Chamberlink Issue 2 2019 - Active Citizenship by Cork Chamber

chamberlink ISSUE 02 2019

Active Citizenship

First Biogas Bus Journey

Local elections

Shaping Corkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Future

Corporate Team Challenge Cork • Belfast • Galway • Dublin

WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE · CORK CITY Are you ready to take on the challenge? Take the challenge and enter a team of four with three categories available: female, male and mixed. All entrants receive a technical t-shirt, medal and goody bag.

Partners

Nominated charity

Community

in this issue COVER Story 12

New Chamber President Paula Cogan: Real Delivery Critical to Building Trust

TRANSFORMING CORK

North America Calling

Little Ireland 2040

She is Sustainable Cork

Ireland’s First Journey on Biogas Bus

Tackling Leakage in Cork

Our Ocean Wealth

In the Chair with Dr. Peter Heffernan

10 Local Government Manifesto 2019 11

Responsible Business

Shaping Cork’s Future

informing YOU 16

Economic Trends: Survey Results

EMPOWERING YOU

Keeping Your Finger on the Pulse

Future Leaders Programme

20 Growing Green in Cork & SeaFest 2019 21 Upcoming Events

Anne Graham, CEO, National Roads Authority

22 Connecting You

GROWING YOUR BUSINESS 24 New Members 26 New Appointments 27 North America Calling 28 Members News 30 Vodafone data reveals about 43,000 people commute to Cork city

Welcome

to the second Chamberlink of 2019 which features your new Chamber President Paula Cogan on the cover who was elected to the role for the next two years at our recent AGM. Having worked with Paula over recent years I know she is passionate about Cork, about leading the Chamber and will be an exceptional ambassador and representative for Cork’s business community as we move through one of the most exciting phases in our history. We are also pleased to bring you an issue that is representative of the level of activity in the Region. We examine diverse topics from infrastructure in Little Island, Ireland’s first biogas bus journey, the need for Ireland 2040 delivery, and our Future Leaders Programme, to the Ocean Wealth Summit and SeaFest.

In Paula’s speech at our AGM, she spoke about active citizenship. In this issue we look at our Future Forms programme with the Glucksman Gallery and our Social Innovation Fund. Both unique opportunities to work with the generations that will be driving our economy in the near future, and with communities and initiatives that may not traditionally have the direct support of the business community.

Join us, stay engaged, stay active. It’s an exciting time for Cork and your passion for progress is the driver.

We have an incredible events schedule over the coming weeks. One particular highlight is Anne Graham CEO of the National Transport Authority presenting at a breakfast briefing on the most significant public transport strategy in the history of Cork on May 24th.

Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, Cork, T23 TD90.

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Conor Conor Healy Chief Executive, Cork Chamber. T +353 (0)87 9471858 E conor@corkchamber.ie

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Little Ireland 2040 Thomas Mc Hugh, Director of Public Affairs and Communications at Cork Chamber compares Little Island to the critical need for Ireland 2040 infrastructural delivery. Over the past couple of months, much welcomed road improvements by Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Cork County Council have commenced bringing greater capacity to the Southern Region’s dedicated hub of industry and business, Little Island. Home to pharmaceutical giants, engineering excellence, financial services and the world’s foremost food producers among others, the area needs no introduction and has become one of the great success stories of the Irish economy. The road upgrades are part of the largest and most technically complex roads construction project in the state, the Dunkettle Interchange, which carries over 100,000 vehicles per day. However, the commencement of these works has also highlighted the fragile nature of car dependency in the city region. The temporary result is wait times of over an hour for thousands of commuters leaving the Island. Construction of one sort or another is part and parcel of the evolution of Cork, as businesses continue to put their faith in Ireland’s fastest growing city region and we develop our infrastructure in parallel. But how have we found ourselves in a situation where our transport infrastructure can’t keep pace with our level of economic growth? The basic answer comes in three parts.

The first, is the incredible level of economic growth in Cork City Region, with unemployment levels the lowest in the country. The Chamber Q1 Economic Trends show 80% of businesses expect increased turnover in the next 12 months. Locations such as Little Island boast steady but discreet

levels of growth on a company-bycompany basis with our members growing and expanding without necessarily banging the PR drum in the process. In the City we will see 5,000 new jobs over the next 3 years and over 1 million square feet of offices are in planning and development. This growth in economic output has created a lively commuting environment with uplift across all modes of transport, from car to bus and train. Speaking of cars, our second challenge is our overreliance on them. In Little Island we have almost total car dependency with no buses on the island and with no trace of the bike scheme that has clocked up over 1,000,000 uses in the City. Cork has a progressive Movement Strategy for Little Island that will comprehensively address this planning methodology of the past. The strategy includes a mobility hub that leverages the huge potential of the Little Island Train station, dedicated bus and cycle corridors, and greater permeability throughout the Island. To achieve modal shift and to facilitate further investment, the Strategy must be endorsed and funded by Government and must be a cornerstone of the forthcoming Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Study. If we are serious about modal shift, this Strategy must be delivered without delay. With discussion of strategic infrastructural investment comes our third and final point. In the last economic downturn we turned off the tap on infrastructural projects that would have lessened the impact of recession, and paved the way for future growth. As Brexit rumbles on and the prospect of economic turmoil becomes ever

more real we must commit as a nation, forcibly and with vision to the delivery of infrastructure regardless of economic cycle. Our foremost economists advise it. We have conceptual commitment in the form of the rainy-day fund but we must actually follow through. In Ireland 2040 we have set forth a vision and aligned it to capital investment. In the context of the frequently populist, often anarchic politics that is increasingly dominant on the global stage, this plan is yet another defining unique selling point for Ireland. But if we do not invest counter cyclically and in line with Ireland 2040 our USP recedes in line with our economic prospects. By facilitating sustainable transport in areas such as Little Island we demonstrate exemplary investment. We have an opportunity to create City Regions that are competitive on a global scale, that create a platform for economically resilient, socially cohesive and environmentally sustainable growth. Let’s make it happen.

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She is Sustainable Cork organisers Tara Shine, Rosemarie MacSweeney, Madeleine Murray and Sinead Dr Celine McInerney, UCC; Michelle O’Sullivan, Cork Chamber; Susan Steele, Sea Fisheries Protection Authority; Olive Flynn, TWIG Refill Store and Ingrid De Donker, iDDea. Crowley after a successful event.

She is Sustainable Cork Women for a Sustainable Future The first She is Sustainable Cork conference took place in March to a sell-out crowd. The event, with a focus on sustainability and women’s leadership, covered a variety of topics, ranging from how we can all make changes to our everyday lives, to reforming the financial system, agriculture and food. She is Sustainable began in London in February 2016, and there have been eight such events since. The overall aim is to create an inclusive, authentic and inspiring conversation and the recent volunteer-led, UCC based event celebrated women working in sustainability in Cork. The SIS (She Is Sustainable) events are aimed at both experienced women, having a lot of learnings to share, and younger counterparts that are eager to learn from peer experiences, whether working, involved or interested in the area of sustainability.

The event was organised by Rosemarie MacSweeney from the International Energy Research Centre in UCC, Sinead Crowley from The Cool Planet Experience and Cork Chamber members, Dr Tara Shine and Madeleine Murray from Change by Degrees. Speakers included Deirdre O’Shaughnessy from 96fm, Susan Steele from the Sea-Fisheries Protection Agency, Eimear Delahunty from Food Cloud and Caroline Hennessy from 8 Degrees Brewing. The event included a Social, Environment and Economic panel with Michelle O’Sullivan from Cork Chamber moderating the Economic session. The conversations continued after the conference at the second Cork Climate Cocktail, a networking platform for sustainability professionals initially launched in Dublin, with Chapters in Amsterdam, Cork, Colombo and London. Watch out for follow-up She is Sustainable bitesize events.

Jobs & G row th - Q1 2019 January • Medical device firm DePuy Synthes announces 30 new roles and investment of €36m for Cork innovation centre in Ringaskiddy • The Cork arm of UK outsourcing firm Capita announced 60 jobs in Cork after signing a contract with Electric Ireland to manage credit control and collection services • Cork’s Wisetek opened a new operations centre in the UK • Ireland’s ocean energy test facility, Lir, was officially opened in Ringaskiddy • Sea Box Group to create 20 jobs in Cork after €1 million investment • New Cork office of SRG, scientific recruitment specialists, officially opened February • A new Munster headquarters in Cork for IT service provider Version 1 will see the company create 40 new roles

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Irish and UK research centres join forces in €38.6m SFI deal. Centres for Doctoral Training (CDTs) in energy resilience and the built environment awarded to MaREI, the SFI research centre for marine and renewable energy with University College London and Loughborough University University College Cork invested €10.5 million in EU funding in a marine renewable energy project, the second phase of the funding for the initiative Launch of Cork’s first commercial podcast studio at Republic of Work

March • Cork Airport opens new control centre for 24hr monitoring • Launch of South-West Regional Enterprise Plan to 2020

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Donal Kissane, Commercial Manager, Gas Networks Ireland and Michelle O’Sullivan, Chair of Energy Cork Transport Subgroup and Public Affairs Senior Executive, Cork Chamber.

Alighting from the first biogas journey: Kieran Lettice, Energy Cork Cluter Manager with Prof. Jerry Murphy, MAREI UCC and Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber.

PASSENGERS TAKE IRELAND’S FIRST JOURNEY ON BIOGAS BUS Energy Cork & Cork Chamber Champion Zero Emissions Public Bus Routes Bus travellers in Cork were the first passengers to journey on a ‘green bus’ in Ireland on Monday 25th March. With zero carbon emission footprint, the biomethane-powered bus is a viable alternative for Ireland’s public bus fleet. The biogas bus has been part of national trials looking at green bus performance, air quality impacts and CO2 emissions, among other criteria. Biomethane is a clean, renewable gas that is 98% methane. Also known as green gas, it can be used interchangeably with conventional fossil-fuel natural gas, meaning it can be added to the existing gas grid. A growing number of European capital cities now run their buses on gas, resulting in lower carbon emissions and better air quality in cities. Biomethane also contains virtually no particulate matter (PM) making it an ideal fuel for extensive use in urban areas. The Transport Subgroup of Energy Cork has been advocating the benefits of adopting compressed natural gas to biomethane for public transport fleet technology for a number of years. The Ireland’s Greenest Bus Fleet proposal, developed by the Energy Cork Transport Sub-Group with the support of Cork Chamber, Bus Éireann, Gas Networks Ireland, Cork County Council, Cork City Council and University College Cork, envisages the transition of the Cork

city bus fleet (at least 120 vehicles) on a phased basis from the current diesel vehicles to compressed natural gas (CNG)/ Biomethane fully renewable gas fuelled vehicles. With the initiation of green gas injections to the national grid the possibility of a fully renewable and carbon neutral bus fleet and technology is now a real possibility that holds unprecedented benefits from an energy resilience, circular economy, waste to energy, clean energy and environmental perspective. Cork Chamber, Energy Cork and Gas Networks Ireland, with MaREI at UCC, were delighted to recently host Ireland’s First Zero Carbon Biogas Bus Journey from Cork City to Ringaskiddy. The bus journey, utilising a biogas fuelled bus used in the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport’s trial of low emission bus technologies in Cork and Dublin brought together a range of stakeholders from across Cork and nationally. In Cork we are awaiting the publication of the Cork Metropolitan Transport Strategy which will map out the future strategy and investment in Cork’s public and sustainable transport infrastructure and services. Faced with EU deadlines to reduce harmful greenhouse gases and following Budget 2018, Ireland will no longer purchase diesel buses for public transport as of

1st July 2019. With this, Energy Cork Transport subgroup are continuing to advocate the opportunity in transitioning to a low emission public transport fleet which also gives effect to national waste management policy. This journey successfully received broad media coverage owed to the increasing business and public interest in adopting clean technologies and transitioning to a low carbon society. Ireland’s First Zero Carbon Bus Journey was also mentioned in the Climate Action Committee’s proceedings in March. The Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport has been carrying out technology trials of hybrid diesel, fully electric, electric hybrid, compressed natural gas (CNG) and biomethane powered buses in Cork and Dublin in recent months to review performance. The green buses have been travelling key routes in the urban bus transport network, but have been weighted rather than carrying passengers. This technology is tried and tested with examples of biomethane bus fleets in Stockholm, Lille and Nottingham to name just a few cities. Cork Chamber and Energy Cork are keen to see this technology supported by the National Transport Authority and hope to see these buses rolled out in Cork in the not too distant future. We are awaiting the conclusion of these trials.

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Tackling leakage in Cork Irish Water working to provide more secure, reliable water supply for the city Leakage of water from Cork’s Victorianera water supply network is a major problem for the city and a big challenge for Irish Water. About half of all the water treated in Cork every day is lost to leakage before it reaches the homes and businesses of the city. This is due to the age and poor condition of the pipes as a result of decades of under-investment in the infrastructure. Cork is not unique. This is a situation which is replicated throughout the country and one which Irish Water is committed to addressing through its Leakage Reduction Programme. More than €500m will be invested nationally in the period to 2021 to address leakage through replacing old pipes, fixing leaks, pressure management, the First Fix scheme and a range of other measures. And this high level of investment will need to continue for decades to come to bring the water supply network up to a modern standard. In Cork some of the pipes supplying water to the city’s homes and businesses are more than 100 years old, with a variety of materials in use including cast iron and lead. Replacing these old pipes will benefit everyone - businesses, schools, residents and visitors - by delivering a safer, more secure and reliable water supply with a reduced risk of supply disruption due to burst pipes. Irish Water’s project manager Steven Blennerhassett outlined the importance of carrying out these essential works now:

“Safeguarding Cork’s water supply for the future is a top priority for Irish Water. Every day about 120 million litres of water is treated and distributed through Cork’s water supply network. However approximately half of this clean water is lost through leaks. It is a key priority for Irish Water to reduce this leakage by fixing and replacing ageing and leaking pipes. This will ensure a safe, reliable water supply which is vital for our health, our environment and our growing population and economy. “I would like to thank businesses and residents for their patience and support as we carry out this essential work. We recognise that it can cause inconvenience and we will continue to make every effort to minimise disruption through active, open engagement with local communities and through collaboration between our project team and our contracting partners, Cork City Council and An Garda Siochana.” Significant progress has already been made, with more than 7km of old water mains replaced in Horgan’s Quay, Lower Glanmire Road, Knockburden (Ballincollig), Marian Park and the Skehard Road. Irish Water, through its contractors Coffey Northumbrian Ltd, is currently carrying out work in Turners Cross where we are replacing 4.8km of problematic water mains, and the area around MacCurtain Street where about 3.6km of old water mains will be replaced and new service connections will be installed. The work on the North Side of

Safeguarding Cork’s water supply for the future MacCurtain Street is due to be completed by May approximately, while work on the remaining streets in the area will be carried out sequentially between now and early Autumn. In addition to this, some 1,700 lead service pipes (the pipes connecting individual properties to the water mains) have been replaced since April 2018 in Ballinlough, Douglas, Blackrock and Mahon. The target for this year is to replace an additional 1,500-2000 lead services and our contractors, Coffey Northumbrian Ltd, will be working in the Mahon and Beaumont areas before moving west towards the city centre. First Fix The First Fix Free scheme offers free leak investigations and free repairs for qualifying domestic properties where a constant flow of water is found on the external water supply pipe. Identifying and fixing these leaks can help save significant amounts of water. Since 2017 in Cork, Irish Water has completed over 750 investigations under the scheme and carried out over 260 repairs on external customer-side leaks. Customers wishing to avail of the First Fix Free Scheme can get more information at www.water.ie/forhome/first-fix

Shared Voices from Small Island Nations With a particular focus on international cooperation, this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Our Ocean Wealth Summit welcomes voices from island nations. Hear from business and political leaders of the unique challenges faced by small island nations, share stories of island life and identity, connections to the ocean, and network and meet marine sector partners to influence and shape Irelands marine landscape.Â

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IN THE CHAIR with Dr. Peter Heffernan, CEO Marine Institute To begin, tell us a little about you and your background. As Chief Executive of the Marine Institute, I lead Ireland’s national agency for marine Research Technology Development & Innovation (RTDI), with a team of over 200 employees and an annual budget of €0.3M to €40M since it was established in 1993. Describe the Marine Institute and the work that it does. The Marine Institute is Ireland’s national agency for marine research and innovation. The Marine Institute (MI) spans a number of service areas and acts as a research performer and science advisor; a national funder and as a catalyst for innovation and development for the blue economy. This breath of service provision affords the Marine Institute a unique integrated appreciation of the potential of the marine resource for sustainable development. What is unique to your organisation in this sector? Since its establishment, the Marine Institute has been a key component of a national effort to sustainably grow our maritime economy, to support new marine business opportunities and jobs and to generate a greater knowledge and understanding of the sea and ocean. What are the highlights of your work? Working with industry, providing advice and services to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and other departments, agencies and stakeholders, the Marine Institute has completed projects ranging in fisheries research, marine environment and food safety, oceanography, data and technology, as well as seabed mapping. It’s an exciting area to work in with huge diversity.

What has been your greatest business achievement and challenge? The Marine Institute has played a crucial role in catalysing, coordination, promoting, funding and implementing marine research in Ireland. The Marine Institute has played a key role in the formulation and implementation of Ireland’s Integrated Marine Plan, Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth, with its ambitious targets of exceeding €6.4 billion a year in turnover from our maritime sector by 2020, and doubling its contribution to GDP to 2.4% per year by 2030. The work of the Marine Institute across a range of international networks and platforms ensures we are at the centre of setting research agendas and maritime policy-making. Using the Marine Institute’s research vessels, marine scientists from the Institute, as well as other agencies and third level institutions have carried out many expeditions in Irish and international waters which have resulted in many exciting discoveries in the ocean. What’s your business goal for the future? We are looking forward to embracing the challenge of implementing Marine Institute’s Strategic Plan 2018 – 2022 Building Ocean Knowledge – Delivering Ocean Services. The ambitious strategy will guide how the Marine Institute will work and deliver to the highest standards of excellence over the next five years. To prepare for the impacts of climate change, the Marine Institute will upscale its efforts to deliver advanced ocean observing, forecasting and modelling capabilities. Research and innovation are also at the heart of the Marine Institute’s mission, and will increase coordination, promotion and support activities for marine research to position Ireland as a leader in ocean knowledge. Our knowledge, expertise and resources will also support the delivery of Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth and doubling the value of Ireland’s ocean economy.

Tell us about the upcoming Ocean Wealth Summit planned for Cork in June 2019? Our Ocean Wealth Summit, sponsored by PWC, is Ireland’s flagship event for the marine sector. Now in its sixth year, the Summit forms a key part of the Government’s integrated marine plan, Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth. This year the Summit will take place in Cork City Hall on the 9th and 10th June 2019. From engineering to shipping, from aquaculture to energy, from technology to biosciences, this Summit brings together Irish and International organisations working to create innovative, sustainable solutions with global impact that drive our blue economy. As an island nation, this year we are acknowledging the role of islands in Our Ocean Wealth, and the theme for the 2019 Summit is Shared Voices from Small Island Nations. The Summit will hear from global leaders including environmental activist and former US Secretary of State John Kerry and a host of world leaders of island nations as well as researchers, entrepreneurs and academics to engage, network and shape discussions about the maritime economy, and the related opportunities and challenges. The event will begin at City Hall Cork on Sunday evening (9th) with a Gala Seafood banquet and a cultural introduction to our Island heritage - “We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.” The Summit will commence on Monday 10th June at City Hall Cork, with a diverse mix of speakers from the marine sector, moderated by Tara Shine, and including former US Secretary of State John Kerry, as well as An Tanaiste Simon Coveney TD and Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine Michael Creed TD. Register free for this event, visit www. ouroceanwealth.ie

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Local Government Manifesto 2019 3 A Balanced & Sustainable Tax Base

On Friday May 24 you will be asked to vote in the local and European elections. The local elections are the first within the newly amended boundary. Cork City will grow to nearly five times its current size with its population increasing by 85,000 to 210,000 people. Our elected representatives are KEY to ensuring that the civic, transport and housing foundations are in place to realise the full potential of the future of Cork and delivery on the ambitious targets for population and jobs growth set out under Project Ireland 2040. In summary, Cork will be Ireland’s fastest growing city region. Our city centre footprint will grow by 25% as the Docklands develop. Government’s ambition for Cork is for it to reach a population of over 350,000 by 2040 with more than half of this population growth coming from outside the country. Another 65,000 jobs will be created in Cork by the private sector, which is reporting strong confidence in the economy and in the future of this region. Cork Chamber is fully committed to ensuring Cork’s infrastructure, public space and housing requirements meet this once in a generation commercial and social opportunity. Our vision for Cork is that of a sustainable city region of scale. Green, clean and vibrant; a city region that is built for the future. We are Cork. Ireland’s fastest growing city region. Full of ambition, energy and determination and we call on all running candidates to support our vision by committing to the following 5 election priorities:

1 Sustainable & Public Transport A modern sustainable and public transport network capable of carrying the City’s growing population is crucial to realising the commercial and social potential of Cork, while also tackling climate change and improving our urban environment.

Up to 10,000 new jobs are in line for the city centre alone in the next five years. Construction of half a billion euro in office development is underway – the majority of which is being developed with little or no parking. There will be a

Local businesses currently fund around 40% of our local authority budgets. In contrast, local property tax only contributes around 7%. The Chamber is pressing elected candidates to freeze business taxation and to review local property tax (LPT). LPT is a vital part of widening our tax base to reduce our economy’s dependence on volatile sources of funding like business rates and development levies. Chambers Ireland launch Local Government Manifesto. Pictured are Peter Byrne, CEO South Dublin Chamber; Paula McCaul, CEO County Meath Chamber; Mary Rose Burke, CEO Dublin Chamber; Ian Talbot, CEO Chambers Ireland; Shona McManus, President Drogheda & District Chamber Council and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber.

30% increase in hotel bedrooms in the next 3-4 years and over 1,000 student bed spaces have been completed or are under construction in the City. Growing the share of commuters arriving into the city by bicycle, foot and public transport will be critical to Cork’s future. We call on candidates to prioritise the delivery of the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy, including new dedicated bus corridors, the Cork Cycling Network Plan, and to ensure that all new planning applications support the delivery of sustainable transport by connecting places of living with those of work.

2 Urban Living & New Housing The population of Cork City and its suburbs will increase by 75,000 by 2031. To avoid sprawl and to lay the right foundations for more State investment in public transport, we must increase density and ensure that Cork builds up and not out. Ireland has some of the lowest-density cities in the world, with Cork city just a third as dense as similarsized cities, such as Edinburgh. Delivery of more brownfield apartment living is a fundamental need for business and people in Cork. From our members we know that new people coming to our city want to live centrally, close to where they work, to experiences, and to public transport hubs. Supporting the delivery of city centre accommodation and apartments in locations close to places of work and public transport should be a priority of all elected candidates.

4 High-Quality Public Spaces Open, welcoming and inclusive public spaces are assets to an urban area. Local election candidates should endeavour to protect and expand public spaces and parks. Public spaces build civic identity, entice visitors into urban centres, and improve dwell time with positive knockon effects on the local economy. A playful, green and safe city region, inviting to children, families, workers, visitors and senior citizens alike should be the ambition of all members in council.

5 An Ambitious Council, Actively Seeking New Strategic Investment Actively seeking and delivering on strategic investment opportunities will set Cork apart from other second cities across Europe. From the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, to the Climate Action Fund, URBACT and the European Investment Bank there are ample funding opportunities for strategic projects that will improve Cork as a place to live, work and invest. We ask all candidates to actively explore new strategic funding for the betterment of living and working in Cork.

Please use your Local and European vote carefully. The candidates, if elected, will be entrusted with delivering social and economic growth over the next five years for you, your business and your family.

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Cheque presentation to Mercy Hospital Foundation. Emily Burn Communications & Direct Mail Officer with Naoimh Frawley, Operations Manager Cork Chamber

Ability@Work Team: Daragh Forde, Lynn Shannon, Noelle Twohig and Marian Hennessy at the launch of Cope Foundation’s Ability@Work programme in Republic of Work.

Responsible Business Community Engagement Corporate Social Responsibility is the continuing commitment by business to behave ethically and contribute to economic development while improving the quality of life of their workforce and their families as well as of the local community and society at large. Our promise ”Advancing Business Together” reflects the Chamber’s member centric approach in driving our members’ businesses forward and leading the successful growth of both the Chamber membership and our regional economy. We understand that our commitment to our members is our most vital product and through the authentic relationships we create we are building better, stronger and more sustainable communities in the places where we work, live and play

Your Chamber’s impact in 2018 In 2018, to help us give back to the communities that we live and work in, Cork Chamber partnered with 41 community organisations across Ireland. Through these community links, our employees gave 354 volunteer hours and fundraised €8,575, in addition to company support of €30,005 in cash donations and €36,810 worth of in-kind donations.

Making Cork Inclusive Cope Foundation recently launched Ability@Work in Republic of Work. The aim of the programme is to make Cork the ‘Inclusive Capital of Ireland’. Ability@Work is a dedicated supported employment service for young people with intellectual disabilities aged 18-29.

Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber and Sean Abbott, CEO Cope Foundation pictured at programme launch. Pictures: Darragh Kane

Enhancing Your Environment The Ability@Work team are working to connect 60 people with a disability to employers across Cork city and county. We in Cork Chamber are delighted to support the ability@work campaign. Inclusive workplaces are beneficial to employers, employees and customers alike. We encourage Cork companies to get involved and make this initiative a success. Cork Chamber currently employs one person as a result of Cope Foundation first advocacy campaign ‘Grand Job’.

To find out more on the visit copefoundation/AbilityWork

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Conor Healy, Chief Executive; Bill O’Connell, Immediate Past President; Paula Cogan, President and Richard Martin, Honorary Secretary. Pictures: John Sheehan

New Chamber President Paula Cogan: Real Delivery Critical to Building Trust Speaking at Cork Chamber’s 200th AGM, new Chamber President Paula Cogan, Sales Director at the Doyle Collection spoke passionately about the need for active citizenship, sustainability and most critically delivery on commitments made if Cork is to excel on a global stage.

Speaking of the role of businesses as active citizens in 2019 President Cogan said, “We must work increasingly hard to build consensus and trust in our companies, institutions and systems. Expectations have never been higher. They have also never been more varied in outlook. We must have confidence in the values in which we’ve been raised. We must speak with fair minded words. But ultimately to build trust we must deliver on our words.”

With delivery of Ireland 2040 fast becoming an area of concern for the business community Presidents Cogan said, “It is essential that the commitments of Ireland 2040 are delivered or our confidence will be undermined. Infrastructure is the neutral enabler. From bike schemes, to bus corridors and motorways, each has their part to play in creating a City that is globally magnetic.” “Ultimately, we are 14 months from the announcement of Ireland 2040 and progress, relative to that delivered by the private sector is slow. We need a laser sharp focus from Government in 2019 or our reputation for infrastructural delivery among the global and local business community will be on the line. Every state agency, civil

servant and policy document must acknowledge the specific role of Cork in Ireland 2040.” Speaking on the Event Centre President Cogan said; “The message from Cork Chamber is very clear. The commitments of all involved parties must be honoured and progressed with the utmost haste. We expect clarity from cabinet in Cork this Wednesday, on the administration and funding of the Centre and this must be met with clarity on delivery.” With active citizenship and a focus on future generations firmly elevated by President Cogan, she finished by stating the unparalleled necessity for a real awakening on the issue of sustainability.

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We must speak with fair minded words. But ultimately to build trust we must deliver on our words

AGM 2019: Representing You At the 200th AGM of Cork Chamber Paula Cogan was elected President and Richard Martin of RDJ assumed the position of Honorary Secretary. Ronan Murray of Deloitte continues in his role as Honorary Treasurer. Four new members, Niall Kenny, AB Sales; Liam Luddy, Arup; Gerard O’Donovan, CIT and Deirdre Waldron, Fuzion Communications were elected to the Chamber board.

The retiring board members Bryan Hyland, Morgan McKinlay; Colm Leen, Carbery Group; Cliona Murphy, PepsiCo and David White, Eli Lilly were thanked for their work and commitment over the past four years. Thanks were also extended to Orla Flynn, who stepped down as Honorary Secretary, for her contribution to the new constitution and strategy of the chamber and input to the board.

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“Sustainability must be part of our life and not a projected morality or a nice to have add on. We see our young people taking to the streets. The issue was raised incessantly in our Future Forms Glucksman workshops of over 1,000 students. This is why Cork Chamber champions sustainable transport, renewable energy, density, infrastructure and placemaking. This is why our members prioritise sustainable transport and accommodation. If our City region is anything short of exemplary in these fields then we have failed the next generation of investors, innovators, entrepreneurs and influencers. A City region that stagnates very quickly becomes an irrelevance.”

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shaping Cork’s future Future Forms at Glucksman Gallery in association with The River Lee Hotel What will Cork look like in 200 years’ time? That was the question at the centre of ‘Future Forms’, a public engagement project being run at the Glucksman Gallery as part of Cork Chamber’s 200 year celebrations. Through the programme, primary and secondary schools, third-level students and community groups worked with artists to imagine what the city and urban environment might look in 2219.   Speaking about the unique project, Cork Chamber President Paula

Cogan said, “While our bicentenary celebrates the growth of Cork over the last 200 years, this momentous anniversary is also our opportunity to drive positive change for the future. Future Forms is a highly inspiring programme that allows our younger citizens to envision the Cork of tomorrow and their aspirations for our city’s future.”   Fiona Kearney, Director of the Glucksman Gallery commended the imaginative ideas of all involved, “Future Forms showcases the creativity of over 1000 young Cork people and the positive, civic vision they have for our city. The

participants explore climate action, developments in transport, the future of design and sustainable architecture. Their artworks signal the potential for Cork to develop as a global hub of innovation and is a brilliant way to celebrate 200 years of business working together in our city.”

mytaxi supporting social enterprises mytaxi announced as first Corporate Donor to Cork Chamber 1819 Fund The 1819 fund, being promoted by Cork Chamber, aims to raise €100,000 over the six-months to July 2019. All funds raised will be matched by Social Innovation Fund Ireland (SIFI) euro for euro, from the Dormant Accounts Fund and will go directly to Cork community initiatives with a social, environmental or economic impact. Speaking about their donation, mytaxi Head of Sales, Niall Carson said “mytaxi is delighted to have the opportunity to be part of such a positive project in Cork through the Cork Chamber 1819 Fund. We were very keen to donate, as the work Social Innovation Fund Ireland do to resolve critical social issues is truly astounding. Their commitment

to scaling the projects of charities and non-profits will benefit the lives of many Cork-based schemes. Supporting innovation in Cork is important to us because initiating positive change in local communities is a key focus for us, as we are simultaneously trying to improve mobility issues.” Cork Chamber calls on individuals and businesses in Cork to support this community fund. Fundraising continues until July 2019, after which an open call for applications will be launched by SIFI. New and established not-for-profits or social enterprises across Cork may apply for funding ofor projects that are innovative and address a critical social issue.

Pictured at the official announcement are Caiti Keegan, mytaxi and Deirdre Griffin, Cork Chamber.

The successful projects will be announced at an awards ceremony in November 2019. Individuals, SMEs or multinational businesses interested in more information please contact Katherine Fitzpatrick, Cork Chamber on 021 4509044 or Padraic Vallely, SIFI on 085 1261085.

CO R K

CH AMBE R

ECONOMIC TRENDS SURVEY

QUARTER 1 2019

RESULTS

The first economic trends survey of 2019 reports on member experiences during January, February and March. This quarterly survey gathers information across a range of metrics to assess business confidence, the operating landscape, skills and the overall perspectives of business at the commencement of the year. The Q1 survey included a focus on international market diversification and the influence of trade agreements on SME business practices.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE / ACCESSING NEW MARKETS In the Q1 2019 survey we asked businesses about engagement with international trade agreements. When asked how SME’s could be practically supported to overcome challenges and take advantage of opportunities from new open markets, 32% of businesses highlighted the potential for dedicated advice and supports. A further 16% indicated an opportunity for tailored information sessions, with 14% indicating the development of links to Irish government and EU agencies as having potential to increase their engagement with the existing and future trade deals.

‘‘

Linking inbound Tourism providers in the area with potential customers. I think the Chinese Tourism market will develop over next 5 years and we can provide a unique base for this with planning.

‘‘

Mrs Maire Ni Mhurchú, Activity Days Ireland Ltd.

% WITH DECISION-MAKING AND STRATEGY INFLUENCED BY EU POLICY AND TRADE AGREEMENTS YES – 50% NO – 34% N/A – 16%

% TAKING ACTIONS TO CAPITALISE ON RECENT TRADE AGREEMENTS CETA 2017 – EU & Canada – 4% EU & Vietnam Trade Agreement 2018 – 1% EU & Japan Economic Partnership Agreement 2019 – 1% N/A – 92%

BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Q1 reports a rise in business conﬁdence from 92% in Q4 2018 to a healthy 96%. This is reﬂective of the earlier Q3 2018 sentiment.

CONFIDENT – 96% NOT CONFIDENT – 4%

TURNOVER AND NET PROFIT ESTIMATIONS

CONFIDENCE IN THE IRISH ECONOMY

80% of businesses expect an increase in turnover over the next 12 months.

Conﬁdent

This compares well with the 75% reported in the Q4 2018 survey. At the same time, 67% expect an increase in net proﬁt over the next 12 months, indicating a slight drop from the 72% in the previous Q4 2018 survey.

Not Conﬁdent 13%

79%

Same 0%

Very Conﬁdent 8%

59%

Decreased No Change

49% 38%

38%

Increased

13% 3% TURNOVER

NET PROFIT

EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK 51% of business have vacancies advertised with 34% of these vacancies remaining unﬁlled for greater than 3 months since the initial advertisement. These vacancies are mostly in the engineering and surveying, hospitality and ﬁnance sectors.

CHANGE TO EMPLOYEE NUMBERS OVER Q1 2019 DECREASE – 4% STAY THE SAME – 57% INCREASE – 39%

EXPECTED CHANGES TO EMPLOYEE NUMBERS OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS DECREASE – 4% STAY THE SAME – 43% INCREASE – 53%

This compares very similarly with the Q4 2018 survey where 79% of businesses indicated confidence, and 15% reported as not confident. We have an increase to 8% in those reporting as very confident in comparison to 6% in the last quarter.

TOP 3 THREATS TO BUSINESS GROWTH

1 Brexit

2 Managing cashﬂow

3 Changing consumer

spending/Reduced orders

Very similar to the last quarter with the only variance being the replacement of cost competitiveness with changing consumer spending/reduced orders.

RESPONDING BUSINESSES 101-200 Employees 51-100 Employees

201+ Employees 20%

Sole Trader 8%

11 - 50 Employees 22%

Micro Enterprise (2 - 10 Employees) 33%

The responding businesses represent a broad range of business sizes.

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KEEPING YOUR FINGER ON THE PULSE Developing the Organisation of Tomorrow in association with the Irish Institute of Training & Development Fascinating insights were given from two inspirational speakers on the 1st March last in the Cork International Hotel when Dr. Mary Collins, Occupational Psychologist and Gavin O’Brien, Teamwork.com, (pictured below), relayed their ideas and experiences about how to prepare for the workplace of the future, giving guidance and tips for futureproofing your career and workplace.

International Womens’ Day Breakfast Intention Shapes Change Balance for Better was the theme of the day and one that was certainly celebrated at our International Womens’ Day Breakfast event on the 8 March last in the Montenotte Hotel. Gillian McGrath of Change Grow Succeed facilitated a hugely engaging and participative audience to discuss how one small action can make a change.

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Cork Chamber

Future Leaders Programme Leading You, Leading Others, Leading Cork A 6 month programme to equip you with the competencies, capabilities and confidence to Lead Yourself, Lead Others and Lead Cork to individual and organisational success. Feel VALUED: Get the best return on your time Get CONNECTED: Belong to a bigger peer-network Be DYNAMIC: Keep your finger on the pulse. Take the time to develop the relevant leadership skills to drive yourself, your team and your organisation onwards and upwards. Empower yourself and your team to be more effective, confident and current. Play a key role in this new leadership community in Cork.

You are a future leader of Cork.

Book Now contact Aoife Dunne, Training Network Manager aoife@corkchamber.ie

Cork needs You. Are you Ready?

e m p ow e r i n g yo u

Growing Green in Cork Energy Cork Conference - Ireland’s Energy Security in a Low Carbon Future Date: Friday 17 May Time: 8.00am – 1:30pm Venue: Clayton Hotel Cork City Tickets: eventbrite.ie

This conference has a focus on the policies and mechanisms that may be employed to enhance energy security through technology, innovation and behaviour change and vital components in Ireland’s path to a low carbon future.

Promoting decarbonisation and climate action, while managing energy supply for industry and citizens, is critical to Ireland’s future success and sustainability, and it is the focus of the Energy Cork 2019 Annual Conference. Taking place at the Clayton Hotel Cork City on 17 May, this year’s conference addresses the dual challenges of Ireland’s Energy Security in a Low Carbon Future.

Speaking at the launch, Chair of the Energy Cork Jackie Quinn said, “Focusing on deploying new technologies and innovations that will make our energy infrastructure more resilient and enable Ireland to reduce carbon emissions, across heat and transport particularly, is critical for our energy security and sustainability. Addressing climate change does not require a ‘silver bullet’ solution. Implementing already existing solutions and making sensible changes to how we live and work can tackle this global threat. This conference brings together key stakeholders, energy innovators and businesses to discuss and engage on this important topic, and to promote networking and collaboration in the energy sector.”

In order to meet EU and global targets, Ireland must transition to low carbon energy solutions and reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuel energy. As the country bridges the energy gap from carbon-intensive to renewable fuels in homes, offices, workplaces, transport systems and agriculture, energy security will always be a key priority.

Harry O’Farrell, Econition with Jackie Quinn, Chair of Energy Cork and Michelle Walsh, Eirgrid Private and public sector organisations, businesses, researchers and startups are invited to attend the Energy Cork conference, sponsored by Eirgrid, which will begin with a Networking Breakfast and conclude with Lunch. The event agenda includes speakers from Eirgrid, SEAI, ESB, Navigant Energy, Gas Networks Ireland Gen Europe, IERC, AEMS and Teagasc among others. Energy Cork is supported by Cork City Council, Cork County Council and Cork Chamber.

Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth SeaFest 2019 is part of Harnessing Our Ocean Wealth, increasing our engagement with the sea. Date: 7 - 9 June Venue: Port of Cork SeaFest, Ireland’s largest free familyfriendly maritime celebration, unveils its exciting 2019 programme today for Cork, with over 100 events taking place from 7 – 9 June. An estimated 100,000 visitors are expected at the Port of Cork in Cork City for SeaFest 2019. Held in Galway for the past three years, Cork City Council and the InterDepartmental Marine Coordination Group (MCG) will now present SeaFest from 2019 – 2021. The festival, which acknowledges everything the ocean has to offer, will be a culmination of a weeklong celebration of Ireland’s rich maritime heritage, as the annual Cork Harbour Festival runs from 1 – 9 June. SeaFest highlights include Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) and Bord Bia free cookery demonstrations from esteemed chefs

Rory O’Connell (Ballymaloe Cookery School) and Neven Maguire (MacNean House & Restaurant), along with demos from fishmongers, Pat O’Connell and Hal Dawson. BIM also brings its never-before-seen Clean Oceans visitor experience, raising awareness of plastic in our oceans. Further key events for SeaFest 2019 include Met Éireann Head of Forecasting Evelyn Cusack discussing weather changes and warnings at the Marine Institute marquee. There will also be engaging talks and films inspired by the ocean at Marine Institute’s The Atlantic Theatre. Award-winning wildlife cameraman Doug Allen will discuss his remarkable experiences filming BBC’s Blue Planet and Ocean Giants. RTÉ documentary Ireland’s Deep Atlantic will also be screened. There will be free sailing, kayaking, currach and dragon boat trips on the water, with Irish Sailing, Atlantic Sea

Pictured at the official launch of SeaFest, Ireland’s largest free family-friendly maritime celebration. Kayaking and Meitheal Mara. Tours of the Marine Institute’s research vessel RV Celtic Explorer and the Commissioner of Irish Lights’ ILV Granuaile take place across the weekend. The Defence Forces will provide an equipment and capabilities display.

To view the full festival programme visit www.seafest.ie.

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UPCOMING EVENTS Creating opportunities and sharing experiences by connecting with each other is central to growing our local economy. By attending events you will have the opportunity to meet with business leaders, network with your peers and develop meaningful business connections.

M ay Busi n ess Br e akfast

Spe e d N et wo r k ing

in association with Irish Examiner in association with GRENKE Date: Friday 24 May Time: 7.30am – 9.00am Venue: Cork International Hotel Cost: €25 members

Date: Wednesday 29 May Time: 12.00pm – 2.00pm Venue: The River Lee Hotel Cost: €20 members

Cork Chamber is delighted to host Anne Graham, Chief Executive Officer, National Transport Authority as the guest speaker at the May Business Breakfast. Under Anne’s guidance, the National Transport Authority is responsible for the provision, regulation and integration of public transport services, the provision of supporting infrastructure for sustainable transport and for driving the greater use of sustainable transport as a mode of choice.

You could arrange a lunch-time meeting with just one business contact…… or you could meet with dozens of new business contacts at ‘Speed Networking’, one of Cork Chamber’s most exciting networking events.

€50 non-members

On the day Anne will discuss the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy which represents the largest investment in public transport that Cork has ever seen. A key area of focus for the Chamber, it is a game changer for public and sustainable transport and is one of the most critical plans in the history of the City region. For first hand insight join us for this exclusive breakfast briefing and hear Anne Graham and the National Transport Authority’s plans for Cork.

Speed networking is a quick and proactive way of making new business connections for both buying and selling - so why not take a break from the desk, prepare your pitch and feel the inner thrill of fast-paced networking as you make up to 20 new business contacts! This is a practical event for SME’s, giving you an excellent opportunity to hone your elevator pitch and make genuine new business contacts, as well as receive referrals and renew existing contacts.

Dates fo r YOur D iary Summer Garden Party in association with Viatel Friday 16 August 7.00pm – 11.00pm The Maryborough Hotel

Annual Golf Classic 2019 Thursday 29 August 7.00am – 2.30pm Castlemartyr Golf Resort Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2019 in association with EY Tuesday 26 November 7.00pm – 11.00pm Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin

Due to the nature of Speed Networking, participation is limited to ONE representative from each company only.

Annual Christmas Lunch in association with O’Flynn Exhams Solicitors Friday 13 December 12.30pm – 3.30pm Fota Island Resort

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Connec ting You It has been a very busy couple of months ! Here is a taste of what’s been going on. See the full photo galleries at www.corkchamber.ie Mo r n i ng Br ie fi ngs Recent Cork Chamber Business Breakfasts, in association with The Irish Examiner featured Deirdre Mortell, CEO, Social Innovation Fund Ireland Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director Cork Airport.

Aidan Forde, Irish Examiner; Katherine Fitzpatrick, Cork Chamber, John Kearney, CEO Irish Community Rapid Response, Deirdre Mortell, CEO Social Innovation Fund Ireland, Michael Mulhall, Director DPS Group, Bill O’Connell, Cork Chamber President, Padraic Vallely, Social Innovation Fund Ireland, Michael Kelly, CEO GIY and Alf Smiddy, Director Social Innovation Fund Ireland. Picture: Jim Coughlan

Conor Healy, CEO, Cork Chamber; Aidan Forde, Senior Advertising Manager, Irish Examiner and The Echo; Orla Flynn, Deputy President, Cork Chamber; Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director, Cork Airport, guest speaker and Ronan McManamy, Managing Director, Irish Examiner and The Echo. Picture: Denis Minihane

N e t wo r k ing at Noo n Our first Networking at Noon event of 2019 was hosted in Glandore’s New Cork Office Space.

Barry Williams, Danielle Healy and Brian Byrne, Glandore with Annie FitzGibbon, Cork Chamber.

Conor O’Callaghan and Alan O’Dea, Beechbrook Capital Ireland with David Swinburne, Fitzgerald Legal & Advisory.

Cork Chamber Members Networking at Glandore

R e pr ese nting You an d your Busin ess Whether it’s local, national or international, we represent your interests. Recent representative meetings include a Chamber delegation to Brussels in February and ongoing meetings with our senior politicians.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed TD with Bill O’Connell, President and Paula Cogan, Vice President Cork Chamber. Picture: John Sheehan Photography

Thomas McHugh, Cork Chamber; Aoife Gallagher, Eli Lilly; Brian O Farrell, Carlow Chamber; EU Commissioner Phil Hogan; Paula McCaul,Meath Chamber and Frank Greene, Galway Chamber.

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Th e Co ntinuous E volutio n of the R ecruitm e nt In dustry in association with the National Recruitment Federation

Karen O’Reilly, Employmum; Jennifer Doyle , Contracting Plus; Jimmy Sheehan, Contracting Plus; Prof David Collings, UCD; Katherine Fitzpatrick, Bronwen Cruise O’Shea, Fionnuala Dillon and Alice Cork Chamber; Bill O’Connell, President Cork Chamber; Bryan Hyland, Morgan McKinley; Ed Heffernan, Barden Recruitment and Michael Dineen, O’Donovan, La Crème. Contracting Plus. Pictures: DARRAGH KANE

Le ade r sh ip Fo rum in association with AIB Brendan O’Regan, CEO & Founder, Zenith Technologies and winner Cork Company of the Year 2019 shares personal and professional insights at the first Leadership Forum of 2019.

John O’Doherty, Head of AIB Cork, Annie FitzGibbon, Cork Chamber and Brendan O’Regan, CEO & Founder, Zenith Technologies.

Lorraine Walsh, Laya Healthcare; David Corkery, Affidea; Aoife Singleton, Mercer and Dave Power, McCarthy Insurance Group.

Micheál O’Murchú, AIB, Mark Whitaker, Johnson and Perrott Motor Group and Mark Fitzharris, AIB.

N ew m e m be r s we lcom e Br e akfast in association with AIB The welcome breakfasts, held in association with AIB provide an opportunity for new members to connect and introduce their company to fellow new members.

Helen Walshe, Employmum, and Claire Lehane, CLHR Consultancy,

Eleanor Bermingham, BeCompliant, and Gary Meade, Kos Ergonomics

Barry Moran of Bóthar and Peter Doherty of CR Payrolls Pictures: Diane Cusack

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New membe rs We welcome the following new members

3SIXTY Management Consultants As problem solvers/headache removers, we help clients become more efficient, more profitable and happier. Our passion is delivering improvement across People, Process & Growth. E: BrianOBrien@your3SIXTYpartner.com W: www.your3SIXTYpartner.com 360 Medical Healthcare Provider Primary Healthcare Provider T: 021 4229833 E: martinamccarthy@360medical.ie W: www.360medical.ie Atelier of Being Management Consultants Atelier of Being is an organisation focussed on leadership, transformation, growth and wellbeing. Shaping journeys towards growth. E: hello@atelierofbeing.com W: www.atelierofbeing.com Avant Leasing Limited Motor Traders A new name for vehicle leasing & contract hire in Ireland. Pay a fixed monthly fee and hit the road – without any worries. T: 021 4530316 E: info@avantleasing.ie W: www.avantleasing.ie Barrow and Fork Food/Drink Showcasing speciality food with a focus towards our Cork region. We have Irish food gifts available at barrowandfork.com and a physical store coming soon. E: info@barrowandfork.com W: www.barrowandfork.com Change by Degrees Services Change by Degrees informs & inspires people to live more sustainably. We work with the people in your building to create cultural & behaviour change and to tell your sustainability story. T: 086 17121301 E: tara@changebydegrees.com W: www.changebydegrees.com Cork Clothing Company Retail We supply all your clothing needs & offer an inhouse embroidery & colour print service. Hoodies, Jackets, T shirts, Polos, Sweatshirts, Soft Shells, Hats, Bags etc. T: 021 2038088 E: sales@corkclothing.ie W: www.corkclothing.ie

Cork Film Festival CLG Arts Ireland’s First and Largest Film Festival - A Local, National and International Celebration of the best of Irish and International Film over 11 days in Venues Throughout Cork City & County. T: 021 4271711 E: development@corkfilmfest.org W: www.corkfilmfest.org Dangan Group Recruitment Recruitment/Executive Search Dangan Group is 100% Irish owned offering, staff solutions, cleaning services, facilities management, janitorial supplies to training, stationary supplies, provision of events and promotional services T: 021 2339385 E: info@dangangroup.ie W: www.dangangroup.ie Dwyers of Cork Food/Drink Dwyers of Cork pays tribute to renowned entrepreneur James Dwyer where he housed his first business. Focusing on quality service, great food & warm welcomes we aim to honour his spirit into the future. T: 021 4274189 E: info@dwyersofcork.ie W: www.dwyersofcork.ie dyscover Software/Software Services dyscover gives you full control of your identity. Choose who you share your identity with, and what they see using our cryptographically secure mobile app. E: chris@dyscover.io W: www.dyscover.io Elkstone Financial Services/Pensions/Investment Elkstone is a multi-family office. It is an entrepreneurial firm, founder led and supported by a dedicated team of specialists and professionals. There are three main areas of the business: Family Office and Investment Services; Venture; and Real Estate. T: 01 6625020 E: emahon@elkstonepartners.com W: www.elkstonepartners.com Epigram Advertising/Marketing/Market Research Epigram are a strategy & design firm who partner with clients to create transformative design answers to core business challenges. T: 021 2291701 E: hello@epigram.ie W: www.epigram.ie

Everywhere Medical Medical Services/Supplies Medical appliance company focused on rethinking design to deliver more ergonomic and intuitive products to people who rely on hidden appliances to live full lives. E: christina@everywheremedical.com W: www.everywheremedical.com Executive Summit Event Management Executive Summit is a new, half day business summit which brings the insight of leading CEOs to the Irish business community. T: 083 8732665 E: ipibmos@gmail.com W: www.executivesummit.ie F&G Innovation Management Ltd Management Consultants FG Innovation Management LTD provide a full Operational Management and Innovation Business Consultancy and Marketing Service to Hotel Spas, Day Spas, Destination Spas and Wellness Clinics. T: 085 7330038 E: heidi@innovationmanagementltd.com Fifty Point Four Management Consultants Organisational Development Consultancy specialising in Systems Thinking, Leadership. Emotional Intelligence & Transactional Analysis T: 083 8281596 E: c.d.prince@icloud.com W: www.fiftypointfour.ie First Citizen Finance DAC Financial Services/Pensions/Investment Whether it’s Motor, Agri, Commercial Real Estate or Equipment financing you are looking for, First Citizen Finance has a solution for you. E: pat.murphy@firstcitizen.ie W: www.firstcitizen.ie Flynn Building Contractors/Providers We are a forward-thinking construction and fit-out company, attracting ambitious and innovative projects, both internationally and at home. T: 021 420 4100 E: info@flynnmc.com W: www.flynnmc.com Gigable Software/Software Services Gigable is a mobile-first platform put people and businesses together for short-term work, or ‘Gigs’. E: shane@gigable.app W: www.gigable.app

G ROWIN G YO UR BUSINESS

Goa’s People Services Goa’s People is a head hunting agency, dedicated to finding and selecting the best candidates for International organisations in the Tourism industry. E: info@goaspeople.ie W: www.goaspeople.ie Headway Charities Headway, Brain Injury Service & Support are committed to help survivors make the most of their potential, improve their quality of life and level of independence. T: 021 4871303 E: bensons@headway.ie W: www.headway.ie Holmes O’Malley Sexton Solicitors/Legal Services Holmes O’Malley Sexton offer a complete range of legal services nationwide across twenty-seven practice areas. T: 021 4278620 E: info@homs.ie W: www.homs.ie Kate Mc Design Web Design Kate Mc Design is a visual and digital design business based in East Cork. Services offered include web design, web development, UI design and UX design. T: 083 8703395 E: hello@katemc.com W: www.katemc.com nib Travel Services Insurance nib Travel and worldnomads.com are proud to be one of the fastest growing and most innovative travel insurance providers in the world. T: 085 8025363 E: bernard.osullivan@nibtravel.com W: www.worldnomadsgroup.com LCE Workplace Safety Health & Safety LCE provide competent and practical safety training and consultancy and are recognised experts in ergonomics. T: 021 2038002 E: info@LCE.ie W: www.LCE.ie Laura O’Connell Management Consultants Career & Business Development Coach, get the right results, personal development and organisation development. T: 087 9514380 E: Lauraoconnell_laura@hotmail.com

Osborne Recruitment Recruitment/Executive Search Right Person. Right Role. No Compromise. One single, consistent purpose underpins all that we do at Osborne; to fit the right people with the right roles in the right organisation. T: 021 2427234 E: john.condon@osborne.ie W: www.osborne.ie

Temporis Ireland Renewable Energy We are an investment management firm which specialises in the renewable energy and clean technology sectors across multiple asset classes in Ireland and the UK. T: +44 20 3432 0778 E: John.Crean@Temporis.ie W: www.temporiscapital.com

Orion Group Life Sciences Recruitment/Executive Search Orion Group’s Life Sciences has a specific focus on the recruitment and selection of professionals for the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and Clinical Research Industries. T: 021 2376131 E: stephen.oconnell@orioneng.com W: www.orionjobs.com

TrueBlue eCommerce Ltd Computers/Hardware IT Refurbishment company specilising in the reuse and refurbishment of redundant hardware. We also specilise in the upgrading of companies IT infrastructure. T: 021 2067779 E: contact@refurbtech.ie W: www.refurbtech.ie

OT Mediation Services OT Mediation offers confidential guidance to assist parties in conflict to come to a mutually beneficial agreement. Mediation is both faster and cheaper than court. T: 086 3171035 E: info@otmediation.com W: www.otmediation.com Planet Leisure Limited Entertainment/Leisure/Tourism We operate a family recreation centre and a Health & Fitness club from our spacious premises at Old Mallow Road, Blackpool. T: 021 4300700 E: info@planetleisure.ie W: www.planetcork.ie RM Compliance Insurance/Financial Services I offer compliance consulting and audits for the life and pensions brokers for those who do not want to hire a Compliance Officer full time and take the stress away of all the compliance requirements that are now a prerequisite to operate in a more regulated environment today. E: ruthgaff@gmail.com Russell Landscaping Landscape Contractors Russell Landscaping offers a design and project management service to Commercial, Engineering & Public Sector. Sean Russell specialises in the design & planting specification of outdoor spaces such as Residential developments, public parks, outdoor office spaces and podium/rooftop gardens. T: 086 8792800 E: seanrussell12@gmail.com W: www.russelllandscaping.ie

Violini Arts We perform extensively and are experienced in creating a perfectly unique musical backdrop throughout your event. T: 087 7795031 E: violinicork@gmail.com W: www.violinicork.ie William Bradley & Co. Taxation & Wealth Management Advisors Tax Consultants & Accountants T: 021 4274136 E: info@williambradleyandco.com W: www.williambradleyandco.com Workplace Innovation Europe Management Consultants We inspire and enable managers to create high performing organisations and great places to work E: david.obyrne@workplaceinnovation.eu W: www.workplaceinnovation.eu

For more information on members log in to the Members Information Centre via our website.

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New Appointme nts

Brian Stack, The FD Centre in Ireland Brian Stack has been appointed as chief financial officer with The FD Centre in Ireland, a company providing owner-managed businesses with high calibre part-time finance directors, a flexible cost-effective solution to a full-time equivalent.Brian was CFO of Qumas and Mobacar and a director of CLS Advisors since 2015, he has continued to provide advice to the software industry and has most recently worked as advisor to several start-ups helping them to scale internationally.Brian qualified as a Certified Public Accountant while in the US. He holds an undergraduate Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Iona College in New York and received his MBA from Duke University in North Carolina.

Kathleen Linehan, Trigon Hotels

Suzanne Meade, Fuzion Communications

Bastien Peyraud The Imperial Hotel

Kathleen Linehan has joined Trigon Hotels as Strategic Director Of Human Resources. Kathleen previously held the role of HR/ ER Manager with The Gleneagle Hotel Group and previously ALPS Electric (Irl)) Ltd. She has over 11 years’ experience in Human Resources having worked in both Manufacturing, and Hospitality Industries, her expertise includes organizational development. Kathleen has also a strong involvement with accessible tourism having been the first in the world to achieve an ENAT Quality label for her previous group and most recently a Failte Ireland Innovation Award. Kathleen is a Millstreet native who has a keen involvement with local GAA and Comhaltas.

Fuzion Communications has announced the appointment of Suzanne Meade as Public Relations and Social Media Account Executive. Suzanne worked international airline Emirates in the in-flight services department and was also part of the Emirates Business Promotions events team where she attended sponsorship events and was a brand ambassador for Emirates. She has translated these experiences, in global travel and working within a multicultural and diverse fast paced environment, into her role in PR. Suzanne has a BSc Honours Degree in Food Marketing and Entrepreneurship from UCC, as well as recently completing a Professional Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Digital Marketing Institute.

The Imperial Hotel is delighted to announce Bastien Peyraud is the newly appointed General Manager. Prior to joining the hotel, Bastien, who has worked in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, was Hotel General Manager at the Brown’s Hotel in London Mayfair part of Rocco Forte Collection, and prior to this spent 12 years in Red Carnation Hotels. Originally from Lyon in France, Bastien joined the Four Seasons George V in Paris in 1999 as a commis waiter and he worked his way up in the hospitality industry. Engaging with the local community is a key focus for Bastien, and the hotel will play an active part in promoting Cork as a tourist and business destination.

Going from Strength to Strength Gift Card now available at 10 new Cork locations The Cork Chamber Gift Card introduced in partnership with One4All, to support the local economy is now available to purchase at a number of new locations. Having been launched in November 2018 the Cork centric gift card is going from strength to strength and as well as being available to order online it is now available to purchase at 10 Post Offices and PostPoint locations across Cork. Speaking about the Gift Card Chief Executive of Cork Chamber Conor Healy said, “The addition of these new sales points demonstrates the interest from local business and the general public to support the ‘Shop Local’ message, not just for the holiday season, but all year round. There is a vibrancy in Cork and a real sense of pride of place, this Gift Card, which can only be spent in Cork is a positive way for businesses rewarding their staff with bonuses to clearly demonstrate their commitment to the Cork region. We are really excited to see how the Cork Chamber Gift Card grows over the coming year.”

• • • •

Blackpool Post Office, Blackpool Shopping Centre Carrigaline Post Office, Carrigaline Shopping Centre Cork’s GPO, Oliver Plunkett Street Costcutter, Bandon Road Roundabout, Bishopstown, Cork Douglas Post Office, Douglas Village Shopping Centre Menloe Stores, Blackrock Road, Cork O’Hare’s Mace, Mayfield Shopping Centre St Lukes Post Office, Ballyhooly Road, Cork

Customers can purchase the Gift Card online at www. corkchamber.ie and at the following locations:

• • • •

• •

For more information contact Marjorie McCann, t: 01 8708111 or e: mmccann@one4all.ie or at visit CorkChamber.ie

Ballincollig Post Office, Main Street Ballincollig, Cork Bishopstown Post Office, Wilton Shopping Centre

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North America Calling Opportunities across the Atlantic Ireland’s first whole-of-Government strategy for the US and Canada under the Global Ireland Initiative will see Ireland doubling its impact in both jurisdictions, through investment, political and economic engagement, cultural promotion and partnership with our diaspora up to 2025. In this context, boosting relationships between Cork and Canada and the US has been the focus of recent Cork Chamber activity with series of engagements in the US, and an event focussed on the Canadian market held in association with the Ireland Canada Business Association and Enterprise Europe Network.

Recent Event: Exploring Potential in Canada This year marks 80 years of diplomatic relations between Ireland and Canada. The EU’s free trade deal with Canada (CETA 2017) has seen 99% of tariffs scrapped on Irish export of goods between the Ireland and Canada and exports to Canada from Ireland increased by 30% in the first year. At the event, Katherine Fitzpatrick, International Relations Director at Cork Chamber noted, “several Canadian companies have already chosen Cork for their strategic investments. Whitegate refinery in Cork is owned by Canada’s Irving Oil. Cyber security company eSentire and one of Canada’s largest software companies OpenText have operations here in Cork, as well as TELUS International, who bought a majority share in Cork’s thriving BPO company Voxpro in 2017.’’ The Canadian economy, the tenth largest economy in the world, has approximately 6,000 people employed in Irish companies in Canada including contributors at the event - Leading Edge Group and Osborne Recruitment. Companies successfully doing business

Pictured above left: Standing: Joe Aherne, Leading Edge Group; Kate Hickey, ICBA; Katherine Fitzpatrick, Cork Chamber; Jason Carrig, Open Text; Seated: Aidan O’Shea, Voxpro Ireland; Dr. Eleanor Doyle, UCC; John Roxburgh, Canadian Embassy Dublin; Ciaran Luttrell, sSentire. Pictured above right: Delegation from Cork participating in Chicago’s St Patrick’s Day Parade. Pictured at the White House: Ann McGregor, CEO, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber and Mary Rose Burke, CEO Dublin Chamber.

in Canada see huge potential for further growth in the market, especially thanks to the well-aligned and complementary business cultures and the ease of setting up a business. Connectivity was highlighted as being a game-changer for many businesses: Ireland now has weekly direct flights from Dublin to Toronto, as well as seasonal services to Montreal and Vancouver, with seasonal flights to Calgary and Halifax coming on stream in 2019.

Cork’s global footprint continues to grow Ahead of St. Patrick’s Day weekend, Cork Chamber participated in a series engagements in the US, with the purpose of promoting Cork abroad as a place to visit, invest and do business. Chamber representatives joined the Lord Mayor and Cork City Council delegates in our twinned city of San Francisco and in Florida, where Cork and Irish business representatives are keen to develop stronger relationships, as well as supporting the regional and tourism promotion activities in Chicago alongside Cork County Council and Visit Cork. Additional Chamber activities included a series of engagements in New York, New Jersey and in Washington, where the Chamber represented the Cork business community at the key US Shamrock ceremony event in the White House.

The value of these visits

Cork Chamber’s top priorities include building an awareness of Cork, utilising the Connecting Cork initiative to engage diaspora and the promotion of Cork as a location for business and investment. These priorities are supported by findings in a recent survey. Cork Chamber partnered with Publitics PR and Lenox Consulting to survey 1000 respondents in the US about their perceptions of Ireland- exploring their knowledge of Cork in particular. • • • • •

87% reported they have a ‘very positive’ or ‘positive’ opinion of Ireland 80% believe the U.S. and Ireland have a positive relationship 91% believe it is important or very important for the U.S. to maintain that relationship 70% of respondents said they would consider relocating to Ireland to live and work 60% knew nothing about the music and theatre events and festivals in Cork, and in fact 45% admitted they had never heard of Cork!

These results demonstrate that while the US market is well disposed towards Ireland, we must continue to seize opportunities to fly the red and white flag on the international stage.

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member news 1

1 Atlantia Food Clinical Trials announces new base in Chicago. Pictured are: Barry Skillington, Atlantia Clinical Food Trials; Prof Mark Ferguson, Director General of Science Foundation Ireland and Chief Scientific Adviser to the Government of Ireland, An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar T.D.; Andrea Doolan, Atlantia Clinical Food Trials and Julie Sinnamon, CEO Enterprise Ireland. 2 UCC has ranked among the top ten global sustainable campuses at the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. Pictured with the award are Dr Maria Kirrane UCC Sustainability Officer, Prof John O’Halloran UCC Deputy President, Mark Poland Head of Buildings & Estates UCC, Prof Riri Fitri Sari, University of Indonesia and Kelly Coyle, Deputy President UCC Student’s Union.

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Cork Simon Ball Committee Members: Pearse O’Donovan, Mark Kelleher, Karen Fleming, Billy Newton (Chair), Deirdre Malone and Donal Downey pictured at the19th Annual Cork Simon Fundraising Ball. Dassault Systèmes doubles capacity with new office in Phoenix House. Pictured at the opening French Ambassador, H.E. Stephane Crouzat; An Tanaiste, Simon Coveney & Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Mick Finn; with Caoimhe Kiely, VP Marketing Euro North, Kevin O’Leary, Country Manager Dassault Systèmes Ireland; Joanne O’Driscoll, Quality Compliance Director; John Kitchingman, MD of Euro North; Julie Aherne, Director Channel Marketing Euro North and Maria Collins; Senior Finance Manager; Dassault Systèmes

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Hotel flips over 2,500 pancakes to raise funds in aid of CMRF Crumlin. Conor O’Toole, General Manager Clayton Hotel Cork City with helpers Abbie Wells and Michael Fitzgerald from Blarney. Taken at the Annual Dress For Success Cork Fashion Show 2019 in the Metropole Hotel: Gillian Hennessy, President of Network Cork; Carmel O’Keeffe, Dress For Success; Deputy Lord Mayor, Cllr Fergal Dennehy and Deirdre Griffin, Cork Chamber. Enabling Entrepreneurship Showcase: 100 students from Cork Further Education Colleges have graduated from a unique entrepreneurial education programme entitled thanks to Cork Education and Training Board and JA Ireland. Pictured at the showcase were John O’Brien and Aaron Kennedy of Cutlery Cuffs from Kinsale College.

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120 VMware Cork employees give back to their local community in one day. Launching it@cork Tech Summit 2019: Sarah Walsh, Programme Manager it@cork, William Dalton Head of Corporate IT and European at IS at Trend Micro and Gillian Bergin Senior Consultant, Business Transformation, Dell EMC. Edpac International doubles manufacturing plant and announce 50 new jobs. Pictured at the official opening are Managing Director Noel Lynch; An Tánaiste, Simon Coveney and Ciaran Coughlan, Sales Director at EDPAC International. The MBA Association of Ireland and recruitment specialists CPL host “How Long Will Your Job Last” looking at the effect automation is having in

the workplace and how people can adapt. Pictured Niall O’ Donovan, MBA Association of Ireland with Lisa Broderick from Cpl and Siobhan O’Shea Cpl. Cork Airport becomes the first airport in Ireland to roll-out the sunflower lanyard initiative supporting passengers with hidden disabilities. Pictured are Deidre O’Donovan, Cork Airport; Karen Duke and Cliona O’Rourke from My Canine Companion with autism assist dogs Beth and Jazz. The discreet identification scheme, recognised in key global airports including Heathrow, provides those with hidden disabilities the opportunity to avail of additional support. The project is part of an initiative by OCS, a large provider of passenger assistance services worldwide.

13 Dr Barry O’Connor, President, CIT congratulated the 12 entrepreneurs who successfully completed the Enterprise Ireland sponsored New Frontiers Programme at the recent Showcase and Awards ceremony held on campus. Pictured is Alison Walsh, Programme Manager with winners, Sean Barni from Masqt for Best Peer Partnership; Stephen Fleming from Voxxify for Best Trade Stand; Daniel Mulcahy, RideShair, Overall Winner; Loretta Kennedy from MamaBear Foods for Best Video and Ryan O’Neill from LEGIT FIT for Best Business Plan. The Rubicon Centre would be delighted to receive expressions of interest for the upcoming New Frontiers Programme, for more information visit www.rubiconcentre.ie

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Vodafone data reveals about 43,000 people commute to Cork City every day Chamberlink spoke to Regina Moran, Vodafone Business Director, about connecting for a better future through providing Gigabit connectivity across Ireland. Vodafone Ireland recently released data showing that around 43,000 commuters* travel to Cork City each day. Using insights gained from the combined Vodafone network performance data and CSO population data analytics, the information provides a clear understanding of the commuter trends into the city and the sheer scale of people commuting to Cork. Keeping businesses and employees in smaller towns and villages through smart working is one way to reduce the amounts of commuters travelling into large urban areas. Since the launch of the Ludgate Digital Hub in Skibbereen in 2016 – a hub powered by SIRO Gigabit connectivity – Vodafone has championed smart working as a way to drive economic growth. By improving connectivity in rural Ireland, you allow people to work smarter. Vodafone defines smart working as the combined use of flexibility and agility for employees to work from home, from a hub or using a hybrid model (part-home, part-office) enabled by connectivity and secure technological solutions. Job creation and cconomic growth Launched in 2017, the Vodafone/ SIRO Gigabit Hub Initiative was designed to spark a digital transformation in 15 towns across Ireland and encourage job creation and economic growth. The initiative, modelled on the Ludgate Digital Hub, gives free SIRO 100% fibreoptic Gigabit connectivity – which is three times more powerful

as the best service in Dublin and 10 times more powerful than the fastest average internet speed in Ireland – to businesses in the hubs. It enables a start-up incubator; a business centre; a hive of creativity; a job creation engine; a meeting point – places that are a beacon of hope for the economic sustainability of a town. These hubs create jobs and the Ludgate centre has already been responsible for the creation of 75 jobs. Over time, it has the capacity to support 500 jobs and contribute over €30 million annually to the local economy. So far, 13 hubs across Ireland have received free Gigabit connectivity in Carlow, Tralee, Dundalk, Drogheda, Cavan, Mullingar, Sligo, Portlaoise, Kilkenny and Wexford. Commuting times and traffic pollution reduced The Gigabit Hub Initiative has enabled these towns to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen and grow communities. Moreover, working from a hub helps to reverse commuting, congestion and the urban migration trends of thousands of people in Ireland. This will help with Ireland’s 20% reduction in greenhouse gas

emissions by 2020 target, as set out in the Paris Agreement, a target that we are not currently on course to meet. Along with other benefits like better work/life balance and improved employee engagement, smart working also increases productivity by allowing people to work closer to home and spend less time sitting in traffic. For Vodafone, smart working with the connectivity to enable it is helping to bring about a better tomorrow. A future where no part of Ireland is left behind, we reach our climate change goals and people can thrive no matter where they live. Additional content on smart working and implementing it is available at Vodafone.ie/business

* The Vodafone network data, which was captured for network improvement purposes, was gathered anonymously, processed and deleted, so only aggregated metadata remains to show the volume of motorway users. This data is not stored in any additional locations or shared with any third parties. Note this is also based on CSO census data from 2011, 2016 with a trended yearly increase to bring it up to 2019.

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