Access to tickets is subject to availability and will range fro
For information please contact our sales team on: Tel: 061 - 421103 - Email:10YearSales@munsterrugby.ie *Access to tickets is subject to availability and will range from an option to purchase to a ticket lottery
On the Move
Members announcements and new appointments
Duncan Lyster, Managing Director of Lisney with newly approinted Divisional Directors David McCarthy, Patricia Stokes and Frank McSharry.
Lisney appoint three new Divisional Directors Frank McSharry, Patricia Stokes and David McCarthy. Frank joined Lisney in 2015 and works in Lisney’s New Homes Department. He specialises in devising sales and marketing strategies for residential development projects, and advising on pricing, feasibility and unit mix for new schemes. Patricia joined in 2012 and specialises in residential property particularly in residential sales and lettings, valuations and new home development advice. David joined in 2008 and is a Chartered Surveyor based in the Cork office. He has experience in all aspects the commercial property sector in Munster.
Dara Burke, Director Tax Services with Shane Carroll, Director Business Advisory Services and Joe McAvoy, Director Tax Services.
McAvoy & Associates appoints a Director of Business Advisory McAvoy & Associates, the Cork-based tax and business advisory practice is delighted to announce the appointment of Shane Carroll as Director of Business Advisory Services. Shane, a Chartered Accountant, brings nearly 15 years of knowledge and expertise to the role and has extensive experience in a variety of business advisory and corporate finance transactions. Shane specialises in Business Acquisitions.
Clayton Hotel Cork City
The Imperial Hotel Cork
BDM Boylan Solicitors
Trigon Hotels
The Clayton Hotel Cork City is delighted to announce the appointment of Paul O’Connell to the role of Sales and Marketing Manager at the four star city centre hotel. Bringing extensive experience in corporate and leisure hospitality sales and marketing, Paul has worked with many of Ireland’s leading hotel brands from Hayfield Manor Hotel and Killarney Royal Hotel to The Kingsley Hotel, Cork and Travel Trade Sales for Fota Island Resort.
Flynn Hotels has announced the appointment of Danielle Healy as Sales & Marketing Manager for The Imperial Hotel, Cork. In her new role, Danielle will be responsible for all of the hotel’s sales and marketing activity, implementing and managing sales and marketing strategies across a variety of channels. Danielle holds a degree in Business Studies from CIT and Masters in Food Marketing from UCC.
BDM Boylan Solicitors & Business Advisory has announced the appointment of Georgina O’Halloran as a Solicitor with the litigation and employment team. Georgina is a graduate of UCC and DIT. Prior to joining BDM Boylan Solicitors, she worked with a large litigation law firm in New York who specialised in defence litigation. Georgina also has extensive experience in the areas of employment law, plaintiff and defence personal injuries work and general litigation.
Raymond Kelleher has recently joined the team at Trigon Hotels in Cork as their Group Sales & Marketing Director, having come from the Clayton Hotel Cork City where he spent the past 9 years as Sales & Marketing Manager. During his time at the hotel he worked with both the Choice Hotel Group and the Dalata Hotel Group who managed the hotel. From Oct 2011– Apr 2014 he was the Regional Sales & Marketing Manager for both the Clarion Hotel Cork and the Clarion Hotel Limerick.
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Christmas Parties
SATURDAY 2nd DecembeR
Private Dining
entertainment The Love bugs & DJ
~ Price €69 per person to include Prosecco Reception on arrival, 5 course meal, Late Night buffet, Amazing Spot Prizes (Spa Vouchers, meal Vouchers) & bar extension. Special accommodation rate: €65 per person sharing b&b. Non refundable deposit of €20 per person on booking, full payment on or before November 20th. complimentary Dinner x 2 Voucher for booker when deposit is paid for a minimum party of 20 before Friday 3rd November 2017.
Menu Ballycotton Smoked Salmon Platter, Compressed Melon, Squid Ink Emulsion, Blinis, Purple Sisho ~ Roast Celeriac & Bramley Apple Soup, Chestnut & Sage Creme Fraiche ~ Prime Irish Fillet of Beef, Confit Garlic & Truffle Mash, Red Onion Marmalade, Tellicherry Pepper Jus. ~ Oven Baked Sea Bream, Samphire and Petit Pois, Scallop & Lobster Bisque. ~ Iced Baileys & White Chocolate Parfait, Dark Chocolate Mousse Dome, Nougatine Teuille ~ Freshly Brewed Tea/Coffee & Mince Pies
FANTASTic AmbieNce, wiTH AwARD wiNNiNG FOOD & SeRVice bOASTiNG 2 AA ROSeTTeS Join us for an impromptu drink & lite bite in the bar, or book your christmas celebration in bellini’s restaurant, offering an eclectic mix of european & Traditional flavours. Our mixologist has a fantastic variety of molecular cocktails to ensure fun filled festivities. Sample our cocktails, soak up the atmosphere in elegant surroundings.
For corporate Functions, client entertaining or Staff christmas Parties, maryborough Hotel offers the finest private dining rooms to ensure your best christmas yet! A range of private banqueting suites are available, all finished to a luxurious standard, have inbuilt bars and dance floors. These rooms are perfect for intimate Dinners from 50 people to lavish parties for 300. Special accommodation rate of €65 per person sharing b&b. complimentary Drinks Reception, 4 course Gourmet meal and complimentary bar extension €59 per person.
menu @ €49 for groups of 10 or more.
To book contact the Sales Office on 021 4918309 / 021 4918310 or email moriordan@maryborough.ie or edunmill@maryborough.ie
www.maryborough.com
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The future is exciting.
Ready?
Issue 4 - October 2017
sponsored by
A Changing Cork Skyline
The recently published draft National Planning Framework, Ireland 2040, describes Cork City as an emerging medium-sized European Centre of growth and innovation. To build on the successes
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QUAKER RD 83- 85 Patrick Street/ refurbishment completed City Centre/ flood defences Harley Street Bridge/ planned new bridge TSB Bank, No.1 Lapps Quay & 16 Parnell Place/ UCC development Marina Park/under construction Camden Quay/ CIT School of Art & Design/ under construction Horgans Quay/development site Kent Station/redevelopment under construction Origin/development site Former Square Deal Property/ application for student accommodation Merchants Quay/shopping centre refurbishment Kyrl’s Quay/ development site
Cork Chamber Economic Bulletin contact: Michelle O’Sullivan, Policy & Research Executive e: michelle@corkchamber.ie / t: 021 4530132
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Grand Parade/site acquisition The Capitol/ Boole House/phase one of restoration completed No. 7 - 9 Parnell Place/ sold for hotel and hostel
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to date and grow Ireland’s metropolitan profile, the draft report highlights the importance of growing a competitive and sustainable urban environment. As part of this, the emphasis looks at the provision of better housing options, new employment locations, improved public spaces and enhanced public transport. Recently, Cork City Council commissioned the below graphic which depicts the evolving landscape planned for the City, showing new and upcoming development’s and public realm improvement. It is safe to say that as a City region, we have 01develop our urban 05 the ambition to environment to meet current and future potential.
with significant growth potential in the coming years. The region has evolved the necessary credentials, including global economic clusters, international connectivity (port, airport and digital infrastructure), road infrastructure, health infrastructure, water infrastructure, energy infrastructure, a growing population base, world leading higher education institutions, skills, culture and quality of life.
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The Cork region has performed strongly in economic terms over the past decades, growing our contribution to the overall national output within this period and being one of the regions to fare best and above the state average in terms of Gross Value Added per person. There is an ambitious, skilled population and a diversity to the growth that promotes economic resilience and lays the path for future investment. Still, Cork is nowhere near the peak in terms of reaching its potential. It is widely recognised that based on natural advantages such as scale, availability of natural resources and critical mass, Cork has the strongest and most immediate possibilities as a location
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Anderson’s Quay/ A RD No. 85-86 South Mall/ Metropole Hotel/application for development Former Muskerry Service Station/ student accommodation under construction 29 Beasley Street/ hotel development 30 Paírc Uí Chaoimh/completed 31 St. Patricks Bridge/ refurbishment planned
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FIND OUT MORE
www.corkcity.ie/ invest www.corkchamber.ie
2017
Q3
Economic Trends Survey Results
Executive Summary The third economic trends survey of 2017 reflects the business experiences of Cork Chamber members over the course of July, August and September. Once again, the survey has reflected high optimism amongst the business community, with the business confidence level reported at 96% and mirroring the sentiment reported for Q2. This is helped by the strong national emphasis on trade diversification, and the increase in resilience of trade links in response to a future Brexit. Moreover, we see an overall increase to 39% in confidence levels in the Irish economy compared with 3 months ago, an increase from 33% in Q2 and 27% in Q1, reflecting a steady rise in overall business sentiment towards the future outlook. Unsurprisingly, Brexit has been reinstated as the number one threat to business growth. This is most likely linked to the heightened political uncertainties in the UK parliament with mounting pressure for a change of parliamentary leadership. With this, we have the associated unknowns of what a change in leadership in the UK could mean for Brexit, or if this call were to trigger a snap election in the UK. Added to this, we have the growing dissatisfaction within EU parliamentary circles at the lack of meaningful progress from the UK on negotiations. In completing the quarterly surveys, members are asked to include commentary on areas of note to their business activity. This feedback is valuable to guiding the future advocacy of the Cork Chamber policy team and providing insight into member concerns. A number of comments shared within the Q3 survey follow: “Continue to promote infrastructure development including a good public transport system” “Wage constraint – particularly with significant construction bubble and Brexit looming” “Extension of Cork Airport runway is critical, as direct international flights for large long-haul aircrafts is the biggest issue for Cork’s future.” “Transport infrastructure, domestic rental property market, high-level IT skills and market statistics for the region.”
This quarter’s survey also sought feedback from members on the area of Corporate Social Responsibility. CSR as set out by the European Commission emphasises the adoption of processes that integrate social, environmental, ethical, human rights and consumer concerns into business operations and core strategy with the aim being to maximise the creation of shared value for owners/ shareholders, other stakeholders and society at large. The survey findings show a strong level of engagement in CSR activities across the Cork business community with 50% of members stating that a CSR plan is active, with the main focus areas being on Community/ Social activities, and Health and Wellbeing in the workplace. This is a hugely positive insight into business operations in Cork and Cork Chamber will aim to support initiatives in this area into the future.
Responding Businesses The responding businesses are representative of a broad crosssection of business sizes. Micro Enterprise (2 - 10)
Between 11 - 50
Over 201
Between 101 - 200
Sole Trader
9%
27%
30%
Between 51 - 100
9%
4%
Respondents are also representative of a broad range of sectors
16% 2% 2%
Industry/ Manufacturing
Agriculture and Fishing
9%
Science and Technology
Transport
7%
Tourism, Travel Culture and Arts
“Brexit and Tourism.” “Adding to the increasing voices to allow Cork airport compete for a greater share of the air traffic to and from Ireland. This will help attract greater numbers of Brexit type businesses to Cork.”
Representative Respondents
9%
Construction
“Request retail rates reduction for new companies as the City Centre is not attractive to foreign workers or companies in its present state.”
5%
Multisectoral
50%
Services
Cork Chamber - Economic Bulletin
21%
TOP Top 55
Threats Threats to to Business Growth Business Growth
Employment Outlook Change to employee numbers over Q3 2017 4%
1 Brexit
Decrease
47%
2 Cost Competitiveness
Stay the same
49%
3 Changing Consumer Spending/ Reduced Orders 4 Skills Availability
Increase
Expected changes to employee numbers over the next 12 months
5 Access to Credit
3%
Decrease
The above are closely followed by the Cost of Energy and Raw Materials, Managing Cashflow and the Stability of Capital Markets. Commentary also highlighted future international tax policy across the US and EU, and future strategies affecting corporation tax.
38%
Stay the same
59%
Increase
Number of businesses with vacancies advertised currently
Business Confidence Not
96%
4%
Turnover and Net Profit estimations and 12-month predictions 24%
Yes
52%
No
48%
When asked in relation to difficult to fill vacancies, 29% of respondents reported difficulties in recruiting the right candidate(s) for a range of vacancy types. This question relates to a time period of greater than 3 months since the initial advertisement. The top 3 ranked vacancy types are as follows:
Top Ranked
No Change
9%
1
Decrease
67%
Turnover
increase
83%
Expect an increase over the next 12 months.
Engineering (across a range of disciplines)
2 Chefs / Hospitality Personnel 3 IT Professionals Within this, commentary highlighted the issue with regard to recruiting individuals with the right level of experience.
Confidence in the Irish Economy 15%
Decrease
27%
51%
No Change
58%
increase
Cork Chamber - Economic Bulletin
Same
74%
Expect an increase over the next 12 months.
39%
10%
CSR Overall, 50% of businesses surveyed have an active CSR strategy. 9% of these are interested to increase activity in this area. A further 20% of businesses indicated that a process is ongoing with a strategy being planned, with the remaining 30% indicating that currently this is not an area of focus for the business.
Active Strategy
Companies in Ireland have become more innovative over the past 12 months, with almost 9 in 10 businesses now considering themselves to be innovators. This is among the key findings of KPMG’s latest Innovation Monitor. The report, which is based on research carried out on behalf of KPMG by Red C, shows an increase in innovation activity with 88 percent of companies saying they are engaged in it either in Ireland or overseas, an increase of eight percentage points on 2016.
41% Interested to increase activity 9%
Of those currently engaged in a CSR strategy, the majority of activities are focused on community and social (38%), closely followed by health and wellbeing in the workplace (33%) which is hugely positive. Third in this ranking at 11% is environmental, a figure that may indicate difficulties in identifying environmental projects for businesses to engage with as can be said of the remaining focus areas and as can be seen from the graph below. In conclusion, when asked in relation to Cork Chamber facilitating CSR knowledge sharing events, over 60% indicated an interest in hearing more. As such, Cork Chamber is committed to increasing our activity in this area and to share this knowledge with our business members.
3% 7%
8%
Ethical Trading
Other
Marketplace/ Consumer Concerns
38%
Community / Social
Main Focus 33%
Health & Wellbeing in the Workplace
11%
KPMG launch annual Innovation Monitor to track insights into innovation and R&D
It also found that while the majority of companies (62 per cent) consider Ireland to be “innovation friendly”, this sentiment is down by 8 per cent year on year. The availability of qualified in-house personnel (68 percent) and R&D funding (63 percent) were the factors most frequently cited by businesses when asked what influences their ability to innovate. Several respondents also called for greater emphasis on innovation at second and third-level. The Innovation Monitor also examined attitudes towards R&D incentives and the impact of potential changes. The research found that limiting the amount of cash refunds a company can claim, or reducing the rate of the incentive for non-taxpaying firms that avail of the refundable mechanism, would negatively impact the attractiveness of the R&D tax credit for seven in 10 companies. It also found that just over half (52 per cent) of companies are unaware of the Knowledge Development Box (KDB). Michael Lynch, who is a Tax Partner in KPMG’s Cork office, commented on the findings: “Brexit has meant that businesses have to continue to innovate to maintain competitive advantage and while we see very positive indications that Ireland is innovation friendly, barriers such as access to funding and a skilled workforce in certain sectors do remain. Greater awareness of the type of supports available is also key to encouraging further innovation and R&D and SMEs in particular would benefit from becoming more aware of the incentives.”
Environment
For more information see kpmg.ie
Innovation Monitor Insights into innovation and R&D in Ireland Learn more at kpmg.ie #InnovationMonitor 3150_Innovation_Monitor_Ad_Cork_Chamber_Bulletin.indd 1
Cork Chamber - Economic Bulletin
05/10/2017 12:09