PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Welcome to all our members and thank you to everyone who has contributed to this edition of CONNECTED. This is my first edition of CONNECTED as President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce. The first half of 2022 has been a turbulent one for many of our local businesses. Whilst the pandemic is behind us, inflationary pressures and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has sent the economy into a tailspin, with prices continually on the rise. However, I have been heartened by the persistent resilience of our local traders and business leaders. Even while facing skyrocketing energy costs and staffing difficulties, 3 in 4 businesses here are optimistic that this year will see growth for their business, according to our recent survey. And while much more needs to be done by both Stormont and Westminster in support of our local economy, we have amongst us the skills, expertise, and vision to succeed. This year has already seen a significant change in our political landscape. May’s Assembly election saw 90 MLAs elected, but as of now, unable to get to work. As your Chamber President, I have been loud and clear, the absence of a functioning Executive is simply unacceptable for business and society. The most vulnerable will suffer, those on hospital waiting lists will wait even longer, and investment opportunities are sure to be missed. We simply cannot afford to leave Stormont empty for one day longer. Despite significant challenges, we know that the future of the North West economy is bright. But key regional commitments, like the expansion of Ulster University Magee and the completion of the A5, can no longer be characterised by dither, delay, and false dawns. City Deal projects are beginning to take shape, and we must grasp this immense economic opportunity with both hands. People here voted for delivery and political leadership. Anything less is a dereliction of duty. One major cause for optimism this year has been the full return of in-person events.
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I was delighted to speak at the President’s Lunch in March where we heard a virtual address from Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney TD, unable to visit Derry due to the war in Ukraine. This was a very special occasion, and along with the recent North West Business Awards, illustrated all that is good about doing business in our part of the world. Looking forward, I am hugely optimistic about the future of our local economy. Tourism is starting to reach pre-pandemic levels, spurred on by the likes of the Derry Jazz Festival and the hotly anticipated Clipper Race and Foyle Maritime Festival, taking place this summer. Cross-border trade is surging, with the North West beginning to take full advantage of our unique access to both EU and UK markets. All in all, despite current
issues, we are firmly on an upward trajectory. This edition of CONNECTED is jampacked full of inspiring stories from across our business community. From expanding start-ups, to diversifying workforces, to award wins, I would like to congratulate each company on their fantastic work undertaken across our business community. The road out of the pandemic has been long and arduous, and I commend you all on the hard work, determination, and entrepreneurial zeal you have shown. May you and your business go from strength to strength in the months ahead. Aidan O’Kane President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce
