Network Magazine - Issue 17 - Q4 2021

Wa t erfor d ch am ber

Issue 17 • Q4 2021

2040

VISION Robert Finnegan a man on a mission for Waterford

ENERGY EFFICIENT: save money and do your bit for a greener economy IT’S CHRISTMAS! free pull-out Winterval map

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Issue 17 • Q4 2021

CONTENTS

WI SH I N G YO U A

Healthy & Happy Christmas THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN 2021.

FROM ALL THE TEAM AT WATERFORD CHAMBER.

“In 2040 I would hope that people in other parts of the world will look to Waterford as a leader in sustainability.”

– Robert Finnegan

08 COVER STORY

06 “A winning mindset begins with a culture, but how do we define our Waterford culture?”

– John McSweeney NETWORK • Q4 2021

12 “The footprint of this TU will be felt right across the region.”

– Minister Simon Harris

18 “There is so much we can be doing in terms of recycling and upcycling” – Niall Griffin

03

Issue 17 • Q4 2021

CONTENTS 10

34

“At this point it seems the only consistency is the inconsistency.”

– Gerald Hurley

38

“Companies that install renewable energy will benefit financially.”

– Owen Power

“The South East Financial Cluster has grown to 67 members.”

– Catriona Murphy

42 FEATURE “I hope this play can inspire

others, make people feel less alone and showcase the artistic talent in Waterford.“

– Katie Honan

PUBLISHED BY: Waterford Chamber of Commerce 2 George’s Street, Waterford Tel: 051 872639 Email: info@waterfordchamber.ie Web: www.waterfordchamber.ie Editor: Lynda Lawton Design: Michael Lynagh Advertising: Avril Bowe DISTRIBUTION:

14 ArcLabs: Inspiring & Supporting Entrepreneurship

Digital copy emailed to 2,000+ contacts, uploaded to Chamber

16 How HCS transformed their brand

website and social media (15,000+

14 Working towards a greener future

Print copies sent to Government

followers). 500 print copies.

Ministers, officials, agencies and

22 The first step to decarbonising your business 30 How to make your home more energy efficient

stakeholders, international IDA and Enterprise Ireland Offices and Embassies around the world. © WATERFORD CHAMBER

32 Powering a greener Ardkeen

OF COMMERCE 2021

34 Starting your Green Energy Journey

No part of this publication may be

40 What do today’s workers really want?

system or transmitted in any form

reproduced, stored in a retrieval or by any means without written permission from the publisher.

44 Jingle all the way in Tramore

Opinion and comments expressed

48 Bite-Size News

Waterford Chamber of Commerce.

herein are not necessarily those of

50 Membership Directory

IMAGE CREDITS: Photo on pg. 15 by Patrick Browne.

Images on pgs. 20, 22, 33 by Freepik.com. Images on pgs. 26, 28

by Pexels.com. Photo on pg. 18 by Fáilte Ireland. Photos on pgs. 45, 47, 50 by Winterval.

 Visit www.waterfordchamber.ie for the online edition 04

CDEPQ NETWORK • Q4 2021

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NETWORK • Q4 2021

• • •

• • •

05

Waterford’s Winning Mindset Why we need to embrace the journey...  By JOHN MCSWEENEY, President, Waterford Chamber

I

woke this morning to the announcement of 100 new jobs in Waterford thanks to Tegus, who chose the South East Region and specifically Waterford City as their EMEA headquarters. There was a bounce in my step. Great news worth celebrating for sure.

I was further taken by an article in the IrishExaminer.com about how we won out over Dublin, in what we offered for Tegus and its employees.

We are fortunate that many other businesses have also shown great confidence in choosing Waterford over the years for first time investment or an increased investment to strengthen their existing business model and secure employment for our citizens. We appreciate your support and look forward to helping bring even more success to your businesses in the future.

A winning mindset begins with a culture, but how do we define our Waterford culture?

Our words and actions to date result in what many people associate with our culture. It is unique, attractive and different because it’s who we are and defines our personalities. It has been built over time with many highs and lows along the way. It is who we are, yet it’s likely to change in some ways in the years ahead as other cultures embrace our country and we become even more international in our working practices.

06

From a business perspective, a winning mindset is not just about getting to a destination or final outcome. Constant change keeps impacting on this destination. What we learn more about ourselves and others are the experiences that the journey to that destination bring to us and others who we engage with. These experiences build our resolve, challenge us to be at our best and encourage even better teamwork. We must ensure that mistakes are not repeated, understand what works best, be open to criticism in a positive manner and not circle the wagons to resist the change that is needed.

I’m confident that a great journey undertaken with the right mindset will be even more rewarding.

The author, Roger Crawford, in his book How to Develop a Winning Mindset sets out four key actions required: 1. Play to learn 2. Risk = Opportunity 3. Winning happens during practice 4. Quit attitude or actions that do not help We have and continue to acknowledge the benefits of the South East in economic terms – standard of living, housing costs, travel times etc. As business leaders, in either the public or private sector, we must become even more collaborative in building our strengths so

that we can challenge for further investment and make it difficult for potential investors to choose other regions for investment.

The recent Technological University announcement, the North Quay’s Development, City Retailing, Transport, Sustainability, Housing and other economic developments will test the winning mindset of those with skin in the game. We must be strong in our efforts to maximise the opportunities presented. Nobody has all the answers, but everyone must be open to debating and understanding the journey we take. Strategic thinking at all levels, be if from our public servants, public representatives, our private sector, national agencies and existing business owners, will be critical.

So our Chamber’s ask is that those who engage in shaping our future, do so with an energetic approach, accept criticism as a positive challenge to their thinking, debate in a meaningful manner, think about the bigger picture and more importantly the journey they and others are on. If the journey is undertaken with the correct winning mindset, the destination may always be within sight, but we somehow get to enjoy the journey more for the rewards and experiences that it will bring across our communities.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

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COVER STORY

Sustainability key to

2040 ambition

The Waterford 2040 Executive Team, representative of business, education and local government, is chaired by Waterford native Robert Finnegan, CEO of Three Ireland and Three UK. Here he speaks to Lynda Lawton about Waterford 2040 and how we can attract further foreign direct investment.

Q: Can you tell us about

the aims and objectives of Waterford 2040?

A: The objective of Waterford

2040 is to position Waterford internationally as the destination of choice for those looking to invest and locate their business into Ireland and also as the location of choice for people looking to relocate within or back to Ireland from abroad.

08

Q: Just six months after the

launch of Waterford 2040, the county is named ‘Best Place to Live in Ireland’. It must be a great motivator for you and the Executive Team?

A: Being named ‘Best Place to

Live in Ireland’ by the Irish Times is a great motivator and accolade for the city and one which will help us significantly in promoting Waterford for people looking for that work/life balance as we

embrace new hybrid ways of working.

Q: What are the unique selling points for Waterford in terms of FDI?

A: From an investment attractive-

ness viewpoint, Waterford has a lot to offer with high quality of infrastructure (road, rail, air, broadband), great access to relevant talent with the new University established and in excess of 600k

NETWORK • Q4 2021

people living within 1 hours drive of the city (which is one of the largest catchment areas outside of Dublin and the 7th fastest growing region in the EU). All of these qualities will help us rank Waterford as the destination of choice for those companies looking to establish themselves in Ireland.

Q: What sectors do you think

A: A credible sustainability plan

is a key issue for those companies looking to invest and locate in Ireland. Waterford being the first city in Ireland to be designated as a decorbonising zone and with a commitment to be carbon neutral by 2040, is in a very good place to meet the inward investment requirements.

Waterford should be focusing on that would offer the greatest opportunities?

Q: How can the business com-

A: The profile of industries or

A: The Waterford business

companies that are now looking to invest in Ireland has changed from those investing 10–20 years ago.

Over the years Waterford has done very well in attracting investment in Pharma, Life Sciences, Financial Services to name a few and going forward Waterford can complement this success by targeting the new types of investment into Ireland that are more digital and platform based…companies like Facebook, TikTok etc. that are looking at investment locations that offer a high quality of life for their employees with availability of office accommodation within walking distance of the city centre as a pre-requisite.

A credible sustainability plan is also a key issue for those deciding on a location for their investment in Ireland and here Waterford scores highly with the designation of Waterford as a decarbonising zone and a commitment to be Carbon neutral by 2040.

Q: How do you and the team

intend to market Waterford to foreign direct investors?

A: The Executive will firstly agree on the relevant sectors to target and then develop a promotional plan that targets these sectors in the most relevant and effective manner.

Q: How important is sustain-

ability and decarbonisation to Waterford 2040?

NETWORK • Q4 2021

munity assist in achieving the ambitions of Waterford 2040?

community can assist in achieving the Waterford 2040 ambitions by firstly contributing to the sustainability targets that are being established as we speak and secondly by promoting Waterford as the location of choice for investment whenever they get the opportunity either within their own organisations or externally.

Q: How significant will the new Technological University be for the economic development of Waterford?

A: Availability of qualified people

is so important in business today.

With the establishment of the Technology University for the South East and the continuous flow of qualified talent that it will provide to industry, this will prove to be a critical factor to attracting investment into Waterford.

Q: A recent report from RIKON showed a €500million tourism revenue gap with Galway. How important is tourism in the Waterford 2040 plan?

A: Tourism will continue to play a

key role for Waterford and its environs going forward complimenting the Waterford 2040 ambitions of being the location of choice for those looking to invest into Ireland and those looking to relocate and live in Waterford.

While Waterford may be Ireland’s best kept secret, the message is getting out there about the fantastic amenities on

our doorstep...the Waterford Greenway, Ireland’s two newest museums and the development of Mount Congreve to name but a few!

Q: There is also an estimated

€680million retail leakage.

How big an opportunity is this for Waterford and how can we address this?

A: Attracting investment into

Waterford and the increase in employment that flows from those investments will over time help to stop any leakage and hopefully reverse the trend. The North Quays will also improve the overall retail offering to significantly reduce leakage.

Q: As CEO of Three, you will

have dealt with many Smart Cities. What is the potential for Waterford in this regard?

A: The concept of smart cities is in

its infancy and therefore Waterford can be a leader in this area as for once Waterford’s size can be an advantage. Partnering with leaders in this field can transform Waterford and help it achieve and exceed its sustainability targets. Waterford is also the ideal size to pilot new technology and climate change initiatives.

Q: Looking to 2040, what is

your overarching vision for Waterford?

A: In 2040 I would hope that

people in other parts of the world will look to Waterford as a leader in sustainability, companies worldwide will aspire to attract into their businesses the great talent emerging from the Technological University of the South East and in addition hoping that their organisations will be successfully chosen from the list of those companies seeking to invest in Waterford and finally that Waterford, yet again, has been chosen as one of the best cities to live in worldwide.

09

A year to remember

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR 2021

 By GERALD HURLEY, CEO, Waterford Chamber

2

021 – a year of ultimate highs and incredible lows. Who honestly thought we would be here again on the run-up to Christmas? At this point it seems the only consistency is the inconsistency, and we will continue to lobby the Government hard on make the right plans for the future.

I am all too aware of how tough it has been for our members and the wider business community, but I can safely say it has been one of the most engaging years we have ever had in Waterford Chamber.

Just as many of our members have had to learn to adjust, we are equally adapting to change. Like many businesses we have had to think on our feet, fire fight and be innovative in our approach. I am very proud of my team on how they have stepped up and kept smiling through the tough times.

Their commitment over the past year in helping the business community in Waterford is unwavering.

I was particularly delighted when their hard work was recognised

by Chambers Ireland as we were shortlisted for six awards this year, winning Best Local Authority Collaboration for the Bank of Ireland Better Together prize fund we won for Tramore, in partnership with Waterford Local Enterprise Office. This followed a few days later with the announcement that we were named

10

Chamber of the Year, an accolade we are immensely proud of.

Added to this was the news that Waterford was named the Best Place to Live in Ireland, so while there have been many challenges, it has also been a year of exceptional positives and we will continue to work with the Local Authority and other organisations in attracting inward investment and talent to Waterford and this accolade has certainly helped that.

SUPPORT LOCAL We have been tireless in our endeavours to support local businesses, particularly through promotion of the Waterford Shop Local Gift Vouchers, which we are asking all businesses to acquire this Christmas as a reward for your staff.

We continue to encourage our members to get involved with our strategic panels and engage with the panel leads on a wide range of issues which are pertinent to their business. The panels include Economic Development & Enterprise; Higher Education, R&D, Training and Learning; Environmental, Sustainability, Transport and Climate Action; Digital Transformation and Smart City; and Tourism, Hospitality, Arts & Culture. These panels were established this year to assist in the development of Waterford as we

look to 2040.

After many years of lobbying for Waterford to be recognised as a university city, that ambition is now one step closer with the announcement of the Technological University of the South East.

However, the work doesn’t end there as we continue to ask for comparable funding to other regions and the appointment of an independent Chair of the new Governing Body for the TUSEI. In addition to the university and along with our extensive lobbying of Government and ongoing meetings with senior Government Ministers, Oireachtas Members and the Local Authority and Councillors on other key issues such as the Waterford Airport, the N24, city centre regeneration, broadband and much more, we have been extremely active in terms of the green agenda for Waterford, as you will see among the following pages.

EVENTS In terms of events, while most have remained online, there have been many highlights, not least of which was the Waterford Business Awards. The online presentation was very well received with fantastic winners and a special note of congratulations to the Overall Waterford Business of the Year nearForm and Entrepreneurs

NETWORK • Q4 2021

of the Year Sandra and David Whelan of Immersive VR. Thanks also to the ongoing support of Waterford City & County Council, WLR, Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber, our panel of judges and of course our category sponsors. The deadline for entries for this year’s awards is just days away through www.waterfordchamber.ie so please make it a priority to enter and get the recognition you deserve at what will hopefully be a live event in March 2022.

August brought our Annual Golf Classic to Waterford Golf Club which was a much-needed day away from the office or home for the teams who took part, while September saw us get a brief window to host our wonderful President’s Lunch at the Strand Inn in Dunmore East with guests Henry de Bromhead and PGA winner Seamus Power.

September drew to a close with Toys4Engineers Week, which was a phenomenal success, with over 800 students from across the South East Region tuning in to ‘Engineering Careers-Making a Better World’, sponsored by Red Hat. We also had a large audience at our Green Deal webinar, ran three online conferences, an extensive social media campaign promoting jobs in the region, a speed networking event and over 80 one-to-one Meet the Buyer meetings.

The Regional Leaders Programme extended further into the region this year with participants from Wexford, Tipperary, Kilkenny and Carlow and we currently have over 40 leaders and 60 participants enjoying the benefits of one-to-one mentoring, group learning sessions and inspiring speaker lunches.

Waterford Chamber Skillnet has been performing exceptionally well this year under the new management of Tommie Ryan and continue to offer much-welcomed subsidised training for the business community.

THANKS TO

THANK YOU Finally and most importantly, I would like to especially thank you, our members for your support and ongoing commitment to Waterford Chamber. Together we are the largest business representative organisation in the region and that is a very powerful network which can build a better Waterford for all. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and prosperous New Year.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

11

At long last…

…a Technological University for the South East

A Technological University is to be established in the South East in the 2021/2022 academic year, news which has been welcomed across the region and beyond.

“We will continue to invest in this new university with new campuses in Wexford and Waterford. The footprint of this TU will be felt right across the region. Students graduating in the current academic year will be the first to do so in the region with locally sourced university qualifications.”

– Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Science and Innovation Simon Harris TD

“This is really excellent news for the South-East. It will make it easier for the IDA to secure foreign direct investment for the region and is sure to become an incubator for new Irish businesses which will become major employers in their own right. University of Limerick had a transformative effect on the city and Mid-West region.

I believe the same can happen now in Waterford and the South-east.”

– Tánaiste Leo Varadkar

“We have long promised we would deliver a university of international standing for the region. Thanks to the hard work and ambition of our staff and students, we are on the crest of creating the first university for the region. Our new status will help positively transform the south east, making it even more attractive to indigenous SMEs and foreign direct investment by linking knowledge, research, education, innovation and international collaboration.”

–Prof Willie Donnelly, President, WIT

12

“This is a significant and very positive step forward in what has been a long and arduous journey for Waterford to be recognised as a university city. As we now move forward, the next critical step has to be appointing an independent Chair of the new Governing Body for the TUSEI. The funding for the TUSEI, which will now follow, must be comparable to funding given to third level institutions in the other regions.”

– Gerald Hurley, CEO, Waterford Chamber

“Waterford City and County Council welcomes the announcement of Technological University status for Waterford. For Waterford to now be recognised as a University city is a substantial boost to the community, the county and the region. Increased access to higher education options and opportunities will not only benefit the students who will, from 2022, graduate with a university degree, but will also serve as an enticement to keep our young academic talent in Waterford. I commend the diligent work and steadfast determination of Prof. Willie Donnelly and the staff of WIT, and IT Carlow in establishing the first university of the South East.”

– Michael Walsh, Chief Executive, Waterford City and County Council

NETWORK • Q4 2021

“This announcement has the potential to signal a step-change in attitude to Higher Education in the South East if the breadth of Government ambition signalled within this announcement is backed up by significant capital investment in campus and new course generation and opportunity. What will signal success is the ending of the brain drain by retaining South East students within the region.”

– Matt Shanahan TD

“An historic day for higher education in Waterford as Technological University status is confirmed for Waterford Institute of Technology and students graduating in 2022 will now do so with university qualifications!”

– Mary Butler TD, Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People

“This will be transformative for young people and development of Waterford and the entire South-East region.

It is good for students, good for families, good for jobs and good for inward investment.”

– Senator John Cummins

“As Mayor of Waterford City & County, I welcome the news of Technological University status for Waterford. This news did not happen overnight, and I must congratulate Prof. Willie Donnelly and the staff of WIT for their commitment in securing the University for the South East. I am looking forward to seeing graduates and young talent remaining in the region, and to TUSE building on the sterling reputation gained by WIT in recent years. It is an exciting time for both current and future students, and I wish every success to all at WIT and TUSE.” Cllr. Joe Kelly, Mayor of Waterford City & County.

“Today is a very significant day as the designation date for a University for Waterford and the Southeast of the 1st May next year has been announced. Some will say Waterford should have held out and gone alone.

A regional University is a good fit and I hope it delivers for the region.”

– David Cullinane TD

NETWORK • Q4 2021

“Delivery of a university of substance and scale to serve the South East was a key commitment in the Programme for Government. Now we must make sure we have the funding and structures in place to ensure success.”

– Marc O’Cathasaigh TD

“A Technological University will support the retention and attraction of students, investment, and drive sustainable and quality job creation. It will act as an anchor for innovation and high-tech skills development in the South-East and maximise the growth of business in the region through practical learning, applied research and strong industry engagement.”

– Andy Crowley, IBEC Regional President

“The future success will be dependent on proper funding, in line with other Universities, to develop the education system and standards to best equip graduates for their careers. We trust that our energy as a business organisation will be spent in advocating and supporting positive educational change which will benefit all our communities in the South East.”

– John McSweeney, President, Waterford Chamber

13

ArcLabs A

rcLabs is, and has been, home to some of the most innovative companies in digital technology including StitcherAds, Nearform, Emagine, FeedHenry, CGM, Routematch, to name just a few from over 70 companies that have launched from ArcLabs since 2005.

The vision of Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) is to position Waterford as Ireland’s Innovation Capital™. A key factor in the realisation of this is the ecosystem of entrepreneurship that has been created in ArcLabs Research and Innovation Centre, WIT’s business incubator, where world-class researchers, entrepreneurs, academics and regional stakeholders

14

Inspiring and Supporting Entrepreneurship in South East Ireland

collaborate to develop innovative ideas into commercial successes, with the goal to build a robust regional economy of indigenous companies and provide a platform for innovative international companies to join the South East region’s ecosystem.

ArcLabs has two sites, one in Kilkenny and one in Waterford.

ArcLabs’ flagship location in the WIT West Campus, Carriganore, is a hub for world-class research and innovation housing WIT research institutes, groups and facilities: Walton Institute (formerly TSSG); Nutrition Research Centre Ireland (NRCI); Centre for Enterprise Development and Regional

Economy (CEDRE); RIKON; and WIT Arena; alongside the National Biodiversity Data Centre and RTE’s South East studio.

Through ArcLabs, entrepreneurs/ companies are connected to the knowledge, skills, infrastructure and networks of regional stakeholders and investors they need to succeed. ArcLabs offers a number of enterprise development programmes which support early-stage start-ups to determine the value and application of their business idea, validate their market and test the potential of their ventures.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

New Frontiers is Enterprise Ireland’s national entrepreneur development programme for innovative, early-stage startups. This three-phase programme, delivered jointly by WIT and IT Carlow in the South East region, offers a combination of practical and interactive workshops, personalised mentorship, advice, co-working space, and funding.

More recently, ArcLabs with Resolve Partners and our regional stakeholders, launched a new preaccelerator programme, SportX, which has been specifically designed to develop opportunities in the sport and wellness industries, by building on exciting technology and business model innovations.

The facilities and physical space available to businesses are also critical to the impact of ArcLabs.

ArcLabs’ proximity and relationship to the Enterprise Ireland TSSG Technology Gateway at the Walton Institute, can facilitate access to state-of-the-art infrastructure such as their data centre, Mixed Reality (AR/VR) lab, e-textiles and satellite communications labs.

Clients at ArcLabs can avail of a variety of working spaces and amenities, featuring secure, stable network infrastructure and superior connectivity. These include contained offices ranging in size to accommodate from two to 20 people, coworking space, and board room and meeting rooms.

ArcLabs has adapted their facilities to ensure full Covid-19 compliance, providing a safe environment for all.

To learn more about ArcLabs and explore how ArcLabs can support your business or business idea, see www.arclabs. ie and get in touch with ArcLabs manager, Aisling O’Neill, amoneill@wit.ie, to discuss your needs.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

15

How HCS transformed their brand for high visibility and ambitious growth.

In a cluttered market where a series of acquisitions were creating stronger competitors – HCS knew there was still open ground for growth if they could stand apart. But to hit that sweet spot, with new prospects who needed expert, tailor-made solutions in the prime areas of cloud computing and cyber-security, they needed to transform their brand awareness, particularly in Dublin.

Their communications at every customer touch-point would have to clearly define – and showcase – their expertise and value.

Founded in 1996 and with offices in Waterford and Dublin, HCS tailors business and IT services and solutions for a wide range of clients, a mix of SME’s across virtually all sectors from hospitality and agribusiness to life-sciences.

At the start of this year, even as they guided and supported their clients through a historic set of challenges ranging from the big shift to remote working to the sudden increase in security threat levels, HCS was looking to the horizon.

With a very ambitious, 5-year-plan to double turnover and win at least 150 new clients, HCS needed to stand out and attract the right customers by delivering the right message, to succeed.

And that’s where TOTEM, the strategic branding agency, came in – to pinpoint their brand issues, re-establish their sense of purpose and craft a new brand identity.

We Have Got To Grow CEO Neil Phelan says his team started a serious conversation about a total re-brand as they looked to position themselves correctly to deliver their 5-year-plan.

“When we went to TOTEM, all of our existing marketing and communications had been done in-house and built

piecemeal over the years,” says Neil. “It wasn’t clear and concise. We were just not selling ourselves effectively.

We were not communicating our value, our depth of expertise and experience, our hard-won reputation”.

Colin Byrne, Creative MD with TOTEM says, their starting point was to go deep and start looking at HCS strategically.

“Your brand, put simply, is your reputation. Your brand is that decisive first impression, it’s what your customers see at every touch-point. It’s what they say about you when you are not in the room” says Colin. “So we went back and looked at the HCS foundations. Their purpose.

What is their ‘Why’?” What is their reputation?”.

“When we work on re-branding projects for our clients we always start by looking from the outside-in, from their customers’ point of view, their needs. We encouraged Neil and the team to interview a range of their customers, large and small, to understand why they choose HCS.” That feedback – and the views of the key team members within the business – would be crucial for the next stage.

“We began by leading a brand workshop to gain a deeper knowledge of HCS and their customers’ requirements,” says Colin. “We discovered that the HCS team uniquely offer an incredible depth of expertise combined with a breadth of solutions, tailored to each customer. As they succinctly say – ‘Big enough to know.

Small enough to care’”.

“It was also clear from customer interviews that the HCS team was always on hand to solve problems when they arose. A safe pair of hands who always had their customers back”.

“This is what HCS do, and why it matters. And we distilled its essence into a confident and reassuring brand promise: ‘An expert in your corner’”.

“It allowed their personality to shine through”.

Neil Phelan of HCS says “the brand workshops provided much-needed clarity and the results were a new brand identity that captured their essence, who they really are, and a new shop window to deliver that message”.

“Our website is our shop window – businesses today, the first thing they look at is your website, and we wanted prospects to go to our window and know; ‘These are the guys we want to work with’”.

Taking It Seriously Neil says everybody at HCS had to accept the challenge.

“We were already talking about the need to grow and to get to the next level.”

“One aspect of it that really worked was involving all the key players, not just senior management,” says Neil.

“That gave us a really wide range of feedback, taking us into areas and ideas we might not have otherwise explored”.

Neil says they have also resolved within HCS that this is not going to be a static process – the conversation around their brand will continue as they grow and evolve.

For HCS, it’s been an invigorating experience.

“When we started working with Colin and TOTEM we just knew straight away that this was the team we wanted to work with. And to be honest, we just haven’t looked back, they’ve done a fantastic job.”

For Colin Byrne of TOTEM, working through a re-branding exercise as comprehensive as the one they completed with HCS has a clear goal.

“It was about positioning HCS for growth,” he says.

“To do this, we needed to re-define their purpose and reputation, understand their target customers’ needs.

And then align both.

“This will empower HCS to communicate authentically to attract the right customers, build loyalty and grow.

The process involved very clearly defined tasks such as zeroing in on specific targets.

“We helped them focus on the need of their ideal customer who would deliver the growth,” says Colin.

For Colin and for Neil, HCS now have the clarity and confidence to move forward as a team and achieve their ambitious goals by being “An expert in your corner”.

“Colin and the team took it all on board, they were able to filter it down to a very clear concept of who we were and where we needed to go.”

“That prep-work really helped us to get into it very quickly with TOTEM, it gave us clarity, focus and flow,” says Neil.

Positioning For Growth Neil says they needed to clearly define their values and worth if they were going to achieve the growth they wanted – doubling their business in five years.

“What the entire process did was bring the team, the company together, it focused us all onto the one hymn sheet, on our core values, our goals and how we communicate them.”

“That was one of the big things we got out of this whole exercise. If our team doesn’t understand it – they can’t communicate it to our customers with clarity.”

ABOVE: Colin Byrne, Creative MD of TOTEM (left), with Neil Phelan, CEO of HCS.

If you need help positioning your business for growth, please get in touch with Clodagh@TOTEM.ie

Meaningful Branding

GREEN DEAL

A city for the future  By LYNDA LAWTON, Waterford Chamber

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magine living in a city where cars plug into lampposts, a runway is lit by solar lights, industry reuse and upcycle waste, electric buses and bikes are the preferred mode of transport and the city centre is micro-generating.

It may seem like an overly ambitious plan, but it is possible and achievable according to Niall Griffin who leads Waterford Chamber’s Environmental, Sustainability, Transport and Climate Action Panel.

“About two and a half years ago, we started to look at how parts of the city could become micro-generating, with solar on the roofs and battery packs in some city centre properties. I spoke to Owen Power of Enerpower and we agreed that if we were to seriously look at this we would need the backing of Waterford City & County Council and WIT. They were on board straight away and from there our ambitions grew,” explained Niall.

Earlier this year, Engeria came on board as Energy Partner with Waterford Chamber and that partnership has now resulted in three EV chargers being installed as a trial at Waterford Airport Business Park.

“This is the first action we have completed on our own as a group and we want to help Energia roll it out across the county. We have

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about 85 private business owners from Passage to Youghal we want to approach, who can make the decision there and then to install the chargers.”

Niall is also keen for industry to review their current waste. “We need to look at the every-day waste that is being thrown out and see how we can reuse or upcycle it by asking ‘could I use pallets, boxes, packaging, etc that could be of use to others?’ We do it here at Metalman Engineering all the time and it makes a huge difference and also saves money. If you think of large cardboard box containers coming into factories, which are flattened and sent to the dump, would these be of use to another factory who could put a sticker over the labels and use it again? There is so much we can be doing in terms of recycling and upcycling.”

Niall is also keen for changes in terms of transport. “We are lucky in Waterford, most people live close to work so we could have small electric buses or bikes, which can be charged off lampposts or battery packs. By this time next year all Council vehicles are planned to be electric which is a positive move.

In Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown they even have a district heating system which is heating homes with waste heat from a data centre. It would be

Niall Griffin, Metalman Engineer at an EV charger in Waterford great to see this in Waterford.”

With energy prices on the rise, Niall says there are many alternatives. “There are about 100 biomass heaters around the country.

Biomass is woodchip which can be bought by the trailer load, is burned in boilers and produces power/hot water. It is a great alternative to oil and gas and is approximately half the price currently.

“Hydrogen heating is still in its infancy but is easy to produce and has no emissions. Green hydrogen can come from wind, solar or water and is a fantastic fuel. There is a huge opportunity with the North Quays planned accommodation with this heating system and, as a group, we will be lobbying in terms of the planning. Even the new bridge could have wind turbines overhead or underwater powered by the tide to light or operate the bridge opening. A lot of energy can be produced in the county and wider region and it will create massive employment in many areas of renewables.

“Let’s be clear here, Waterford City & County Council can’t do everything, we have a part to play as well, and our group will be pushing it, be it through lobbying, funding, grant applications or encouraging collaboration. The opportunities are endless.”

NETWORK • Q4 2021

Support Scheme for

Energy Audits The Support Scheme for Energy Audits offers SMEs a €2,000 voucher towards the cost of a high-quality energy audit Join the growing numbers of Irish SMEs and discover how much you can save through effective energy management

Visit our website for more information and how to apply: www.SEAI.ie/SME/energyaudits

GREEN DEAL

Working towards a greener future GLOBAL AMBITIONS In April 2021 Waterford City and County Council agreed that Waterford City would be the designated Decarbonising Zone (DZ) for Waterford.

The ambition for the Waterford Decarbonising Zone is that the City will work towards achieving Net Zero Carbon emissions across every level in society and all sectors in the local economy by 2040 with a range of real-life initiatives to manage the transition from a fossil fuel-based local economy to carbon Net Zero.

The project will be designed and underpinned by a full suite of policies and implemented with the development of an innovative range of projects including the areas of building energy efficiency, sustainable transport, renewable energy generation and carbon sequestration.

Waterford City will lead as a flagship demonstrator where research, business and the wider community will co-produce integrated solutions that will be scaled for roll-out across the other urban and local communities in Waterford.

While responding effectively to the growing climate crisis will require significant changes and disruption to our lives, this can be counterbalanced by the tremendous social and economic opportunities that are there to be seized.

We can exploit these opportunities to strengthen the knowledge economy, spur technological innovation, create new jobs and improve the quality of life for all.

WHERE ARE WE NOW AND WHERE DO WE NEED TO GET TO? In European terms Waterford is a compact city with a population

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of circa 55,000. It serves as the regional capital of the South East region with a profile that includes a large and modern industrial base, third level education, regional medical facilities, large retail / services sector, air, sea, rail and road transport links etc.

In terms of the greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs), Waterford would be very similar to other urban areas and indeed Ireland as a whole with estimated annual CO2 emissions of circa 380,000 tonnes – that’s almost 7.6 tonnes each for every single person living in the City.

" Waterford City will work towards achieving Net Zero Carbon emissions by 2040."

In broad terms and looking at the urban area of the City, GHG emissions are spread across four primary sectors including transport at 35%, home heating and energy use at 27%, industrial emissions at 20% with the services sector (retail, hotels, offices, education, health) at 18%.

To achieve the initial Climate Action Plan target, a 51% reduction in the overall level of Waterford’s CO2 emissions by 2030 will be needed to bring our per capita CO2 emissions down to around 3 tonnes per person once predicted population growth is taken into account.

Beyond that Waterford has set the ambitious target of attaining Net Zero or carbon neutrality by 2040, a shift that implies a systemic change to the city and its community but one that has the potential

to achieve the most remarkable and positive change for Waterford and all its citizens.

The City is also bidding to join the new European Union ‘Mission to create 100 Climate Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030’ which has the potential to provide significant supports in working towards climate neutrality, open avenues for priority to European funding streams for research and innovation and opportunities for cross EU project development and collaboration.

ACTING LOCAL Local Authorities have been identified in the newly published national Climate Act Plan as key players and enablers in achieving the national climate action targets.

The Plan requires the Councils both engage at a wider community level for example in preparation of county-wide climate action plans in 2022 and the development of the De-carbonising Zones but also requires very specific targeted and measured action by every local authority to de-carbonise its own activities.

It is important the local authorities lead by example in this area and Waterford City and County Council has been developing and implementing a number of initiatives recently aimed at achieving very significant reductions in our use of fossil fuels, carbon emissions and much enhanced efficiencies.

Examples of these would include: BUILDING ENERGY The Council owns a large number of buildings across Waterford from City Hall, to offices, sports centres, works depots, libraries, community facilities and so on. For the last

NETWORK • Q4 2021

number of years the Council, with grant support from the SEAI, has been progressively replacing oil and gas space heating boilers in our buildings with either Air to Water Heat Pumps or Biomass systems.

Our goal is remove all oil and gas consumption in our buildings by the end of 2023 which not only reduces our carbon footprint but also leads to real financial savings in running costs and efficiencies.

Many of these projects have a relatively short 5–6 year payback on the initial capital investment.

PUBLIC LIGHTING The Council owns and operates around 16,000 public lights in our City, towns and villages. It’s probably the biggest single energy user in the Council with an annual bill for energy alone of around €1.25m.

The Council, as part of a regional co-operative project with other Councils in the Southern Region, has recently contracted to replace all of our public lights with new and highly energy efficient LED bulbs.

This project will commence in

Waterford during 2022 and when complete will lead to reductions in our energy use on public lighting by at least 50% with the corresponding benefits of vastly improved reliability, reduced downtimes and maintenance costs.

ENERGY MICRO-GENERATION The Council recently installed a 50kw PV solar panel installation at the Machinery Yard in Dungarvan.

Installed and commissioned by a local Dungarvan company, the system is comprised of 129 panels on the roof of the building and already in the relatively short days of late October and early November is contributing as much as 80% of the depot’s overall power needs.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES The Council has operated a couple of EVs for the past seven years and is currently tendering for a number of electric vans with the intention of replacing most of the small and medium size van fleet by the end of 2022.

EV CHARGING POINTS The Council currently hosts 12 double EV charging points in its car parks and public streets primarily in the City, Dungarvan and Tramore. Mindful of the ever-growing numbers of EVs on our streets the Council is currently developing an EV charging point strategy that will see a significant and phased increase in these numbers over the next couple of years with a particular focus on the smaller towns/villages across the county and visitor attractions.

The projects outlined have been supported by the SEAI which are also available to the wider business sector.

There are significant supports available to businesses generally in starting their journey to carbon neutrality from energy audits to a range of supports, grants and tax incentives – more information and assistance on these is available from the SEAI: https://www.seai.ie/business-andpublic-sector/ev-for-business/ grants-and-supports/

Waterford City and County Council working towards a

greener future

NETWORK • Q4 2021

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GREEN DEAL

Taking the first step to decarbonising your business With Waterford aiming to become the first decarbonised city in Ireland, many businesses, already grappling with the impacts of Brexit and Covid-19, recognise the need to decarbonise but don't know where to start. Here, Dearbhla Stapleton of SEAI tells us how to kickstart the journey towards decarbonising your business.

FIRSTLY, WHAT DOES DECARBONISING YOUR BUSINESS MEAN? It means actively and continuously seeking to reduce the carbon emissions generated by your business activities. Businesses can do this through measures such as reducing energy usage or transitioning to renewable sources of energy.

Renewable energy is energy that isn’t generated from fossil fuels, such as oil. That might sound pretty challenging but getting started on the journey isn't as daunting as it seems.

WHY SHOULD YOU DECARBONISE YOUR BUSINESS? These are really difficult times for businesses, particularly SMEs. Most businesses are dealing with the

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double whammy of Covid-19 and Brexit, so reducing their climate impact might not be on their immediate radar.

However, if the ongoing pandemic has taught us anything, it’s the importance of resilience.

Being prepared for the low carbon economy of the future will enhance your resilience, reduce risk and help your business to survive in a decarbonised world.

There are multiple risks out there for business including: • The cost of energy and the volatility of that cost: almost half of all businesses surveyed say that their electricity bill is a significant business challenge.

• The cost of emissions: Budget 2021 increased carbon taxes by

€7.50 per tonne next year, with further increases in subsequent years.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS TO DECARBONISING? Decarbonising is something every business should do. It is also something that more and more businesses want to do. There are many benefits, including: • Cost savings: most businesses can save up to 10% on their energy bills every year through some basic no- or low-cost actions, with up to 30% savings possible through investments with attractive pay back periods.

• Enhance brand and reputation: many customers now

NETWORK • Q4 2021

expect companies to have plans for reducing their climate impact and are making purchasing decisions on that basis.

• Increase competitiveness: by preparing your business for a decarbonised world you won't be left behind.

• Attract and retain staff: employees are increasingly looking for their employer to take action around climate change.

WHERE DO YOU START? Starting off on the journey can be a bit daunting. There are lots of straightforward actions that will start saving you money straight away. Whatever the size of your business, the first steps to decarbonising are the same: 1. Understand your energy use and related emissions; 2. Educate yourself on the early steps; 3. And take action, no matter how small.

SOUNDS EASY, BUT ARE THERE ANY SUPPORTS OUT THERE? In short, yes. The SEAI has a range of supports for businesses looking to start decarbonising. A great place to start is the SEAI Energy Academy, which is a free online educational resource for businesses The Energy Academy (https:// seai.ie/energyacademy) offers a wide range of courses and modules, focused on a variety of energy efficiency topics. The modules are interactive, accessible in your own time and only last about 15-20 minutes each.

Topics include the basics of energy and climate, office energy efficiency and eco driving. There are also modules on new technologies such as heating, lighting and refrigeration. It includes plenty of tips on some very low cost or even no cost changes which can save a business up to 10% on their energy bills.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

We also have our ‘SME Guide to Energy Efficiency’ available to download, which includes useful information, tips and case studies.

WHAT ABOUT GRANTS AND FINANCIAL SUPPORTS? SEAI’s new Support Scheme for Energy Audits (SSEA) (https:// seai.ie./sme/energyaudits) offers financial support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to get an energy audit.

WHAT IS AN ENERGY AUDIT? One of the first steps for an organisation in adopting a more sustainable approach to energy is carrying out an energy audit. Completing an energy audit gives a company a better picture of its energy consumption and identifies opportunities for improvement – often delivering immediate cost savings.

An energy auditor will inspect and analyse how your business uses energy. The auditor will then provide a report based on the findings and will make recommendations on the most effective ways to save money on your energy bills.

WHAT IS THE SUPPORT SCHEME FOR ENERGY AUDITS? SEAI’s new Support Scheme for Energy Audits (SSEA) supports SMEs registered in Ireland with an annual energy spend of at least €10,000. The audit will review electricity, gas, oil, diesel, and any other energy sources used at your facility. It will also look at the company fleet, if applicable.

The energy audit consists of three main steps: 1. Collection and review of facility’s energy data 2. Site visit by auditor 3. Production of energy audit report

employees to become more sustainable and energy efficient and to decarbonise their operations.

A high-quality energy audit will provide you with a roadmap to start your energy management journey. It will provide a list of concrete actions that you can take to become more energy efficient, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money on your energy bills.

HOW DOES THE SCHEME WORK? SEAI will provide you with a €2,000 voucher towards the cost of an energy audit. This should cover the full cost of the audit for the majority of SMEs. You then ‘pay’ the auditor with the voucher once the audit is complete. The auditor will claim the cost of the voucher from SEAI. The application and approval process is quick and easy. In most cases, the financial support provided will cover the entire cost of the energy audit.

HOW DO YOU AVAIL OF THE SUPPORT SCHEME? 1. Select a participating energy auditor from the list of Registered Energy Auditors.

2. Contact the auditor and confirm his/her availability and the cost of the audit. If the cost exceeds €2,000 then you may wish to get quotes from other participating companies before you make your choice, as you will pay any additional costs directly to the auditor.

3. Apply via SEAI’s Application Portal.

4. Vouchers are issued automatically to eligible applicants.

5. Once you’ve received your voucher, contact your chosen auditor, and arrange the audit.

WHY DO SMES NEED AN ENERGY AUDIT? Businesses are likely to find themselves under increasing pressure from their clients, customers, and

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GREEN DEAL

UPMC Whitfield leading the way in energy management T

his year, UPMC Whitfield Hospital in Waterford successfully achieved ISO recognition for energy management and efficiency, and this is an area that is extremely important to the entire team in all thier facilities across Ireland.

Under ISO 50001 energy management accreditation, UPMC Whitfield Hospital became the first hospital in the UK and Ireland to achieve this certification in 2016 and in 2021, the Hospital was re-accredited to the same standard, demonstrating the hospital’s commitment to improving energy efficiency as part of its effort to tackle climate change.

In partnership with Veolia, UPMC Whitfield Hospital manage an active register of opportunities and some of the recent projects include: • Alteration to Combined Heat and Power Plant • Installation of LED high efficiency lighting both internal and external • Real time energy metering system • Virtual Power Plant • Upgraded chillers “Ensuring our patients receive the best possible care close to home is our No. 1 priority and demonstrating compliance with ISO standards serves as validation of this commitment,” said Gwen Daniels, General Manager UPMC Whitfield Hospital and Chief Nursing Officer UPMC in Ireland. “This progress in tackling

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climate change demonstrates that individual actions and projects add up to quite a significant achievement. We are proud of the fact that UPMC was the first hospital in the UK and Ireland to be awarded this standard and when it comes to further actions, UPMC will not be found wanting.”

ISO 50001 requires organisations to: • Continually improve energy performance, including energy efficiency, energy use and consumption; • Define their energy policy and document an energy planning process; • Review energy use, consumption and efficiency at defined intervals; • Document the methodology and criteria used to develop the Energy Review considering facilities, equipment, systems or processes; • Establish an energy baseline and identify EnPIs (Energy Performance Indicators) appropriate for monitoring and measuring it’s energy performance; • Establish, implement and maintain documented Energy Objectives and Targets.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

SPEND LOCAL AND SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES AVAILABLE FROM WATERFORD CHAMBER

Phone 051 872639 or email info@waterfordchamber.ie or order online at waterfordchamber.ie

WATERFORD CREDIT UNION

Tramore, Upper Grange & Parnell Street

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N OV 19T H - DEC 2 3RD

OVE R 19 MAGICAL DAYS & NIGHTS

The Enchanted Garde at Lafcadio Hearn Jap

1 0 0 S O F FR E E & TI CK E TED

FE ST IV E AC TIVITIES, SHOWS & SURPRISES

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PULL OUT MAP!

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Winterval Wonder-Events Quarter 1 2

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Winterval Express Train at the House of Waterford Crystal - Winterval dates Hobby Horses by John Connolly, former Master Blower the House of Waterford Crystal - Winterval dates Waterford’s Winter Music Series 2021 at the House of Waterford Crystal Every Sat & Sun throughout Winterval Around The World In A Whiskey Glass at the House of Waterford Crystal - Nov 26 Star Flyer - Winterval dates Winterval Wonder-Events Marquee - Petstival - Nov 20th & 21st - Ar Ais Le Cheile - Nov 27th & 28th - Kids Lab-Land - Dec 4th & 5th - WAMA-palooza - Dec 11th & 12th - The Winter Palace - Dec 17th - 23rd Bishops Palace Cafe

Elfstival Festival Family Quarter

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VIPSANTA at the Old Postal Sorting Centre - Winterval dates Elfstival’s Giant Elf - Winterval dates Santa's Giant Postbox - Winterval dates Johnny Magory’s Explorer Tent - Nov 19th - 21st

The Ever-Greenway Quarter 11

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Farmer’s Market - Every Saturday through Winterval Apple Market Sunday Sessions - Every Sunday through Winterval (excluding Dec 5th) Pop Up Gaeltacht at The Market Bar as part of Ar Ais Le Chéile - Nov 26th REIC at The Market Bar as part of Ar Ais Le Chéile - Nov 26th Waterford Lions Club Christmas Appeal - Dec 10th - 18th

Continental Christmas Market Quarter Ireland’s Largest Christmas Tree - Winterval dates Waterford Rotary Club Memorial Christmas Tree Appeal Nov 19th - Dec 24th 18 The Rapid Cabs Meeting Point - Winterval dates 19 Golden Gallopers Antique Carousel - Nov 19th - Jan 9th 20 Waterford Lions Club Christmas Appeal - Dec 10th - 18th 21 Polish Christmas - 19th Nov - 23rd Dec 22 Waterford Eye - Nov 19th - Jan 9th

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Christmas Cultural Quarter

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Eats N Beats weekend - Sat Dec 4th & Sun Dec 5th A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens at Garter Lane Theatre - Dec 1st - 21st 25 Waterford Crafts Christmas Craft Fair - Dec 3rd - 21st 26 Eats N Beats Live Music and Performance Stage - Sat Dec 4th & Sun Dec 5th 27 Winterval Stage at the Cultural Quarter - Sat Dec 11th & Sat Dec 18th 23

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Fly with Santa From Waterford Airport with Adventure 001 Nov 27th & 28th, Dec 4th & 5th, Dec 11th & 12th The Enchanted Garden Winter Light Festival at Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens - Dec 3rd - Jan 9th

Funfair Rides

Garda Station

Bike Rental

Market Stall

Tourist Information

Bus Station

Medical/First Aid

Cinema

Parking Lot

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NETWORK • Q4 2021

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ACCEPTED BY OVER

190 LOCAL BUSINESSES

ARTS, LEISURE, TRAVEL Activate • Faithlegg Golf Club • Freedom Surf School • Garter Lane Arts Centre • Harvey Travel • Kilcohan Park Greyhound Stadium • Non-Stop Karting • Pirate’s Adventure • Splashworld • Spokes Cycles • Strand Travel Worldchoice • Tramore Golf Club • Velocity Virtual Reality • Waterford & Suir Valley Railway Waterford & Tramore Racecourse

BARS, RESTAURANTS, CAFÉS Azzurro Restaurant • Bishops Palace Café • Blackfriars Coffee • Bodega! • Burzza • Carter’s Chocolate Café • Coach House Coffee • The Coffee Vault • The Cove Bar • Dooley’s Hotel • Eastenders Restaurant Emiliano's • Espresso • Everett’s Restaurant • Faithlegg Hotel • Fitzwilton Hotel • Geoff's Café Bar The Gingerman Bar • Ginos • The Granville Hotel • Greenway Manor Hotel • The Haven Hotel • Hibernian Gifts • Katty Barry's Bar • The Kazbar • Kilcohan Park Greyhound Stadium • Majestic Hotel • McDonald's Restaurants • Momo Restaurant • No.9 Café • NYCD • O’Shea’s Hotel • Oskar’s Bar • Paula's Delicatessen The Pier Café • Pinks Cantina & Grill • Ramen • The Reg • Revolution • The Riverside Cottage • Sabai Restaurant • The Spinnaker Bar & Restaurant • The Strand Inn • The Three Shippes • Tower Hotel Treacy’s Hotel, Spa & Leisure Centre • Veronica’s Café • Viking Hotel Waterford • Waterford Marina Hotel

FASHION Alfie Hale Sports • Altitude • Azzurri Sport • Evolution • Fitzgerald Menswear • FitzU • Foot Solutions G.L. Ryan Jewellers • Hallmark Jewellers • The Hanger Boutique • Harlow Fine Jewellery • Heroes Higgins • Island Lane Jewellers & Giftware • Janelle • Jenny Shoo Bootique • The Jeweller Highstreet Kellys of Waterford • Mc’s Outdoor Store • Muse • Narnia Vintage Emporium • Orchid Boutique • Pamela Scott • Paul Sullivan Goldsmith • Personal Touch • Petit Cheri • Phelan’s Shoes • Redlane Boutique Shaws Department Stores • The Shoe Centre • Shoobaloo • Skechers • T-R-M • USA Clothes Store Vero Moda Waterford • The Vintage Factory

HEALTH & BEAUTY Aiste Beauty & Training • Aphrodite Beauty • Beautorium • Brennan’s Pharmacy • CBD Ireland • Colm Morrissey Hair Studio • Delany's Pharmacy • Dynamic Chiropractic • Eyecatchers Opticians • Haven Pharmacy Kennys • Major Opticians • Mulligan’s Pharmacy • Mum N Me • Nolke Opticians • Phelan’s Pharmacy • Power’s Pharmacy • Purebliss Beauty Salon • The Salon at George’s Court • Sam McCauleys Shades Hair Studio • Smovey Health • Specsavers (City Square) • Specsavers (Waterford Shopping Centre) • Spirit Beauty Spa • Stratus Healthcare Pharmacy • Tower Hotel • Urban Hype • Wigworld

HOME, ELECTRICAL, MOTORS About Flooring • Charisma Blinds • Colourtrend • Deevy Motor & Marine Accessories • Island Lane Interiors • Kelly & Dollard • McCormacks Hardware & Fuel Merchant • Mirrors.ie / The Framing Studio Morris Builders Providers & DIY • Sienna Home Furnishings • Soundstore • Tara Blinds • Tinsley Interiors Tom Murphy Car Sales • Tramore Tyre Centre

SHOPS & SERVICES Ardkeen Quality Food Store • Ballybeg Stores • The Book Centre • The Book Resort • Cahill's • Cantec Group • Casia Flowers • Caulfield’s SuperValu • Carry Out (Tramore & Barrack Street) • Clannad Care Cove Stores • David Murphy Studio • Finders Keepers • Flowers By Lucy • Gadget Man • Gerry O’Carroll Photography • Harbour Stores • Hickson’s Centra (John Street) • Keyfast • Leo Murphy Photography Mc’s Outdoor Store • M.W. Keller & Son Solicitors • Maxi Zoo Waterford • Michael Kearney Butchers Molloys Butchers Ardkeen • OfficeMaster • Parker Law • Purple Lotus • Seagull Bakery • SuperValu Kilbarry • Tramore Cycle Services • Tramore Pro Shop • Urma Sports • Victoria's Incredible Edibles Waterford Comics • Waterford Hearing Services • Worldwide Wines

Sustainability at the core of Dawn Meats

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awn Meats has cut greenhouse gases from its operations and supply chain by 248,000 tons in 2020 as compared the baseline year of 2016 on which its Science-Based Targets are assessed, according to its latest Group Sustainability Report. Some of the key achievements outlined in the report include: • Procuring assured cattle and sheep from an increasing proportion of the group’s 30,000 farmer suppliers, where emissions are now independently measured on more than 40% of farms and where improvements in on-farm efficiencies are being achieved.

• €1m invested annually in on-farm sustainability projects • Retail consumer pack MAP and VSP trays are now made from a plastic material called mono PET, which enables recycling and supports the circular economy.

• 125,000 meal portions donated to frontline workers and organisations feeding people in need

Niall Browne, CEO of Dawn Meats, said: “Dawn Meats continues to move forward in its goal of being Europe’s most sustainable meat company. Progress on our emissions targets is a testament to the work our teams put in on the ground at our 22 processing sites. It is only by our staff, suppliers and customers all working together that we are able to achieve the progress we are making.”

Gill Higgins, Group Head of Sustainability at Dawn Meats, said: “Across all aspects of our sustainability strategy, from climate action, environmental management and sustainable sourcing to animal welfare and people and community, we are making improvements that count. We have had excellent engagement with our primary producers and community stakeholders, and it is important that we recognise their valued contribution.”

Gift Local this Festive Season Beannachtai na Nollaig obaibh go léir, a chairde.

Choose from our carefully selected range of Local, Artisan and Alcohol Hampers or Gift Cards. Our new Digital Gift Vouchers can be redeemed online and orders delivered nationwide. Get in touch with our team for all your Christmas gifts, customised hampers or corporate gifting needs.

Please shop local to support Waterford businesses this Christmas.

Marc Ó Cathasaigh TD 27 Queen Street, Tramore, Co. Waterford, X91 XP68 Email: Marc.OCathasaigh@oireachtas.ie Phone: 01 6183223

Order in-store, call 051 395416 or email info@covestores.ie

E D Q @covestores

GREEN DEAL

How to make your home more

ENERGY EFFICIENT  By ENERGIA, Waterford Chamber Energy Partner

&> C

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Over the years we’ve learned a few tips and hints to save our customers money on their energy bills and help them make their homes more energy efficient especially in winter.

HOW TO SAVE ENERGY AND MONEY ON HEATING

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Make sure all your radiators have smart valves with timers on them, so you don’t waste energy during the night or heat empty rooms.

Turn your thermostat down by just 1° and you could cut your overall heating energy usage by up to 10%!

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Heat loss is a problem which contributes to higher energy bills and losing heat in your home means that the energy you’re using isn’t being used in the most efficient way. This can result in higher energy bills and, most importantly, a colder, less energy efficient home.

What can you do to change this?

Use sunshine to heat your rooms during the day and then you can then seal in that heat using curtains.

Only warm the rooms you’re using and keep doors closed for extra insulation.

Use a portable heater rather than the central heating to heat the room you’re in or use multi zone heating controls to create dedicated heating zones.

A fully serviced and properly functioning boiler is essential to both saving you money (up to €150 annually) and making your home as energy efficient as possible.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

HOW TO SAVE ON LIGHTING

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Let the daylight in and reduce unnecessary lighting to lower your lighting costs whenever possible.

Always remember to keep all your lightbulbs clean and free of dirt and dust to guarantee great performance.

Use lighting sensors and timers to help manage when and at what level your lighting will be switched on.

HOW TO SAVE ON ELECTRICITY BILLS WITH THE RIGHT APPLIANCES

Lighting can make up 11% of your annual energy costs, and there are many ways to save on electricity and make your home even more energy efficient. Including:

LED lightbulbs are a great energy efficient upgrade and last longer than normal lightbulbs: anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 hours!

Maximize your lighting system by painting your home’s interior predominantly light colours (off-white, beige, blue, light green etc.) as dark colours absorb light whereas light colour reflects and bounce it.

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Electrical appliances can vary hugely in energy efficiency. Always check the EU Energy Label before you buy as choosing the right appliance can have a very positive effect on your electricity bills! Other ways you can save money with your appliances:

DISHWASHERS Save on energy by washing your items at lower temperatures. Lighten the dishwasher’s load by cleaning off excess food in advance. Fully fill up the machine before putting on a wash. Whenever possible air-dry dishes rather than using the drying cycle.

OVENS Ovens use a lot of energy when cooking so try, whenever possible, to prepare more than one dish at a time to increase energy efficiency.

It is important to keep the oven door closed as much as possible to seal in and make the most of the heat. A microwave is far more energy efficient than the oven so re-heat your treats in there.

FRIDGE AND FREEZER When your fridge or freezer is blocked with frost it will be extremely inefficient. Clean it every 6 months for normal energy consumption and always seal the door tightly to trap the cold air. Try to keep your fridge and freezer in the coolest part of the kitchen as far away from the cooker as possible. Allow food to cool down fully before you put it in the fridge or freezer. Hotter food requires more energy to cool it.

TUMBLE DRYER Separate light items from heavy and dry them separately to ease the stress on your dryer’s motor. Improve dryer performance with regular filter cleanings and, if possible, air dry clothes outside.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

WASHING MACHINE Use a cold rinse to conserve energy and wash your items at lower temperatures.

Always try to wash a full load rather than two half loads.

Fluorescent Light (CFL) lightbulbs may sound complicated, but they are very easy to use and a whole 80% more efficient than standard bulbs.

They’re just as bright, last ten times longer and could save you €60 over their lifetime! Plus, if you replace 3 regular bulbs with CFLs and use a comfy 3 hours of electricity per day you could save a whopping €43 a year! (SEAI).

I

HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON WATER HEATING

24% of all the energy we use is used to heat water. That’s why making sure your heating system is functioning correctly and that the water you have heated is used efficiently is incredibly important. With that in mind, here are some great ways to do exactly that:

Keep your hot water cylinder at 60°C — any hotter is a waste of energy… and money!

Showers are 5 times more energy efficient than baths.

Seal in your hot water cylinder heat by wrapping your hot water tank with good quality insulation.

When washing dishes remember to fill the sink rather than leave the hot water running and, whenever possible, use your boiler and not your immersion heater.

Fix any faulty or leaky taps or pipes to avoid wasting water.

Even a small leak can have a massive negative effect both on your energy bills and your property.

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GREEN DEAL

Powering a GREENER Ardkeen O

ver the past five years Ardkeen Quality Food Store have determinedly invested in new technologies and innovation to reduce their carbon footprint, increase sustainability and put great local food centre stage.

In 2018 they installed a 138KWp Solar PV Array consisting of 430 roof mounted panels on the roof of their Dunmore Road store.

Supplied and fitted by local company Enerpower, these panels generate 100,000KWh of renewable electricity per annum. According to Kevin Jephson, Director at Ardkeen Quality Food Store, this technology has saved 33,400kgs of CO2 in the 3 years since commission, that’s the equivalent to the energy use of 10 homes per annum or 9,600ltrs of oil!

INSPIRATION FROM NATURE Their fruit & veg department boasts Dry Mist displays, pioneering technology, inspired by the morning mist hanging over a crop field. Developed by Contronics in The Netherlands, it uses ultrasonic technology and purified water to make water droplets which are 1000x smaller than a raindrop, surrounding produce with fine mist.

As the mist evaporates, the humidity rises and the temperature drops naturally. This prevents produce losing moisture and maintains freshness, colour and nutrients for a significantly longer time, without getting wet.

This extremely safe method of extending shelf life is more

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sustainable than refrigeration as it also reduces waste, energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

KEEPING COOL In recent years Ardkeen has also installed a state-of-the-art refrigeration plant with smaller and more efficient power requirements. While open-fronted fridges without doors make it easy for us to see and access chilled groceries, the powerful refrigerant used to keep produce cool is particularly damaging to the environment, so when the time came to replace their refrigerated units, Ardkeen opted for doors. It was a simple choice to dramatically reduce energy consumption, with each cabinet now drawing less than 4.5amp [your kettle requires more power!]. The store also replaced all internal lighting in 2018 and in 2019 replaced all exterior lighting with highly efficient LED. UNPACKING THE PLASTIC Consumer eco-awareness is at an all-time high and many of us now consider the environmental impact of products we purchase and their delivery to our door.

Ardkeen’s booming online business [ardkeen.com] ships Irish artisan food worldwide requiring effective packaging solutions.

Rather than procure packing externally the company chose to source specialist machinery in Italy which transforms the clean cardboard from their supplier stock deliveries into cardboard net which is then easily disposed of responsibly by

customers back into the circular recycling chain.

Even their carefully curated hamper collection has undergone an eco-makeover, now redesigned with completely recyclable Irish packaging yet still retaining elegant presentation, a move which has garnered praise from their online customers.

THE TAKEAWAY From the store floor to goods inwards, Ardkeen are quietly forging a greener future, with a view to eliminating waste and supporting renewable packaging, providing compostable bags, and barista takeaway coffee cups, indeed their juice cups have been biodegradable since their juice bar was opened in 2007 – a very novel idea at the time.

“We are on a journey and we are not there yet, but we are always trying to improve and ready to assess any innovations that come along to see if they can help us improve the sustainability of our business. Some things are big ticket like the solar panels but there are also many, many small things, even down to paper packing tape,” says Kevin Jephson.

Since their beginnings in 1967, Ardkeen have been synonymous with sourcing locally made food, in itself a sustainable practice. They have certainly committed to bring meaningful change to their business and community in their 54-year journey.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

City centre apartments go from F to A rating N

o scholar in the land ever wants to see the dreaded ‘F’, aiming always for glory with an ‘A’. The same is true in terms of energy ratings and Pearse & Eimear Douglas are heading for the finish line as they convert Trinity Apartments, Alexander Street, in the heart of the city centre from F rated to A1 rated within a 10-year period.

When the apartments were purchased in 2016 they consisted of two apartments at first floor and an office on the ground floor. The original idea was for the apartments to be rented out and the ground floor office to be changed from an office to apartments.

Initial works began and when the kitchens and bathrooms in the first floor apartments were upgraded, the apartments were rented. Direct electric heaters were installed with integral room controls, with the landlord paying for utilities to bring the apartments from an F rating to a C3.

In 2019, Douglas Carroll applied for planning permission to convert

NETWORK • Q4 2021

the ground floor offices into two apartments, with a new energy system to be installed. In October 2020 Apartment 2B was completed and district heating made live to all apartments, bringing the apartments to a B1 rating.

New energy efficient lighting, emergency lighting and CCTV was also added to new landlord areas.

Now planning the final renovations in association with Douglas Carroll, they hope to achieve an A1 rating by 2025, with planned works including an upgrade to attic insulation, installing new energy-saving glass to the windows and installing a PV system to the roof.

With the upgrades, the results are phenomenal as the amount of energy to run the four apartments has almost reduced by 50% saving approx. €4,000 per annum at today’s electricity prices. The 2020 total energy used for two apartments was 8,933 KWhr. The total bill for 2020 amounted to €2,234.

The total energy used in 2021 for the four apartments is estimated at 10,490 KWhr with a total bill

CASE STUDY

€4,268 and that is including an electricity cost increase of 30% and 500KWhr for additional landlord service.

With the future solar panel installation, energy contribution from 9 PV panels and battery will generate approximately 3,800 KWhr of electricity annually. This would reduce the energy usage from 10,490 to 6,690 Kwhr and they will see a payback on cost in just four years.

It may be a ten-year journey but with forward planning and precision like Douglas Carroll have done, the costs and benefits speak for themselves.  The team at Douglas Carroll are happy to speak to you about your retro fitting and can be contacted by calling 051 306670 or see www. dceng.ie

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GREEN DEAL

Starting your Green Energy Journey B

usinesses are driven by societal demand for action on sustainability. It is not only governments that need to act but also there is a demand for business to step up and take action also. It is becoming clear that sustainability is good business. Companies that choose to install renewable energy will benefit financially from their decision as well as reducing the environmental impact of their business.

An energy audit is an important step for businesses that want to save money and save energy. By undertaking this process, businesses can learn where energy is used, where energy is saved and what can be done to be come more efficient.

Reducing operating costs is critical in any business and by undertaking an energy audit, businesses will identify the no-cost and lowcosts changes that can be made to achieve savings. Once businesses complete an audit of energy usage, businesses can reduce or lower exposure to energy prices and carbon tax increases to ensure that they can enhance the competitiveness of their business.

Speaking about the process, Managing Director of Waterfordbased renewable energy company Enerpower, Owen Power says:

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“Companies investing time in to this process will ensure that they are future-proofing their business and taking control of the future energy costs; many businesses that we have worked have already made operational savings to their business.”

Grants and Power Purchase Agreements have helped businesses nationwide make substantial savings. Power Purchase Agreements are becoming increasingly popular with business and are a financial agreement where a renewable energy company will arrange for the design, financing and installation of solar energy to a business at no costs to the business. The energy company will then sell the power generated to the business at a fixed rate which is typically lower than the standard rate. A Power Purchase Agreement or PPA will typically range from 10 to 20 years depending on the size of the system. Operation and maintenance will be the responsibility of the energy company for the duration of the contract.

Owen says: “There are many benefits to choosing this process including no upfront capital costs as the main cost will lie with the energy company. Enerpower offer PPAs to businesses and we have seen first-hand the benefit to

Owen Power, Enerpower businesses who have the security of guaranteed rate of energy cost.”

Waterford-based company Enerpower has been working in the renewable energy sector since 2005 with clients such as Eli Lilly, Lidl, Tesco, Kepak, Ardkeen Quality Food Store and Flahavan’s.

With more companies making the switch to renewable energy, Enerpower look to help and assist companies in reducing their carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions whilst saving money and energy costs. Enerpower work closely with clients, listening to their requirements and ensuring a tailor made solution that meets the need of the business.  If you would like to know more, please contact a member of the Enerpower team on 051 364054.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

Delivering World Class Renewable Energy Solutions

Contact us today to learn how your business can reduce your carbon footprint and reduce energy costs.  051 364 054  info@enerpower.ie

ARDKEEN QUALITY FOOD STORE specialists in Ireland's artisan & locally produced food

corporate gifts

With decades of experience helping companies express thanks to employees, clients and customers throughout Ireland, you can trust ardkeen.com to deliver the perfect gifting solutions for your business year round, whilst also sending a message of support for quality Irish made produce.

Our team of experts will be happy to help you choose the perfect gift and make your purchasing experience hassle free.

Order online at ardkeen.com or email customerservice@ardkeen.com.

This year, choose carefully considered, tasteful gifts from Ireland’s best range of artisan small-scale food producers, which we guarantee will be savoured and remembered.

Gifts and hampers to suit all price points

We have combined thoughtful, elegant presentation with sustainable packaging choices. Our custom made hamper boxes and wrapping are 100% recyclable, utilising bespoke inserts which not only reduce superfluous packaging but also ensure a joyful unboxing experience.

order

Dedicated Account Manager Shipping costs start at only €7.50 per shipping address anywhere within Ireland!

Worldwide Delivery is also available Ability to ship to multiple recipients in one Advance ordering possible for a specified shipping date.

Fulfilment and courier tracking Detailed invoicing and multiple payment options Our team are happy to liaise regarding your brand and message as a key part of the presentation, whether that is a personalised message, compliment slip, letter, or promotional literature Our curated range is designed to make gifting easy with a wide variety for you to choose from. Whether you need one or one hundred, our team are always available to discuss your needs.

ardkeen.com Order early for Christmas to avoid disappointment.

Advance ordering is possible for a specified shipping date and as we are already in the midst of an extremely busy season, we urge our clients to order early to avoid any disappointment with regards to both stock levels and delivery times.

Growing together with financial services cluster The South East’s International Financial Services Cluster first ignited in February 2020, supported and funded by the five local authorities of Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford under the direction of Ireland South East Development Office. Here, Cluster Manager Catriona Murphy tells us more.

Q: How did Ireland South East

Financial Services Cluster arise?

A: In 2020, an initial scoping

meeting of six firms with regional agency representatives was held to bond the traditional and emerging financial services with the FinTech community in the region.

Ireland South East Financial Services Cluster is a close partnership between the rich ecosystem of Business, Government and Public Agencies and Academia. The firms are of all sizes from start-ups to multinationals involved in banking, insurance, fund administration, investment and asset management, corporate treasury, international financial services, securitisation, cybersecurity, fintech, paytech and regtech. The Cluster Community

38

set out to engage with peers, seek out partnerships, bounce ideas, look for tips and hints, get and give mentorship.

Today, the cluster has grown to 67 members including FDI and indigenous ‘Goliath’ firms and trail-blazing ‘David’ start-up/ scale-up firms. Our goal is to bridge our community internationally – capturing the growth potential for all. The Cluster Champion is Terry Clune – Founder of Clune Tech (formerly Taxback Group).

Q: Is there a strong Waterford enterprise presence in the cluster?

A: Waterford is home to many

International Financial Services firms and Adrian Maher, Managing

Director of Swiss Financial Services is one of the six founding firms. There have been many FinTech start-ups who have grown under the supportive arms of government agencies, Waterford Institute of Technology, Walton Institute, Crystal Valley Tech, South East BIC, Waterford Chamber, and many other stakeholders across the rich entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.

The WIT Incubation Centre ArcLabs is home to cluster members including Sedicii, who specialise in identity and security solutions to prevent financial crime and enable commerce; ÍOCsave, the largest Irish-owned, independent electronic payment processing company; Accelerated Payments, who provide finance

NETWORK • Q4 2021

to SMEs with an immediate need for working capital to either fund new opportunities for growth, or keep the show on the road while they wait to get paid; Kyckr, who provide real-time, authoritative data for KYC and AML compliance processes, and lastly, Fund Recs, who develop cloud-based reconciliation software for the global Funds Industry, replacing outdated enterprise software with Softwareas-a-Service (SaaS).

Another FDI which stands out in Waterford was founded in 2015 – Bluefin is a global leader in payment and data security with offices in Chicago and Waterford. Notably the longest established is SunLife in Waterford, since 1998, employing over 550 people, which has proven to be very successful.

Other Waterford based indigenous firms in the cluster include Complinet, O’Dwyer Power, ProfitPal, European FinTech of the Future Flexiwage and UBO Service who became the first FinTech

Validation Agent in the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) system.

Q: What does the cluster do?

A: The cluster strategy work

program is built around five pillars: • Skills: Ensuring education and training providers are aligned with industry needs.

• Marketing and Branding: Promoting the attractiveness for professionals and investors.

• Networking: Enhancing the opportunities for companies in the region to network.

• Innovation: Linking companies with emerging research and start-up innovation.

• Infrastructure: To address priority infrastructure barriers impeding company growth.

Our first step was to create a platform for members to engage, by launching our Spotlight Sessions in early 2020 where we created

a ‘know your cluster’ series open for members only. These nonrecorded virtual informal settings allows for tacit information to flow, benefitting the firms in the region.

Members in each session take the spotlight each month to showcase their company, who’s who, address current pain points, research gaps, skills, needs, and trends.

We facilitate the connections with the universities, researchers, technology and services providers, public body agencies and regulators. This is where the magic has happened for our firms, streamlining their ideas or processes, upskilling their employees and recruiting new grad talent.  If you want to join our cluster or have any questions, please contact: catriona@irelandsoutheastfscluser. com, alternatively you can fill in the contact form on our website available here: https://www.irelandsoutheastfscluster.com/contact/

SENATOR

JOHN CUMMINS

31 Parnell Street, Waterford, X91 KD7X john.cummins@oireachtas.ie  087 9205729  www.johncumminswaterford.ie

Wishing Waterford businesses a very happy Christmas and prosperous New Year From Tommie, Kelly, Jackie and Lisa at Waterford Chamber Skillnet

Wishing you all a Happy & Peaceful Christmas May the New Year bring you good health & prosperity Please support local businesses this Christmas

What do today’s workers really want?

F

or anyone in the business of hiring, the data is fairly clear: employers looking to hire are struggling. By the end of April 2021, job openings in the US rose to an unprecedented 9.3 million, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, with Irish companies pulling workers out of retirement and double-jobbing to keep things afloat.

As the world reopened and more people got vaccinated, many economists predicted that people would quickly return to work.

But things haven’t turned out that way, and consumers are feeling the pinch. Restaurants and cafés have resorted to limited menus and hairdressers remain closed half the week. In Ireland, many blame the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP), claiming that the temptation to earn free money rather than work for it is too high. The primary belief then, is that reducing the PUP will return everything to where it was in pre-pandemic times. But that’s just too simplistic.

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Will giving unemployed individuals less money fix this worker shortage? Hardly.

WHAT ARE WORKERS LOOKING FOR? Perhaps the answer to this question is less about worker pay and more about worker rights and desires.

Workers today, still fighting through a pandemic, have gained perspective and are hungry to make this time count. Like everyone else, they’re looking for work that suits them as much as they suit it. And as for what they’re looking for while doing this work, it really couldn’t be easier: THE SAME BENEFITS AS BEFORE The pandemic did all but sever the relationship between employers and employees. For the employees who were let go as opposed to furloughed, wishing for a return to the same job has never gone away.

When they finally got the call, their previous job might not have been what they were offered; part-time

roles instead of full-time, some without health insurance and so on.

What is desired by employees today is a direct match to their job before, and workers want employers to know that. So, when hiring, consider the needs of the applicant, and meet halfway when it comes to compromisation.

EMPATHY The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a huge shift in how we care for families. Some people have moved across the world to take care of relatives, some are chipping in to look after the children of those suffering, and others have realised that life is short and are trying for children of their own.

Many people want to return to the workforce, but can’t because they have a child or family member to care for. They want a job that allows them the flexibility to take time away from work to care for a child or family member. And if this isn’t possible, they need schools or daycares to open so they can go

NETWORK • Q4 2021

to work while their children are properly supervised.

With the myriad of ways COVID-19 has infiltrated the home, those affected have had to pick up the slack. This may very well affect their workability, but flexibility and empathy right now is key.

A BETTER WORK/LIFE BALANCE Thanks to COVID-19 forcing many businesses to offer telecommuting, remote workers are starting to realise that having greater work flexibility is possible – meaning that workers are starting to desire, and even expect, the option for remote work.

Before the pandemic, many employers would tell their workers that they had to come into the office. Now, it’s much harder for employers to justify an office presence when their workers have been doing a fine job working from home. This doesn’t mean there will be a complete shift from office work to remote work, but maybe employees feel that coming into the office only three or four times a week is necessary and they can use their extra day or two working from home to achieve the worklife balance they’ve always wanted.

A smaller office presence also allows for extra parking spaces, a potential to downsize office space and happier workers overall.

NON-STAGNANT WAGES Stagnant wages have been a major problem for decades. According to a study by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI),

research found that earnings have flat-lined for young people entering the Irish labour market and that workers in their 20s are – in real terms – earning less than they did in the 1990s and 2000s. This means that they’re financially worse off than their parents. And it’s not just in Ireland. In 1968 America, the federal minimum wage was $1.60 an hour. In 2021 dollars, the equivalent federal minimum wage would need to be $12.38. But instead, it’s only $7.25. So even before the coronavirus hit, workers were already being underpaid. Yet they had little leverage to demand higher wages.

As a result, millennials in their 20s and 30s are likely to be the first generation in Ireland to have lower living standards than the previous one. Historically, every generation has enjoyed a higher standard of living than the one before. That being said, most employers can’t afford material wage inflation – but a consideration into the struggles workers have to put up with in an inflation-heavy world, especially after the two years we’ve just had, goes a long way.

A SAFE PLACE TO WORK Tipped workers across the world are among the worst affected by way of the pandemic, with restaurant servers and baristas being among the first to go as these professions usually rely on face-toface contact. Coincidentally, tipped workers are sexually harassed at far higher rates than non-tipped workers, with more than 70% of female

restaurant employees stating that they have been sexually harassed, according to a piece in NPR. With dependance on tipped wages, comes an eagerness to remain quiet and please; a ‘service with a smile’ attitude that can cost much more than their weekly wage. Workers who are keen to return to the café/ spa/salon want to do so safely, especially given the two years that’s in it.

TEAM EFFORT IS THE ONLY WAY FORWARD Before COVID-19 ravaged the economy, few workers resided within the position of demanding benefits they wanted or leaving a job that didn’t live up to them.

Now, workers possess more bargaining power to get what they want, not to mention the motivation to do so. Employers should be aware of this when it comes to hiring new staff and should use it as a tool to treat employees fairer, better and with more respect than ever before. The COVID-19 pandemic has allowed us to really realise that a team effort is the only way forward.  FitzGerald Power are as much a team of creative entrepreneurs as they are accountants and are passionate about supporting those of you driving innovation – empowering you to convert your ideas into realities.

For more see www.fitzgeraldpower.ie

Accountants, Taxation and Corporate Finance Advisers We’ve made it our business to become the expert in yours.

Pharmacy | Food & Beverage | Convenience Retail | SME

NETWORK • Q4 2021

41

Rise & Fall The

Katie

of

 By LYNDA LAWTON, Waterford Chamber

T

here is a lot of talk about Covid and the effect on people’s mental health.

All true and some have suffered more than most. But a lot of good has come from the past two years – people have realised what is important to them, have found a better work/life balance and found inspiration in the strangest of places.

Waterford-born actress Katie Honan could write the script on this…in fact that is exactly what she has done and on International Women’s Day this coming March, she will premiere her one-woman

42

play How to Fall Flat on Your Face. It is a story about healing; how to heal from a broken face, how to heal from a broken heart, how to heal from the inside out.

The play explores mental health and body image through a modern and innovative storytelling style.

Katie (30) is no stranger to the Waterford stage having begun treading the boards at a tender age and has gone on to be a hugely successful actor based in London, working extensively in theatre, television and film.

However, the call of the Déise is ever-present and her long-term

desire is to create work from her native home and create jobs for people in the arts scene in Waterford.

“I like living in London and want to experience more of it but ultimately I want to build work from home. I get to come back to Dublin a bit with work, but home is home. Life is so transient and the potential of having a base from which to work from is huge. The tide is changing in our industry and self-taping auditions had become the norm even before lockdown, so you can almost work from anywhere now.”

NETWORK • Q4 2021

While most of Katie’s career has been spent on stage or in front of a camera, a chance conversation with a producer one day led her to attempt to write. “During lockdown I started to write a film. The concept was good but it just wasn’t flowing. Then I started to write random bits into a notebook and came up with a story arc for a play that excited me and scribbled the bones of a draft over three days. To be fair it was nothing like what it is now, but once I had finished, I got it typed up and sent it to my sister Laura Honan who is a fantastic dramaturge. It has changed and evolved so many times during the drafting process, but I am incredibly proud of it and was delighted to receive funding support from Waterford Council and Garter Lane Arts Centre to develop it. All in all, I wrote the play over eighteen months.

“It is actually inspired by an accident I had when I came to London first, where I literally had a random fall and smashed my face to bits, broken nose and everything. This play is set in a hospital corridor in London where the play’s protagonist Anna — a Waterford woman — sits suffering from a broken face just like I had, but from there on everything else is fictional.

“The play explores body image and mental health. You can see Anna’s brain unravelling and her inability to deal with everything that’s going on around her, until she gets to the place where you think she is completely broken but manages to find the ability within to rebuild.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

“We literally want to build a hospital waiting area in Garter Lane and Anna will be in the waiting room as the audience arrive and they will form part of the waiting room cast. I want to make theatre that makes people feel less alone by putting a lens on the internal rhythms of a human.”

With many references to Waterford, is this just for Waterford audiences? Katie doesn’t believe so.

“I would like to bring it on the road across Ireland and onto the UK. Yes, it is very Waterford, but there are so many plays out there with specific settings and we accept them if we are connected to the story, whether we know the places or not, so why can’t a Waterford play be transferrable anywhere?

“I’m in that commitment zone now where I want to make this work. I don’t see it as just one project, it is the start of something I want to do with my career. As an actor, my favourite part of a theatre gig is being in the rehearsal room investigating story and characters, so I have gotten a real buzz from building a story and character from scratch — under the skilled eyes of Laura. I want to branch out and create art in different ways. I have always been quite disciplined but this has been a whole new learning

process which has resulted in me being more determined than ever to make work in Waterford and create jobs for other artists.

“To enhance our production, we wish to partner with businesses who share our desire to create, collaborate and connect with the community, not just as funding

partners, but to explore other projects, be it creating workshops for schools and corporates or to simply encourage other female writers to give it a go.

“How Fall Flat on Your Face is not just for women. It is dark and tragic with the right amount of humour and deals with universal themes of love, home and family.

“I hope this play can inspire others, make people feel less alone and showcase the artistic talent in Waterford.”

Katie is not only a playwright and actor in How to Fall Flat on Your Face, she is also co-producer and will work with an exceptional team of Waterford theatremakers to create this unique production. She has received wonderful support from creatives and organisations, some of which include; Waterford Chamber, Sile Penkert, Conor Nolan, Louise Grubb, Éadaoin Carrick and Tammy Darcy (The Shona Project) who are passionate about the project’s themes and staging.  How to Fall Flat on Your Face is scheduled to open to audiences on International Women’s Day (8th March 2022). Keep an eye for further details: www.garterlane.ie. This is one not to be missed. If you are interested in partnering on this project, contact Katie at honank@tcd.ie

43

Jingle

All the WAy in Tramore

o

F

Christmas is coming and we couldn’t be more excited because it means it’s time to bring you our Christmas in Tramore festival, with thanks to EveryEvent and Waterford City & County Council.

T

his year we had hoped for on-street events, but it’s safety first and with Covid numbers rising we are putting our efforts into bringing you a fantastic trail of festive displays throughout the town. Lights will be turned on by Cllr Joe Kelly, Mayor of Waterford City & County on December 2nd during our Business After Hours at Aphex.

Key attractions on Main Street will include a 20ft Christmas tree and a giant festive postbox for children to post their letters to Santa. Following new investment in festive lights by Waterford City and County Council, the area will be lit by a curtain of Christmas lights to add to the festive atmosphere.

Santa’s sleigh will take up prominent position at the Plaza and will make a picture-perfect opportunity for children and families to pose for photos.

Meanwhile, down at the Railway Station we will have a gorgeous light garden with loads of photo opportunities.

So what else can you expect? As well as having to visit Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens for the Enchanted Garden Light Festival and the CoastGuard Cultural Station to pick up some incredible crafts, wrap up the family and check out the following:

› Tramore Tidy Towns Christmas Garden opposite Apple Green

› Tramore AFC festive display › The Big Trees

at Tramore Racecourse, Branch Road and Priest’s Road

› Tramore Tidy Towns Winter Garden at Tramore GAA Roundabout

› The Surfing Penguin and Festive Lights at the Life Saving Centre

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THE ENCHANTED GARDEN

Now in its sixth year, the Enchanted Garden at Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens has firmly established itself as one of the leading Winter Light Festivals in Ireland. These unique Japanese Gardens are lit at night by a sea of twinkling lights, animal sculptures, dramatic tree and foliage lighting and special effects, all creating a magical winter wonderland.

The Victorian Garden brings old world charm to the festival and fuels the imagination of all who visit. There will be an opportunity to meet the Winter Fairy on your journey or stop by the open fire and enjoy Hot Chocolate or Gluhwein. Hidden fairy doors light up for this special event and a selection of carefully chosen classical and enchanting music fills the air.

Open from 3rd December to 9th January from 4pm to 8pm (Wed to Sunday) weather permitting. To book see www.lafcadiohearngardens.com or directly from gardens (Adults €6 Children €3). Closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, St. Stephen’s Day and New Year’s Day and on nights of extreme weather. Please always check the garden’s Facebook page and website for updates.

STAR OF THE SEA

The Coastguard Cultural Centre and Café is a jewel in Tramore’s crown and this Christmas it will be shining extra bright with a wonderful free ‘Star of the Sea’ Christmas lights celebration from November 25th to the New Year.

Upon arrival to the Coastguard Cultural Centre, the festive light display will illuminate the area with garlands and fairy lights leading into the courtyard where a traditional Dickens scene will be on display with lantern lights, garland and ribbons along with a unique seasonal photo opportunity spot for visitors. The centrepiece will be a Santa’s Postbox with a giant ‘Star of the Sea’ sitting above it shining out over Tramore bay. Santa’s Postbox will be festively decorated and the children of Tramore are invited to follow the tunnel of fairy lights up to the postbox to post the most important letter of the year.

Open each day and from Thursday to Saturday until 8pm.

For further details see www.coastguardculturalcentre.ie

NETWORK • Q4 2021

Cllr.

Eamon Quinlan Wishing you all a Happy & Peaceful Christmas

Email: cllrequinlan@waterfordcouncil.ie Phone: 087 291 3887

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Waterford’s

Blue Plaque Trail

A Civic Trust Blue Plaque is a permanent sign installed on a building in a public place to commemorate a link between notable figures of the past and the buildings in which they lived or had some connection to. It is a unique way to highlight these special achievements and celebrate those who have helped to shape our heritage and history.

 By DES GRIFFIN, Waterford Civic Trust

A

nna Manahan, actress, Tony award winner, and Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.), was born in Waterford on the 18th of October 1924.

Her career of almost sixty years began in the Gaiety Theatre in Dublin, where she worked with many famous names including Micheál MacLiammóir and Hilton Edwards, and thus assured her a place in the Irish theatrical hall of fame from an early age.

This eventually led her before the British television audience from the 1960s to the ’80s.

Manahan received two Tony Awards for Best Featured Actress in a Play nominations for her performances in the 1968 production of Lovers and the 1998 production of The Beauty Queen of Leenane.

She won for the latter at the 52nd Tony Awards.

She was at home on either stage or screen, but in spite of her undoubted success on screens both big and small, Anna was a stage actress first and foremost. A charming, even seductive presence, she was a superb interpreter of the works of many Irish and

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international authors. She was incapable of retirement. She just kept going on.

She was a child of Waterford – a badge she wore with honour and pride her entire life. She received the Freedom of the City in 2002.

After a life lived in Dublin and across the vast world of entertainment from the West End to Broadway, she returned to her native city in later years, although she might have agreed that she never left. Anna sadly passed away on March 8th, 2009.

Anna Manahan’s Blue Plaque was erected on 3, Lombard Street in January 2016.

 Waterford Civic Trust is a registered charity and is a company limited by guarantee. We have erected Heritage Blue Plaques in many locations in Waterford City and County.

Contact us at Brick Lane, Greyfriars, Waterford.

Tel: +353 (051) 849602 www.waterfordcivictrust.ie

NETWORK • Q4 2021

Wishing our clients, colleagues and friends a very happy Christmas FEWER HARRINGTON & PARTNERS Studio 14, The Atrium, Maritana Gate, Canada Street, Waterford T: 051 876 991 | info@fhp-architects.com | www.fhp-architects.com

MATT SHANAHAN Wishing you all a Happy & Healthy Christmas WATERFORD CITY OFFICE Saint Catherine's Hall, Catherine Street, Waterford Tel: 051 876 956 Mobile: 086 730 4677 DUNGARVAN OFFICE The Mews Lane, O'Connell Street, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford Mobile: 083 019 9456 Email: matt.shanahan@oireachtas.ie Web: www.mattshanahan.ie

Wishing a Very Happy Christmas to our Friends, Colleagues and Clients www.libertyblue.ie PSRA Licence 001852

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BILLY KELLEHER MEP VISITS WATERFORD CHAMBER Billy Kelleher MEP and Mary Butler TD were welcomed to Waterford Chamber offices by President John McSweeney and CEO Gerald Hurley for a very constructive meeting which was attended by Chairs of the Chamber Strategic Panels. The Panels act as advisors to Waterford Chamber across various sectors and the Chairs presented to Mr Kelleher on a number of local, national and international challenges and opportunities.

SPECIALITY BRANDS LAUNCHES ‘WORLD FIRST’ BIODYNAMIC WHISKY

Speciality Brands is launching what it claims is the “world’s first” biodynamic whisky through its Waterford brand at Waterford Distillery. Called Biodynamic: Luna, the 50% abv drink was distilled from rare barley varieties that were grown using biodynamic farming methods, said Speciality. It is billed as having a “rich, oily texture with notes of fruit, fresh soil, lemon drizzle cake, cloves, almonds, milk chocolate and a touch of fresh mint tea”.

Three Irish farmers – Trevor Harris, John McDonnell and Alan Mooney – were responsible for growing the biodynamic barley. Biodynamic farming practices have been widely accepted in the wine industry, but few distillers have adopted them.

TIDY WATERFORD Pride of place and community spirit is alive and well as Waterford towns and villages were amply rewarded for their efforts over the last two years in the National Tidy Towns competition. Both Lismore and Stradbally won gold awards with just one mark between them, both receiving a €900 award.

Walking away with silver awards of €700 were Tramore, Dungarvan and Ardmore.

The overall winner of Ireland’s tidiest town was Ennis, Co. Clare. Stradbally also received a Highly Commended award, while Ardmore received a Commended award. Clonea Power received a prestigious Endeavour award of €500. Pictured: the hardworking Tramore Tidy Towns volunteers celebrating their Silver win.

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NETWORK • Q4 2021

UPMC WHITFIELD WELCOME NEW PRESIDENT & CEO Last month, Waterford welcomed the new President and CEO of UPMC, Leslie Davis, on her first visit to Ireland since assuming her new role. She visited UPMC Whitfield Hospital and met with the team there who deliver life changing medicine to the people of the South East. Davis has more than 30 years of health care experience, having most recently served as president of the Health Services Division at UPMC.

JUMP JUICE BARS TO EXPAND AND CREATE NEW JOBS!

Jump Juice Bars, founded in Waterford, are using digital transformation to expand and create new jobs! The juice and smoothie bar chain plans to hire 50 new employees, bringing its total workforce to 200. As part of its expansion, the company intends to open six new stores, bringing its total number of outlets to 30 over the next three years. Claire and Charlie Scanlan started Jump Juice Bars when they opened their first store in Waterford in August 2003.

NEW SOLAR PANELS FOR COUNCIL

NEW DONATIONS FOR SILVER MUSEUM

Consolidating its commitment to reducing CO2 emissions by 51% by 2030, Waterford City and County Council recently installed solar Photo Voltaic panels at its machinery yard depot in Dungarvan.

The installation includes 129 solar panels on the southerly facing roof of the machinery yard building.

The panels will supplement the yard’s and neighbouring Council depot’s electrical requirements and reduce 17 tonnes of CO2 being emitted to the environment, through the elimination of electricity being imported from the electrical grid. The solar panels were installed by a Dungarvan Engineering company, Solar Evolution, which is working exclusively in the green economy and specialises in solar PV installations.

Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe TD has approved two further donations to the Irish Silver Museum in Waterford. One of the donations is valued at €850,000 and the second donation valued at €750,000.

These donations will ensure that the Irish Silver Museum in Waterford will have one of the largest collections of antique Irish silver in the world and will be the only museum in the world dedicated solely to celebrating the virtuoso craftsmen and women who over the centuries produced magnificent works of art in silver.

Since opening in May this year the public reaction to the Irish Museum of Time has been phenomenal with over 36,000 fee-paying visitors.

NETWORK • Q4 2021

NORTH QUAYS INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRESSES Waterford City and County Council is delighted to announce that the main construction contract for the Waterford North Quays Infrastructure has progressed to final procurement stage.

All shortlisted / qualified applicants have been invited to proceed to stage 2 works tender, with tenders expected to be returned in Q1 2022 with construction planned to commence in Q4 2022.

The main construction works comprises: • 1.3km of urban dual carriageway and local road upgrades in the Ferrybank area, together with significant junction improvements for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists; • a new train station, transport interchange and public realm works directly north of the North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ); • a 207m long pedestrian, cycle and public transport bridge across the River Suir, with an opening span to accommodate river traffic; • the creation of a plaza on the south side of the river to connect the new bridge to the existing city centre; • provision of a new Greenway from Abbey Bridge that connects with the South East Greenway from New Ross that is currently under construction.

The contract will be funded through the Urban Regional Development Fund (URDF) and the National Transport Authority’s Sustainable Transport Measures Grant (STMG), whom collectively are providing over €110m in funding to Waterford City and County Council for the North Quays development.

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NETWORK • Q4 2021

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OPTICIANS & HEARING

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We never forget a face AT THE ULURU CENTRE ON THE DUNMORE ROAD CALL 051 855 638 nolkeopticians.com