Connect Business October 2017

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BUSINESS The business magazine for Kerry

Choosing the Cor rect Meeting Venue

MARY LUCEY First Female Principal of KCFE

CONNECT USED CAR GUIDE .... See inside

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Editor Note |Connect

EDITOR NOTE Hello and welcome to Connect Business This month we meet Mary Lucey, newly appointed principal of Kerry College of Further Education. Mary gives us an insight in to college life and her plans for the future there.

We also chat to some of the garages around to find out the best advice when shopping for a used car. Security is a huge issue for everyone and especially in business so we have a few tips and ideas on how to keep your business safe.

Booking the correct venue for your business meeting can be tricky so Colette O’Conner events specialist tells us what to look for.

We chat to Stephen from Kerry Office Supplies on the options when choosing ink and toner and his top tips for a home office.

Lots of new business happening within the county and we have caught up with a few to see how it’s all going, As always we are delighted to hear from you and what’s happening in your business so don’t be shy spread the word and let us tell the county how good your business is.

Until next time.

Margaret x Editor: Margaret Kissane Design: Laura A. Hartnett Print: Kingdom Printers For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie

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MARY LUCEY

First Female Principal of KCFE Mary Lucey, is the first woman to be appointed as a Principal in Kerry College of Further Education (KCFE), the first independent stand-alone College of Further Education in Kerry. Visiting Mary at the Kerry College, the atmosphere is already that of a real college campus – with a significant increase in student numbers and courses. Mary is delighted with her new role and has wonderful plans for the further expansion of the College.

With the help and support of Carmel Kelly, Deputy Principal, the management team and teaching team, Mary aims to make Kerry College of Education (KCFE) a leader in the further education sector. She commends the level of commitment, dedication, professionalism and student focus of the Kerry College of Further Education’s staff which results in their students receiving every possible opportunity to grow in confidence and self-esteem, to return to college as a mature student, to gain suitable employment, to progress to third-level education or to successfully have a complete career change. Mary has very strong industry and IOT/University connections and has a great insight into relevant skills set and prior education needed to ensure that Kerry College of Education (KCFE) students are workready and/or college ready.

Going forward, Mary is going to be a regular contributor to the Connect Magazine as she will explore a number of career paths that individuals have taken up in a new series entitled “How I Got Here?”. This will introduce readers to a variety of men and women who have unusual roles and will examine the career path they all took to get them to where they are now. The aim of this Mary explains is firstly to get parents to understand and support their children if they are interested in following an unusual career and for students to think outside the box when they are considering programmes to study or career paths. The series of documented interviews will demonstrate how people have successful careers by following their dreams and their passion.

Mary, congrats on your new appointment, will you give us some background on yourself?

Thank you, I am honoured to be taking on this new and exciting role. The teaching team that I have been working with since my official start date of 1st September have been hugely supportive and together we all realise the strength and potential Kerry College of Education has going forward.

I am originally a County Limerick woman but have lived in Kerry for many years. My family had a business so I grew up working in a variety of roles there from a very early age. This early experience of work and its responsibilities ensured I developed a wonderful work ethic. When I left school, like a lot of leaving certificate students, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do or what was even involved in studying on a particular course … but because of the family business, I began a Business Studies Degree in the University of Limerick. As part of my degree I had to undertake a work placement which for me was a major turning point. Until work placement, I had no real passion for what I was studying or no real motivation to put in my best effort. During my work placement, I realised for the first time how my course applied to the real world, how good I was at it and how much I enjoyed it.

I returned to college with a renewed enthusiasm and passion for my course and sailed through with flying colours as they say! I undertook a number of Post Graduate qualifications over 4 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

the years which enabled me to lecture and was lucky enough to work in positions that I found totally rewarding. I spent over 20 happy years as a Manager, Lecturer and Project Manager in the Institute of Technology, Tralee, working with students and industry personnel on a variety of successful projects.

During my own time as a student in College, I had realised the correlation between doing something you are passionate about and achieving positive results and success, this was and is the mantra that I live by and tried to instil in students. It is through my own life experiences that I have developed the teaching methodologies and concepts to motivate and empower the students that I have taught over the years. I have always found a dynamic educational environment exhilarating and to this day find it utterly energising to see the positive transformation of students both personally and academically through appropriate education. I have a very practical and positive attitude to life and really believe it is amazing what we can achieve with self-belief.

I have always believed that is it vital for those in the academic world to keep in touch with the world of industry to ensure the programmes on offer suits what industry require and our students are “work-ready”. I always remained very conscious of this and linked up and collaborated with industry during my years of teaching and managing. I find the support that the Kerry companies provide is second to none and they provide a vital link for the provision of industry required programmes.

You are in the education system for some years now what important changes have you seen over the years?

The main difference that I personally see which has a significant impact on students is the emphasis on points. I find it very disheartening at times to see pictures in papers highlighting students who achieve 600 points, when in reality another student who may have achieved perhaps 300 points who may not be applauded in the same way yet that achievement to them maybe just as equally amazing. I fully commend all those who achieve maximum points, they are wonderful, but those who didn’t are not any less important is my point here.

School league tables again I believe may not be advantageous and may potentially alter the focus from being student focused

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to overly result focused. My fear is that to achieve a high ranking on a league table students who may be inadequately prepared from a personal perspective to progress to a university may be still do so. When in reality, if a student undertakes a post-leaving certificate, they are far better prepared to progress to a thirdlevel college and the secondary school still gets the accolade on the league table.

Achieving high points and applying for third-level programmes because of the perceived status of programmes rather than suitability to the student is another change I believe that has started to creep in. I have heard comments such as “how students waste their high points” by applying to study on a programme with an associated low point requirement. I applaud these students as they are selecting a study path and a route that they want to do and they will enjoy completely and undoubtedly with great success. Parents too, in my opinion, are sometimes guilty of persuading their leaving cert children to select courses that they themselves have an understanding of and would like to see them study. I believe they should give the student an opportunity to explore what is on offer and follow their own strengths and dreams. People must remember there are courses and careers now that were unheard of even five years ago so we need to stop focusing on just traditional career paths.

The impact of these poor decisions normally mean that students are unhappy on their course, drop out or fail modules, which is not a positive outcome for all concerned. I believe also that there is an attitude that students undertook a PLC programme if they weren’t good enough to go to college, and sometimes people are shocked to hear a high achiever attending a PLC programme!

In reality, the profile of the students studying a PLC programme is very varied - from students who achieved 500 points who can’t decide what to do next or are too young for college; to those who want to do a specific programme for a year and then go and work in that industry; to those who had bad experiences in secondary school and want to make a fresh start, to those who need more points to progress to a university linked programme – the list goes on and on. This attitude is slowly changing and students and parents are beginning to slowly recognise the huge value that attending a PLC programme has.

It gives students an opportunity to explore an area they love and see how they progress; it gives them an opportunity to have a college experience in a more supportive environment; it affords them the opportunity to develop and mature before heading off to a third-level college; it allows students to progress to programmes of all kinds in the third level sector; it may facilitate students to transfer to a programme in 2nd year in an Institute of Technology or University resulting in a huge financial saving for the family; research has demonstrated that students who attend and complete a PLC programme prior to attending a university programme have a higher success rate than those attending straight from a secondary school. I would not have taken on the role of Principal of Kerry College of 6 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

Further Education if I did not completely and utterly believe in the positive outcome these courses can have on a student.

What advice would you give to parents of teenagers considering college options?

I have three sons myself all at various stages of second, third and postgraduate levels of education so I can relate 100% to parents who are concerned about their children and their future education and career. In my opinion, “Let them do what they love” is the best and most honest advice I can give anybody. I am often asked to speak at schools and conferences and to give students advice and that is the best I can give. From my years in third level, the students who study what they love – irrespective of CAO points achieved or their experiences at schools – they will rise to the top of the class and they will get the most from their programme of study. I meet a lot of parents who have great aspirations for their children to study for example medicine, but in reality the children themselves may wish to study a completely different programme or may not wish to continue in education but may wish to go and work…. This may cause conflict and upset in households and it can be totally avoided, if their preferences are respected. Could you as a parent imagine having to study or work in an environment that you don’t like or that doesn’t excite you, I know I could not, so why would you want your child to??? I think most parents want their children to be healthy and happy and I believe this is one of the keys to happiness. I also believe that parents along with their children should explore every possible option for further education.

We all so often hear about the importance of the points system and getting into a college, is this hugely important and are there any other options out there for the student who may not make it to college?

I believe that people do not realise that there are a number of ways to gain entry to college and it does not all depend on your leaving certificate and CAO points achieved. If a student does not make it to college through their leaving certificate, then I believe they should look at other options. The further education sector is the most important option that students need to research in this case. I firmly believe that the potential opportunities afforded to people who undertake a PLC programme at Kerry College of Further Education (KCFE) are not fully-realised. People are not aware that a PLC programme can also be used to progress to College. The PLC results are converted to CAO points and can be used to apply for third-level programmes in Universities and Institutes of Technology through the normal CAO route. There is also what is called a “ROUND ZERO” CAO offer in late July. This is an option whereby the CAO reserves college places on linked PLC programmes specifically for PLC applicants. The PLC programme provides a second chance for these individual so if they do not initially achieve those required CAO points, they may do so second time round studying a PLC programme. This is especially relevant to those who did not achieve their desired results first-time round or for those who have not undertaken a Leaving Certificate. If an individual student did not achieve a pass mark in their leaving certificate Maths subject, Kerry College of Further Education (KFCE) offers extra tuition for those repeating this subject while undertaking their PLC programme. Again the College is providing real solutions to student problems and ensuring every possible opportunity to progress.

Mary Lucey may be contacted at MaryLucey@kerryfe.ie or 066-7121741

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SOURCING A SECOND HAND CAR There are various ways of sourcing a used car in Ireland - online, privately, main dealer, local garage etc. And with our close proximity to the UK there is sometimes that market to choose from also depending on where the exchange rate is at and the level of VRT that will have to be paid on bringing the car into Ireland.

No matter where you buy, the same principles generally apply from a buyers perspective - you want Value!

Value is represented in different ways for different people but generally customers want a clean reliable car with a traceable history and some kind of peace of mind to cover them in the event that something goes wrong.

The two areas where most minefields are experienced are buying privately and buying from the UK. Buying privately can work well sometimes for older cars and you just need to get a mechanic/technician to check the car for you before purchase and also ensure that you do the relevant online car history checks. For fresher cars buying privately can be a lot of hassle and there is often too much risk and exposure to warrant the savings that you think that you are making. It is quite common for someone to decide to sell their car privately when there is a big service bill approaching or some part on the wane that they feel might be expensive.

Unfortunately it is the unsuspecting customer buying privately that then gets caught with the bill soon after collecting their new purchase.

Buying from the UK isn’t the plain sailing that a lot of people think also - a lot learn the hard way. We work in the industry and we still find it difficult to get the right car at the right money from the UK. If you are looking for high mileage cars without a full service history then there is an abundance of choice from the UK. Again we have examples too numerous to mention of customers buying in trouble from the UK - clocked cars, crashed cars, cars that have been written off in the UK. A lot get a surprise with the high level of VRT that they have to pay when they clear the car in Ireland. The VAT on used cars from the UK is also an issue and customers need to be very careful when buying as there are different VAT categories for cars being bought in that need to be paid differently. We have customers then that think that the UK car is of a higher specification than the Irish car. In Ireland Leather has been a free option on BMW 1 Series and BMW 3 Series for the past number of years but in the UK it is cloth that is standard so it doesn’t make any sense to buy a 1 Series or a 3 Series with cloth in the UK as it will be very difficult to sell it on afterwards. Fresh 8 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

BY: GORDON LUNN, Aherns, Castleisland

Irish BMWs have Service Packs on them giving Free Servicing until 100000kms whereas this is not on UK cars anymore - another saving on an Irish car. It is very much a case of buyer beware. If we have a customer looking for a particular car that we don’t have in stock we will always check the UK to see if there is an option from there that we can buy in and supply to our customer with a 2 Year Warranty.

Buying from a Main Dealer in Ireland will give you the peace of mind knowing that you have someplace to go back to if there is a problem. At Aherns BMW we supply our BMW Approved Used Cars with a Full 2 Year BMW Parts and Labour Warranty including Breakdown Assist. We sold a 2009 car last week with a full 2 Year Warranty and the customer was blown away by this as he was only being offered 3 months warranty everywhere else he had been. Will you pay a bit more than buying privately - of course. But in return you get a car prepared to the highest standards with everything done to it that needs to be done, excellent tyres, full service history, NCT guarantee etc. Nobody will pay more just for the sake of it and we don’t expect that. We prepare the used car excellently, price it competitively and give a very fair trade in valuation. Warranty and Preparation Standards are the two biggest selling points for most Main Franchise Dealers.

We have a lot of customers now in a 2 year change cycle as when they are changing every 2 years their cost to change is lower and also their car is always under warranty so there is never any unexpected expense in relation to their car.

Another big benefit of dealing with a Main Franchise Dealer is the large selection of low rate finance packages that a lot of manufacturers are offering through their own banks and finance houses. The main banks cannot compete in a lot of cases so these are definitely worth considering.

No matter where you buy, do your homework, do the necessary online and physical car checks and try to get the warranty that suits your motoring needs.

Gordon Lunn, Sales Manager, Aherns, Tralee Road, Castleisland Tel: +353 066 714 3000 Email: gordon.lunn@ahernsbmw.ie www.ahernsbmw.ie

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a Toyota Plus approved used car will retain its value to a greater degree.

APPROVED USED CARS AT KELLIHERS TOYOTA You want to upgrade your car and are looking for value for money, reliability and a trusted brand – then call to Kellihers and discover Toyota Plus.

Kellihers Toyota are delighted to be part of Toyota Plus, Toyota’s pan-European used car programme which focuses on a high level of quality standards and a premium retail experience, resulting in peace of mind and value for used car customers. Toyota Plus extends not only to used Toyota models but also to other makes and models, making Kellihers the ideal destination when looking to upgrade your car as we have over 60 quality used cars located at their busy forecourt in Tralee town.

Every Toyota Plus approved used car sold at Kellihers Garage comes with a minimum 12 month warranty – one of the most comprehensive warranties in the market. Each vehicle will also come with one year of Toyota’s Eurocare Roadside Assistance, offering peace of mind, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

At Kellihers Toyota we can arrange finance and get the best quotes for your upgrade as Bridget in our finance office deals with all the major lenders and will ‘shop around’ to get the best rates available to get you motoring as soon as possible.

Kellihers Toyota

Rathass, Tralee, Co.Kerry | T: 066 71 20000 E: info@kellihers.ie | www.kellihers.ie

A Toyota Plus approved used car must pass a 100-point technical inspection, carried out by a trained Toyota specialist here at Kellihers Toyota which means that only the very best used cars are Toyota Plus Approved.

Tim Kelliher of Kellihers Toyota said “we are thrilled with the new Toyota Plus brand as it provides the customer with the best available vehicle preparation, transparent used car background information, as well as a superb warranty.

Toyota vehicles have the highest overall resale value in Ireland meaning that when the time comes to change,

SELLING YOUR CAR?

Know Your Obligations

If you are selling your car, you must ensure the vehicle is removed from your name. Otherwise, you could find yourself with prosecutions such as parking offences, unpaid tolls and speeding offences. The obligations of a person selling their car are set out in the Road Vehicles (Registration and Licensing) (Amendment) Regulations and different rules apply depending on how you are selling your car.

If you are selling/trading in to a Motor Dealer, you and the motor dealer must: 1. Complete a Form RF105 which is available from the dealer or can be downloaded; 2. Present the vehicle registration certificate (log book) to the dealer; 3. Sometimes a dealer can notify the change of ownership online and if that is so, then you do not need to do any further.

You should clarify with the dealer whether they have this facility or not. If they cannot do it online, then you must send the RF105 to the Department of Transport in Shannon.

The obligation at all times is on the Vendor to send the form to Shannon.

If you are selling your car privately, then you should be very 10 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

careful. The Gardai are aware that some criminals will see a car for sale on the internet, contact the vendor and pay in cash.

They will take the vehicle registration certificate but they will not change the details of ownership and therefore, the car will remain in the vendor’s name.

In a private sale, you should satisfy yourself as to the identity of the buyer, asking them for photo I.D. and proof of address.

You and the buyer should complete and sign the back of the vehicle registration certificate and you, the vendor, should send same to the Department of Transport in Shannon. A new vehicle registration certificate will then issue to the new buyer.

It is important that you fulfill your obligations at all times when selling your car.

Deirdre Flynn

Deirdre Flynn Solicitors Cathedral View, Ardfert, Tralee, County Kerry.

Tel/Fax: 066 7115695 Mobile: 085 8725073 Email: info@deirdreflynnsolicitors.ie

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SECURITY FOR YOR BUSINESS Crime against business makes up a big percentage of recorded crime in the country and cyber crime in particular is a growing threat.

Meanwhile criminals are continually looking for more ingenious ways to rob honest, hardworking business owners.

So how can you limit the risk you face for your business every day?

COMPLETE A RISK ASSESSMENT Identify where you are most vulnerable. Perhaps you are already aware of where your business has been the victim of crime, but that might not tell the whole story. Carry out a thorough assessment.

SECURE YOUR PREMISES PROPERLY Strengthen doors, fit window locks and install security lighting. Each can deter burglars, because most burglaries are unplanned. If access points are vulnerable, install CCTV (but be aware that data protection rules apply). If you don’t have an alarm - get one fitted and put up signs to warn of its presence. Although it involves cost, your insurance cost could reduce. Consider whether shutters or grilles should be installed, although you might need planning permission from your local council. Internally, you could put up security mirrors to cover any blind spots.

PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR STAFF Make sure necessary security training is available and that everyone knows what to do in the event of a serious threat. It’s always more advisable to give up stock or even cash than get hurt trying to defend it. Train your staff to recognize suspicious behavior in customers. Your staff should

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also know how to report crime to you.

Keep as little cash as possible on the premises and routinely empty tills. Take any excess cash to your bank. Put up signs warning that certain parts of your premises are only accessible to staff members.

PROTECT YOUR STOCK Being organized will help you identify any losses in your stock count early on.

Keep on top of paperwork and question excessive amounts of voids, credits or damage claims. Make time to carry out regular stock takes.

STOP INFORMATION THEFT Protect sensitive information, including customer’s financial records and employee details, use access controls on computers to restrict entry.

Review who has access privileges and change passwords regularly.

Ensure your IT systems are adequately protected from external threats by installing firewalls and anti-virus software.

Shredding doesn’t simply throw it in the bin, because criminals might be able to use the information it carries shred it and dispose of the shredding. Ensure the office has lockable filing cabinets to store personal or confidential information.

SEEK ADVICE If you are unsure of anything speak to the guards or your security system provider. They should be able to provide you with valuable advice.

Find out what types of crimes businesses in your area are most vulnerable to and how you can better protect yourself. Cyber crime continues to affect many businesses - speak to your IT provider about how you

can protect your business from hackers.

COMPLETE REGULAR CHECKS Crime changes because criminals know they need to find different or more sophisticated methods if they are in

to stay in business so this means your security needs to change regularly to keep up to date. Do this at least once a year and always remain open to suggestions from your staff about how you can better protect your business.

Crime is prevalent every day in all kinds of business so protect yourself and take a few minutes to review your security; it could save your business or save a life.

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By: Colette O’Connor - Conference & Special Events Planner Tel: +353 (0)85 8826212 Email: lettieoconnor@gmail.com Twitter: @ColetteConnor Website: www.techfindr.ie

When booking the venue, it is advisable to select at least three properties to choose from. This will give you choice, while also getting an insight into what the different businesses have to offer. While you are just looking for one, you may require an alternative style venue for a future event so its no harm to have the information.

Visiting the property, known as a site inspection in the trade is worth doing if you have the time and resources to do so.

The majority of venues will have a number of conference and meeting rooms and depending on business will allocate the room they feel best suits your needs, however it may not be what you have envisaged, particularly if you have been looking at images from their website, which often have not been updated or are of the “best” rooms in the house.

Time is valuable so any time saved is money in the bank.

Prepare a checklist for your initial enquiry creating a standard, that you can send out to the prospective venues.

Helpful points to include on that checklist as follow: u Is the venue available on your selected date? u Does the venue charge by the hour or is there a set half day price or full day price? Usually anything over four hours is classified as a full day. u Is the use of AV Equipment included in the rate for roomhire? (AV Equipment covers microphones, screen projector and speakers.) u Is there a laptop provided or should one be brought? u Does the venue have onsite technicians? u Are the conference facilities wheelchair accessible? u What is the maximum number the room can hold in the following set ups: U Shaped, Banquet, Classroom, Cabaret, Reception or Theatre? u Ask for a full list of catering options including arrival refreshments, morning break, lunch options and afternoon break u Where can delegates park? u Is parking free?

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CONFERENCE ROOM LAYOUTS

BOOKING A MEETING ROOM VENUE

In terms of how a different layout will look, here’s a helpful diagram:

It is worth noting that if Mac products are being used, a converter is required for some venues, always check this in advance. More often than not the venue will take care of this but it is wise to invest in this piece of equipment. Also check if the screens are free standing or wall mounted, it doesn’t make a huge difference but certainly wall mounted does look that bit more impressive. When it comes to microphones, check how many are onsite. The standard is one fixed and one roving, however for some events it is good to have lapel pieces or additional roving, especially if a panel discussion will be taking place.

Many of the larger venues will have an onsite engineer available should anything go wrong, and things do on occasion despite the best efforts of all involved. Check when booking if the venue provides this service or if it will have to be outsourced? It is always better if the service is available onsite as it will incur further costings on the bookers part and tech support can work out quite expensive.

On the day of your booking once it isn’t a private meeting, ensure that the venue has adequate signage around the property directing your delegates to the meeting room selected. Forward on your company logo or any branding you have to the venue in advance so that this can go on the signage, this will look better than plain text.

Once you have made your booking, ensure that a written confirmation is received, then both you and the venue have a clear outline of what is expected and what will be provided on the day.

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What’s New

in Business Café du Parc

Unveils Brand New Look The highly anticipated opening of the newly redeveloped Café du Parc, located on the site of the original Killarney House, took place this weekend following a complete rebrand and the first phase of a new makeover. The popular venue is in the middle of a transformation that is bringing forward an exciting new concept in the café and bar culture of Killarney. Situated in the heart of the action in Killarney, the rebrand was inspired by the hustle and bustle and energy of the cafés in Paris as well as the special location next to the Killarney National Park. The new venue boasts a unique and sophisticated atmosphere catering for all tastes and all times of day and night.

The first phase of the development sees the opening of a new cafe and cocktail bar. Quality is consistent throughout every aspect of Café Du Parc, as only the best of everything is used, from freshly roasted coffee beans, to fresh local ingredients and a special range of drinks, including an extensive rum bar with over 40 different brands.

Bar manager of Café du Parc, Igor Krno stated, “We are very thrilled to introduce new and exciting concepts as part of this refresh of a local favourite. In this phase, we have introduced a new coffee bar featuring Badger and Dodo coffee, under the expert guidance of our new cafe manager Silvia Villena Gasco, new menus featuring homemade pastries, scrumptious toasties and tasting platters as well as ‘The Weekend Funky Brunch’ every Sunday. At night, we have introduced new drinks menus, a special cocktail list and we have a lineup of some of the best DJs to create a cool and unique atmosphere.”

Café du Parc is open 7 days a week.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT . . . . @cafeduparckillarney on Facebook, Instagram and twitter.

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David Leonard speaks to Connect about his new business...

The Ugly Mug

My new business venture started out as an idea while demolishing earthquake damaged buildings in New Zealand. After another large earthquake in November 2016, myself and my partner Lucie decided to move back to Tralee and start a family rather than living on the other side of the world where the earth kept shaking.

We moved back to Tralee in May 2017.

New Zealand has a thriving coffee culture where good coffee on the go or coffee with some cake and a chat is common place. I thought there was an opportunity to emulate this in Tralee. Finding some nice bright premises with good footfall was key.

Our daughter Ruby was born on the 11th of August and The Ugly Mug opened its doors on the 28th of August (it was a busy few weeks). The shop at 6 Edward street is nice and bright and the interior design has been very well received. I researched good coffee roasters and went with Badger and Dodo who roast excellent coffee and it tastes great. We serve soup, sandwiches and toasties and have a good selection of cakes and muffins made fresh by the Little Dingle Food Co and Rachel’s Cupcakes.

Now in our fifth week, word is getting out about The Ugly Mug being a nice place to grab a coffee on the go or sit and chat with friends.

Stephen Roche speaks to Ger O’Sullivan regarding his new business, osr vehicles theft and tracking

,

Tell me about yourself?

My name is Ger O’Sullivan, and I’m a Tralee man born and bred, having lived here all my life. I studied in Tralee Community College, doing my Leaving Cert there.

College wasn’t the route I wanted to go down. Some people would rather just go and work, and that’s who I am, a hard worker. If somebody gave me as plank of wood and told me to try and sell it, I would.

Even if there isn’t a hope in doing so, it’s always worth trying. I then finished school and worked in the family business up until this year, and, in a way, the skills I learned there set me up for my new business venture, OSR. I just knew that it was the right time for me to try something new.

Tell me about OSR? One of the reasons I decided to start up the company was my interest in motorbikes.

I’d often go out for a drive on weekends with other like minded people, and a topic that always pops up is the theft of Bikes, and how easy it is to get away with doing it. So, the company was set up because of the need for specific tracking and marking of vehicles and plant & machinery.

Combating the theft is very important. My office is based in Tralee, so I spend most of the time either there or on the road, selling the products available. Each day is different, meeting different kind of people.

One day I could be in Limerick, the next, I could be in Dublin, or I could simply be in the office.

How beneficial is the equipment you sell?

Since I launched in March, I have gotten discounts from two insurance companies.

They’ll give customers a 15% discount if they have an OSR sponsored tracker on the vehicle. This just furthers the point that even insurance companies know how bad theft has gotten, and they’d rather have them tracked. Our equipment is needed.

I’m not just saying that because we sell it, but when you go on social media and you see photos of stolen vehicles, or posts shared. It’s funny, because people say that how can something that big be taken without any notice? Even tractors have been stolen. There isn’t anything on the market like what we provide. We have the highest rated equipment also, putting us ahead of everyone else.

How bad is theft in Kerry?

Kerry isn’t too bad, but Cork, Limerick and Dublin are prevalent. It’s easy for an individual or group to cross the county border and steal from anyone. It can then be up the North three hours later. It can be that easy. OSR is also within Datatag and Cesar, two UK security systems. Therefore, we are working with the British Police, so if a vehicle or machine does go over to any part of the UK, it can be scanned and returned to you in 24 hours. You’d be surprised that your machine was in front of you on Monday morning in Kerry but then in the South of England by the next day.

What has the experience of starting up a company been like?

Like I said, I worked for the family business

since leaving school. I felt I built up enough confidence and skills over the years that I decided to start up on my own, and I’m not going to lie, it can be hard at times.

You don’t have the stability of getting a wage at the end of the week. And like any other man, I’ve a family, too. Starting up a business is tough, trying to get finance.

I received good help from Tom O’Leary from O’Leary & Associates Training and Consultancy. He helped me with doing all the business plans. It’s not just saying ‘I’ll start up a company’ and it’s done. There’s lots of planning, some which I wasn’t aware of, so that was a new experience.

Any tips for anyone that is thinking of starting up a new business?

Take whatever advice you can get, even if you don’t use it. And just go for it. There’s no point wasting your time doing what you hate. If you think you have a good idea and it’s going to be beneficial to everybody, just do it.

HairWorks, Tralee Under New Ownership HairWorks Tralee is in business over 25 years, recently Lesley Dennehy took over owership, she said “it is a pleasure for me to take over this well established hairdressing salon and combine it with my experience in the beauty industry to make HairWorks a one stop shop for all hair and beauty needs”

We wish Lesley the best of luck in her new chapter.

Hairworks, St Brendans Road Tralee Phone: 066 7127260 | Facebook: @Hairworkstralee Email: hairworkstralee1@gmail.com

Lesley previously worked in management for an established cosmetic company for 10 years and moved on to work self employed as a beautician in HairWorks.

With over 11 years working in the industry she hopes to bring some new and exciting things to HairWorks Hair & Beauty, Tralee. She said “I have the most amazing team and we look forward to continuing the high standard of service to all our clients”.

Connect BUSINESS | October 2017| 17

Connect | Business

Kerry’s “Tum Ease” is Judges’ Cup of Tea at

2017 BEST EMERGING ARTISAN FOOD PRODUCT COMPETITION “Tum Ease”, a tea to support good digestive health and well being by the Busy Botanist, has been announced as the winner of the 2017 Listowel Food Fair Best Emerging Artisan Food Product Competition which is sponsored

by Kerry LEO. The Glenbeigh company was established earlier this year by best friends and master herbalists, Clair Kelly and Jo Arbon.

The overall winner of the Kerrygold Listowel Food Fair Cheese Competition is a garlic and thyme flavoured goats’ cheese by Cordal. Visitors to the 23rd Listowel Food Fair will have an opportunity to taste the award winning cheese in Garvey’s Supervalu, the official festival partner for 2017 who will host a Spin Southwest outside broadcast on Saturday 11 November.

Simon Delaney and Lizzy Lyons

Other Kerry winners include a gluten free soda bread by Wellness Bakery in Listowel, a honey and mustard dressing by Camos Bistro in Cahersiveen, Dingle Sushi and strained kefir.

Other cheeses that received awards were made

by Cork’s Bo Rua Farm, Coolea Farmhouse and Bluebell Falls, Cooleeney Farm in Co Tipperary and Co Limerick’s O Brien’s Farm.

Shannon Riva IPA by Treaty City Brewery in Limerick was also successful in the beverage category.

Listowel Arms’ Hotel head Chef, Mary Julian, is now tasked with creating a sumptuous menu incorporating the winning products to serve at a gala awards’ dinner on Friday 10 November. The evening is an annual highlight in the Listowel Food Fair calendar as is opening night which takes place on Thursday 9 November. Following a welcome address by Jimmy Deenihan who will invite 2017 Rose of Tralee, Jennifer Byrne, to formally open proceedings, the traditional cookery demonstration will commence. TV3 presenter and actor, Simon Delaney, will join local Flogas Ambassador and Sunday AM regular, Lizzy Lyons, from Lizzy’s Little Kitchen on the Flogas demo stage. The duo will prepare dishes from Listowel Arms Hotel Head Chef Simon’s recently Mary Julian 18 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

published cookbook, “Simply Simon’s: The Diner Cookbook” for VIP chef’s table guests, 2017 Rose of Tralee, Jennifer Byrne, and Kerry team nutritionist, Kevin Beasley. The proceeds from this year’s opening night raffle will go to nominated charity, Nano Nagle.

Jimmy Deenihan, chairman of the organising committee said, “We are tremendously excited about this year’s programme.

It is an opportunity to showcase Listowel’s culinary attributes locally and further afield. We look forward to extending a warm welcome to familiar faces and making new friends from November 9th – 12th. Withsomething for food and drink lovers of all ages to enjoy, Listowel is the perfect food destination this November.”

Other events on this Awards’ Dinner in the year’s programme Listowel Arms Hotel include a morning of talks for secondary school students, a farmers’ market, a children’s baking workshop, a guided taste trail, a literary whiskey tasting and a workshop about herbs with expert Greta McCarthy, author of “Greta’s Herbs, Growing Wild in the West of Ireland.” For up to date details about the full programme of events, visit the Listowel Food Fair Facebook page or www.listowelfoodfair.ie

FULL LIST OF WINNERS: Overall Best Emerging Winner: The Busy Botanist, Glenbeigh, Co Kerry - Tum Ease Baked Goods Winner: Wellness Baking, Listowel, Co Kerry - Gluten Free Soda Bread Condiments: Camos Bistro, Cahirsiveen, Co Kerry - Honey and Mustard Dressing Dairy: Norma Leahy, Moyvane, Co Kerry - Strained Kefir Meats and Seafood: Dingle Sushi - Sushi Pack Beverages: Treaty City Brewery, Limerick - Shannon Riva IPA Overall Cheese Winner: Cordal Goat Cheese, Firies, Co Kerry - Cordal Garlic and Thyme Cheddar: Bo Rua Farm, Fermoy, Co Cork Natural Cheddar Farmstead: Coolea Farmhouse, Macroom, Co Cork - Coolea Matured Blue Mould and Unripened: Bluebell Falls, Charleville, Co Cork - Bluebell Original Goats Cheese Marinated and Smoked: Jim O’ Brien, Ballyhahill, Co Limerick - Greek Style Feta Sheep & Goats Milk: Cooleeney Farm, Thurles, Co Tipperary - Gortnamona

Cranberry & Pumpkin Seed Flapjack RECIPE BY ROS NUTRITION ‘Cranberry and Pumpkin Seed Flapjack’ is perfect for when you are on the go and in need of some good nutrition or as a healthy snack during the day.

It is full of protein, healthy fats and low GI which will ensure you stay fuller for longer, therefore stop any cravings for unhealthy snacking between meals!

This delicious snack contains low GI carbohydrate, lots of healthy fats and is high in protein. It is perfect for when you are on the go and in need of some good nutrition or as a healthy snack during the day.

Ingredients (makes 6-8 servings) 2 scoops of Blue Label Whey® (Vanilla) 150g of oats 3 tbsp of almond butter 3 tbsp of natural honey 1 tbsp of flax seed 1 tbsp of coconut oil 2 tbsp of pumpkin seed 1 handful of cranberries 5-6 dates Whole almonds (optional) Macro-nutrients per serving Calories - 177 Protein - 12.5g Carbohydrate - 19g Fats - 6g Instructions Pit the dates and cut up into smaller pieces. If using whole almonds, slice them into small pieces. Add all the dry ingredients to a large mixing bowl and mix.

Spoon in the almond butter and honey and stir until you can shape the mixture with your hands. If the mixture is too dry can add more almond butter. Line a tray with grease proof paper and add the mixture to the tray. Bake in the oven at 180 for 15-20 minutes.

Key Benefits Blue Label Whey® adds 28g of the highest quality whey protein per serving.

This is going to aid in recovery and muscle growth. It will also assist people trying to lose excess body weight. BLW also contains probiotics for healthy gut activity.

Cranberries contain Vitamin C which is a powerful antioxidant and helps to rid the body of free radicals attained from training or stress.

Fibre makes up over a third of the carbohydrate in this fruit.

Dates act as a natural sweetener and give the flapjacks a great texture. They are also a good source of dietary potassium.

Good quality almond butter is an excellent source of healthy fat and also contain key minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron and manganese.

Coconut oil is a good source of MCTs, these healthy fats act like carbohydrates in your body giving you easily accessible energy without the negative effects of sugars.

Oats via their high fibre content are known to help remove cholesterol from the digestive system that would have otherwise ended up in the bloodstream. They also contain antioxidant compounds called avenanthramides that help prevent free radicals from damaging LDL cholesterol, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

ROS Nutrition provides an expansive range of high-value sport and resultoriented nutritional products, designed to support consumers in the pursuit of their individual goals and ambitions.

All of ROS Nutrition’s products are made using the finest quality ingredients and are developed based on a critical analysis of the most relevant and upto-date nutritional research. In addition, the company is dedicated to providing consumers with the education that will help them choose the most appropriate nutrition practices for their specific needs.”

Keep an eye on Connect’s Social Media for a great competition in association with ROS Nutrition.

Connect BUSINESS | October 2017 | 19

Connect | Business

AIDAN KELLY

Appointed President of Tralee Chamber Alliance

#LoveTralee

need to step up and take responsibility for the future development of our town.

Tralee Chamber Alliance has defied the odds by achieving so much with such a low membership-base comparative to the number of businesses who could join and play a more active role. Very few businesses in Killarney are not members of their local chamber of commerce. It’s also worth pointing out that their key events – 4th of July, St Patrick’s Day and Christmas Festivals are funded separately and not from membership fees. The fees contribute to the related marketing/ promotional activity.

Aidan tell us a little more about yourself I am a proud Tralee native, living in Mounthawk. I’ve been married to Susan for 23 years and we have two grownup daughters ,Aislinn and Melanie.I have run my own business, Kelly O’Shea Pensions & Financial Services Ltd in Edward Street, Tralee in partnership with Gerry O’Shea, since 2006. I have worked in the Life Assurance Industry since 1996 becoming a Fellow of the Insurance Industry of Ireland in 2004. I recently completed a Level 8 course in Leadership in Community through NUI Maynooth University.

You have just taken up the new role of President of Tralee Chamber Alliance, what does this mean to you?

Tralee Chamber Alliance is the glue that binds local businesses together and a wonderful vehicle to introduce businesses to new customers. We all face challenges on a daily basis and Tralee Chamber Alliance is here to work with other likeminded people, potential customers, clients and business partners.TCA clearly states in its branding that it aims to lead growth and foster pride. Tralee people, many in the various business sectors 20 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

You’re in business in town, has it in your view changed a lot over the years since you began?

Like everything, Tralee has changed as a Town, and since we opened the biggest change is online access to so many services but people still like to deal with a friendly face to sort a lot of business.Retail has had a hard time, but is fighting to regain that back to show Tralee as a very strong town to shop in. Tralee has many aspects to showcase as a business outlet and the opening of HQ in the Abbey/ Square area (Tess Quarter) shows a belief by these business people in the strength of the town.

What is your vision to improve business in Tralee?

My main vision is that all stakeholders in Tralee need to work together as a unit to make the brand “Tralee” a strong one and a relevant one to visitors, customers and for its residents. I have been taking feedback from lots of different people over the last two months since I assumed the role and most people want the same!! It’s very easy to complain and do nothing whereas I would like more people to come forward with ideas that can help us improve Tralee and also take responsibility and not wait for someone else to do it.

Do you think Tralee can benefit from working more with other towns around the county?

We work closely with Killarney in relation to Kerry Airport and we’re organising a networking event between businesses

in the two towns, facilitated by Irish Rail. Other towns such as Listowel and Castleisland have looked to Tralee Chamber Alliance as the template for their own chambers of commerce. We will always link with others where there is learning.

We recently chatted with the new marketing sub-committee at Tralee Chamber and they have great plans going forward, any more sub committee’s being created?

The sub-committee in question pertains to promoting the town centre to primarily boost retail. There is already a mainstream marketing group comprising hotels, tourist attractions, Kerry Airport and Fáilte Ireland which meets bi-monthly to plan and execute various promotional activities ranging from having a presence at trade events, producing promotional literature and online material. The new international group has recently been established, while a business development group recently led a delegation to Dublin to lobby Government ministers, opposition spokespeople and the IDA for more investment in Tralee and to retain the Kerry-Dublin PSO flight. The Tralee Hotels Group was established in 2013 and this has led to more cooperation with a view to attracting more visitors to stay in Tralee, particularly in the shoulder season.

What plans do you have for the town during your time as president?

I would see my main focus being on strengthening the membership of the Chamber, securing funding for the development of the Chamber especially for events and getting the message out there that Tralee Chamber Alliance is there for its members as a strong advocate of Tralee. I would also highlight the importance it brings to people’s lives who work, visit and live in Tralee and its surrounding area.

Advertising |Connect

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TRALEE CREDIT UNIONS

come out on top at National Credit Team Awards

FOR PEOPLE AND BUSINESS

Friday 13th unlucky for some but not for Tralee Credit Union who will record the date as reaching a significant milestone in their history. Last Friday the 13th, at a Gala Luncheon at the 2017 Credit Team of the Year Awards in the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel in Dublin they were crowned national winners in two categories the “Financial Services Team of the Year” and “Credit Union Credit Team of the Year.” Later that evening they were awarded “Corporate Social Responsibility Finalist” at the Kerryman Business Awards in Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa in Tralee.

F O R Flood, P E O P LChief E A N DExecutive B U S I N E S Sof the Irish Credit Speaking to Declan Management Training and event organiser of the Credit Team of the Year Awards in Dublin “We had 150 present at this year’s awards ceremony dealing with all aspects of credit from International to Consumer, from Trade Credit to Credit Unions and from Credit Management Software to Risk. Each category produced a worthy winner as selected by an expert panel of Judges, with the awards presented by Bobby Kerr, well known businessman and broadcaster.

The awards enjoyed the support of a number of high profile sponsors

and the winners included a number of household name. Credit Teams are the unsung heroes of business. The credit teams are charged with granting credit responsibly and ensuring the timely collection of all money due, this can be a difficult task, and the people who make it happen seldom get the recognition they deserve, even though cash flow is the life blood of every business.”

Speaking to Tralee Credit Union’s CEO Pa Laide about the awards “Tralee Credit Union were very privileged and delighted to be shortlisted and acknowledged at both award ceremonies on Friday. To win the “Financial Services Team of the Year” and “Credit Union, Credit Team of the Year” at the National Credit Team Awards in Dublin amongst our peers in the financial services industry is a significant achievement for Tralee Credit Union. It’s timely we have just completed our year end with tremendous success. Results like these don’t just happen they are a result of hard work and dedication from the board, management and staff and loyalty and trust of members.” We had a great night celebrating our success at the Kerryman Business Awards later that evening and were delighted to be a Finalist in their “Corporate Social Responsibility” category - a category we are very proud to be associated with and acknowledged for the strong links we have with our members and local community and it was great to celebrate our awards locally on the night.”

Connect BUSINESS | October 2017 | 21

Connect | Business

YOUR BUSINESS OFFICE ....

INK AND TONER

by Stephen Pierce, Kerry Office Supplies Tel: 087 649 6136 E: info@kerryofficesupplies.com How Long Should Ink/Toner Cartridges Last?

One of the main questions people will ask when they purchase ink/toner cartridges is how long the cartridge will last. To answer this question properly, you must first look at the different aspects of the cartridge. Understanding this information will help you determine how long you should expect cartridges to last and get the best value for your money.

Why Does Cartridge Size Matter?

The first thing to look at is the actual size of the cartridge, cartridges can come in many different sizes. There can even several different sizes available for one particular brand and model of printer.

- Larger cartridges could give you better value and last longer. When you are looking at this information, make sure you keep an eye on the volume of the cartridge rather than it’s capacity.

- Choosing a cartridge that has a higher volume will naturally last longer than one with a lower volume.

- Also take into account if your cartridge is an all-inone model, normally the case with Inkjet printers, you can expect for it to run out faster than if the colors were separate. Most of the time, when a color runs out in one of these cartridges, it will stop working altogether. So while it may cost more often a laster printer is better value for bigger amounts of printing.

How Does your Printer Affect the Cartridge?

Your printer and how often you print could also be an indicator of how long your cartridge will last. Different types of printers and print jobs require different types of ink or toner. Many printers are limited on the size of cartridges and only offer one solution. If this is the case, the overall quality and performance of your printer could determine the lifespan of your cartridge. Others may offer high capacity options meaning better value and last longer. For example, lower quality printers often have a lower capacity cartridge to go along with them. This will cause them to not last as long. Likewise, if you print frequently, you can expect to run out of ink sooner rather than later. The amount of printing you do on your printer is a key factor in how long your cartridge will last as is the type of documents you print.

Printing high-quality color photos for example, will drain an ink cartridge much faster than printing just black and white documents. It’s also important to figure out if you want to go with a Ink or LaserJet printer. More often than not Laser will cost more up front, but will be much cheaper to run long term. So. no pun intended, it’s not as black and white as saying how long you can expect a cartridge, its all down to how much and for what you’re using them for and the type of printer you have.

22 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

HOME OFFICE SUPPLIES Most of us find that working from home works well but do you have your office equipped with all the essentials?

Here is a check list that every home office should have.

Filing Supplies • File cabinet or file box • Manila file folders • Pocket or accordion file folders • 3 ring binders • Index dividers For Your Desktop • Pens and pencils • Permanent markers • Highlighter • Calculator • Scissors • 3 hole punch • Stapler, plus staples • Tape dispenser • Rubberbands • Paper clips • In/Out box for paperwork • Desk drawer organizer to keep all these little supplies separated and organized

Paper & Stationery Supplies • Envelopes • Stationery • Return address labels • Supplies for mailing packages • Stamps • Printer paper • Sticky notes / Notepads • Printer ink/toner/cartridges Small List of Equipment • Computer or laptop with necessary software • Printer • Scanner • Power strip/surge protector • Flash drive/portable digital storage device • External hard drive • Paper shredder • Label maker • Wireless router

TIPS FOR PEOPLE CONSIDERING PRINT ADVERTISING Are you considering some print advertising for your business but don’t know where to start?

Here are a few tips to get you started: - Consider your target market, where might you reach the most of your customers ....

- What size advert do you want and is most suited to your business - Does the publication you choose, also have an online presence, can they also promote your business through their social media?

- Make an effort to be different from other adverts, use attention grabbing graphics / Images / headlines.

- Supply all content to your graphic designer, your logo, any text you would like included along with images / graphics.

Your graphic designer may be able to source some images for you.

Make sure that any images you supply are suitable quality for print, your designer will check for you, if you are unsure.

- Make sure to proof read everything, before you send on content to your graphic designer.

- Your designer will always send you a proof of your advert, make sure to again proof read this very carefully, for any errors, as this responsibilty lies with you.

- Do you have a specific area of the publication that you wish your advert to be placed? If so ... speak to the sales rep for that publication to see if this is possible.

- Lastly don’t overcrowd your advert with info that isn’t relevant, keep everything short, simple, and to-the-point, people have short attention spans, you want the reader to stop and notice your advert and take in all the key points quickly to get your full message accross.

Advertising |Connect

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar attends Fine Gael’s Night To Honour JIMMY DEENIHAN Jimmy Deenihan, who retired from political life earlier this year was honoured recently at an event in The Rose Hotel, Tralee. An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Sean Kelly MEP, Minister Brendan Griffin, local councillors, party members and colleagues, to name but a few attendend the event. It was a nostalgic occasion, which celebrated the political life of a man who served Kerry and Ireland well over the years.

Connect BUSINESS | October 2017 | 23

Connect | Business

SEAN TAAFFE

Appointed Vice President of the Hairdressing Council of Ireland As an employer, what do WRC inspections mean to me?

The Workplace Relations Commission enacted under the Workplace Relations Act 2015 on October 1st 2015 monitors the conditions of employment through its Inspection Services which was operated previously by the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA).

The WRC has the authority to carry out employment inspections. Inspections are either carried out in relation to a specific complaint or a targeted inspection to a particular sector of employment.

Employers are required by law to keep employment records of their employees at their place of employment. The key for employers is to reach the required level of compliance and have such records readily available and up to date.

Lack of compliance with statutory record keeping is a common breach found by inspectors. Inspectors will usually request records prior to one year of the date of inspection but can request records up to three years prior to the inspection.

Serious non-compliance or noncooperation will invoke legal sanctions by the WRC under the Workplace Relations Act 2015. The Act also makes provision for payment of any such associated costs and expenses incurred in relation to the investigation and prosecution of the offence unless the court is satisfied that such award should not be made. The Act also empowers Workplace Relations Inspectors to issue fixed payment notices where they have reasonable grounds to believe that a person has committed an offence under specified legislation. A failure to pay the fine will result in prosecution by the Commission in the Courts.

To ensure our clients are compliant, we conduct onsite HR audits and we also provide them with detailed guidelines on how to ensure their documentation is up to date and sufficient for a WRC inspection.

If you would like further information on this service, call the office today to speak to one of our team members on 066-710 2887 or alternatively email your query to info@thehrsuiteonline.com

Award-winning Hairdresser, Sean Taaffe has been appointed as Vice President of the Hairdressing Council of Ireland. The non-profit organisation was set up to be a representative voice for everyone within the industry, it aims to raise standards and improve professionalism within the hairdressing industry.

The Hairdressing Council of Ireland has over 700 members and is growing, headed up by some of the most prestigious names in the hairdressing industry such as Iconic hairdressing legend Frank Hession as its Honorary President, World Medallist Bridget Haren as President and Maeve O’Healy-Harte as General Secretary and Education Adviser.

Speaking about Sean’s appointment, Maeve O’HealyHarte, General Secretary and Education Adviser, Hairdressing Council of Ireland said,”We are delighted that Sean has accepted this position, he has always been proactive within the industry and will be a great asset to the organisation, and a fantastic support to his fellow professionals”.

Over the last 30 years, Sean Taaffe has built an exceptional career within the hairdressing industry. He is the owner of the very successful Sean Taaffe Hair & Beauty Group.

Opening his first salon 27 years ago, Sean now has seven salons located throughout Co. Kerry, employing over 60 talented professionals. No stranger to awards, Sean has represented Ireland on the world stage on numerous occasions and is a recipient of a World Medal for Fashion Hairdressing which he received at the OMC World Cup, Frankfurt in 2014. Sean also heads up his own hairdressing academy, he believes that education is the key to success and this ethos can be seen in all his salons.

Speaking about his new appointment, Sean said,“I’m delighted to accept the position. Sharing the same ethos is important to me, the organisation is as committed to education as I am and have teamed up with Image Skillnet, providing courses at all levels in venues all around the country. It’s an exciting time for the industry and its professionals”.

Sean continued,” The organisation will work in the best interest of all hairdressers in mind. I look forward to being a part of that and achieving new goals within the industry”.

For more information or to make an appointment please visit www.seantaaffe.com or call 066 976 1869. You can also keep up to date on the Sean Taaffe Facebook and Twitter pages.

For more information on the Hairdressing Council of Ireland please visit their Facebook page ‘Hairdressing Council’.

24 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

Advertising |Connect

#lovecastleisland

CASTLEISLAND to host Christmas Collections Show Castleisland - the Fashion Capital of Kerry announced details this week of their Christmas Collections Fashion Show which will be held in the enchanting setting of the Ivy Leaf Theatre in Castleisland town. Mc’ed by top fashionista and blogger Orlagh Winters, the evening will feature new in collections and gifts for the Christmas season from Ivy Lane at Hannons, Crag Caves, Divas and Dudes, Fashion World, Joi Fashion & Shoe Boutique, East 73rd. ie, La Femme, Jackie Reidy Menswear, David Costello Footwear, Shoes 4 U, Galvins Opticians, Diamonds are Forever and Cathy Troth.

The evening will also be attended by many of Munster’s top fashion bloggers and influencers and models for the show are from Orla Diffily’s award winning agency Upfront Model Management. Tickets are priced at €20 and are on sale now from all participating boutiques in Castleisland. Early purchase is strongly advised as capacity is limited to 140 places. For ongoing updates and exclusive behind the scenes information follow the hashtag #lovecastleisland There will also be amazing prizes on the night for the

Seated: Lisa Geaney, Crag Cave (left) and Jill Hannon (Ivy Lane at Hannons). Back from Left: Jerome Stack (Director, Ivy Leaf Art Centre), Mary Shanahan (La Femme Boutique), Ray Stack (Ray Stack Procuctions), Orla Diffily (Upfront Model Agency) and Bill Costello (David Costello Footwear). Photograph: John Reidy 12-10-2017

best social media post and lots of raffle prizes including door prize to the value of €200 kindly sponsored by Castleisland Credit Union and other prizes sponsored by Castleisland Chamber, Brownes Bar, the businesses of Castleisland town.

Everyone can join in on the conversation now and get Castleisland trending with the hashtag #lovecastleisland

Connect BUSINESS | October 2017 | 25

Connect | Business

FLOURISH ORGANICS Local Business Flourish Organics is Celebrating 15 years in business. This beautiful range of natural skincare products has grown from a very small seed idea which was based on the need of the founder, Geraldine Woessner, for skincare that was suitable for her very sensitive skin.

Geraldine qualified as an aromatherapist and began selling a face cream and bodylotion at a local Farmer Market.

These products were a huge success and after they were featured on RTE

Nationwide the Flourish Brand went from Strength to Strength.

In 2010 Flourish Organics was one of the first Irish Skincare Companies to attain organic certification and now Flourish Organics is sought after and used by some of the Top Hotels and Spas in Ireland. The range has now been developed to include over 20 products from the full Facial Range to everything you require to care for and pamper your body.

The Beauty of these products is that they are produced on site in a fully equipped premises and yet nestled in the beauty of the Kerry Mountains.

The production room is fed by Kerry Spring Water and the products are handcrafted in small batches which guarantees the high quality expected from an artisan product of this kind.

To see the full range of products visit their online shop www.flourishorganics.com

BRONZE MEDAL WIN FOR KERRY CHEF AT SALON CULINAIRE Chef Niall Byrne from Killarney won a bronze medal in the AllIreland Chef of the Year competition at Salon 2017. The annual culinary competition run by catering and facilities company Sodexo Ireland for its 3,700 staff in the Republic and Northern Ireland. Niall, who works for Sodexo as a head chef in Astellas, Killorglin, impressed the judges, of which TV chef Derry Clarke was one, with his starter of St. Tolla baked custard with popped pearl barley, Ballyhar organic apple puree, Ring of Kerry apple balsamic, baby beetroot meringue asparagus, followed by a main course of beach landed wild Atlantic hake with cockles and mussels dressed with lemon, samphire and foraged north Kerry dillisk. His dessert was a Dingle gin and lime panna cotta served with ginger crumb sweetened lime segments and candy zest, hedgerow blackberries and Killarney blossom honey topped with a pastry tuile.

Niall said, “I was delighted with my medal as it’s the first time for me to enter this competition. I designed the menu after I moved to Kerry a couple of years ago, where I was inspired with the quality of the natural ingredients on my doorstep. Many of the ingredients were handpicked by me in my own garden and from the surrounding area.”

The event took place in the stunning surrounds of Cliff at Lyons in Kildare and Michelin-starred chef, TV personality and Sodexo ambassador Derry Clarke had his work cut out as one of the 26 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017

judges. Derry said, “The chef of the year competition and the entire Salon was sizzling with talent. It’s a tough audience as everyone there is involved with food on a professional level and we were all extremely impressed with the high levels of skill and presentation on show.”

The Chef of the Year competition was won by Nicky Reid, executive chef for Sodexo at Almac Craigavon, who will represent Ireland in the Sodexo UK and Ireland Grand Final at Hotelympia, taking place in London in March 2018.

Sodexo Ireland is a leading provider of food and facilities management services to clients in business and industry, education, financial services and healthcare. It employs approximately 3,700 staff in over 230 locations across Ireland, serves 90,000 people daily and spent over €19 million on Irish food in 2016.

Advertising |Connect

Connect BUSINESS | October 2017 | 27

28 | Connect BUSINESS | October 2017