Chamberlink Issue 4 - Northern Light by Cork Chamber

chamberlink ISSUE 04 2018

Northern Light

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all Go in the city

in the Chair

Training for Business

C O N TE N T S TRANSFORMING CORK

Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2018

‘Bonjour’ Cork

City Regions Together Little Island Infrastructure

6-7

It’s all go in the city

Cork - the numbers say it

In the Chair with Ann Doherty

Green is the new black

Cork Company of the Year 2019 Launching on 1 October

City Connection

COVER STORY 14-15

Growing Opportunities on the Northside

EMPOWERING YOU

Training for Business - Cork Chamber Skillnet

Upcoming Events

Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2018

18-19

Out & About

GROWING YOUR BUSINESS

Are you using compliance to your advantage

EEN - Supporting Your Business

22-23 New Members 24-25 Members News 26

Welcome It’s often said that if Ireland had the weather, it would be the greatest country in the world. Well, we had it this summer and despite concerns in the agri food sector and learnings for our approach to water provision and usage, spirits were high among the Cork business community and across our city region with lots of activity and visitors creating a wonderful buzz. Our most recent economic survey, informed by our members, shows business confidence at 95%. Careful and steadfast work has led to resurgent support for improving public transport from all corners and we now have an evolution of the Events Centre design which truly raises the bar. We are in the final phases of preparing our Pre Budget 2019 submission, with a focus on removing barriers for SMEs, promoting diversity in the workplace and getting our housing market moving. To drive the agenda of the Cork business community our Autumn is as packed with Governmental and political engagement as it is with networking events.

We look forward to having breakfast and economic outlook combined with Fiscal Advisory Council Chair Seamus Coffey, to lunch aboard the Pont Aven, to networking in the historical and beautiful surrounds of Cork Golf club. We also cast an eye to our Dublin Dinner in November, one of the most vibrant and engaging events in our annual calendar. At the forefront of our promotion of Cork, our International team are firing on all cylinders, contributing actively to a series of delegations and events in Boston, Shanghai and London this autumn. Our Connecting Cork initiative is all about connecting with the diaspora and with international talent and business leaders to tell the story of Cork as the best location for business. We look forward to working with intensity over the coming months, focussing our energy on making Cork the best place for business. As your business beds in for the same phase it is important to stay strategic. I encourage you to contact Cork Chamber Skillnet to ensure you inspire and empower your team as we move to year end.

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, Chamberlink main sponsor neither do they accept any responsibility or liability for any legal implications arising there from. Registered in Ireland no. 13918

Are you using compliance to your advantage

I thank you for your support, for contributing our to our economic surveys, for making our events effervescent and exciting, for guiding our agile training curriculum and for contacting us with your brilliant ideas and insights. You are our mandate and our reason for being. Together we are making Cork the best place for business.

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

Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, Cork, T23 TD90.

CorkChamber.ie

ChamberLink Main Sponsor

TR AN S FOR M I N G COR K

‘Bonjour’ Cor k A group of influential incentive buyers from France, who were on a ‘Meet in Ireland’ familiarization trip, were shown around Cork to learn more on how they can promote Ireland for future high-end incentive programmes for their corporate clients in France. For the majority of the French buyers, this was their first time to travel to Ireland. The visit was hosted by Fáilte Ireland’s Meet in Ireland team, in collaboration with Tourism Ireland and the Cork Convention Bureau. Paul Mockler, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Commercial Development, explained, “This type of visit with influential incentive buyers from France provides us with a really good opportunity to highlight what it is that sets Ireland apart world-class venues and incentive

experiences, ease of access, amazing landscapes, top hospitality and incredibly strong industries. We look forward to welcoming more business tourists from France next year and beyond.

Pictured during their vist to Cork are Julie Burkard and Karen O’Sullivan, Fáilte Ireland with Cadene Sandrine, Mssoud Pascale and Viktoria Varecza, Tourism Ireland. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

Business tourism is the most lucrative form of tourism, with visitors travelling to Ireland for business purposes spending almost three times more than the average visitor. Already this year, Fáilte Ireland has secured €115m worth of meetings, conferences, incentives and corporate events for Ireland.

Bumpe r August Cork Airport celebrated one year of direct transatlantic and over 44,000 passengers travel through the airport over the August bank holiday weekend. Cork Airport is celebrating the first anniversary of its non-stop transatlantic service to Boston Providence with Norwegian. Since take-off in July last year, Cork Airport has seen over 31,000 passengers travel between Cork and the US on the three times weekly route. Kevin Cullinane, Head of Communications at Cork Airport said: “We welcome the Cork to Boston Providence route announcement for summer 2019, coming just as we celebrate the first year of this significant and successful service.

“Tourism Ireland recently confirmed an increase of 12.4% of inbound passengers from North America

in the first five months of 2018. With Cork Airport being uniquely placed at the beginning of both the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East, this route has made it even easier for US visitors to come to the south of Ireland and experience all it has to offer.” This year’s August Bank Holiday Weekend is also the first for Air France’s new year-round daily flight from Cork to Paris, which also opens up access to the airline’s network of over 180 destinations worldwide via Paris-Charles de Gaulle. It was a Bumper August bank holiday weekend for Cork Airport as over 44,000 passengers travel through Cork Airport across the weekend.

Niall McCarthy, Managing Director Niall MacCarthy, MD Cork Airport and Tore Jenssen, CEO Norwegian Air International.

of Cork Airport outlined that passenger volumes are growing. “We are delighted to welcome the significant extra frequencies on many of our summer schedule routes. This is one of our busiest weekends of the year as passengers from across the south of Ireland embrace the convenience, flexibility and choice that is offered when flying from Cork.”

TR AN S FOR M I N G COR K

Cit y Reg ions tog ethe r Cork Chamber last month welcomed colleagues from Dublin Chamber and members at a workshop in Voxpro to collaborate on urban issues, quality of life, and the future development of city regions in Ireland. The Cork conversation was a followon to the Great Dublin Survey 2016 organised by Dublin Chamber, in which more than 20,000 Dubliners shared their ideas, hopes, wants and aspirations for the future of their city. The role and evolution of city regions is of heightened importance globally and it is an area of lively debate and perspective. For example, Mercer, who annually rank international cities by quality of life, identify the most important elements of great cities as: •

Well-structured public transportation

•

High security

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A variety of cultural and recreational facilities

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High-tech infrastructure

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Good sanitation

Speaking at the event, Thomas Mc Hugh, Director of Public Affairs at Cork Chamber, said: “Dublin and Cork are the largest city regions and economies in the country and it is critical for both Chambers to collaborate and drive goals of common interest. Cork and Dublin Chamber see the value of setting a clear and ambitious vision and the importance of bringing people with us on this journey. There is a commonality of approach, of recognising the importance of city regions and the elements that make them thrive. For any vision to come true, all parts must come together. Chambers see the whole picture. For Cork, the combined impact of delivering projects such as M20, flood defences, M28, rapid transports corridors and events centre are transformative and send a strong signal to investors, both public and

Anne O’Leary, President Dublin Chamber and Mary Rose Burke, Chief Executive Dublin Chamber with Thomas McHugh, Director of Public Affairs at Cork Chamber. Picture: Darragh Kane

private. We have an unprecedented opportunity in Ireland 2040 and with the competitive €3 billion urban and rural regeneration funds and we have an obligation to deliver, for the economic resilience of Cork and for Ireland. We will continue to work with Dublin Chamber, identifying areas for collaboration to ensure both City regions thrive and build on their strengths in an increasingly competitive international environment.”

Lit tle Island Infr astruc tur e Cork Chamber is working on an ongoing basis to progress access and permeability improvements across Little Island and on behalf of our members. In April we shared an update on the Little Island Transportation Strategy which had been expected to be available for public consultation in July. We have been in contact with Cork County Council to query this, and are informed that the strategy is now expected to be available for public consultation in September. Currently, there are a number of final reviews of the Interim Report ongoing. Once these reviews are completed, the report will then require the sign-off and approval of the elected members. We

encourage all members to engage with this future public consultation, as this is the opportunity to lend support, suggest improvements or alterations and can be as lengthy or as short as you deem appropriate. Cork Chamber will be reviewing the Strategy once available and will be in touch again in relation to this. In relation to the previously highlighted Vehicular Capacity Improvements planned at Little Island. These works are currently progressing through the detailed design stage. It is the objective that these interventions will complement the main Little Island Transportation Study, while progressing on their own advanced timeline as suggested by members. It is estimated that the planned interventions will go to tender in

September with a contractor in place by the end of 2018. Finally in relation to the Dunkettle Interchange upgrade, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) are currently testing a Dunkettle Travel App which will be free to download. This App is to provide real-time information to the travelling public. Major site construction works are due to commence next year in Spring, with SISK contracted by TII to undertake the upgrade project. It is intended that this App will facilitate those accessing the Jack Lynch Tunnel and Dunkettle Interchange to plan their journeys in advance with real time information. We will continue to keep you updated.

TR AN S FOR M I N G COR K

It’s all go in the Cit y Cork will be the fastest growing city in Ireland over the next 20 years. Our metropolitan population is expected to hit half a million, and over the next three years our city centre will see more than 5,000 extra jobs and 1,000 extra hotel beds.

Such growth is of a scale that has not been seen for decades, creating whole new opportunities for businesses throughout the region. But growth also means we must start making some changes. To ensure we can continue to enjoy living, spending and working in our city. Make it more sustainable, less congested, more efficient. So, on August 9 a priority bus corridor was introduced on St. Patrick Street between 15.00-18.30.

Why? Public transport prioritisation on St. Patrick Street is only one step in a much larger plan to keep Cork moving and meet the needs of a growing city with more people and more jobs. It is the second phase of a plan known as the City Centre Movement Strategy (CCMS) which seeks to improve the routing of traffic around the city and create space for better public transport, which in turn will improve reliability of bus services.

Why St. Patrick Street? 2,637 bus journeys happen every day in Cork city of which almost 1,000 pass through St. Patrick Street, making it the busiest public transport corridor in Cork. In simple terms, the efficient operation of St. Patrick Street is central to the efficient operation of our city bus services. It is also the street that most people want to go to; to shop, to meet, to explore or to connect with other transport services and access the wider city centre.

What’s Next? Over the next 10 years we will see significant public investment in improving sustainable transport in our city, including the experience of pedestrians and cyclists. But key to increasing capacity in Cork is to improve journey times and the reliability of services. This cannot happen without dedicated public transport corridors. As part of the National Development Plan, €200m will be invested by Government in our public transport over the next 10 years to underpin the sustainable growth of Cork going forward. Ultimately this investment will create a rapid transport system linking Ballincollig and Mahon, via the city centre. Yet, delivery of this programme all depends on buses being able to move effectively and reliably through St. Patrick Street and our city centre.

Pictured are: Tim O’Leary, Service Manager Bus Eireann; Thomas McHugh, Cork Chamber; Lord Mayor Cllr Mick Finn; Ann Doherty, CE Cork City Council and Lawrence Owens, CEO Cork Business Association at the new extension to the Park & Ride Service, which now includes a stop on St. Patrick Street, Cork. Picture: Jim Coughlan.

A number of complementary measures will accompany the reintroduction which will make this transition easier for those who live, work and visit the City centre. •

A network of 26 free fifteen minute set down parking spaces along South Mall, Grand Parade, Parnell Place, Drawbridge & Cornmarket St to facilitate shoppers and visitors.

•

From August 9, half price parking will be offered at Paul Street and North Main Street Car Parks from 1pm to 6.30pm every day.

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The opening hours of the City’s BlackAsh Park & Ride service will be extended to operate from 7am to 8pm.

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The BlackAsh Park & Ride will be free of charge from 12 noon Monday to Saturday.

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The extension of the BlackAsh Park & Ride service into the city centre with additional stops at Merchants Quay, St Patrick’s St, Grand Parade and South Mall to improve connectivity between the Park & Ride and city centre.

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Reduced bus fares will be available from August 9

•

Passengers on the northbound 203 and 215 buses will also be stopping on St. Patrick’s St. for the first time.

TR AN S FOR M I N G COR K

www.dynamitestudio.ie

Design: Jason Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Gorman, Dynamite Studio Content: Sarah Foley, Cork Chamber

TR AN S FOR M I N G COR K

IN THE CHAIR with Ann Doherty, Chief Executive, Cork City Council To begin, tell us a little bit about your background? I took up my role as the CE of Cork City Council four years ago having worked in leadership, reorganisation and strategic development roles in the public sector, largely in the health sector, in Ireland and the UK for over 30 years. Having trained as a nurse, I completed an MBA in the 1980s when a more business oriented focus was being taken to the health service.

What motivated you to take the role as CE of Cork City Council? In the years previous, I had worked as a National Director of the HSE managing the 50 acute hospitals in the State and on the development of the National Cancer Control Programme before being invited to establish one of the first hospital groups in the country in the Mid West ( UL Hospitals). I had a proven track record for change management and reorganisation and when I read the Government’s 2014 ‘Putting People First’ policy document, I was really excited. I could see huge opportunity for local authorities in economic development, tourism and enabling communities. With my background, I knew I could bring lot to this new way of thinking.

What services do you offer and what are the benefits provided by the Council? Cork City Council is the only organisation in the city that has the democratic mandate of the people via its elected members. For the past four years that has been a big area of discussion in the city as we have argued for the importance of the organisation in relation to the development of Cork as a global city of scale. We are also the custodians of ‘place’ in the city as it is Cork as a ‘place’ that attracts economic investment and attracts people and we have a vital role through the City Development Plan in developing public space and influencing quality of life. The movement of the Local Enterprise Office into Cork City Council has also been enormously important for driving the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and paved the way for the development of CoWork City, our new co-working space for fledgling companies at City Hall. We also play a key role in housing: both in developing social housing and in the development

of infrastructure to support housing sites going to market. For instance, we secured funding for the development of infrastructure to enable mixed housing development at our landbank at the Old Whitechurch Road.

What is your vision for Cork City Region and the City Centre? We’re at a really exciting time in Cork. Ireland 2040 has pinpointed Cork as the fastest growing Irish city over the next 20 years and there is an accompanying strong commitment to the development of the city region with projects such as the M20 Cork-Limerick motorway. As a city, we also have a significant landbank in the city centre at the docklands and this offers unbridled opportunity to develop Cork as a quality urban space to work in, live in, invest in and visit. It also is adjacent to fantastic green spaces such as the new Marina Park. A thriving city centre that is attractive and accessible for residents, shoppers, visitors and investors is key to the future of this city and to the wider region. Our future must centre around sustainable economic development, sustainable transport and sustainable employment if we are to retain the quality of life and ‘sense of place’ that we all love here.

What are the highlights of your work? I work with great people both internally and externally and I love seeing staff succeed. We have an amazing ecosystem in Cork, across the state, semi-state and private sector where we all work together for the benefit of Cork. This collaboration amongst key stakeholders, which we shouldn’t take for granted, offers us unlimited potential to grow Cork city and county.

to meeting the needs of Cork as a growing city as the city will be uncompetitive if crippled with congestion. Bus prioritisation on the afternoons on St Patrick’s will allow us to provide a more reliable, efficient and faster bus service as it is the main transport hub for the city with up to 1,000 bus journeys a day.

What is your biggest achievement in your role to date? Cork city and wider region will benefit substantially from the planned city boundary extension, due to come into effect in mid 2019. The first boundary extension since 1965 will see Cork city’s administrative area increase in size by five times and gives it the capacity to really develop as a counterbalance to Dublin. This extension will strengthen economic development and investment in the south as the empirical evidence shows that strong cities drive regions. We also see that investment in cities follows clusters and we already have these clusters around the existing city and contiguous urban areas. Now those companies will be able to say they are based in a city of scale, a city of over 200,000 with the potential to grow by another 115,000 by 2040. This population increase puts Cork on a different map in terms of marketing our offering. What further marks Cork out is that these companies and investors also benefit hugely from the surrounding vibrant county with its network of strong rural towns, proven industrial base and the stunning countryside that is the Wild Atlantic Way and Ancient East.

What projects are you excited about right now? As we can all see from the cranes on the skyline, there is largescale investment taking place in Cork city centre with 10,000 new jobs due in the next five years and 5,000 in the next three years alone. If we want to keep our city centre moving, it is vital that we update our traffic system to accommodate the transport needs of those moving to live and work in our city. The re-routing of traffic in the city centre is key

TR AN S FOR M I N G COR K

Cork Chamber’s CSR team leaders Michelle O’Sullivan, Naoimh Frawley and Leigh Delaney with the newly achieved EcoMerit certificate.

G r e e n is the new Black! Cork Chamber achieves Eco Merit environmental certification Here in Cork Chamber, we are striving to reduce our carbon footprint and take on actions to reduce the Chambers’ impact on our Environment. Last year we introduced our Cork Chamber reusable cups to staff for using when we’re on the go. Since then we’ve been busily working on a number of initiatives, one of which is the EcoMerit certification.

EcoMerit is an environmental certification supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other partner organisations including the Southern Waste Region and kicks off with an environmental ‘health check’. The certification is focused on empowering a business or organisation to become more sustainable. Without a dedicated environmental manager it can sometimes be difficult to monitor energy, waste and water costs to bring about performance and cost-saving improvements. And here begins the journey of Cork Chamber and EcoMerit. The EcoMerit certification is designed specifically to assist smaller organisations to identify

improvement opportunities. Cork Chamber undertook the certification process earlier this year. This involved a commitment to implementing a number of practice and procedural changes towards achieving environmental improvements. We are being more conscious in our purchasing considerations, we have increased our focus on waste prevention and segregation for reuse and recycling, we have made a commitment to pollution prevention, we have consciously increased our energy saving and water saving efforts and are looking to continue in these improvements year-on-year. Commencing with a site review and improvement plan, we worked hard to achieve the improvement actions identified, and are delighted to have received the good news just recently. We are committed to continuous improvement and to building on these results, with the certification supported by annual surveillance and monitoring.

CSR Awar ds 2018 Chambers Ireland has announced the shortlist for the 2018 Corporate Social Responsibility Awards with over 80 shortlisted projects across the 14 categories. The Chambers Ireland CSR Awards are partnered with Business in the Community Ireland, sponsored by BAM Ireland and run in association with the Department of Rural and Community Development. The CSR Awards provide the perfect platform to highlight the significance of corporate social responsibility for Irish businesses. We congratulate the following Cork Chamber members shortlisted:

BioMarin International Carbery Group Heineken Himalaya Yoga Valley Republic of Work Technically Write IT

RECOGNISING YOUR SUCCESS

The awards will launch on 1 October 2018 at an event hosted in Fitzgerald House. Closing date for entries is 25 October 2018 Apply on www.corkchamber.ie

Accepting the award in 2018 on behalf of Boston Scientific, Sean Gayer VP Operations said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a fantastic recognition for the entire Boston Scientific team at Model Farm Road. It is an honour to be considered in the same light as previous finalists, who have inspired business excellence in our community.â&#x20AC;?

2019

The awards showcase the very best of business talent in Cork each year by celebrating outstanding achievements within the local business community

TR AN S FOR M I N G COR K

Cit y connec tion Construction of the €5 million Harley’s Street Pedestrian & Cycle Bridge, linking the city centre and Victorian Quarter, is underway. It’s expected that when fully operational, up to 11,000 pedestrians and cyclists, travelling between the city centre and the Victorian Quarter daily, will benefit from the improved connectivity and convenience provided by Harley’s Street Bridge. The Victorian Quarter includes Mac Curtain St and the surrounding area. Cork City Council has awarded the contract for the construction of the bridge to L & M Keating Contractors. L&M Keating operate nationally and internationally and recently completed local projects such as the re-development of St. Angela’s College on St Patrick’s Hill and Perrott’s Inch Pedestrian Bridge at University College Cork. Construction activity commenced in mid-July with the initial phase of work consisting of site set up and diversion of underground utilities. In parallel with the fabrication of the superstructure, minor traffic lane alterations are required in the area where the bridge abutments (supports) are being put in place.

These lane alternations will be in place until October and consist of the following: • •

Two lanes of traffic are being maintained on St Patrick’s Quay with minor restrictions for bus and private parking Three traffic lanes are being maintained in the vicinity of the bridge supports on Merchant’s Quay. Two westbound lanes (one bus lane and one general traffic lane) plus one eastbound lane will be in operation for the early stages of construction with the remaining traffic restrictions lifted as soon as possible.

A process for selecting a formal name for the bridge will be advised later this year.

CORK CITY CONFERENCING CONFERENCES • MEETINGS • EVENTS

Talk to us today about your next event in the heart of Cork’s Victorian Quarter » 11 Meeting Rooms » From 2 to 400 Delegates » State of the Art Communications » High Speed 300Mb WiFi » Air Conditioned » Breakout Area for Refreshment Breaks

+353 (0)21 464 3700

THEMETROPOLEHOTEL.IE

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Cork Chamber

Do you start with the end in mind? Do you know where your organisation is heading? Do you know your company priorities? Is your workforce aligned to those priorities? Do your employees invest in that end goal? Do you enable and empower them to follow the path you’ve set?

Training for Business

Enabling your employees begins with identifying skills and capabilities gaps in your workforce and taking steps to remedy those issues. To get the best return on this time and financial investment, both for the employer and employee, ensure you align any upskilling with the company priorities.

• Management Development • Leading Others • Core Professional Skills • Digital & Design

Guarantee a return on investment and deliver a value-added proposition to the organisation at large.

We can help! Cork Chamber Skillnet can help you align your priorities to a relevant learning and development intervention.

• Network ‘n’ Learn Allow us to partner with you to improve the employability of your workforce, the competitiveness of your organisation and to safeguard your company’s future. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any of your upskilling and development skills.

Contact: Aoife Dunne, Training Network Manager aoife@corkchamber.ie

Cov e r Sto ry

G rowing Opportunities on the Northside Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy discusses the opportunities for the Northside of Cork City in light of Project Ireland 2040. Conor highlights the need for much improved and diversified transport infrastructure, the employment potential and the overall latent opportunities for our City. Cork is growing at pace, with an estimated 25% of Cork City’s footprint to be built in the next 25 years. We need to be smart and strategic in how we grow, to learn from past experiences, to be visionary and proactive. It is crucial that as a City region we build on the opportunities for Cork and in doing so, we must recognise the existing depth of potential in our City. On our doorstep we have vast opportunities in the development of the City Docklands, coupled with the enormous latent potential and opportunities for our existing urban areas and strategic employment areas. For instance, with investment the northside of Cork City could reflect perfectly the ambition of Project Ireland 2040 for compact and sustainable growth. Project Ireland 2040 aims to provide balanced

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Cork is growing at pace, with an estimated 25% of Cork City’s footprint to be built in the next 25 years. We need to be smart and strategic in how we grow

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regional development and to improve the State’s infrastructure. It plans for an additional one million people living in the state in the next 25 years and places its emphasis on the use of brownfield sites in cities, towns and villages. It is estimated that Cork will take 20% of this population growth. To do this, we need to proactively reenergise our City’s districts and communities to grow sustainably to meet future population demands while maintaining and growing the quality of life, uniqueness and heritage of our City region. Right here and now, we have a unique and diverse offering in Cork, underpinned by an impressive business, skills, education, international connectivity and cultural track record. We have seen the City population increase by 4.6% in recent years, and we have seen a significant increase in business activity with Cork going from strength to strength as an attractive location for FDI while being the base for a growing number of hugely successful home-grown companies. We have strong and established clusters in ICT, pharma, life-sciences, cyber security, energy, marine, agrifood and financial services. Crucially though, to ensure that we grow our potential and future proof our City region, we need to focus on the foundations. One of which is public transport. We need a network and infrastructure that works with Cork and can grow and adapt as the City changes and grows. This is fundamental.If we fail to plan for the future, the alternative is unmanageable congestion and the lowering of our quality of life with negative knock-on effects on society, the environment and the economy.

If we stick with the northside as an example, there is already a hugely impressive portfolio of successful companies with names such as Teamwork.com, Xanadu, Blizzard, Westbourne IT, Strencom, Quintas, Flex and of course Apple. There is the Northside for Business Campus focused on developing enterprises and growing small businesses, and there is a whole host of home grown indigenous businesses. These companies, and others, have recognised the potential here, basing their operations a few short kilometres from the City Centre. This year, we’ve had positive announcements such as the M20 Cork to Limerick motorway bringing with it the development of the eastern section of the Northern Ring Road. These projects will be massively influential and transformative. Of course, the development of the complete Northern Ring Road route will catalyse this potential even further. However, we can’t afford to overlook the opportunities to develop the public transport infrastructure across the northside of the City, by increasing the accessibility and permeability, as a City region we are investing in the community both business and residential. For instance, the train runs straight through from Mallow to Kent Station. It is only logical and a quick win to put plans back into motion to develop the Kilbarry Train Station servicing Blackpool and the surrounding areas. If we are to grow sustainably and ensure a public transport system that meets the needs of the City, it is imperative that such access points are developed without delay. We need safe cycle

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path infrastructure in and around the northside, and the extension of the public bike share scheme to service the area. Previously there were proposals for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system to run from North to South connecting Ballyvolane to Cork Airport via the City Centre. Wouldn’t it be timely to now reinvestigate the potential of this North to South BRT route, linking with the key strategic employment areas at Blackpool and Cork Airport. This would greatly increase the attractiveness and appeal of bus transport as an option for commuters, and should be progressed in tandem with the East to West, Ballincollig to Mahon BRT. This dedicated BRT corridor could be linked to a Park and Ride on the north of the City, again this would facilitate options for commuters freeing up congestion in the City and giving people a plausible

alternative option to private car. Why not have the Kilbarry Train Station developed to operate dually as the Park and Ride location connected to a dedicated bus corridor and with a public bike share station and secure private bike parking also located at the station and with the appropriate connecting infrastructure in place? The time is now to start developing the game-changers. At a later stage these bus corridors could be transformed into a Light Rail Corridor. Ultimately a new type of urban living needs to be developed with higher density corridors and better public transport servicing commuters and residents alike. City regions must be enabled to grow their unique opportunities. As part of Project Ireland 2040, the Government has committed €200m Bus Connects Programme funding to Cork. We need this made available without delay to facilitate the proactive development of an enhanced public transport network, with the commitment to future public transport investment. The northside of Cork City is on the cusp

and with the right infrastructure investment could be developed further to maximise its potential for business, employment and housing.

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As a City region we are investing in the community both business and residential.

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It is only logical and a quick win to put plans back into motion to develop the Kilbarry Train Station servicing Blackpool and the surrounding areas.

As a nation, we need to transform into a smarter, more urban and climate friendly country, and here in Cork Chamber we believe that in Cork, we have the opportunity to be a leader in this space, to realise the vision of Ireland 2040.

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UPCOMING EVE NTS

Creating opportunities and facilitating the sharing of experiences by connecting you 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. See more at CorkChamber.ie

Budg e t 2019 Busi n ess Br e akfast in association with Irish Examiner Date: Tuesday 4 September Time: 7.30am – 9.00am Venue: Clayton Hotel Cork City Cost: €25 members/€50 non-members How do we stay globally competitive? Can the budget provide better support for diversity in the workforce? How much can we afford to spend on infrastructure? Can we afford not to? Budget 2019 comes at a critical moment in time. It provides an opportunity to get housing moving at a pace. To better support SME’s and innovators. To Brexit proof our economy and to create a better environment for business. At our September Business Breakfast, Seamus Coffey, Chair of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, leading advisor to the Government on all things business and economic, will provide his unique insights and answer your questions on what can and can’t be done for your sector. Seamus is a prominent lecturer in the Department of Economics in UCC. In October 2016, he was appointed the independent expert by the Minister for Finance to undertake a review of Ireland’s Corporation Tax code. There are few, if any better placed, to guide and provide insight before Budget 2019. Be in the know before Budget Day at our September Business Breakfast.

All Aboar d!

Lunch on the Brittany Ferries “Pont-Aven”

net wo r k i ng at Noo n

at Cork Golf Club

Date: Saturday 15 September Time: 12pm – 3pm Venue: Pont Aven Ringaskiddy Cost: €60 members / €65 non members

Date: Tuesday 18 September Time: 12pm – 1.30pm Venue: Cork Golf Club, Little Island Cost: FREE for Cork Chamber members

You will be transported to France without leaving Ringaskiddy Port as our extremely popular annual luncheon aboard the Brittany Ferries flagship vessel the “Pont-Aven” will be once again held in association with the France Ireland Chamber of Commerce.

Golf not your thing? You don’t have to be Rory McIlroy or Padraig Harrington to enjoy our September Networking at Noon event, which we are delighted to be having in the beautiful surroundings of Cork Golf Club on Tuesday 18th September.

The Pont-Aven is a luxury ferry with the feel of a cruise ship that travels weekly between Cork and Roscoff - the shortest, fastest ferry crossing from Ireland to France. This event provides you with an exclusive opportunity to see the fantastic facilities available on board while enjoying a charming afternoon in wonderful company.

Cork Golf Club celebrates 130 years of golf in 2018. This Alister Mackenzie designed championship golf course is routed through exceptional golfing terrain incorporating old limestone quarries and the inner reaches of Cork Harbour. Being apart of Ireland Ancient East, the Club has hosted many major amateur and professional Championships over the years including the Irish Open.

Your three hour French escape will begin with an “Apéritif” drinks reception in the ship’s Bar Le Grand Pavois followed by a sumptuous luncheon prepared by the best of French chefs and served with specially selected French wines. Book your tickets now to sample the authentic French on-board experience of Pont-Aven for yourself - tu le mérites!

Why not come along and “tee up” a load of new connections at this networking event that is most certainly on a par…

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A tale of two cities Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2018 Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner 2018 will be held on Tuesday 20 November at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY. Over the past seven years, this national black-tie event has grown to become one of the most popular and prestigious events in our calendar, attracting almost 600 business thought leaders, political decision makers and dignitaries. This key event 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 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.

We are delighted to have the continued support of EY as the headline sponsor of the dinner and Kernel Capital as Networking Reception sponsor. Book now for the opportunity to build countrywide connections, enhance existing business relationships and celebrate the best of Irish business, or simply entertain your clients, prospects and colleagues at a networking dinner not to be missed!

book Now at CorkChamber.ie

Date: Tuesday 20 November Time: 7pm – 11pm Venue: Clayton Hotel Burlington Road Cost: €150pp / €1500 for or a Corporate Table

** BLACK TIE **

Please book now to avoid disappointment.

e m p ow e r i n g yo u

OUT & ABOUT Cities o n the R ise: Le ade r ship Fo rum in associatio n with Affide a Cork Chamber hosted the June Leadership Forum in Vertigo at County Hall. This event featured David Rudlin, Chairman of the Academy of Urbanism and was held in association with Affidea Cork.

Conor Healy CEO and Paula Cogan, Vice President Cork Chamber, with David Rudlin, guest speaker and Tracey Kennedy, Cork GAA. Pictures: John Roche

Barry Downes (left) and Stephen Charlesworth (right) from Affidea (sponsors), with invited guests at the event Michael Lynch, KPMG; John O’Sullivan, Westbourne IT and Seamus Coughlan, Cork City Council.

Fr anciscan We ll Sunday’s Well was abuzz with Cork Chamber members clocking out and connecting at this networking event out on the terrace of the Franciscan Well Brewery.

Music, moonlight and mingling at the Clock out and Connect Event in the Franciscan Well

Deirdre Griffin, with Jurgita Petiul and Jurij Petiul, Right Solution Centre, at the Cork Chamber Business After Hours event held in the Franciscan Well

Shane Long, Kate Clancy and Noel Finn from Franciscan Well Breweries, raise a glass with Cork Chamber President Bill O’Connell

Jamie Moore, Odhran Molloy and Pauline Lynch, Picture: John Sheehan Photography

e m p ow e r i n g yo u

Wo r k i ng Tog e th e r Cork Chamber last month welcomed colleagues from Dublin Chamber and members at a workshop in Voxpro to collaborate on urban issues, quality of life, and the future development of city regions in Ireland.

Pictured: Dan Kiely, Co Founder Voxpro; Dublin Chamber CEO, Mary Rose Burke; Thomas McHugh, Director of Public Affairs at Cork Chamber; Linda Kiely, Co Founder Voxpro and Anne O’Leary, President of Dublin Chamber.

Business leaders exchange views during workshop session. Pictures: Darragh Kane

Co r k Chamb e r Summ e r Gar de n Par t y i n associatio n with Viate l We held our inaugural Summer Garden Party in the Orangery of the Maryborough Hotel on Friday 27th July. We didn’t let the damp weather spoil the Summer mood, as the party kept on rolling all night with cool music, delicious food and drinks as well as a bit of magical entertainment for all.

Peter and Claire Coppinger, Teamwork.com Pictures: Darragh Kane

Bill O’Connell, President of Cork Chamber; Paul Rellis, CEO Viatel; Barbara Anne Richardson, Cork Chamber; Damien McCann, Director Sales and Marketing Viatel; Eimear Nealon, Enterprise Account Director and Conor Healy, CEO Cork Chamber. at Viatel Ireland at the Cork Chamber Summer

Michael O’Brien, PE Global, Eoin Gunn, AIB and Alan Bruce, Anderco Safety

Amanda Darmody, EventBrite and DC Cahalane, Republic of Work

Joise O’Kelly, Muckross Park Hotel, Paul O’Connell, Clayton Hotel and Jessica Hughes, Viatel.

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Support sales growth Look to public tender opportunities across Ireland and Europe Public tenders represent an interesting opportunity for sales growth and diversification for SMEs. Alongside Brexit planning, participating in a tendering process could be just the opportunity to invigorate business. The all-island public procurement market is currently worth approximately £10.4bn/€12.1bn and represents an untapped market for SMEs to gain a share, increase their sales and win steady business. At a recent InterTradeIreland, Go-2Tender programme attended by Cork Chamber, knowledge and practical skills were shared to boost the capacity of SMEs to tender successfully for public sector contracts within Ireland or on a cross-border basis. There are a number of advisable steps to take to build business confidence to succeed in the formal tendering process, minimise risk and boost the number winning bids both in the Irish market and further afield.

A key step to help businesses to manage requests for tender is to never lead your strategy with a bid. Businesses are advised to carefully consider the market/ geography the business should enter first by research and analysis. Successful tendering is often characterised by significant strategic investment in the process, and seeing through the journey from pre bid, building up prior knowledge, understanding the buyers’ requirements, seeking clarifications, right through to making a comprehensive application that focusses on both quality and price. Alongside the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) in Ireland, the TED (Tenders Electronic Daily) is the online portal to European public procurement. TED provides free access to business opportunities from the European Union, the European Economic Area and beyond. TED publishes 520,000 procurement notices a year, including 210,000 calls for tenders which are worth

approximately €420 billion across a number of countries, regions and business sectors. Crucially, a key point is to not to think of your SME as too small to tender for public sector contracts. There are many low value/under threshold opportunities available for small business owners new to public sector tendering with limited knowledge and experience. Building joint ventures and consortia are also an option which can encourage businesses to collaborate and bid for bigger contracts. Through research, industry intelligence, knowledge of funding opportunities and co-operative partnerships, every business can have the opportunity to grow and develop new sales opportunities through tendering.

Enterprise Europe Network Local support to internationalise your business Did you know Cork Chamber is host to the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN)? The network is part of the world’s largest support network for SMEs with international ambitions which aims to help SMEs grow through tailored support, new commercial partnerships and access to finance. Cork Chamber is the local partner of the Irish network, led by Enterprise Ireland and other partners, Dublin Chamber and the Local Enterprise Offices. As a European Commission-funded project, the Cork EEN network has access to over 600 network contacts across the EU and beyond. Specifically, the network combines international business expertise, with local knowledge and the advice you need to grow and expand into international markets or to help you take your innovation into new markets. Within the network, there is the reach, expertise and tailor-made services to find the right international partners for your business.

Support to find international business partners is primarily done through the EEN’s organisation of fast and effective SME matchmaking events at international conferences and trade fairs to help save businesses time and money. The brokerage events (most of which are free-of-charge) take place at some of Europe’s leading trade fairs. EEN tailor-made trade missions have also led to successful partnerships thanks to thorough preparation, local knowledge and expert guidance. In addition, the EEN also offers direct access to Europe’s largest database of business opportunities. Accessing and researching the database of companies can present new opportunities for international partnership and growth leading to business requests for collaboration, supply, offers etc. The Enterprise Europe Network’s practical, personal advice to businesses also extends to; • Providing information on specific

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overseas markets. Assisting with EU legislation to get a better understanding of specific legislation across the different markets. Providing information on EU funding including opportunities via Horizon 2020. Enterprise Ireland’s Innovation Health Check Tool, which establishes the level of innovationorientation in a company. A workshop facilitated by EEN Cork Chamber can deliver a comprehensive report identifying key strengths and areas for improvement.

Get in touch with the Enterprise Europe Network to learn how, smart, solutiondriven services can recognise innovation potential, and help to take innovative ideas to commercial success on international markets.

JOHNSON & PERROTT JAGUAR LAND ROVER

Our brand new Bishopstown showroom and service centre reflects the latest Jaguar and Land Rover standards and is a one-stop shop for all your motoring needs. Drop by for a coffee and experience the full range for yourself and enjoy taking any model for a test drive. We look forward to welcoming you to our new home soon.

Johnson & Perrott Jaguar Land Rover Bandon Road, Bishopstown, Cork. | jpjaguar.ie | jplandrover.ie

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New membe rs We welcome the following new members Altada Software/Software Services Privacy management and GDPR specialists T: 087 6274096 E: allan@altada.com Beechbrook Capital Ireland DAC Financial Services/Pensions/Investment Established private debt fund manager establishing an Irish Fund with Cork HQ T: 086 3881172 E: david.merriman@beechbrookcapital.com W: www.beechbrookcapital.com Carbon Hair Design Retail Hair salon with expertise in bespoke styling and colouring T: 021 4222898 E: carbonhairdesign@gmail.com Carefolk Software/Software Services Carefolk is a SaaS Healthtech company that builds integrated care products for teams and individuals providing care. T: 021 234 0174 E: info@carefolk.com W: www.carefolk.com Chestnut Coaching Services Chestnut Coaching uses an evidence-based approach which supports clients to clarify their strengths, enabling them to move towards their goals T: 087 4171908 E: chestnutcoaching@gmail.com W: www.chestnutcoaching.com/ Clodagh Read Acupuncture Health & Safety Acupuncture, Cupping and Gua Sha treating pain, stress and anxiety, migraine, Insomnia and many other problens. T: 085-1119060 E: Cloread@hotmail.com W: www.clodaghreadacupuncture.com Data Protection Solved Services Ooffer a complete data protection solution to businesses, clubs and not-for-profit organisations at a competitive price. T: 0862529923 E: anita_m_21@hotmail.com

Electric Dreams Media/Publishing/Video Production A multimedia production house, offering top quality media production services with a focus on cinematic results at affordable rates. T: 085 1393923 E: matt@electricdreams.ie W: http://electricdreams.ie

Eur Digital Village Management Consultants We offer a consultancy service to businesses to discover and access EU funding opportunities. T: 089 9424274 E: lizgavin@eurdigitalvillage.com W: www.eurdigitalvillage.com Flamingo Consultancy Management Consultants FLAMINGO is integrated consultancy. It’s about about the bigger picture. We have a dynamic range of organisational services provided by a team of experienced coaches, consultants and trainers.. T: 087 9202858 E: john@flamingoconsultancy.ie W: www.flamingoconsultancy.ie Gan Uisce Retail Gan Uisce aims to provide an effective and safe solution to the embarrassing problem of underarm sweat in the most discreet form possible. T: 086 3912232 E: uisceinfo@gmail.com W: http://ganuisce.ie/ IncrEdible Flowers Retail IncrEdible Flowers is Ireland’s leading fresh fruit bouquets and chocolate arrangements designer and supplier. Our products are made daily and locally using freshest fruit and gourmet chocolate. T: 086 7324051 E: info@incredibleflowers.ie W: www.incredibleflowers.ie Ingenium Training & Consulting Ltd Services Ingenium Training and Consulting are a Limerick based organisation that provide management and leadership development solutions for local, national and international organisations. T: 061-385841 E: info@ingeniumTC.com W: www.ingeniumtc.com Inspire group Ltd Photography 25 Years dedicated experience to high-end quality photography and video service catering for the hospitality, architects and construction industry. T: 087 2560149 E: johndalyphoto@gmail.com W: www.inspiregroup.ie

Just For Men, Manscaping Lounge Services Barbering- hot towel, massage, styling. Skincare, Waxing, Foot Care, Hand care. Massage; Indian Head, Reflexology, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Relaxation, Sports. T: 086 0483790 E: jfmen18@gmail.com L&M Keating Engineering Construction company offering early contractor Involvement and design & build solutions in the marine, civil, building and heritage sectors. T: 065 9050090 E: info@lmkeating.ie W: www.lmkeating.ie Livingdreamz Furniture & Bedding Retail Specialize in supplying top quality sofa’s, dining and bedding. We offer expert advice on your mattress needs and stock top brand’s. T: 021 4524914 E: kieran@livingdreamz.ie W: http://www.livingdreamz.ie MartinaO Weddings & Events Event Management Martina, a Cork based Wedding & Event Planner, executes fabulous Weddings & Events throughout Ireland. MartinaO offers bespoke packages tailored to every client’s needs. T: 086 3581414 E: hello@martinao.com W: www.martinao.com MCR Group Contracting Cleaning/Supplies Multi service provider with a number of divisions which include Recruitment, Engineering, Cleaning & Security Solutions to the construction and commercial sectors T: 086 8543921 E: mannie.morgan@mcr.ie W: www.mcrgroup.ie Nationwide Controlled Parking Systems Ltd (NCPS) Transport Car Park Management and Design Experts with a focus on technology solutions incorporating ANPR and Cashless Payment Systems as well as traditional paid parking solutions. T: 01 6349805 E: admin@ncps.ie W: www.ncps.ie Over-C Technology Ltd Software/Software Services A digital transformation solution that uses big data and analytics to deliver detailed insights into business operations. T: +353 872562304 E: info@over-c.com W: www.over-c.com

GROWI N G YOUR BUS I N E SS

Paul Pierse Mediation Services Online Mediation: Neutral and confidential dispute resolution facilitation by video conference now, regardless of your location. T: 087 6462621 E: paulpiersemediator@gmail.com Procuro Therapy Clinic Healthcare Provider Using Physical THerapy as a ‘Gateway’ treatment, we diagnose, treat and advise on health, working in tandem with GP’s and consultants. T: 021 2397030 E: info@procuroclinic.com W: www.procuroclinic.com Red Hat Ltd Software/Software Services The world’s leading provider of open source, enterprise IT solutions T: 021 2303400 E: kphelan@redhat.com W: www.redhat.com/en

RJ O’Brien Building Contractors Ltd. Building Contractors/Providers Providing industry leading building services nationwide, RJ O’Brien Building Contractors was founded by the late Ray O’Brien in 1969 (trading as Ray O’Brien Building Contractors). T: 087 6137700 E: info@rjobrienbc.ie W: www.rjobrienbc.ie

Wombat Media Advertising/Marketing/Market Research Video production studio specialising in factual & narrative film and screen content. Wombat Media are based in Cork city and produce compelling content far and wide. T: 021 241 8808 E: ciara@wombatmedia.ie W: wombatmedia.ie

Taster Food/Drink Taster is an online platform for restaurants to display a visual version of their menus. T: 087 9637298 E: info@tasterfood.com W: www.tasterfood.com

Workout Habit Health Wellness - WHHW Health & Safety Innovative onsite workplace wellness programs. Will help you to win the talent war if you worried about retaining top talent! T: 089 2366988 E: info@workouthabit.net W: www.workouthabit.net/

The Bridge Bar Food/Drink We are a city centre bar serving a wide range of drinks including an extensive wine, menu and also gins, beers, whiskeys and cocktails. T: 021 2396185 E: hello@thebridgecork.ie W: www.thebridgecork.ie

WP Cork Web Design Provides website development and WordPress security and update monitoring. We also provide website maintenance and virtual support services. T: 087 932 6024 E: donal@wpcork.com W: https://wpcork.com

Apple Expertise. For Business.

Discover

Finding the right solution for your business is important, every business needs advice and support. From mobility solutions with iPhone and iPad, to the advantages of Mac in Business, iConnect can offer over 20 years experience in delivering the right solutions and services to help transform your business.

Manage

Why iConnect

Protect

We are an Apple Premium Reseller. We are an Apple Authorised Service Provider with service repair centres in Dublin and Cork. We offer a dedicated Account Manager and technical service team member to all our business and education customers. All our field engineers are certified Apple Associates and Professionals. All our technicians are fully certified Apple Engineers, fully qualified ACIT and ACMT and use only genuine Apple parts. iConnect can help you purchase, install, and support an integrated solution including complementary third party products.

Elaine Mulchinock Business Development Manager (Munster) elaine.mulchinock@i-connect.ie 087 313 7973

We offer specialised Apple based solutions for your business. We can help you implement new Mac, iPad, iPhone and server-based solutions that best ﬁt your business needs. Our on call dedicated service team can get you back up and running in no time. A large number of issues can be resolved remotely to give you peace of mind and save on cost.

Contact us today to get details on how you can use Mac in your business, to arrange an onsite consultation or to ﬁnd out more.

Report For organisations and their IT administrators that must adhere to GDPR compliance, Jamf offers Apple device management capabilities to help ensure your managed Apple devices check each of the compliance steps. iConnect are the only authorised reseller of this service in Ireland. Find out more: www.i-connect.ie/jamf_presentation.pdf

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members news 1

24 04

30 jobs were announced for Cork at the official launch of the Right At Home Cork office in Wilton. Pictured are Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Tony Fitzgerald, Jennifer Andersson, Right At Home Carer and Cian O’Sullivan, Managing Director of Right At Home Cork. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

A leading Cork based Solicitor has announced that he is re-establishing his original firm, Harry McCullagh Solicitors. Commenting on the announcement, Harry said “After four successful years under the McCullagh Wall brand, the time has come to embark on the next phase of our development. This is a really exciting time for me and my experienced team and we are looking forward to announcing further positive developments in the months ahead.” Harry McCullagh pictured with colleagues at the announcement.

Enjoying the sunshine at the KPMG Cork Alumni Annual Summer BBQ hosted in the Montenotte Hotel are Fiona J Murphy, Lorraine Sammon and Niamh O’Donovan, KPMG Alumni. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

Jigsaw Cork, a free, non-judgemental and confidential mental health support service for young people aged 12 - 25 living, working or studying in Cork celebrated its first anniversary and the extension of the service to young people across County Cork with an event in Cork City Council recently.

The family of Samuel O’Doherty, inspired by his memory and the care which he received in Bon’s Cork have raised €2000 euros towards Cancer Research in the Bon Secours Cork.. Taken at the presentation are Kate O’Doherty; Aisling Price; Harry Canning, GM Bon Secours Hospital Cork; Dr Brian Bird, Consultant Oncologist Bon Secours; Kate O’Doherty; Mary Birmingham, Maria Casey and Sinead Power, Bon Secours Hospital Cork. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

Áine Collins, CEO Cork Foundation and Laura Hallissey Marketing and Diaspora Assistant, Cork Foundation with David Stanton, Minister of State Department of Justice and Equality pictured at the opening of Cork Foundation’s Diaspora Photographic Exhibition at Cobh Maritime Centre. Picture: Niamh Whitty

7 Competitive energy provider Energia, will continue its sponsorship of the Glanmire football club Riverstown FC. Energia has sponsored the club since 2011. The sponsorship will cover the clubs expenses including the cost of team kits and training bibs. Pictured in action at the Riverstown FC are Caoimhe Richmond, Shauna Richmond, Eimear O’Rourke, Aoileann Boyle, Layla Goldsmith and Siofra Boyle. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

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Ronan Daly Jermyn Expands Dublin Property and Real Estate Finance Practice with the appointment of new Partner Simon Lynch (centre). Simon has over a decade of experience advising developers, lenders and equity investors in all aspects of financing, secured lending and property investment. Pictured are Evin McCarthy, Simon Lynch, Richard Martin.

it@cork has appointed Eoghan O’Mahony as Senior Cluster Manager. This new full time Enterprise Ireland supported executive appointment comes at an exciting time for it@cork as they continue to develop the existing technology cluster in the south of Ireland and foster collaboration between member companies. Eoghan O’Mahony, Senior Cluster Manager with Caroline O’Driscoll Chairperson it@cork. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

Springboard PR & Marketing’s work with Waterford City & County Council on the launch of the Waterford Greenway won Best Public Sector campaign at the Awards for Excellence in Public Relations. Pictured Rhona Blake, FleishmanHillard with Susie Horgan, Managing Director and Strategic Lead and Maria Tracey, Client Manager with Springboard PR & Marketing. Picture: Fennell Photography

4 Cork home and business heating firm NRG Awareness is eyeing opportunities in the US Midwest following an expansion that will see up to 70 jobs created over two years. Pictured from left to right: Alan Mackesy, Patrick Hogan, Minister David Stanton, Coadie McCarthy, Harry Rea and David Rea. Picture: Darragh Kane

GAC Training & Service Solutions (GTSS,) a joint venture between the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) and global shipping, logistics and marine services provider GAC, have been awarded a training contract with Teekay Gas. One of the largest maritime training contracts in the history of the Irish state for GTSS. Pictured are James O’Byrne, GTSS General Manager with Ray Johnston, Operations Manager, NMCIS.

Taken as The Montenotte Hotel launches Artist in Residence Programme are Brian Bowler, General Manager, Montenotte Hotel with Cork artist Patrick Cashin. A collection of Patrick’s oil paintings inspired by the Cork coast and its lighthouses, are now on exhibit at the hotel for guests and visitors to enjoy. Picture: Brian Lougheed

GROWI N G YOUR BUS I N E SS

Are you using compliance to your advantage? While the media noise has died down on GDPR, the practicalities of running a compliant organisation are here to stay. We are all in the same boat looking for the best way to demonstrate compliance to make sure our policies and procedures will stand up in an audit. Let’s face it, a data breach would do incredible damage to our reputations and a GDPR fine would wipe most of us off the map! Fiona Ryan, Head of Customer Engagement at Spearline has her finger on the pulse. “GDPR was so in focus prior to the May 25th Deadline that it almost became overhyped. Could this radical change in law really become a reality? Not only has it become a reality but I can see organisations embracing GDPR as a new dawn in data governance and using it as a springboard to implement standards of excellence across their businesses. Change doesn’t take place without determination and dedication from those in leadership. And unfortunately there are bumps on the road to compliance. It takes experienced staff to head up compliance programmes, many businesses are

‘‘

Spearline Managed Compliance Service is the perfect solution for organisations who don’t have the resources or the expertise to handle GDPR compliance or who want to enhance their data protection team.

‘‘

struggling to find new hires. There is a skills deficit in the data protection sector so getting the right person can be extremely difficult. Let’s not forget the bottom line. Budget for staff, training, systems and risk mitigation measures has to be found. While this puts a big strain on organisations, a fine of 4% of your annual turnover under GDPR would certainly put any business under serious pressure, if not close their doors. Recent figures from the the Data Protection Commission reveal that it has logged 1,184 data breach notifications since May 25th. Of these, the regulation applied in 953 cases, a significant increase on 2017 when an average of 230 breaches were reported each month. Spearline is an award winning software company who have crafted the leading compliance solution Spearline Data Protection with the user at the centre of the design. Whether you need to demonstrate compliance, safeguard your reputation or increase trust from your customers and employees, this is the optimum solution for your organisation. Our solution is a central place to operationalise your risk, compliance and privacy programmes. With built in features to maintain data inventories, prepare for regulatory audits and respond promptly to requests or incidents, our software provides you with a robust audit trail which will help you reduce risk and extent of a fine. We have ability to cater to all company structures from startups to enterprises.

Ciara Lucy Spearline and Fiona Ryan, Spearline

In addition, you can add on Spearline Managed Compliance Service as the perfect solution for organisations who don’t have the resources or the expertise to handle GDPR compliance or who want to enhance their data protection team. This service solves staffing difficulties with the headache of compliance outsourced to Spearline specialists. This is a cost effective way of ensuring that you become and remain compliant. Most importantly, it gives you the freedom to focus on your business and not worry about compliance and the hefty fines that may be imposed for noncompliance.” Find out more about this world class software or register for our webinar series visit www.spearline.com email contactus@spearline. com or call 1800 851266.

To find out more about this world class software visit www.spearline.com or register for our webinar series

Fiona Ryan is a certified Data Protection practitioner with a background in the legal, financial and governance sectors. She is a qualified financial adviser with an LLB in Irish Law and Masters in Corporate Governance and Management. She is also a Chartered Secretary and a member of the Institute of Bankers and ICSA (Ireland). Fiona heads up Spearline’s Customer Engagement providing our customers with invaluable advice and expertise on their GDPR compliance journey. Get in touch with Fiona by phone 1800 851266 or email fiona.ryan@spearline.com

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Vodafone Gigabit Broadband “It used to take an hour and a half to upload 3,000 images for an auction, now we can upload in a matter of seconds.” Morgan O’Driscoll, Fine Art Auctioneer, Skibbereen, Co. Cork vodafone.ie/business

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