Business Limerick Magazine 06/08

www.businesslimerick.ie

JUNE 2008 € 3.50

Inside• New Shannon Development

Chairman

• All Ireland Corporate Games 2008

• Limerick Company Gets!7M Contract

Peter Power Backs Business in Limerick

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EditorFrank [email protected] Mobile: 086 245 1153

Advertising ManagerMarguerite [email protected]: 087 245 1153

Advertising SalesYvonne [email protected]: 086 8072088

Mary O’[email protected] 086 8064888

Business JournalistsBrian [email protected]

Accounts ManagerMary [email protected]

Graphic DesignSuzanne Boyce 4 DesignTel: (087) [email protected]

PhotographyMichael Cowhey

Photographic ContributorsPress 22Kieran Clancy - PicSureDave GaynorKeith Wiseman

ContributorsMal KeaveneyMick GalweyPadraig O’Connell

Published byBusiness Limerick Publications Ltd.

DirectorsFrank CollinsMarguerite Finnan

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BL COVER STORYPeter Power Backs Business InLimerick

BL GALLERYOut & About with BL

BL FINANCEAccountancy in the Mid-West

BL FINANCEInvestments, Savings andPensions

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BL REVIEWUnwind in the heart of Cork City

BL INTERVIEWMayor Ger Fahy on his year inoffice

BL FEATUREAll Ireland Corporate Games 2008

BL PROPERTYMcInerney launch new develop-ment in Mungret

Business Limerick Magazine is published monthly by Business Limerick Publications Limited.© 2008 Business Limerick. All Rights Reserved. The information contained in the magazine is believed to be accurate and authorative, however it is not intended to substitute for legal,accounting, tax or other professional advice. Statements and opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Business Limerick.No responsibility can be assumed for any unsolicited materials and submission is construed as permission to publish without any furthercorrespondence and the fee payable (if any) at our usual rates. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval sys-tem or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior writtenpermission of the publishers.

Business Limerick FOR BUSINESS LEADERS

C O N T E N T SJune 2008

Frank CollinsEditor

[email protected]

Business LimerickPillar House,

Little Ellen Street, Limerick

Tel: (061) 46 75 18(061) 21 47 38

Fax: (061) 46 85 60Email: [email protected] Web: www.businesslimerick.ie

May has been an exceptional month forthe region both socially and in sportingfields. It began with the outstandingsuccess of the Riverfest which gets bet-ter every year. Numbers estimated to bein the region of 50,000+ turned out toenjoy the French Market, InternationalBBQ Competition and the added extrafestivities in Arthur's Quay Park, includ-ing tug of war & ceili dancing. Riverfestis now in its fifth year and now a perma-nent fixture in our social calendar.

Following on, Adare drew the crowds tothe Irish Open Golf Tournament, andorganisers excelled themselves in stag-ing a competition that linked AdareVillage itself to the event in the Manormost successfully. The Open wasscreened across the globe on Sky T.V.live for the entire event. It would beimpossible to buy such positive cover-age for the region worldwide such asthis.

And then, the icing on the cake...Munster's rugby heroics in theMillennium Stadium watched by 70,000of the red army in Cardiff and 40,000fans at home on our main street, on thebig screen. Where else and who elsewould even contemplate a scene suchas this on their main street in any othercity in Ireland? Limerick again hasshowcased itself in a way all Limerickpeople want to be perceived nationallyand further. Proud Limerick peopleenjoying this wonderful social andsporting occasion in a safe environ-ment. Our hotels were booked solidwith people who travelled from far afieldto be part of this unique phenomenonwhich is rapidly becoming known as'Sporting Limerick'.

FROM THE EDITOR

Cause forCelebration!

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Business Limerick Patrons

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Speaking to Business Limerick,Peter Power TD and new Minister ofState for Foreign Affairs tells of theenormous feeling of good will he hasencountered throughout Limericksince his appointment ensuring thatthe city is well served by twoMinisters.

“I have always supported business inLimerick and my ambition is to use myMinistry to put business and com-merce of the region on the nationalstage”, said Peter. “There is a newface to modern Limerick, a newLimerick which I will represent to it’sfull potential. It has been clear to mefor some time that people in Limerickfeel that they are negatively andunfairly viewed nationally. This is an

image that I intend to dispel.”

“The huge commercial investment bylocal business shows a very positiveoutlook for the future of Limerick. Thedevelopment of Limerick in the mar-ket of traded financial services putsus in a great position to become thehub for this type of business. Corkholds a strong position in the pharma-ceutical industry; so does Galway inthe medical devices industry. I believethat the financial services industry isour niche and we should be aspiringto attract more of this quality invest-ment to Limerick. Ireland has 4% ofthe worldwide market in traded finan-cial services and Limerick has a majorpart to play in the further develop-ment of this sector. I also think that,

at this time, we have the opportunityto develop Limericks Docklands as anideal site for the traded financial serv-ices industry. I would like to press forspecial incentives such as tax exemp-tions for investment in this field. I wasdelighted with Northern Trust’sannouncement of 300 jobs inLimerick, in the financial services sec-tor, I am hopeful of similar announc-ments for the region in the future.Financial Services will be seeking torecruit business graduates from theregion which is a huge boost to thebusiness schools in UL and LIT fromwhere these graduates will be recruit-ed. This announcement confirms theimportance of our educational institu-tions in the region in encouragingmulti-national companies to set up in

4 Keeping an eye on Business

Peter Power Backs Business in Limerick

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Limerick. The “can do” business atti-tude which was seen in the Des O’Malley era is a philosophy we allaspire to and I intend to representLimerick’s business community in thesame strong, positive fashion.Limerick business needs a minister tochampion their cause and representtheir investment in the Region.”

Speaking on the city’s RegenerationProject, Peter believes that it isabsolutely critical for Limerick. “Wehave to draw a line behind the difficul-ties we have as a city and the majorplanning mistakes that were made inour city. These mistakes have comehome to roost in the form of socialdeprivation and crime. I believe, asdoes John Fitzgerald in his report,that if Limerick is to thrive in thefuture, we have to come to terms withissues of social division and exclusion,which are unfortunately endemic inLimerick. Only when the RegenerationProject is completed fully and suc-cessfully, then Limerick’s real poten-

tial can be realised. I strongly believethat this potential is enormous. It alsogives me great encouragement tosee so many local bodies and organi-sations complementing each other byworking together for the greater goodof all. We are building a safe andsound future for all of Limerick’s resi-dents.”

Minister Power believes that throughsport, Limerick has created a verypositive brand. “Hugely important toLimerick and the region is our passionfor all sports. The Limerick hurlersrun in the All–Ireland Championshiplast Summer, the Irish Open in Adare,Munster’s heroics on the rugby fieldin the Heineken Cup, the upcomingWorld Baton Championships and theAll Ireland Corporate Games havebranded Limerick in a very positiveway. We should continue to developthis brand by attracting similar eventsto our top class facilities in the city. EdWalsh, former president of UL, withwhom I share a vision on the future

development of an iconic heart toLimerick, agrees with me that thenew Thomond Park has become abeacon of where we want to go as aCity. When I look out my back windowat home, I can see the new structureof Thomond Park rising more andmore every day. And it gives me greathope for the new Limerick that I wishto represent.”

In his new position as Minister ofState for Foreign Affairs, he will takeon responsibility for OverseasDevelopment. “I visited the newly builtdecentralised Department Of ForeignAffairs, which is a fabulous addition toHenry Street, presently at fit-outstage. This decentralisation means180 high value added jobs to Limerickand a welcome input of many millionsof euro to our local economy. The relo-cated staff have said that Limerick isa great place to live, work and educate their children and that wehave the full package here in terms ofeverything we have to offer. I strongly


Keeping an eye on Business

Peter Power T.D. meets golf legend Tiger Woods.

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believe that Limerick’s best days areyet to come.”Peter Power was born in Limerick in1966 and was educated at John F.Kennedy School and Ard Scoil Ris. Hisfather, Gerry Power, now retired ofG.N. Power & Co accountants, will bewell remembered as a player in thedevelopment of the city’s commerce inthe 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Married toLorraine, who works in Wallace ReidySolicitors office, they have two girlsand two boys. Peter is a qualified solic-itor. Speaking on the family stresseshis position attracts, “there is no doubtthat a ministerial position bringsadded stresses to one’s family life, ifyou allowed it to do so. Balance is thekey word or politics would take overyour life.”

Peter is a former president of theJunior Chamber Of Commerce in1991. He was elected to Alderman ofLimerick City Council in 1999 andelected as a Fianna Fail TD at the2002 General Election. Following onfrom the Statutory Rape Crisis in June2006, Peter was appointed Chairmanof the Child Protection Committee bythe Government. He was re elected tothe Dail in 2007 and was appointedChairman of Oireachtas JusticeCommittee. His latest appointment inForeign Affairs is perceived as a majorvote of confidence by Brian Cowen inPeter, poised to contribute in a seniorcapacity in future government strate-gies.

“Every politician wants to serve theirconstituency in the Dail, and to be invit-ed by the Taoiseach to be a member ofGovernment is a personal honour”. “Ihope the people of Limerick consider itan honour for the city also,” addedMinister Power.

Congratulations to Minister of Statefor Foreign Affairs, Peter Power TD,and with Senior Minister for Defence,Willie O’ Dea TD. Limerick is a lot bet-ter off with two ministerial voices rep-resenting us in Government.

Keeping an eye on Business

Taoiseach Brian Cowen with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Peter Power T.D.

Minister Micheal Martin with Minister of State Peter Power at on his recent visitto Limerick

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ShannonDevelopment hasnew Chief ExecutiveDr Vincent Cunnane commenced as new ChiefExecutive of Shannon Development recently.On taking up his new appointment, Dr Cunnanesaid: “It is a great honour to take on the role ofChief Executive of Shannon Development, whichhas a long history of innovation, developmentand delivery. I look forward to working with thestaff and board of Shannon Development, notonly to continuing the Company’s unique devel-opmental ethos, but also to taking the Companyand the Region to the next level of economicand social development”. He is a native ofDonegal and was formerly Vice PresidentResearch (VPR) at the University of Limerickand Associate Professor in Physical Chemistry.He held the position of VPR for six years, wherehe had responsibilities for research strategy,income generation and outputs, postgraduateeducation, technology transfer and campuscompany development. He is credited with over-seeing the very significant developments in theresearch success of UL during this period.

New PrivateHospital AppointsPartnerLimerick's new private hospital situated inBlackberry park and due to open in Decembernext year, has confirmed that their operatingpartner is to be Mount Carmel Medical Group.The Mount Carmel Group are well knownnationally, operating facilities in Mount CarmelHospital, Dublin, St. Joseph's Hospital, Sligo andAut Even Hospital in Kilkenny.

Concert CancelledRebecca Storm “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers –The Streisand Songbook” concert scheduled totake place at University Concert Hall on Sunday15th June 2008 has had to be cancelled dueto unforeseen circumstances. UniversityConcert Hall has been advised that Miss Stormhas been offered an audition for the lead role ina West End musical to open next year. It isregrettable that the only date the director hasfree to meet with her is June 15th. The pro-moters of this concert would like to sincerelyapologies for any inconvenience or disappoint-ment this may cause. They hope to re-schedulethe Limerick performance later in the year.

Worlds FirstGaeilge OptionMobile PhoneSamsung Electronics is setting new standardsin the Irish mobile phone market with the intro-duction of the world’s first Irish language optionhandset. The Tocco, which launches in Irelandon the 1st July, will be available in Vodafone, O2,Meteor, Carphone Warehouse and 3G storesnationwide and retails from !129 on postpay.As well as including T9/Predictive text in Irishthe Samsung Tocco marks an innovative step intouch screen technology. The advanced phonehas a new and totally unique UI that providesthe simplicity of a full touch screen, and allowsyou to customise and personalise the way youuse your phone.

Let’s Live, Work &Play in a SaferMunsterThe GH Health & Safety Ltd. free defibrillatorsinitiative was launched in May 2008. The pro-posal is to provide each primary and secondaryschool and each local club (rugby, soccer, hurl-ing, camogie, Gaelic football, golf and swimmingpool) in Munster with a free defibrillator byDecember this year. This worthwhile initiativerequires all our support. Please log ontowww.ghsafety.ie or call 086 3838245 formore information.

The four star Blarney Golf Resort in Tower, Corkhas announced the appointment of GeorgeHook as Sales Manager for the property. AGraduate in Hotel and Catering Managementfrom Dublin Institute of Technology, Georgebrings with him a wealth of experience havingworked as General Manager at the Lansdowneand Hibernian hotels in Dublin and mostrecently at the Maritime Hotel in Bantry. A keensportsman, energetic and extremely successdriven, George will be focusing on bringing newand existing business to the golf resort, wherehe is responsible for corporate sales through-out Ireland.

Limerick City SchoolScoops First PrizeGaelcholáiste Luimnigh, Limerick’s only co-edall Irish Post Primary College were celebratingthis week after winning first prize in the JuniorCategory of the 2008 Student EnterpriseAwards National Final. Over 300 entrepreneursrepresenting 75 student run enterprises from allover the country were competing for a share ofthe !20,000 prize fund at the final which tookplace in Tullamore recently. Scooping first prizefor their DS Planners, an extremely innovativeplanner printed in both English and Irish, firstyear students Dylan Grace and Shane Kellywere thrilled to pick up the national trophy, cer-tificates and prize money. The 2008 WallPlanner was the brainchild of Dylan Grace whocame up with the idea by brainstorming andlooking at a variety of products that werealready in the market.

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Specsavers is located at:Cruises Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 312 811 Crescent Shopping Centre, Dooradoyle, Limerick. Tel: 061 302 120

Your professional eyecare service

Blarney Golf ResortAppoints George Hookas Sales Manager

George Hook

Dr Vincent Cunnane

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The cast of Limerick Musical Society arecelebrating this week as their leading ladyand lead man received nominations in thenational AIMS competition. AIMS is theassociation of Irish Musical Societies andover one hundred societies from all overIreland, north and south, take part in thenational competition.

Hollie O’Donoghue has been nominatedfor the coveted best actress award for herrole as Millie Dilmount in the LimerickMusical Society recent production ofThoroughly Modern Millie, which played tocapacity audiences at the UniversityConcert Hall, and the equally young and tal-ented Stephen Conacnnon has been nomi-nated for best male singer for his role asJimmy Smith.

‘We are delighted that our two youngleads were recognised by the AIMS adjudi-cator says Richie Ryan, artistic director

with LMS. ‘These two actors, playing therefirst lead roles in a major musical haveproven once again that Limerick is a tour-

de-force in terms of our musical and the-atrical productions. Hollie is a student inMary Immaculate College and has been inthe chorus with LMS over the last numberof years. She stepped up the lead role ofMillie Dilmount this year and we can expectto see Hollie on stage with the societyagain very soon. Stephen was one of themale chorus in Anything Goes with LMSand is currently a PE student in UL and isvery confortable up on stage. We are look-ing forward to working with Stephen againin the near future', says Richie

This is Limerick Musical Society's thir-teenth award nomination and previousnominees from the musical societyinclude Paul Nash, Judy O’Connor, NiamhO’Connell, Denise Broderick and RichieRyan. LMS have won AIMS awards for bestmusical direction, best comedian , bestvisual and best choreography in the past.

Limerick Musical Society Celebrate

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"O suns and skies and clouds of June,And flowers of June together,We cannot rival for one hourJunes bright blue weather "

AT FLOWERS FOREVER, FLOWERS ARENOT JUST OUR BUSINESS, THEY ARE OURINSPIRATION !

Flowers Forever Raheenservices the greater Mid-West region with uniqueand distinctive floralarrangements anddesigns. Their goal is tobring the joy and beautyof flowers to all who lovethem. Flowers are a won-drous gift from naturethat can make anyonesmile, and make spectacular gifts for anyoccasion including simply to show you care.

The proprietors Rachel and David Hannonfocus on providing you with arrangementsunlike the generic kind you may find at othershops. Flower artistry informs our design teamthus we are able to create exquisite arrange-ments that can only awe and inspire those whoreceive them! Rachel tells us that the simpleelegance of their design work can touch thehearts of all, as they are a reminder of theeffortless magic the natural world beholds.

Flowers Forever specializes in a wide array offlower arrangement styles. Rachel goes on toexplain that, "Our design team can create clas-sic arrangements, elegant country-inspireddesigns, make arrangements of tropical fanta-sy and of modern influence, as well as provid-ing en masse floral displays. We pride our-selves on our unique and exquisite FlowersForever specials. These are sculpted with pre-cision and are striking circular gatherings offlowers and botanicals that make excellentgifts for any occasion. From a hand-tied bou-quet to large scale designs our innovative styleand attention to detail will amaze you. Whenadmiring your bouquet sitting at your diningroom table, keep in mind that our design teamhere at Flowers Forever has done much morethan just arrange it for you, they are the artistswho have managed to bring a sense of joy andcare into your daily routine!"

Contact us at Flowers ForeverRaheen Roundabout,

Raheen, LimerickTel: 061 307123

Email : [email protected]

“a kind a different”

Forty newly qualified Aircraft MaintenanceTechnicians (AMTs) have officially commencedtheir professional careers with ShannonAerospace Ltd. (SAL) following the group’srecent graduation from Shannon Aerospace’sEASA Part-147 fully approved Training School.Run in conjunction with FÁS, the NationalTraining and Employment Authority of Ireland,graduates had the opportunity to specialise ineither Mechanical & Electrical Systems or

Sheet Metal & Composites over the course ofthe 27 month long AMT training programme.To mark the occasion, an official graduationceremony and celebratory event was held forgraduates and invited guests at the RadissonHotel, Limerick.

Special guest speaker at the graduation cere-mony was Peter Ellison, former Head ofMarketing & Sales at Shannon Aerospace.With 25 years experience in the aviation sec-tor and now working as Head of Sales for pre-mier aircraft leasing company, AWAS, Mr.Ellison was perfectly placed to advise the groupin relation to their bright futures within the avi-ation and aerospace industries. He outlinedthe scope for graduates to continue to developtheir careers within an exciting, vibrant, highly-competitive industry that is constantly evolvingand re-inventing itself.

Speaking at the graduation event, ShannonAerospace’s Chief Executive, Martin Kaisercommented; “I am very pleased to be in a posi-tion to welcome this group of qualified AMTs to

the SAL team and look forward to working withthem into the future. We at ShannonAerospace are very proud of the fact that manyof our senior managers began their careerswith us as Aircraft Maintenance Techniciansand I would hope that many of these graduateswill progress to equally senior positions withinShannon Aerospace – and indeed, withinLufthansa Technik AG – over the course oftheir careers.”

Shannon Aerospace is currently also involvedin providing specialised On-The-Job Training(OJT) for a series of Lufthansa Technik Sofiatrainee groups. These trainees will take up avariety of roles at Lufthansa Technik’s newSofia hangar, which will open in October inresponse to sustained growth in globaldemand for the provision of MRO services. Byyear end, it is expected that in excess of 100trainees from Sofia will have passed throughShannon Aerospace gaining skills and knowl-edge in specialist areas such as Mechanics,Avionics, Structures, Composites and Interiors.

Martin Kaiser commented further; “On anoccasion such as this, special thanks must goto our Training Department and to FÁS. Weare extremely proud of the standard and rangeof training courses currently being provided atour facility at Shannon and remain committedto meeting the individual training requirementsof all SAL employees, while also supportingLufthansa Technik training requirements forstaff based at other facilities.”

Class of 2008 Look to BrightFuture in Aerospace Industry

Mr. Tom Caffrey, Head of Quality & Training, Shannon Aerospace Ltd., Special Guest Mr. PeterEllison, Head of Sales, AWAS, with Mr. Martin Kaiser, Chief Executive, Shannon Aerospace Ltd.

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Don O’Malley & Partners was establishedby Limerick engineer Don O’Malley in 1967.Over the last 40 years the company hasevolved nationally and locally, into one ofIreland’s most reputable engineering andservice consultants. They are responsible formany of the regions most innovativedesigned buildings and their name and brandis synonymous with quality, service and cus-tomer satisfaction.

With a name for mechanical & electricialbuilding services and design, they haveinvested in a committed and professional

team of employees and partners and haveincreased their list of services to the con-struction industry. Their impressive contractportfolio of work carried out on commercial,public and private buildings over the years, istestament to the calibre of expertise on handin Don O’Malley & Partners. It is reassuringto know that a company with such technicaland specialist ability exists in Limerick andthe necessity to import specialists fromDublin and further a field is not required.

The services they offer to the constructionindustry fall mainly under the categories,

Forty Years of GuaranteedQuality & Service

Thomond Park

UL Concert Hall

Matttew Fox, Kevin Donnellan, Patrick Condon, John Moloney, Barry Coffey, Oliver Shinners, Don O’Malley, Liam Kavanagh.

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Mechanical & Electrical Engineering. Theyare proud to be contacted for these special-ist services to the new Thomond Park,responsible for the security system, publicaddress system, lighting, emergency andsafety systems and all electrical engineerservices.“We are delighted with our appointment byMuster Rugby as consultants to the famousThomond Park development”, said DonO’Malley, Chairman. “I hope this fact mayhave some semblance of influence when Iam looking for tickets to see the All-Blacks inNovember”, smiles Don. Don is well knownin golf circles, he is a member of LimerickGolf Club playing off 11 handicap and amember of Old Crescent RFC.

Liam Kavanagh is Managing Director ofDon O’Malley & Partners and has 27 fondyears with the company. Originally fromClonmel and a graduate of the College oftechnology, Bolton St., Dublin. Liam is also akeen golfer and a member of Limerick GolfClub, playing off 8 handicap. “The size andimportance of the projects we have com-pleted in the region and throughout Irelandhave been remarkable and I am proud thata Limerick company and especially our com-pany have done this with distinction. Giventoday’s growing climate of environmentalawareness, we have an ever increasingfocus in providing sustainable engineeringdesign for buildings, including the appicationof renewable energy technologies to helpreduce carbon emissions, and to provideenergy efficient building designs”, statedLiam.

Don O’Malley & Partners are celebrating40 years of service to the constructionindustry this year. They are associated withthe Institution of Engineers of Ireland (I.E.I.),Association of Consulting Engineers ofIreland (A.C.E.I.), Chartered Institute ofBuilding Services Engineers (C.I.B.S.E.) andAmerican Society of Heating Refrigeration

and Air Conditioning Engineers(A.S.H.R.A.E.). The firm has seventeen per-manent staff with a dedicated in houseteam of senior engineers & technicians sup-ported by CAD operators assigned to eachproject. The commitment and professional-ism of their expert team is paramount tothis consulting engineering company andDon O’Malley & Partners intend to continueto be the regional leader in this field when itcomes to challenging and unique projects.

Don O’ Malley & Partners received thePresidents award from The A.C.E.I. for excel-lence in the design of the University ConcertHall Building.

The Company has also completed DoonbegClub House, Lodge Building and summerresidences on behalf of their clients KiawahIsland resort association in South Carolina.

CLIENT PORTFOLIO INCLUDES

University Of Limerick:Foundation Building(Concert Hall)Robert Schuman BuildingComputer Science BuildingLibrary BulidingIrish Chamber Orchestra BuildingDromroe Village

Clarion HotelLimerick Institute of TechnologyHolmes O'Malley Sexton OfficesAdare ManorGreenmount Race CourseDoonbeg Golf ClubLimerick Regional HospitalDromoland CastleAskeaton Pool & Leisure CentreNew Limerick Greyhound StadiumSouth Side Regeneration Project

County Councils:LimerickTipperaryKerryClareGalway

Religious OrdersEducation InstitutionsLocal CommunitiesHoteliersCommercial DevelopersHSELimerick Prision ServiceIndustrialists

Department of Health & ChildrenDepartment of EducationDepartment of FinanceDepartment of DefenseDepartment of JusticeShannon DevelopmentIndustrial Development AuthorityEircomOffice of Public Works

Limerick Institute of Technology

Clarion Hotel

Panoramic view of buldings on UL Campus where Don O’Malley & Partners were consulting engineers.

CONTACT DETAILS:Don O’Malley & Partners92, O’Connell St., Limerick.

Tel: 061 318677Fax: 061 310270Email: [email protected]: www.domalley.com

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The magical atmosphere around theHeineken cup final is set to yield a second win

for Munster. This time it will be a tourism div-idend for the Shannon Region tourism indus-try thanks to a tourism campaign undertak-en by Shannon Development and TourismIreland UK. With all eyes on Cardiff last week-end the tourism agencies used the occasionto get a strong ‘Limerick’ tourism messageout to UK and French fans attending thisshowcase event. The campaign involved thedistribution of a specially designed colourfulpostcard outside the stadium in the build-upto the game and in the pubs and clubs inCardiff during and after the game. The post-card highlighted the links between Limerickcity and Munster rugby and promoting therange of access options from the UK to theRegion through Shannon InternationalAirport. The tourism agencies produced40,000 special postcards to telling potentialtourists about Limerick City and the Region.The postcard also contained a competitionoffering a holiday in Limerick city includingmatch tickets to see Munster versus the All

Blacks.“The event gave us a great opportunity toshowcase Limerick city as the tourism gate-way to the Shannon Region. The aim of thecampaign was to get a clear message topotential French and UK tourist that theShannon Region is a premier holiday destina-tions. This campaign combined with an adcampaign being undertaking in Cardiff’slargest daily newspaper will reach a potentialaudience of 500,000,” says John Brassil,Chairman, Shannon Development.

Great Britain (GB) is Ireland’s largesttourism generating market accounting for57% of total visits to Ireland in ’06 (latestavailable stats). GB accounted for 14% oftotal visits to the Shannon Region in 2006,almost 700,000 visitors in total. This latestcampaign is part of Shannon Development’soverall UK tourism marketing efforts, andthe company is confident that it will yieldtourism dividends.

Second Win for Munster as Rugby to YieldTourism Dividend

John Brassil, Chairman, ShannonDevelopment with the Heineken Cup.Looking on is Munster rugby player AnthonyHorgan.

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Shannon Airport has welcomedresults of a survey on punctuality fromIrish airports to the UK, which showspassengers transiting Shannon endurethe least amount of delays in the west.

The figures from the British CivilAviation Authority for February 2008,showed that Shannon had an averagedelay of just nine minutes per flightover some 460 flights into selected UKairports during the month of February,

The February figures, however,place Shannon as joint best in thepunctuality stakes in the West ofIreland with Knock Airport, both ofwhich have an average delay of justnine minutes and trailed by Galway(23) and Kerry (26). However, theShannon average is enhanced by thenumber of flights (460) to the UK air-ports surveyed compared to Galway(305), Knock (277) and Kerry (116).

Shannon AirportTop for Punctuality

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, Adare, CoLimerick is delighted to announce that it hasbeen voted the 4th best golf resort in NorthAmerica, the Caribbean & Atlantic, Irelandand Scotland in the highly prestigious CondèNast Traveler Magazine "Top 100 GolfResorts 2008 Readers' Poll". This incredi-ble accolade which is based entirely on theevaluation of the readers of the world's lead-ing travel magazine, see's Adare Manorreach the highest ranking ever achieved byan Irish golf resort in the same week it playshost to the Irish Open for the second consec-utive year.

Speaking on the news of the accolade, TomKane, Managing Partner, Adare Manor Hotel& Golf Resort said: "To secure such a highranking in such a prestigious poll is a testa-ment to the hard work and dedication theentire staff has put into making Adare Manorwhat it is today - Ireland's premier Golf

Resort. Both Judy and I are especiallydelighted that the resort has been recog-nised in a poll that is solely based on the expe-rience of guests and golfers the world overand we look forward to welcoming manymore guests in the coming months andyears."

Anita Higgins, General Manager, AdareManor Hotel & Golf Resort welcoming thepublication of the Poll, said: "This is fantasticnews for the Resort especially when you con-sider the calibre of the properties that arefeatured throughout the list. To place 4th ina global context truly cements our position asa destination of choice in the luxury golf &travel marketplace. The nearest Europeanresort to Adare Manor on the list is ranked at31 and when you consider that that resort isnone other than the 2014 Ryder Cup hostGleneagles, the enormity of this accolade istruly appreciated."

Adare Voted 4th Best GolfResort

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Business telecommunications companyMagnet Business which has a fibrebased net-work in Limerick has been awarded the titleTelecommunications Company of the Year.The awards night in its eighth year are consid-ered the Oscars for the IT industry in Ireland andrecognise professional standards in theInformation and Communications Technologysector.The judging panel chaired by Forfas ChairmanEoin O'Driscoll were impressed by the extent ofMagnet’s fibre network, with 39 unbundledexchanges nationwide and its competitive edge.Magnet Business Sales Director NicolaMortimer accepted the award said: “inn an

increasingly competitive market, this award is agreat testament to the high quality and differen-tiated service being offered by Magnet to ourbusiness customers. We have been recog-nised for raising the bar for telecommunicationsin Ireland, being the first to market with con-tention free broadband, Ireland’s fastest broad-band speeds and more recently a true businessgrade voice and data service for the SME. ”

Magnet Business provides an extensive portfo-lio of telecommunications products and servicesincluding high-end telecom systems, voice serv-ices, LAN extension, international links, broad-band, leased Line and internet services.

Mike Naughton, Operations Director and Fergus Frawley, Managing Director of Kirby Group

Limerick Company Awarded!7m Contract

Magnet Company Of The Year

Kirby Group Engineering, one of the largestengineering services contractors in Ireland,has been awarded the ! 7m contract toinstall the electrical infrastructure and con-trols and instrumentation cabling for thenew 842MWe Marchwood power plant inSouthampton UK. The contract awardcoincides with the opening of Kirby Group’sfirst UK office at Reigate Surrey, which willsupport Kirby Group’s ambition to grow itsbusiness in the UK market.

The contract was secured from SiemensAG in Germany and is the largest single con-tract award to date for Kirby Group in theUK market. The STG £380m power plantis being constructed by ESB International ina joint venture with Scottish & SouthernEnergy in the UK. It is scheduled to open in2009 and will generate enough electricity tosupply the needs of nearly one millionhomes.

Commenting on the contract win, Mike

Naughton, Operations Director of KirbyGroup said, ‘“The decision by Siemens toaward the contract to Kirby Group re-affirms our position as a leading contractorwithin the power plant sector. Irish con-tractors in general and Kirby Group in par-ticular, have developed a reputation for get-ting the job done safely, on time and withinbudget.”

Mr. Fergus Frawley, Managing Director ofKirby Group commented, “Key members ofour construction management team havere-located to Reigate to lead the expansionplan. This reflects the Group’s commit-ment to the UK market and our intention tosecure some 20% of overall turnover fromoverseas operations by 2010.”

Kirby Group was established in Limerick in1964 now employing 660 people with rev-enues of ! 82m in 2007. The Group hasoffices in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway.

The implications of the growingenergy crisis and dwindling fossilfuel reserves have been recognisedby the University of Limerick withthe establishment of the CharlesParsons Initiative on Energy andSustainable Environment (CPI) totackle issues of immediate nationalpriority in energy and sustainableenvironment.

Officially launched by Minister forCommunications, Energy & NaturalResources Mr Éamon Ryan, CPIrepresents a merger of six researchcentres and 30 faculty at UL,focussed on researching environ-ment and sustainable forms ofenergy across the areas of electro-chemistry, physics, electronic,mechanical and aeronautical engi-neering, computer science, mathsand statistics and accounting andfinance.

Speaking at the launch ULPresident Professor Don Barry saidthat there has been a paradigmshift in the Energy and SustainableEnvironment research landscapeover the past two years.

“The weight of scientific evidencehas brought the national and inter-national communities to focus onthe need to find technological solu-tions for the responsible exploita-tion of our natural resources. Inrecognition of this the Minister hasinitiated a climate change actionplan and the ESB has announced a!22Bln move to low carbon energyproduction and distribution by2020 and zero carbon by 2035.

To mark its launch, CPI also host-ed the Energy Solutions ’08Conference bringing scientists,researchers, Government andindustry representatives togetherto discuss the three main issues ofenergy generation and storage,sustainable hydrocarbons andsolutions for sustainable environ-ment.

UL EstablishesInitiative onEnergy andEnvironment

BL June 08 04/06/2008 16:53 Page 14

Yelverton & CoSOLICITORS

The name Yelverton has been synonymouswith the legal profession for hundreds ofyears. The name appears in British Legalcircles as early as the beginning of the 15thCentury. Christopher Yelverton and his sonHenry were appointed Attorney Generals, in1603 and 1617 respectively.

In 1772, closer to home Barry Yelvertonwas called to the Bar and introducedYelverton’s Act to amend Poyning’s Act sothat bills passed only by both Houses ofParliament in Ireland would be sent toEngland for assent. This allowed the CatholicRelief Acts to be introduced and providedfor Catholics to own certain land, to act asGuardians and to be teachers. He becameAttorney General of Ireland in 1782 andlater Judge as Chief Baron of theExchequer.

Gerard P.Yelverton, Principal of the Firm,has a much humbler and less lofty history.He was born in Limerick and educated bythe Christian Brothers before attendingUniversity College Dublin, the Law Society ofIreland and qualified as a Solicitor inMichaelmas 1980. He is a member ofShannon RFC, and Castletroy Golf Club.

Following his enrolment with the High Courthe gained invaluable experience working fora well known Limerick City firm. In 1986 hebecame a partner of a long establishedpractice until establishing Yelverton & Co.Gerard has completed many years as a gen-eral practitioner. Throughout his career hehas acted for a wide range of clients, bothprivate and institutional.

Yelverton & Co believe that a personalised,efficient service combined with a wealth oflegal experience leads to a successful out-come for their clients. They partner withtheir clients to help them achieve theirdesired results. They work closely with theirclients ensuring that they have an in-depthunderstanding of their personal and busi-ness objectives to enable them to achievethe best possible outcome.

Yelverton & Co offer a broad spectrum oflegal services and have extensive experi-ence in :

• Conveyancing- Residential and Commercial

• Wills, probate and Administration of

Estates

• Family Law

• Company formation

• Accident Claims

Contact details:2 / 3 Hartstonge PlaceUpper Hartstonge StreetLimerick

Tel: 061 444445Fax: 061 467137

Email: [email protected]: www.yelverton.ie

Yelverton & Co is dedicated to delivering first class legal advice within a multitude of areas. Clientcare is at the heart of all they do. They pride themselves on being approachable while providing a

personalised and efficient service focused on achieving the best results for their clients.


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Gerard Yelverton

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Ga l l e r y

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Gerry Reeves, Regional Manager, Richie Baucher, CEO, Irish Retail Division, Paula Hanly,Branch Manager, Tim O'Neill, Director Branch Network & Pat Wall, Regional SalesManager

At the official opening of their new Castletroy Park Development branch of Bank of Ireland were Pat Wall (Regional Sales Manager West Manager), Federico Pucciariello, Paula Hanly(Branch Manager), Tony Buckley & Neville Furlong (BOI).

David Fitzgerald with Mary, Patrica and Elaine Sheehan from Castletroy at the formalopening of Reva's Spa at the Woodlands Hotel Adare

Gerry Long, Limerick's Live 95FM, Matt Ryan Jnr., Mathew Stephens Jewellers, RobertKenneally, from Kenneally Jewellers, Paddy McGuinness, Bus Eireann, and David Tighe,Limerick's Live 95FM at the Limerick Live 95FM Corporate Night at Limerick Racecourse.

IRISH RECRUITMENT CONSULTANTSDeloitte & Touche House, Charlotte’s Quay, Limerick

061/313744, [email protected]

Barbara O'Connor Manager, David O'Connor Proprietor, and Ronan Gilbourne WorkShop Managerat the opening of the new Betterbuy Kitchens new show room in EastlinkBusiness Park, Ballysimon Rd.

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. . .

on 6th June 07

L to R Pat Roche, Mike O Donoghue, Eoghan Deegan, Finbarr Brougham, Fergal Deegan,Murrough O Byrne, Trevor Howell, pictured with Pat O Sullivan proprietor of Cafe Noir DenmarkStreet at a fundraiser for their upcoming charity cycle from Nantes to Lourdes in June.

Pictured at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Co. Clare, making a presentation of a Munsterjersey to (centre) Mikkel Hagen Hess from the Royal Danish Embassy are; (left) FrankLarkin, Communications Manager, Shannon Development and (right) John Ruddle, ChiefExecutive, Shannon Heritage.

Attending the Stryker Orthopaedics Scholarship presentation in the University of Limerickwere Joe Dore, Continuous Improvement Manager Stryker Orthopaedics; Prof PaulMcCutcheon, Vice President Academic and Registrar, UL; this years recipient Aine O'Dea, afirst year Law and Accounting student and Miriam Garry, HR Manager, Stryker Orthopaedics.

Aileen Noonan, Irish Wire, Louis Murphy, Dunraven Arms, Trish Verhey, Wyeth and SusanHamliton, Irish Wire, attending the Corporate Evening in the Dunraven Arms, Adare.

Ger O'Gorman, South West Greens, Joe Lisi, actor from the hit series The Suprano's,John Coyle, South West Greens and Michael McCumiskey, PGA Secetary Ireland at thelaunch of South West Greens.

Andrew Mawhinney, South West Greens, Jim Keane and Mark Fleming at the launch of South WestGreens last Friday.

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Limerick Marriott Celebrates its First Birthday - Ursula Cullen, Limerick Marriott, Greg Dwyer , Marriott Hotels Intl,Bob Chestnutt, Chairman Limerick Marriott, Nuala Cashman-Worth, Marriott Hotels Intl, Brian Harrington,Managing Director, Limerick Marriott and Euan Mitchell, Marriott Hotels Intl.

Jerry Flannery congratulating students from Colaiste Chiarian,Croom, winners of the Innovation Award at National StudentEnterprise Awards which was organised by Limerick County andCity Enterprise Boards.

Joe Sheehan, Carmel Brennan, Kate Sheehan & Eugune Brennan, at the fifth annualUniversity of Limerick President’s Gala Dinner, in Dromoland Castle.

Many of Limerick’s key business leaders came out in support of the fifth annual University of LimerickPresident’s Gala Dinner, which was held in Dromoland Castle. Professor Roger Downer, UL PresidentProfessor Don Barry & Dr Ed Walsh..

Breda Deedigan, President with Mayor Ger Fahy and Pat McNamara, President Shannon Rotary Clubat the Rotary Club Ball.

Minister Martin Cullen, TD, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism officially launched thedocumentary film 'The 314 of Foynes' at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins'Barracks. Pictured at the launch were Pat Daly, Shannon Development, John King,Shannon Development and Pat Keane, Coilte.

CONSTANT FOOT DISCOMFORT AND BACKPAIN?

For Serious Social Standing

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Paddy Keogh B M W, Con Quigley, Howath Bastow Charleton, and Padraic Frawley, Aubars, inAdare for the Irish Open.

Jim Lyons, Dympna & Michael Daly and Bobby Lyons enjoy the golf in Adare.

Liam Skelly with his wife Marie O’Gorman Skelly, Clarion Hotel enjoying the Irish Open.

Dave Geary, Newcastle West, Pat Hanley, Michael Punch & Partners and Ralph Parkes, Fine Wines,enjoying the Irish Open in Adare.

Linda Hogan and Patrick Keane of Keanes Jewellers, at their exhibition stand in Adare atthe Irish Open.

Elaine Barry, Eddie Price and Siobhan O Malley of the Limerick City Sports Partnership. John Begley, DTZ, Eugene Gantly and John Crowley, McInerney Homes (sponsor) withDes O Malley Jr., DTZ, at the Irish Open.

Former Minister for Justice and MEP Gerry Collins, Mary Cowhey and FrankCollins Business Limerick, enjoying the Irish Open.

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:04 Page 19

Limerick Rotarians Help toMake History Limerick Thomond Rotary Club, recentlyraised over !3000, which will net a !6000contribution to Rotary Internationals prom-ise to every child to certify the world poliofree. So how did the !3000 become!6000? It happened because Bill Gates,through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundationset Rotary members a challenge. He award-ed The Rotary Foundation a $100 milliongrant, whereby he promised to match up tothis amount, dollar-for-dollar the funds col-lected over the next three years.

The US$200 million funding agreement willbe formally launched as PolioPlus on 1 July2008 and is the largest grant ever given toa volunteer service organisation. It wasrequested that each Irish Club would con-tribute !1000 each year for the next threeyears. Not to be caught slacking, theLimerick members immediately theyreceived notice, rolled up their sleeves andgot out the collection buckets and raised thefull amount over one weekend before theformal launch. Thanks to the generosity ofthose who contributed Limerick Thomondwere the first Irish club to meet their target.

In 1985, Rotary, a worldwide organizationof 1.2 million men and women, made a com-mitment to immunize the world’s childrenagainst polio and became a spearheadingpartner in the Global Polio EradicationInitiative three years later. This campaignstroke a chord with the Microsoft boss, “Theextraordinary dedication of Rotary mem-bers has played a critical role in bringingpolio to the brink of eradication. Eradicating

polio will be one of the most significant pub-lic health accomplishments in history, andwe are committed to helping reach thatgoal.”

The other partners are the World HealthOrganization, the U.S. Centres for DiseaseControl and Prevention, and UNICEF. Todate, Rotary has contributed nearly $700million to the eradication effort and it is esti-mated that this recent drive will see theworld certified polio-free.

Decades ago, polio outbreaks were a con-stant threat around the world. After theintroduction of polio vaccines by Jonas Salkand Albert Sabin and a steadfast immuniza-tion effort, these outbreaks became part ofhistory in most of the world. Yet many stilllive under the threat of polio, which is whyRotary and its global partners are commit-ted to reaching every child with the vaccineand ending this disease worldwide.

Major gains have been made in the globalfight against polio. In the 1980s, the diseaseinfected 1,000 children every day in 125countries. Today, polio cases have declinedby 99 percent, with fewer than two thou-sand cases reported in 2006. Two billionchildren have been immunised, five millionhave been spared disability, and over250,000 deaths from polio have been pre-vented.

If you missed the Limerick Rotarians andwould like to contribute please visitwww.rotary.org/endpolio.

Pat O'Hanlon, Mariam O'Donovan, Michael Murphy - Members of the LimerickThomond Rotary Club who helped in the fundraising campaign.

Almost three quarters of young account-ants are optimistic about the immediateeconomic outlook and the impact it willhave on their career prospects. The‘Future Business Leaders’ survey con-ducted by BDO Recruitment surveyrevealed that 71% trainee and recentlyqualified accountants are optimistic aboutthe Irish economy and their careerprospects. The remaining 29% expressedconcern about the current economic cli-mate and how it will impact on their imme-diate career plans.

The survey of over 500 trainee/recentlyqualified accountants working in the‘Atlantic Corridor’ of Limerick, Clare andGalway also highlighted a preferenceamong young accountants work in indige-nous Irish companies. Multinational firmswere the second most preferred employ-ment option followed by the financial serv-ices industry.

Commenting on the findings, Directorwith BDO Recruitment Joe Delaneyexplained ‘there is definitely a very opti-mistic note from our annual ‘FutureBusiness Leaders’ survey with a high levelof confidence in the economy amongyoung accountants and the impact it willhave on their career. The survey also high-lighted that salary and benefits remain thesingle most important factor in attractingyoung accountants, other issues, particu-larly work life balance have becomeincreasingly important.”

The survey revealed a number of differ-ing attitudes and priorities among maleand female accountants. Male account-ants demonstrated a higher level of opti-mism about the current economic climatewhile their female counterparts were moreconservative in their economic outlook.Young male accountants surveyed placeda higher level of importance on work lifebalance than women, while womenregarded the experience they could gainfrom a job as being more important thantheir male peers. Location was also amore important factor for women than formen in selecting a job, while men placed ahigher value on career progression inpotential job roles than women respon-dents.

The ‘Future Business Leader’ surveyalso established that recently qualifiedaccountants salary expectations, aftercompleting articles, ranged from !38,000to !50,000. The average salary expecta-tion was !45,000 being the average.

Future is Optimistic

on Economic Outlook

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Dare to be Different in Business...

FREE SEMINAR PROMISES PRACTICALBUSINESS INNOVATION TIPS, AND ACHANCE TO WIN A DESIGN SHANNON SKILLNET COMPANY MEMBERSHIP(WORTH !3,000)

Design Shannon Skillnet (www.designshan-non.ie) will host a free half-day seminar entitled'Building Innovation' at 9.30am on Tuesday,June 10th in the Clarion Suites, Limerick. Thefocus of the event is to provide SMEs from theShannon Region, and beyond, with practicaladvice on how to use design and innovation todifferentiate their products and services, espe-cially during the current economic slowdown. Afurther benefit to companies attending the half-day seminar is the chance to win one companymembership of the 2-year Design ShannonSkillnet programme, worth ! 3,000, which re-commences in the Autumn.

The speakers at this half-day event will give

three contrasting perspectives on the value ofdesign and innovation in business. David Trevitt,a consultant with Innovator (www.innovator.ie)will focus on the hows and wherefores of newproduct development for SMEs. A charteredengineer and chartered marketer, his expertiseand experience span both the technical andcommercial issues surrounding new productintroductions. However, he is quick to point outthat business innovation should not focus solelyon improving product design, but should encom-pass every aspect of a company's operationthat impacts on the overall customer experi-ence. "Innovation is within every company'sgrasp, if the approach is right," he insists."Research* has shown that companies offeringeven moderate advantages over competitorsincrease their chance of success by almost60%, so innovation, at any level, does pay long-term dividends."

A view of innovation from the ground will beprovided by Michael Howe, Innovation Centre

Manager at Galway-based Creganna MedicalDevices (www.creganna.com), recipients of the2007 Frost & Sullivan Innovation of the YearAward for Medical Device Technology. While Creganna's innovation strategy contributesdirectly to the company's bottom line, Howesays that it also serves to move the company upthe value chain in customers' estimation: "Itputs us ahead of the competition with superiorofferings, which keep existing customers lockedin and bring new ones on board." Howe willdescribe how, from small beginnings, Cregannaused innovation to become a leading interna-tional supplier of manufacturing and technologi-cal solutions to the medical device industry. Hewarns that Irish companies can no longer com-pete on price with low-cost destinations, and willtherefore have to provide products that are dif-ferent or better to safeguard their future.

To register for this free seminar, tel. 065/ 6895282; email: [email protected]

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The Crucial Role of ManufacturingIndustry

There is no doubt that social partnershiphas been a key factor in Ireland’s growingprosperity for over two decades. In therecent publication of the report of the HighLevel Group on Manufacturing (HLGM), wesee one more example of its far-reachingand practical effects.

Established at IBEC’s request under theframework of ‘Towards 2016’, the groupbuilt on earlier reviews in that it considered,not simply the creation of wealth, but theability of the Irish economy to maintain andexpand it.

Manufacturing industry plays a crucial rolein this. No longer restricted to the mass-production of a limited range of products,modern manufacturing enterprises nowcomprise research and development,design, services, sales and marketing, logis-tics and distribution and, more often thannot, the co-ordination of all these activitiesfrom their carefully identified bases all overthe globe. Clearly, it is essential to have afully functioning manufacturing strategy inplace to meet the current and future chal-lenges of this most important businessarea. These challenges involve the coopera-tion of all the parties represented in thegroup.

The government has a central role in creat-ing an environment in which manufacturingindustry can develop. This part of the strat-egy must be achieved in the context of con-tinued economic stability, a relentless pur-suit of efficiency in government that deliversvalue for money in public services, minimis-es the tax burden and introduces sensibleand well-designed regulations that do notdraw managers away from improving theirbusinesses.

At the same time, government’s contribu-tion to keeping costs down and to address-ing the erosion of competitiveness will makethe difference between economic successand failure. We are not being melodramatichere: the manufacturing sector currently

employs 221,000 people directly and165,000 indirectly; it spends !25 billion ayear on wages and contributes !1.6 billiona year in corporation tax. This is truly a cen-tral dynamic of the Irish economy.

Irish manufacturing industry has survivedso far by responding rapidly to change. Thegroup’s report recognises this, recom-mending the establishment of NationalManufacturing Competence Centre(s)which will actively engage with industry, bothlarge companies and SMEs, to help addressthe current and future needs of production,R&D, innovation, supply chain management,energy efficiency, training and reskillingrequirements. It also highlights the need todevelop and intensify supports for businessand workplace innovation to include changemanagement, organisational change, mar-ket development capability and new busi-ness model development.

But will it work? The short answer is ‘yes’,provided all three parties show an equal willto make it work. A company can innovateand upskill to infinity, but it will still go to thewall if its employees refuse to embracechange, or demand higher wages forchanges that are not just ‘normal and ongo-ing’, but are essential to survival.Manufacturing industry can be an excitingand dynamic sector, but it will not survive ifoutdated systems of work are applied tostate-of-the-art processes.

The report and recommendations of theHigh Level Group and the establishment ofthe manufacturing forum offer a real oppor-tunity to work together and to evaluatewhere manufacturing policy is making a dif-ference and where it can become moreeffective. Our manufacturing sectorremains a key contributor to the Irish econ-omy, but it must continue and be allowed tochange rapidly. The report of the HLMG offers an invaluableblueprint towards maintaining and develop-ing the sector. IBEC will play its part withvigour and commitment.

IBEC is the national voice of business andemployers and is the umbrella body forIreland’s leading sector groups and associa-tions.

IBEC provides tailored advice to members,which range from the very small to thelargest enterprises, employing over 70% ofthe private sector workforce in Ireland.

As members, you:- Are informed of changes and revisions tolegislation to ensure compliance- Get answers to your legal queries quicklyand efficiently- Get practical advice and support on han-dling grievances correctly- Get representation before the LabourCourt, EAT and Rights Commissioners- Get on-line access to best practices, poli-cies and procedures- Mitigate against costly litigation claims andtribunals

For further information call IBEC Mid Weston (061) 410411 or e-mail [email protected]

Jim Healy,IBEC Mid West Executive

By Jim Healy, IBEC Mid West Executive

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The continued investment in the redevel-opment of Limerick’s Commercial centrehas identified the city as the business cap-ital of the Mid-West. The need for a topclass accountancy sector here has beenmet with the growth of accountancy firmsthat can compete on national and interna-tional levels. It is no longer necessary togo outside of Limerick or the Mid West toaccess the accountancy skills required tocomplete on the global market.

The growth in size in firms in theaccountancy sector brings great advan-tages, attracting young graduates withindividual expertise in modern accountingprocedures, but also expanding the port-folio of these firms to include wealth man-agement, investment, recruitment andHR services and advice.

Limerick’s larger accountancy firmshave also expanded their operations intoattractive office complexes where busi-ness can be conducted in comfortable

and professional surroundings.

Grant Thornton’s managing partner,Gearoid Costelloe believes his firm hasmade a contribution to developing busi-ness in the region. “Grant Thornton placea very strong emphasis on both practicaland academic training and we run ourown graduate programme ensuringexpert accountants for our businessclientele. Our global presence in 80 coun-tries with our record in demonstratingleadership within the accountancy profes-sion instills a confidence to ourclients,”said Gearoid.

This year there has been a slowdown incertain business sectors and there is nodoubt that there are challenging timesahead but with the expertise in account-ancy available on our doorstep we have alot to be positive about.

Ger Holliday is Private Client Partner inBDO Simpson Xavier Accountants, and

he believes that we can strengthen ourbusinesses and prepare for any downturnin the marketplace. “Accountancy firmsin the Mid West must have a varied andflexible list of services. We offer ourclients a complete range of business andconsultancy supports across all sectors.We offer expert advice in marketing con-sultancy, independent financial services,taxation both personal and corporate,auditing and accounting services and weare a ‘one stop shop’ for commercial andbusiness advice”, said Ger.

“We are especially pleased to be appoint-ed as the business advisors to MunsterRugby and celebrate with them with TheHeineken Cup victory. In the professionalrugby world, Munster Rugby face thesame challenges as any business and weare uniquely positioned to support themwith the broad range of services we pro-vide”, added Ger.

Accountancy Firms Strong in the Mid- West

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Small firms in Ireland and the Mid-Westregion have been to the forefront of joband wealth creation according to theSmall Business in Ireland 2008 Report.

Welcoming the report the AssistantDirector of the Small Firms AssociationAvine McNally said: “small firms are sig-nificant contributors to economicgrowth.

“They are both different and important.They are important because they createjobs. They are different because they aremanaged by people who take risks withtheir own money.”

She added: “there is no doubt thatIreland has made the quantum leap inthe past decade. More people than everwant to be employers rather than

employees. The overriding challenge forus is to give expression to these ideasand create more and more small busi-nesses. For over a decade small busi-nesses have been the main source ofemployment growth and a major vehiclefor change.

“Public policy in regard to the smallbusiness sector in Ireland cannot be con-ducted without the benefit of compre-hensive, up-to-date statistical informa-tion. The information contained withinthe report provides a range of indicatorsrelevant to the small business sector.This will enable emerging trends to bemonitored, key business issues to beidentified which will assist in the develop-ment of coherent polices and future plan-ning for the sector” she concluded.

Small Firms Create Jobsand Wealth

Niall Harris has been appointed as LimerickBranch Manager with Manpower Ireland, thecountry’s leading provider of workforce man-agement solutions.In his new role, Niall will be the office man-

agement as well as the overall business andstaff development for the Manpower Limerickbranch which currently employs seven staff.Niall will also focus on managing client rela-tionships to further strengthen ManpowerIreland’s position as the leading player in theIrish recruitment sector.Niall has an honours Bachelor of BusinessStudies degree from the University of Limerickand prior to joining Manpower Ireland, Niallgained a wealth of experience working in therecruitment industry throughout the regionduring the last 10 years.

New Appointment

Niall Harris

Vote No To Long- Term Foot Pain

SupportingFreedom To Shoes

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Investments have had a lot of bad press latelyagain the belief of a major downturn in theeconomy plays a big factor. There are stillgreat options to continue our regular savingshabits instilled in us with our previous SSIAmonies. Personal retirement pensions are amust, for the self-employed. There is no limit tohow much you can save for your retirement.

GK Wealth Management Ltd, formerlyGallivan Kennedy Insurance Brokers boast 70years of experience in pensions and the invest-ment markets. Sales Director Carl Widgersays that they will grow our business by assist-ing clients grow their wealth through a broadrange of tax efficient investment products.

“We have a number of clients in the currentenvironment who are looking for capital guar-anteed investments and others see value ininvesting in the stock markets now”, said Carl.Noel Gallivan Director of GK Wealth added,“We feel a major growth area over the nextfew years will be self- administered pensionplans where high net worth clients can man-age their own pension plans”.

Ruth Mulcaire, Financial Advisor of RuthMulcaire Mortgage and Investment feels thatsaving regularly is an excellent habit to get into“You are building up your nest egg by contribut-ing regularly but you are also benefiting from aconcept called euro cost averaging. Regular

investors, such as those investing in pensions,regular premium savings and investment prod-ucts, with a medium to long-term investmenthorizon can actually benefit from marketvolatility due to euro cost averaging. As themarkets go down, investors get a better priceon the units they are buying, hence their regu-lar premium allows them to buy more units. Ina volatile market, euro cost averaging allowsan investor to build up an investment poised tobenefit from a recovery, without having toworry about when the bottom of the marketwill occur.

“Outside of regular savings, if you have a lumpsum to invest, some of the life companies now

Investments, Savings,Pension Plans....

Essential for the Self Employed


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provide a system to allow you to benefit from euro cost averaging bydrip feeding your investment into the market over a period. Eg 10months. It aims to smooth out any high & lows in your investment overthe short term, while giving you higher growth potential over thelonger term.” Said Ruth.

“Over the long-term markets have recovered and performed strong-ly – historically markets have survived these short-term correctionsand rebounded strongly.” Added Ruth. “The smart money isn’t tryingto time the market and predict when the market will bottom. It’sinvesting whilst prices are low to capitalize on poor sentiment andgreat value in the stock market. By diversifying your investmentsacross different markets and asset classes it is a means of insulatingyour portfolio from the impact of market volatility on the returns of anyasset class.

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The National Technology Park, Limerick,received a boost when it was promoted at aspecial Shannon Development KnowledgeNetwork Conference held recently at Adare,Co. Limerick. The Conference pulled togetherall five of Shannon Development’s world classbusiness parks in the Shannon region whichare developed specifically to attract and sup-port knowledge-intensive enterprises. Theaim of the Conference was to allow key busi-ness people from all five business parks tomeet each other and network by pooling infor-mation, knowledge and expertise.

“We wanted to create an environmentwhere leading business people from our fivebusiness parks could meet and share ideaswhich could possibly lead to further partner-ships, and new investment in the Region. Weare delighted with the positive feedback fromour client companies who say that the eventallowed them to form invaluable new businesscontacts,” says Eugene Brennan, ExecutiveDirector Development and Marketing,Shannon Development.

The five Shannon Development operatedbusiness parks around the region are: TheNational Technology Park (NTP) in Limerick,Birr Technology Centre in Co. Offaly; Tipperary

Technology Park in Thurles, Co. Tipperary; theInformation Age Park in Ennis, Co. Clare, andKerry Technology Park in Tralee.

National Technology Park Gets Promotional Boost

Pictured ‘doing the biz’ at the Shannon Development Knowledge Networking Conference in Adare are, JoanCorcoran, Shannon Development, National Technology Park, Limerick; Eugene Brennan, Executive DirectorDevelopment and Marketing, Shannon Development; Sean Ryan, Managing Director Aspen Connect, locatedat Kerry Technology Park, Tralee, and Martin Murray MD, New Vistas Healthcare Ltd.


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The number of franchises in Ireland hasgrown five-fold within the last decade toaccount for over Euro 2bn of sales annual-ly. Franchising offers an opportunity to gointo business for oneself, using a well-test-ed formula. If the franchise is already wellestablished, the franchisee is likely to ben-efit from instant brand recognition backedby nationwide promotional campaigns.

Franchising is a form of licensing wherethe parent company (the franchisor)grants an independent entity (the fran-chisee) the privilege to exclusively marketgoods or services in a very specified andcomprehensive manner, using the umbrel-la of the franchisors brand name. A rigidcontract, setting out a universally appliedbusiness blueprint, is central to the fran-chising relationship. The parent companyprovides continuing technical support suchas training and marketing material. Thefranchisee agrees to pay an initial licencefee plus royalties- calculated as a percent-age of sales revenue.

Franchising is a mutually attractive propo-sition; It provides the parent company witha viable alternative to direct market entrywithout the need for large-scale capitalinvestment. Local franchisees have agreater vested interest in making theirbusinesses grow; they are more motivatedthan salaried employees.

This apparent win-win situation is not with-out its shortcomings. Large royalty pay-ments can erode profit margins.Franchisees must be prepared to sacrificetheir independence in order to strictlyadhere to a rigid formula. The individualfranchisee is subject to the fortunes of theparent company when times are bad.Therefore, it is imperative that one gathersas much information as possible beforeembarking on any business venture.

Satisfy yourself that the franchise has aproven track record and check whetherthey have been involved in any lawsuits with

former stakeholders. Visit a number of out-lets and observe the entire day-to-day run-ning of the working outlet (and not just atpeak times). Enquire from existing fran-chisees about their dealings with the par-ent company. Back your initial judgementwith advice from independent businessprofessionals.

Consult with your accountant and confirmthat you have the ability to access suffi-cient capital to get the operation off theground. Confirm the cost of the initiallicence fee and the cost of purchasing suit-able premises. Study the ongoing royaltyfees and other hidden management costssuch as training and advertising levies(normally 5% of turnover). Ensure thatthese fees leave you with a sufficient profitmargin. Satisfy yourself that auditedaccounts, provided by the franchisor forthe scrutiny of potential investors, are inorder.

Engage a legal professional to examinethe fine print of the contract in areas suchas dispute resolution procedures, yourright to sell related products and the rightof the franchisor to withdraw the franchiseshould it not meet projected profit.

A qualified marketing professional can beinvaluable in independently assessing themarket potential of the franchise and

gauging whether the parent company hassufficient management depth to supportthe development of your business. Atrained marketer will quickly establishwhether the trademark has sufficient pro-tection. In the past, franchises havelaunched in foreign countries without real-ising that their operation may haveinfringed on an existing registered trade-mark in that country.

Strong franchises are invariably backedby consistent corporate image.Consistency is the key to managing cus-tomers’ expectations. A well-written opera-tions manual, coupled with an ongoingtraining programme, will ensure that thefranchise can be sufficiently replicated.Distinctive furnishing and layout, as well asstringent staff training and dress code,serve to underpin corporate identity. Yourmarketing advisor will guide you on thesuitability of your proposed business loca-tion and the exclusivity of your territorialrights. Finally, select a franchisor dedicated tofranchising as its primary means of prod-uct or service distribution. Be cautious offranchisors with a large number of compa-ny-owned stores, or those who distributeproducts or services through other mar-keting channels

Contact Eamonn Dillon

QED MARKETING & TRAINING SOLUTIONSTelephone: 061 - 357 858 Mobile: 086 8190890

Email: [email protected]

FRANCHISING – An off-the-shelf business solution

McDonalds, Specsavers, O’Brien’s Sandwich Bar and Snap Printing: Franchises provide a viable turnkeyalternative for those seeking a new business venture but the maxim caveat emptor still applies.

Success always comes when preparationmeets opportunity”

National Examiner andconsultant in strategicmarketing, sales man-agement and publicrelations, Eamon Dillonis a Director of both theIrish Marketing Instituteand Limerick Chamberof Commerce.

Eamonn Dillon

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A new cancer charity has been established forthe benefit of patients with cancer and theirfamilies in the Mid-West region. TheFoundation will support the work of Limerick’sMid-West Cancer Centre, which provides a fullrange of treatment facilities and services whichenables patients to be treated locally. The Mid-West Cancer Foundation was established byConsultant Medical Oncologist and Director ofCancer Services at the Mid Western RegionalHospital, Professor Rajnish Gupta. Its role will beto streamline donations to ensure that the besttreatment, services and cutting edge technologyis available to cancer patients in the Mid-West.The Foundation’s main focus is to ensure thatfunds donated are used as efficiently and effec-tively as possible. Funds raised will help supplythe Mid-Western Cancer Centre with extraequipment and provide additional services forcancer patients, while also contributing towardseducation and cancer research. TheFoundation’s main fundraising event for 2008will be its inaugural Butterfly Ball which will beheld in the Hilton Hotel in Limerick onSeptember 5th this year. It is hoped that theButterfly Ball will raise !50, 000 towards theholistic care of patients and cancer research inthe Mid-West Region.

Each year in Ireland, 20,000 new cases of can-cer are diagnosed and over 7,500 deaths arecaused by cancer. This accounts for almostone quarter of the annual death toll. ProfessorRajnish Gupta, Chairman of the Mid-WesternCancer Foundation said, “The number of peoplediagnosed with cancer continues to increaseand in the Mid-West alone there are over 1,400people diagnosed each year. It is essential thatcancer patients in the Mid-West have the bestpossible care and access to up to date facilitiesand services. The Mid-Western Cancer Centreis critical to people of the Mid West. However,these services need to be constantly updatedand expanded to accommodate the growingpopulation and increasing number of patientswith cancer in the Mid-West. The Foundationwill play a vital role in providing this much need-ed support.”

More information on the Mid-Western CancerFoundation and the Butterfly Ball can be foundat www.midwesterncancercentre.ie/research-fund/index.htm. Tickets for the Ball are avail-able from the Mid-Western Cancer Foundationon 061 210979 or 085 1261188.

Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel isdelighted to announce the 1st LimerickWedding Civil Ceremony outside of theLimerick Registry was held in the hotel onWednesday 23rd April last. Louise Quirke,Deputy Registrar of Civil Marriages, was onhand to perform the wedding ceremony in thehotel’s Treaty 300 suite for Mary O’Doherty &Dave Cassidy. The bride & groom were joinedby family & friends for the intimate ceremonyand festivities afterwards.

Speaking on being the first hotel venue inCo.Limerick to host a civil wedding ceremonyElaina Fitzgerald Kane, Director of Sales, said:“We at Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotelhave always been associated with being one ofMunster’s best wedding venues and the addi-tion of the civil wedding ceremony weddinglicence is another string to our bow. It was alovely day and Louis Quirke made everybodyfeel so relaxed. Mary & Dave were surprised

that they were Limerick’s first which added tothe day further. For details of the CivilWedding Ceremonies can be found by con-tacting from Louise Quirke, Deputy Registrarof Civil Marriages, St. Camillus’ Hospital,Shelbourne Road, Limerick 061 483763 orElaina Fitzgerald Kane, Fitzgeralds WoodlandsHouse Hotel 061 605173 [email protected] or www.woodlands-hotel.ie

‘Butterfly Ball’ to be held inSeptember

Woodlands Host First CivilWedding held in Co. Limerick

HBCL Investments & PensionsLtd. has announced a successfulfirst year in business.

Established by business womanJoan Garahy, the firm is based inthe landmark Red Church onHenry St. in Limerick. TheManaging Director established thefirm of independent advisors inconjunction with the well-knownfirm of accountants and businessadvisors Howath BastowCharleton.

The company advises on per-sonal investments, pensions,including self-administered pen-sions and retirement funds, sav-ings, life cover and income protec-tion and company investments.

Joan has almost 20 years’ expe-rience in financial services provid-ing her with a valuable backgroundfor advising individuals and com-panies. She spent ten years as astockbroker, five with NCB andfive with Goodbody where sheestablished a reputation for topquality research. She was votedNo. 1 analyst in Ireland on sevendifferent occasions.

In 2001 she moved into fundmanagement with HibernianInvestment Managers as Head ofResearch putting her recommen-dations into action. She was alsoHead of Research with the NTMAestablishing the research functionof the National Pensions ReserveFund now a ! 21bn fund. Mostrecently she was Director ofInvestments at HC FinancialServices in Galway where she pro-vided independent investmentadvice to individuals and compa-nies.

Joan lives in Castleconnell withher husband and two sons. Whenshe is not selecting and managingportfolios for HBCL’s clients shecan be spotted on the fairways ofNenagh Golf Club or indeedencouraging her boys on to victo-ry in the Munster Schools Rugbycompetition.

Successful First

Year for HBCL

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Reviewing the region's restaurants is atough job….and we are privileged to doso! I have always felt that the biggestdifference between restaurants can bethe friendliness warmth and character ofour hosts. Of course the quality, varietyand originality of menu, the service andpresentation, are all paramount in mak-ing a top-class restaurant. The uniquegift that some Maitre D’s or restaurantmanagers have, to immediately makeone feel welcome with friendly, knowl-edgeable banter is something thatrestaurant manager William McManus ofthe Round Room Restaurant, Bunrattypossesses in abundance. William knowshis business, a professional with greatwit, inspiring those around him.

The Round Room Restaurant is housedwithin Bunratty Castle Hotel, which hasbeen lovingly transformed since my lastvisit, some years ago. The proprietor,Freda Hayes of Meadows & Byrne famehas certainly lent her decorative talents,beautiful couches and soft furnishingsfrom her showrooms next to the hotel, tothe wonderful new decor. We weredelighted with its pleasant ‘countryhouse’ atmosphere and attractiveentrance. The restaurant itself is unique,circular in shape with high beamed ceil-ings and wooden floors. The lighting waslow and all tables candle-lit including acast iron candelabra centre piece, it real-ly worked a treat! William warmly wel-comed us as we took our seats onantique wooden chairs and perused themenu. Crisp white linen tableclothsadorned all tables and this restaurantoozed ambience and class.

On their menu, there were some veryinteresting combinations such as mystarter, Ricotta filled figs, Parma ham,balsamic vinaigrette; Lemon & ChilliPrawn Linguini with coriander; WarmPigeon Breast with glazed shallots & wal-nut oil and Classic Caesar Salad withChicken.

For the main event, Marinated cannonof Spring Lamb served withMediterranean vegetables and red cur-rant reduction, Pan Seared BarbaryDuck Breast with red cabbage andjuniper berry sauce, Oven Baked RedSnapper with crisp julienne of vegetablesand tomato oil; and the main coursewinner in my opinion was their scrump-tious 10oz Char Grilled Irish Fillet Steakwith portobello mushroom and peppersauce.

And for the sweetest part of theevening from the patisserie section of thekitchen, we were served, Dark andWhite Chocolate Torte with Toffee andPecan Sauce, Warm Pear and AlmondTartlette with a Vanilla Crème AnglaiseSauce and Honey Comb Ice Cream anda Baked Wild Berry Crumble servedwarm with Vanilla Cream.

This was a superb meal, excellent cui-sine presented impeccably - compli-ments to chefs Anthony Walsh andFergus Crowe! The service was sofriendly and the dynamic duo Elaine Kellyand Mary Hayes who catered to ourevery need, should be commended for ajob well done. General Manager, LeeGregson, the man at the helm must alsobe praised for his organisation of such aprofessional outfit. I and my foodiefriends had a fabulous evening and I canhappily recommend the Round RoomRestaurant, Bunratty Castle Hotel, to allBusiness Limerick readers. You canbook your place in this fine restaurant,just 10 minutes from Limerick by dialing061 478700.

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The Round Room Oozed Ambience and Class.

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The Wines...An excellent and varied selection avail-able on the Round Rooms wine-list.We selected a wonderful south AfricanCabernet Sauvignon, Graham Beck2000, a full bodied, fresh and fruity witha hint of oak, a superb wine - so goodwe had two bottles!


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Two of the world’s cycling legends will join ahost of Limerick businesses to take part in the2008 BDO Get BACk Challenge next month toraise funds for cancer care and sporting disad-vantaged children in the Mid-West.

Three time Tour de France winner GregLeMond and former world cycling number oneSean Kelly will cycle with Limerick businessesand local bodies to raise ! 300,000 for thecharity event, a major annual initiative organ-ised by BDO Simpson Xavier with the supportof a wide range of businesses throughout theregion.

This is the third running of the BDO Get BACkChallenge and in the previous two years theevent has contributed a total of !300,000 toboth cancer care and sporting disadvantagedyouth. Almost !200,000 has been donatedto Mid-West cancer care while over 4,000 chil-dren have benefitted from the allocation ofover !100,000 to a variety of grant schemesand sports participation programmes. Thesporting disadvantaged programme targettedsocially disadvantaged children with the sup-port of the Local Sports Partnership.

The event started in 2006 with the support ofsix main partners in a Mid-West ‘BusinessAgainst Cancer’ driven initiative. The partnersincluded AIB, Bank of Ireland, Bloxhams, Leahy

& Partners and Sweeney McGann Solicitorsalong with event organisers BDO SimpsonXavier. A number of new partners havebecome involved in the event this year includingHegarty Metals, Kemmy Business School UL,GE Commercial Aviation Services, Limerick CityRegeneration Agency, Doonbeg Golf Resort,Brooks Properties and the Hard Rock Cafe.

Managing partner of BDO Simpson XavierBrian McGann said: “this year we are delightedto welcome on board another eight partnerswhich demonstrates the ability of local busi-nesses to work together for such worthwhilecauses. It is also significant that two of theworld’s greatest cyclists have agreed to cometo Limerick to support this unique event thatdraws in the support of such a variety of organ-isations working towards this great cause.

“The impact of the funding donated from theprevious two events has been phenomenalfrom supporting hospice home care pro-grammes in the Mid-West to providing sport-ing opportunities to so many young people indisadvantaged areas” he added.

The BDO Get BACk Challenge will take placeon Saturday June 21 and will feature a 220km.and 100km. cycle in addition to a 20km. walkfor non cyclists.

E-net, manager of Ireland’s fibre-opticMetropolitan Area Networks (MAN), hassigned a deal with BT for the provision of back-haul data services in 18 MAN-enabled townsand cities, including Limerick. The deal is val-ued in excess of !3m.

The 18 MAN towns connected in this deal areAthlone, Ballina, Carlow, Carrick-on-Shannon,Clonmel, Cork, Drogheda, Dundalk, Galway,Kilkenny, Limerick, Mullingar, Portlaoise,Roscommon, Sligo, Tullamore, Waterford,Wexford.

It means that e-net will be in the position tooffer MAN customers access to the higher

speeds and network reliability provided by BT'sglobal network which connects customers inIreland to 170 countries and 250 cities world-wide.

Initially speeds available to customers will beup to one Gigabit (1,000,000,000 bits of infor-mation) per second.

There are currently over 600,000 users ben-efiting from the existence of the MAN’s. TheGovernment is currently proceeding with asecond phase of the Metropolitan AreaNetwork Programme for the building of up to afurther 90 MANs around Ireland.

Business to Raise Fundsfor Charity

Limerick Gains from BT !3MNetwork Contract

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YES Vote for Jobs in Mid-West EconomyThe Lisbon Treaty proposal of rotatingCommissioners equally between all MemberStates is “a massive win for small countries”and the Treaty is a good deal for Ireland anda good deal for the Mid-West said IBECRegional Director Chris O’Donovan.Speaking at the formal launch of the IBECTreaty campaign he said the Treaty willreform how decisions are made in the EU sothat Europe can remain an engine for growthand prosperity. The Treaty will enable the EUto respond faster to the new challengesahead, such as energy security, the rise ofIndia and China as economic forces, and cli-mate change. It is a very good deal forIreland, and the Irish economy, and should besupported. Mr O’Donovan continued: “theLisbon Treaty deal on Commissioners is amassive win for small countries. LargerMember States have already given up thepower they once enjoyed to nominate twocommissioners, and the Lisbon Treatyensures that in the future, portfolios will beequally rotated between all.“I would understand if Germany, France orthe UK, who until 2004 had two

Commissioners, were protesting that from2014 they will have the same arrangementsas Ireland, Malta and Cyprus, but we have gota great deal. The smaller states have clearlywon out in this particular battle.“The Lisbon Treaty successfully achieves theIrish goal of creating a more manageable,effective Commission in an enlarged EU, whileat the same time protecting the interests ofsmaller states. The compromise is a verygood example of how small countries suc-cessfully influenced the outcome of the treatynegotiations.

“The Lisbon Treaty will modernise the EU tomake it more effective and more democratic.It streamlines decision-making, gives Europea bigger voice on the world stage andensures that European citizens have agreater say. As a result, Europe will be betterable to face the many new challenges ahead;such as increased globalisation, climatechange and cross-border crime. It will makeEurope work better, and this is good news forjobs, the economy and for Irish business.Ireland has been the success story of Europe

and this Treaty will allow us to do even better.“The principle of a rotating Commission wasa key provision of the Nice Treaty, whichIreland endorsed in 2002. The Nice Treatystates that when the EU enlarges to 27Member States: "The number of Members ofthe Commission shall be less than the num-ber of Member States. The Members of theCommission shall be chosen according to arotation system based on the principle ofequality, the implementing arrangements forwhich shall be adopted by the Council, actingunanimously” he concluded.

Chris O’Donovan.

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:14 Page 34


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35

Do you know how much you are worth? Would itsurprise you to know that on average we are allprobably worth more than !2 million? Take a 35year old earning !50,000 per annum. That per-son will earn close to !2 million by the time theyreach retirement age.

It is often said, that your home is your most valu-able asset. Maybe not. You and your ability to earnan income could be the most valuable asset youwill ever possess.

Now ask yourself how well protected is thisasset? We all have numerous insurance productsto cover ourselves and our possessions, in theevent of something going wrong e.g . house insur-

ance, car insurance, life, holiday, or even pet insur-ance! Yet only 8% of the working population havethe foresight to insure themselves and their abili-ty to work.

Let’s look at it logically. What pays for all theseinsurance products? Yes, your salary. Therefore,it should be the first thing you insure. If your abili-ty to earn a living is jeopardised, then you may notbe able to afford to run a car or keep up yourmortgage repayments, take a holiday and so on. Many employed people have some form of healthinsurance through their work, but the benefit isoften limited to payment for a few weeks only, orat best, a few months. That’s fine if you sprainyour ankle or get the flu, but if something serioushappens, and you are out of work for the longterm, the only cover you may have is the State

Disability Benefit, which is ! 197.80 per week.Could you pay your mortgage, grocery bill, E.S.B.,phone bill with !197.80? And a lot of people donot realise, that if you are self-employed, you arenot entitled to any State Disability Benefit.

This is a big risk for anyone to take, yet most of usdon’t give it a second thought. Maybe it’s time wedid. The solution is simple and readily available. It’scalled Permanent Health Insurance or in otherwords, Income Protection Cover.

You might think that the cost of covering yourselffor the potential loss of over !2 million would beexpensive. However, one of the big advantageswhen it comes to paying for Income Protection

Cover, is that the premium is fully tax deductible,at your marginal rate of tax. So, take the 35 yearold we mentioned above, this person could pro-tect their income for as little as !12 per week.

So why don’t we all have this Income ProtectionCover? Well probably for a couple of reasons. It isonly offered by a few Companies, perceived asbeing expensive, and let’s face it, it’s not exactlythe most interesting thing to talk about, but it isprobably one of the most important.

As independent Financial Advisors, F J Hanly &Associates are in a position to recommend thebest Income Protection Products available. Notinsuring your income might be too big a risk totake, so call Fergus or Kevin today, on (061)310533.

How much are you worth?• Wealth Management

• Self Administered Executive & Individual Pension Schemes

• Investments & Savings

• Life Assurance

• Serious Illness Cover

• Income Protection Schemes

• Commercial & ResidentialMortgages

FJ Hanly & AssociatesFinancial Consultants2nd Floor,RiverPoint,Lower Mallow Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 310533Fax: 061 310011Email: [email protected]

Member of the ProfessionalInsurance Brokers Associationand Investor CompensationCompany.Softford Limited t/a F.J. Hanly &Associates Financial Consultantsis regulated by the FinancialRegulator.

Kevin Dore, Director, Ann-Marie Shanahan, Office Manager, Michelle Crosse,Administrator, Fergus Hanly, Managing Director.

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:14 Page 35

If its old world charm mixed with modernfacilities you want for that perfect break-away, then you’ll find it at The ImperialHotel. Located in the heart of Cork City itis the perfect location to rejuvenate andrelax in what is one of the most welcom-ing hotels in the region. It was with sheerdelight that I accepted their warm invita-tion to indulge myself for a weekend ofpampering and indulgence.

On arrival, the friendliness of the staffensured complete ease and one couldenjoy the magic and ambience of thisbustling Hotel.

Accomodation: All rooms are of very highstandard, modern décor and sheer luxuryfor your comfort. We enjoyed a deluxeroom which was ideally located on a floornearest to the Escape Spa.

Escape Spa: All stresses and strainsremained in the changing rooms. Wewere led to the Vitality Suite where wechilled in the hydrotherapy pool andrelieved all our tensions. Aroma and saltgrottos assisted with the exfoliationprocess, and we proceeded by candlelitpathway to our treatment rooms. The‘Foot Ritual’ which is performed before all

treatments was greatly enjoyed. I optedfor the Aveda Pure Focus Facial. TheAveda range are all plant based productsand coupled with the expertise of mytherapist, the experience was sheer bliss.I had the masque treatment with theoption of a face & neck massage or skinexfoliation. Then onto the RelaxationSuite, where we enjoyed peace and innercalm in a candlelit room with soft music inthe background. I reluctantly left thispeaceful haven and gently eased myselfback to reality.

Dining: The Pembroke Restaurant is ele-gance profound. An extensive menu witha mix of Irish / Meditteranean cuisine,sourced locally from the famed EnglishMarket. One can be sure to experience asymphony of culinary delights here in thishaven for food lovers. The relaxed ambi-ence, along with their outstanding winesfrom all corners of the globe made this atruly delightful experience. A seat by thewindow to watch the world go by and here

you could truly experience the magic ofthis special city.

Cork, recognised as the capital of cul-ture, there is certainly no shortage ofplaces to go, so if you want theatre, cine-ma, restaurants, or just a quiet drink,then you’re in the right city, the optionsare endless. Renowned also for shoppingthis city is just a hidden treasure chest forthose who will shop till they drop. There isnothing that you won’t find here in thismajestic city, so make your call today and

experience the magic of The ImperialHotel with room only rates starting at!99, for further information on all ourspecial offers call 021 4274040 or see www.flynnhotels.com.

The Imperial Hotel is part of The FlynnHotel Group which includes; Old Ground,Ennis, Park Hotel, Dungarvan andNewPark Hotel, Kilkenny.

Unwind in the Heart of Cork City

www.businesslimerick.iewww.businesslimerick.ie36

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BL | REVIEW

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The University of Limerick is to undertakeground-breaking research into the dininghabits of the 11,000 students and staff thateat on campus every day. UL will be the firstUniversity in the Republic of Ireland to partici-pate in MarketPLAN, a bespoke programmedeveloped by one of the world’s largest foodcompanies, ARAMARK.

Speaking at the launch of MarketPLAN today,Linda Stevens, Director of Plassey CampusLife Services, UL said; “Everyday, thousands ofpeople eat in our restaurants on the UL cam-pus. Eating habits and lifestyles are changingand we need to identify emerging trends sothat our restaurants and cafes meet theneeds of those socializing and eating in themevery day.

Ultimately MarketPLAN will link campuslifestyle needs with customized food solutionswhich will yield enhanced services and greatercustomer satisfaction. Over the coming

weeks, ARAMARK Ireland will gather theinsights of thousands of key stake holders –from students, academic staff and administra-tion – to help the University understand trafficflow, student, academic and administrationstaff needs. MarketPLAN will help theUniversity understand the current and futuredining needs of the student body and academ-ic staff on campus”, said Donal O’Brien,Commercial Director, ARAMARK Ireland.

ARAMARK Ireland, a leader in the provision ofaward winning food and facilities managementservices to clients in the educational sectorwill roll out MarketPLAN at the University inthe coming weeks. Campbell Catering,ARAMARK’s contract catering division hashad a presence at UL for over 23 years.Employing over 4,000 people throughout theisland of Ireland, ARAMARK/CampbellCatering is headquartered in Dublin, withregional offices in Cork, Limerick and Belfast.

UL to Examine EatingTrends on Campus

A new appointment to theSpecsavers team is SeniorOptometrist Dan Burke. Based inthe Crescent Shopping CentreLimerick, he is originally fromBallyneety, having worked nation-ally as a locum in independent andmulti-national practices. Dan’s par-ticular interest is in contact lensesand sports vision. “My ambition isto build on Specsavers successand establish a centre of excel-lence in terms of eyecare here inSpecsavers, Limerick.” said Dan.

New Appointment

Dan Burke

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:14 Page 37

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The President Mr Sean Lally has great pleas-ure in inviting you to the launch of “Limerick –a City of Opportunity?” This report was com-missioned by local developer Ger Clohessyand was prepared by one of the country'smost respected and best known economists,Jim Power. This is the first independent andcomplete analysis/overview of the Limerickeconomy by an external national expert inrecent years. The report analyses issuessuch as the economic, social and infrastruc-tural profile of the city and puts forwardstrong recommendations on how best toensure the city achieves its full potential as amodern European City.

12.20pm Registration12.30pm Lunch1.30pm Launch of Report by Jim Power

Members:!55.00Non-Members: !65.00Contact: Maura McMahon / MartinaMcGrathTel: 415180 Fax 415785e-mail:[email protected] booking is advisable to ensure yourplace.Limerick Chamber Skillnet networking eventin association with the Limerick Chamber

Limerick Chamber Skillnet NetworkingEvening in Association with LimerickChamber 30th April

Wednesday the 30th of April 2008, sawLimerick Chamber /Limerick ChamberSkillnet organise a very successful network-ing evening in association with the AdareManor Hotel & Golf Resort. The event kickedoff at 5.30pm with approximately 70 peoplein attendance representing over 50 compa-nies. The event demonstrated the impor-tance of networking and its growing populari-ty among the business community. The lucra-tive advantages and methods of networkingwere outlined in the workshop which was pre-sented by noted facilitator Mr. Jim Whitney.This was later followed by networking activi-ties which allowed participants to exchangeideas and make contacts. The night also fea-tured 30 second company introductions,whereby each company who attended had aplatform to present their unique selling point

to the group. Spot prizes on the night includ-ed a teeth whitening treatment from the well-ness spa at the Radisson SAS Hotel & Spa, afruit & vegetable basket courtesy ofRichardsons Foods, a voucher for AdvancedLaser Light and many more. LimerickChamber’s next event will be a businessbreakfast focusing on on-line security forbusinesses on the 28th May, should anyonewish to attend you can contact the chamberat 061-415180/ email: [email protected].

Its The Business atMICHAEL GLEESON SHOES

26 William Street Limerick.Tel: 061 417407

Chamber BusinessSchool Training

Courses:

Maximising Meetings 1 Day TrainingCourse:

Dates: Thursday 5th JuneVenue: Limerick Chamber Board Room

People Management Skills (2)2 Day TrainingCourse:

Dates: Wednesdays 11th & 18th JuneVenue: Limerick Chamber Board Room

For further information or to book any of theabove Courses please contact Maura

McMahon on 061-217604 [email protected]

SummerBusiness Lunch

2008Invitation to the Launch of

Limerick – a City of Opportunity?

Sponsored By

Wednesday, 4th June 2008@ 12:20 pm

Greenhills Hotel, Limerick

Gillian Griffith, Sarah Stuart-Trainor and BernadetteMcKeogh - all Adare Manor and Maura McMahon,Martina McGrath and Anne Morris - LimerickChamber of Commerce

Gerry Fitzgerald - TGI Recruitment and NickFielding - Irish Chamber Orchestra

Brid Duggan - Woodlands House Hotel, JohnHickey- Coopers Wines, Dr Audrey Hickey-No.8Cosmetic snd Dental Clinic and Eamon Ryan -Practical Business Solutions


. . .

“Limerick – a City of Opportunity?”

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:14 Page 38

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BL | NEWS

Mayor Cllr. Ger Fahy Recalls the Events ofhis Year in Office.

In an interview with Business Limerick, HisWorship the Mayor Cllr. Ger Fahy talks ofthe events of his last year as Mayor. “BeingMayor of Limerick City is a tremendous hon-our for me and my family and I am privilegedthat so many important and historic eventsoccurred during my term. The past twelvemonth has seen positive developmentswhich can make us all feel confident for thefuture. The expansion of the administrativeboundary of the city by almost 50% is atremendous achievement and a crucial stepin removing the anomalies of the urban areaof Limerick being run by three authorities.This was not about taking lands from theCounty Council, we need to reinstateLimerick as Ireland’s 3rd City with a popula-tion of 100,000”, stated Ger Fahy.

“The new City Centre Strategy will continueto transform the core city area, with contin-ued investment creating a dynamic heart tothe city centre. I am proud of our new pedes-trian streets, the imminent Opera CentreDevelopment, the upcoming new tunnelriver crossing and Docklands Development”

continued The Mayor.

“The implementation of John Fitzgerald’sRegeneration Programme by theGovernment is probably the most importantevent in the history of the City. It tackles ourdeep-rooted difficulties in our disadvantagedcommunities and is warmly welcome. Nowpeople want to have an input in Limerick’sfuture and never before have I seen such alevel of volunteerism. I have seen an increas-ing willingness of people to give time andeffort at their own expense, to make life bet-ter in their own communities and helpingthe ‘less well-off’ in their area. The pro-gramme is not just about knocking housesbut building communities”.

“Limerick is synonymous with sport, andwhere else would one experience thescenes on our streets of the Heineken CupFinal? The success of our hurlers last sum-mer, the Irish Open Golf Tournament, thenew Thomond Park with the All-Blacks final-ly having the courage to return after thirtyyears, Limerick being selected as the venue

for the All-Ireland Corporate Games for thenext five years, the list goes on and on, allreinstating a positive image for our city. Thecity benefits for our local economy are enor-mous and the nametag of Sporting Limerickis one to be proud of. They symbolise whatLimerick is all about, the passion and pride,the never give up- no matter what attitudewhen we face what seems like insurmount-able challenges”.

“As long as we continue to work together,supporting each others efforts, then noobstacle is too great and we can look for-ward to good times ahead for our city. St.Patrick’s Day Parade, the International BandParade, the Riverfest, success after suc-cess, we have a new way of thinking and aconfidence to showcase Limerick and buildon these achievements, there are no limits!”

“Finally, I want to thank my family, my wifeMaura, for all their help during my busy timeas Mayor. Also thanks to my mother May,eighty recently, who encouraged me to getinvolved in politics”, concluded Mayor Fahy.

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:14 Page 39

RECRUITMENT WITH A DIFFERENCE

DDaavviidd RRyyaann aanndd tthhee tteeaamm iinn WWoorrkk AAcccceessss LLttdd..wwoouulldd lliikkee ttoo ccoonnggrraattuullaattee DDeeccllaann KKiiddnneeyy aanndd tthhee

MMuunnsstteerr TTeeaamm oonn tthheeiirr ffaannttaassttiicc wwiinn..

Work Access Ltd., First Floor, Pillar House, Little Ellen St., LImerick.TTeell:: 061 - 493095 FFaaxx:: 061 - 409345

WWeebb:: www.workaccess.org EEmmaaiill:: [email protected]


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BL | RUGBY

The Red Army Celebrate Munster’s

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:14 Page 40

AND CATHERINE STREETTel: 061-310913Fax: 061-311039

From the best Deli inMunster to the

Champions of Europe!

OF HENRY STREETTel: 061-467333Fax: 061-467334


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BL | RUGBY

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Second Historic Heineken Cup Win 2008

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:15 Page 41

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.. . .

Keanes Jewellers have just beenannounced as the main sponsor of theNetwork Limerick Business Woman of theYear Awards. Keanes have donated the“Keanes Perpetual Award” to be given to theNetwork Limerick Business Woman of theYear. With 3 exclusive Swiss watches to bepresented to each of the category winners -Best Entrepreneur, Best New Business andBest Businesswoman. Keanes have alsoundertaken to support Network with thepublicity and promotion of the awards. Each of the finalists will be profiled on theKeanes website.This alliance highlights the esteem withwhich Network Limerick is held in the coun-ty Keanes wish to encourage local businesswoman to get involved.

Rebecca Birchall, Marketing Manager ofKeanes Jewellers, said today “We aredelighted to be associated with such aworthwhile and prominent organisation asNetwork and hope that through our involve-ment we can ensure that Limerick is repre-sented in its true light at a national level.We know that there are some extraordinarybusiness women in the region and will doeverything we can to support their recogni-tion as such.”

Keanes Jewellers celebrates its DiamondAnniversary this year and this sponsorshipis part of a year-long campaign to give some-thing back to the community that has sup-ported the jewellers for the last 60 years.Keanes stock a stunning collection of finddiamonds, exclusive time pieces and qualitycostume jewellery. Located on O’ConnellStreet in Limerick you’re welcome to call inany time to view the collections or ask ouradvice on choosing the perfect gift. For ourcurrent catalogue and a host of ideas andadvice log on to www.keanes.ie

Network Limerick is an organisation forwomen in business, the professions and thearts. They provide support and an environ-ment for business networking. They meeton the first Tuesday of every month at 8pmin The Castletroy Park Hotel, Castletroy,Limerick. Guests are always welcome. Formore information log on towww.networklimerick.com

More info contact – Rebecca Birchall,Keanes Jewellers – 087 [email protected]

Keanes Sponsor Woman ofthe Year Awards

Gaye Moore, Network Limerick, Deirdre Downes, President Network Limerick & Rebecca Birchall,Marketing Manager Keanes Jewellers show off the Keanes Perpetual Award for Network LimerickBusiness Woman of the Year at the launch of the Awards

Rural Development Programme Benefitsthe Midwest

Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State atthe Department of Agriculture,Fisheries and Food with specialresponsibility for Fisheries andForestry, has described the new RuralDevelopment Programme as a shot inthe arm for rural communities acrossthe Midwest. Under the Programme,funding of !425.4 million will be pro-vided, almost treble the amount avail-able in the last Programme (2000-2006).

“The largest ever package for ruraldevelopment will be channelledthrough Local Action Groups to sup-port and facilitate the continued devel-opment of rural communities all overIreland, including many across Clare,Limerick and North Tipperary”,explained Minister Killeen.

The Junior Agriculture Minister saidthat the Programme would provideindividuals and organisations in everycorner of the region with an idealopportunity to invest in their own com-munities.

“The range of activities to be fundedunder this Programme are varied andinclude, diversification into non-agri-cultural activities, support for businesscreation, encouragement of tourismactivities, basic services for the econ-omy and rural population, villagerenewal and development, conserva-tion and upgrading of rural heritageand training and information”, MinisterKilleen concluded.

Of the !425.4 million, !234 millionwill come from the EuropeanAgricultural Fund for RuralDevelopment and ! 191 million fromnational exchequer.

The Programme will be deliveredthrough the LEADER approach, aninnovative ‘bottom up’ approach thatencourages rural areas to exploreways to become or remain competi-tive, to make the most of their assetsand to overcome whatever challengesthey may face. This approach is com-munity driven and is managed throughthe Local Action Groups that will bechosen through the selection processbeing launched today.

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:15 Page 42

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10 Commandments for Successfully Managing the Downsizing/Redundancy Process

If a redundancy is handled badly and eitherpoor quality support or no support is pro-vided to either departing or remainingemployees then you can expect:• Departing employees to be angry with thecompany and to feel extremely anxiousabout their future career prospects• Morale of remaining employees to drop,with people being disillusioned, paranoid,demoralised and worried that it will happento them.• Productivity to drop to an all time low• Company’s reputation and image is seri-ously damaged making it difficult for theorganisation to retain key talent and torecruit quality people in the future. • Customers may become nervous aboutthe stability of the company

To ensure the overall success of your down-sizing/restructuring initiative MiriamMagner-Flynn of Career Decisions IrelandLtd. recommends:1. Formulate a Comprehensive ProjectPlan.This plan will address the following points:• Planning for success

- Identify phases and timeframes for downsizing.- Identify number of redundancies per phase.- Identify potential barriers to success and strategies to overcome them.

• Identify key competencies and supportsrequired to achieve success.• Identify goals and key milestones in theProject Plan.• Identify key information to be fed into the

Communication Plan.2. Avoid Premature Leaks of InformationInformation about job losses should bereleased first to all staff in a planned andhonest way. If word leaks out early it createsuncertainty. Companies run the risk ofprompting an employee exodus, falserumours, reduced productivity and reducedrevenue as customers may delay purchas-ing products. This can drive down the valua-tion of the company and diminish it’s abilityto maintain operations.3. One Announcement is Better than aSeries of AnnouncementsSerial announcements create nervousnessand cynicism among employees who willhave difficulty in trusting the organisation.The organisation should plan to make justone announcement even if the plannedredundancies are phased over an extendedperiod of months or years. By restricting thebad news to a single announcement itenables the organisation to plan and putCareer Support in place from the outset. The advantage of informing employeesmonths in advance of redundancies is that itwill enable them to cope with the change,up-skill, gain new qualifications, improvetheir employability and be prepared for theirnext career move.The timing, wording, content and delivery ofthis announcement is pivotal in maintainingthe goodwill, morale and confidence ofremaining employees. Organisations shouldavail of the expertise of their Outplacementprovider in preparing this announcement.4. Employee Exit PlanningPlan how much notice employees will begiven before departure and what severance

packages they will be offered. Ensure youare familiar with and operate within employ-ment law in this area. In addition, considerwhat employment references you will pro-vide and whom employees can cite as refer-ees, establishing this is particularly impor-tant in the event of a total business/plantclosure scenario. Finally, measures need tobe put in place to protect company intellec-tual and physical property. 5. Support Employees to Cope withChange and Plan for the FutureEmployees facing redundancy normallyexperience feelings of self-doubt, anxiety,fear and uncertainty about their careersand future employment prospects.Appropriate support needs to be put inplace to help employees deal with the situa-tion. Over the past 14 years our experience atCareer Decisions is that our CareerDecision Making Programmes have playeda significant role in helping thousands ofemployees facing redundancy change theirmindset from negative to positive. TheCareer Decision Making Programme hasenabled them to see new career optionsand opportunities. It has transformed themfrom being disillusioned to optimistic by help-ing them to identify their strengths, achieve-ments and unique selling points.The Career Decision Making Programmehas also enabled employees to makeinformed career decisions, identify theirtraining needs, commence upskilling, gainnew qualifications, improve employabilityand be prepared for their next career move.

To be continued…

Organisations need to change if they are to survive, let alone thrive. No matter what a company calls it – downsizing, rightsizing,restructuring, merging, off shoring - it often boils down to people losing their jobs. Addressing and managing the transition of

employees out of the company is a difficult task for any organisation. This is why many organisations offer Outplacement services to employees facing redundancy, to help them achieve a smooth and successful career transition.

PROFILE

Since 1994 Over 10,000 employees from organisations such as ESB, Diageo, Littelfuse,Flextronics, The Thomson Corporation, ACC Bank, Jurys Doyle Hotel Group and Tyco

Electronics have benefited from Career Decisions expertise and leading edge customisedCareer Programmes.

Miriam Magner-Flynn is founder and Managing Director of Career Decisions Ireland Ltd. Miriam can be contacted on: T: 061-400664 E: [email protected]

W: www.careerdecisions.ie

Career Decisions Ireland Ltd is Ireland’s No. 1 Outplacement/Career Transition, Career Management andExecutive Coaching Company.

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:15 Page 43

Nobody disputes that family businesses enjoysome very valuable advantages when comparedwith their non-family counterparts. There is oftena distinctive atmosphere at family companies – asense of belonging, common purpose and commit-ment that can lead to improved performance.Also, when management and shareholders areunited in family businesses this tends to promoteflexible work practices and non bureaucratic deci-sion making.

But family businesses are also prone to someserious and commonly experienced disadvantages.Many of the problems hinge on the inherent con-flicts that can arise between family values and busi-ness values. Family firms can become tradition-bound and reluctant to change. Rigidity and unwill-ingness to respond to change is seen by manyexperts as the single most common factor in thefailure of family companies. Building outside influ-ences into the fabric of family business manage-ment and governance is one of the most importantways of countering these tendencies and can con-tribute substantially to the professionalisation andgrowth potential of the family business.

ESTABLISHING AN INDEPENDENT BOARD Setting up an effective, independent board of direc-tors is crucial for the vast majority of family busi-nesses if they are to achieve long-term success.Perhaps one of the most striking characteristicsthat distinguish the best family businesses is thatthey generally operate with a strong, independentboard of directors. The board of directors,charged with overseeing the company’s opera-tions, includes talented, independent, non-familyoutsiders who have no conflicts of interest.

EFFECTIVE, WORKING BOARDSThe principal responsibilities of an independent,working board of directors are to establish corpo-rate policy and oversee management perform-ance. These include, for example:

• changes to the scope or nature of the company’soperations • overall strategic planning • approving individual strategies in areas such asmarketing production, investment and • financial management • changes to the company’s organisational struc-ture

• major corporate decisions, such as selling thebusiness or a significant portion of its assets, alongwith mergers, acquisitions and large investments. • monitoring the effectiveness of management inimplementing corporate strategies

Clearly, a number of these corporate policy andmanagement responsibilities can involve sensitivefamily questions that many founders are reluctantto face up to – in particular, succession, organisa-tional structure, job definitions and remunerationof family members. These are, of course, precisely the sort of issueson which the unemotional and objective viewpointof independent board members can be especiallyhelpful.

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORSGood non-executive directors act as advisers,arbiters and sources of contacts. Their independ-ent contribution to boardroom discussions canhelp improve a family firm’s competitive edge.

The Rationale Non-executive directors can bring a new dimen-sion of experience and independent objectivity thatis less often found among family members oremployees. The typical profile of non-executivedirectors are people who have made their careerin large enterprises and have taken on positions ofconsiderable responsibility, for example at division-al director level. They do not want to take on full-time commitments, so the idea of attending boardmeetings six or twelve times a year and using theirstore of knowledge and experience to help a small-er company is often very appealing.

Another resource pool for non-executive directorscomprises people who have run their own busi-ness at some stage and then sold it. They oftenmake excellent non-executive directors, bringing intow their entrepreneurial ‘get up and go’ spirit. Non-executive directors can make an enormouscontribution (at modest cost). Particular benefitsinclude: 1. Objective and seasoned guidance on businessstrategy from successful business people. 2. An unbiased sounding-board for family-ownedbusiness challenges, such as succession. 3. Mediation (not decision making), helping thefamily to resolve any disagreements and reduceemotional stresses.

4. Specialised expertise that may not be availableinternally. 5. A network of contacts that can be mobilised onbehalf of the firm. This covers areas such aspotential sources of new business, capital and con-nections in industry and government, as well asinternational contacts.

Less tangibly, a good non-executive director canalso act as a catalyst, pushing for significantshifts in corporate strategy or objectives that maybe beyond the scope and imagination of the internal directors (e.g. acquisitions, raising financeor revamping the senior personnel structure).Overall, the outside director should be theinformed critic of the board, challenging decisions and making sure that it thinks and plans.

BOARD PRACTICES Establishing written guidelines setting out how theboard should function is a good idea. These willobviously be subject to change as the boardevolves, but they serve to help you clarify yourexpectations as well as evidencing your serious-ness of purpose, thus helping in the recruitment ofboard candidates. The role and operational rulesof the board should be defined in the guidelines,and information about directors’ terms of officeand fees should also be included. In addition, youshould review the contribution of your non-execu-tive director/s on a regular basis as part of aboard evaluation process that looks at how effec-tively the board works in an overall sense.

By being outward-looking and willing to take advan-tage of external skills, family businesses are betterable to grow and respond successfully to change.To grow beyond the one-man business stage, afirm must make use of outside expertise. The tran-sition is not an easy one.

As the company becomes larger and more com-plex, the foundations have to be laid for a morestructured, less centralised organisation. The taskis significantly more difficult for family than for non-family businesses, because there’s a strong temp-tation in many family firms to depend on internalexperience and internal judgments.

Without some external input into these compa-nies, they are all too easily prone to become intro-verted, inflexible and uncompetitive.

The Role of an Outsider in Family Business

Diarmuid Hendrick

BDO Simpson Xavier are Ireland’s leading advisers to entrepreneurs and owner managed businesses. DiarmuidHendrick is a Partner in the Audit & Business Advisory Department of BDO Simpson Xavier, Limerick. He can be con-tacted at 061-414455 or [email protected]

BDO Simpson Xavier will not accept any responsibility for loss or damage arising to any person as a result of refrain-ing from acting as a result of the information contained in this article. Professional advice should always be soughtbefore acting upon any matter covered in this article.


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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BL | BUSINESS

In the current economic down turn attention hasturned to “battening down the hatches” for busi-ness that is exposed to the worst of the effects ofthe global credit crunch. A lot of businesses arestarting to feel the effects of this crisis in liquiditybut enterprises that are significant users of bankfinance and credit are likely to be worst affected.These include construction, development and man-ufacturing business that have a big requirement forcapital expenditure and working capital. In thesetraumatic circumstances directors have a veryonerous responsibility and under Company Lawmust act “honestly and responsibly” in their deal-ings with company creditors and bankers.Case law over the years provides the courts withprecedent as to how this judgement is made. It isnot the function of the Court to second guess theexercise of professional skill and care by directorsof companies but it is inevitable that hindsight willplay a part. With this in mind professional advice onthe options available is a fundamental part of man-

aging the business in such a crisis. While liquidationand receivership may often be the inevitable out-come this is not necessarily the best outcome forall parties in all cases. Examinership is a legal process which was intro-duced to provide a company with breathing spaceto determine whether all or some part of its busi-ness can be saved with the agreement of creditors,bankers and the Courts . The legislation was firstintroduced in 1990 to save the GoodmanInternational Group which was on the brink of col-lapse. This was my first Examinership and the teamacted as “Administrators” running the businesswith the directors of the company. Since then thelegislation has been refined, and the process andtime deadlines for a recovery plan shortened to 70days from the initial petition to the High Court with-in which time the recovery plan must be presentedto the Court. In some exceptional circumstances atime extension of a further 30 days can be granted.The very clear advantage of Examinership is the

protection offered to the company during the 70day period. Creditors and banks can take no actionduring the Examinership period where the compa-ny, its directors and the Examiner prepare propos-als for a survival plan. Examinership is particularlysuitable where there is an underlying profitablebusiness but where a traumatic event or financialshock has affected the business, such as the lossof a key director due to illness or the loss of a keycustomer. The Examiner, in certifying the expensesand credit taken during the Examinership periodhas priority over all other creditors. Facing the prospect of insolvency can be a verystressful and traumatic time for company direc-tors. At Grant Thornton our Corporate Recoveryteam has considerable experience in advising busi-nesses on the actions to take. An understanding ofthe fundamental issues in the survival of a businessis critical in helping directors make the right choice.

Facing Insolvency – What are the choices?

“Examinership is a legalprocess which was

introduced to providebreathing space to

determine whether acompany or some partof its business can berestructured with the

agreement of creditorsand bankers”

“In these traumatic circumstances directors

have a very onerousresponsibility and underCompany Law must act

“honestly and responsibly” in their

dealings with companycreditors and bankers”

“ A lot of businessesare starting to feel theeffects of this crisis in

liquidity but enterprisesthat are significant

users of bank financeand credit are likely to

be worst affected”

“Creditors and bankscan take no action

during the Examinershipperiod where the

company, its directorsand the Examiner

prepare proposals for asurvival plan”

Gearoid Costelloe FCCA LL.B

Managing Partner Grant Thornton Corporate Services Limerick E [email protected] Grant Thornton, Mill House, Henry Street, LimerickT: +353 61 312 744 F: +353 61 317 691 W: www.grantthornton.ie

This briefing is provided for general information purposes only and is not a comprehensive or com-plete statement of the issues it relates to. It should not be used as a substitute for advice on individ-ual cases. Before acting or refraining from acting in particular circumstances, specialist advice shouldalways be obtained. No liability can be accepted by Grant Thornton for any loss occasioned to anyperson acting or refraining from acting as a result of any material in this briefing. Grant Thornton isauthorised by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland to carry on investment business.

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After months of build up, the All IrelandCorporate Games in association with HiltonLimerick are just around the corner and will takeplace from June 20th – 22nd in venues through-out the city and county. This is the first year ofan initial five year agreement secured byShannon Development that will see Limerick withour superb sporting facilities and culture playhost to companies, social clubs, sports clubs andgroups of friends all hoping to win medals, havefun and make new friends.

With over 2,000 competitors taking part fromthe UK, Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Galway the eventpromises to bring colour, craic and competitionto Limerick for the entire weekend. In addition tothe Games themselves, the weekend kicks offwith a registration event at the SuperCentre inthe UL Arena and includes a parade of partici-pants from Arthur’s Quay Park to King John’sCastle on Saturday evening which will be followedby a street party at Clohessy’s on Howley’s Quay.The closing celebrations will take place at KingJohn’s Castle on the Sunday evening.Local businesses and sports clubs have got

right behind the Games and the SportingLimerick tradition will be shown by members ofthe ‘home team’ who will be represented by thelikes of Shannon Aerospace, Dell, Dave SheahanGroup, Price Water House Coopers, Mid WestLifts, Limerick Fire Brigade, LimerickRegeneration Board, Grant Thornton, Limerick

City Council, Shannon Development, LimerickPost, Limerick Leader, Limerick Independent andLive 95FM to name but a few. Some have beentraining hard while others have been less ener-getic but come June 20th, everyone will be readyto give their all for their respective jersey and toshow Limerick in a great light to all the visiting

Let the Games Begin!!!

Jennifer McClellan, Corporate Games, Pascal Duggan, Diageo, (Sponsor) JoeClarke, Trinity Rooms, at the Official Launch of the All Ireland Corporate Games

BL June 08 04/06/2008 17:24 Page 47

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Winners of ‘Best Magazine’in the Midwest Arts, Media & Culture Awards 2008

MAGAZINE PUBLICATIONS:• Business Limerick Magazine • City Matters • Limerick Chamber Yearbook

Pillar House, Old Quarter, Ellen Street, LimerickT: 061 467518 E: [email protected] W: www.businesslimerick.ie

The only business magazine that’s 100% Limerick owned and published

“Welcoming the All-Ireland Corporate Games to Limerick”

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Prog

ram

me

subj

ect t

o ch

ange

SUPERCENTRE CELEBRATION

GAMES CELEBRATION

GREAT GAMES PARTY

BADMINTON

BASKETBALL

DRAGON BOAT

GAELIC 7’s

GOLF

HOCKEY 7’s

HURLING 7’s

PETANQUE

POKER Texas Hold’em

RUGBY 7’s

RUNNING

SOCCER 6’s

SQUASH

TABLE TENNIS

TAG

TENNIS

TENPIN BOWLING

TUG OF WAR

VOLLEYBALL

CLOSING AWARDS CELEBRATION

Programme JuneFri 20 Sat 21 Sun 22

participantsThe All Ireland Corporate Games is one of aworld wide series of similar events first launchedin 1988 and now staged in over 22 locationsannually. The Corporate Games were last stagedin Limerick in 2001 and for the last 3 years havebeen held in Belfast. The Games’ offer an oppor-tunity for organisations both public & private,commercial & community, large and small toenjoy a weekend of activity & fun through a seriesof sport, leisure & social events. 19 sportsincluding field sports, Tag, Football, Soccer,Racquet Sports, Bowling, Tug of War, Dragon

Boating & Poker. The individual events will bestaged at University of Limerick, LimerickInstitute of Technology, Arthur’s Quay Park andother individual sites all form part of the pro-gramme of non elite sport which will culminate ina Grand Parade of Athletes from Arthur’s Parkto King John’s Castle.

The All Ireland Corporate Games secured byShannon Development and presented by HiltonLimerick take place from June 20th to 22nd andare supported by Business Limerick Magazine,Carlsberg Limerick Chamber, Shannon

Development, Economy Cabs, O’B Sport,Travelodge, Sporting Limerick, Limerick Post,Limerick Independent, Limerick Leader and Live95FM.

The closing date for entries had passed but ifyou would still like to get involved there are a lim-ited number of slots available in selected sportswhich can be secured by contacting JenniferMcClellan on 061 748200 or [email protected]

Mayor Ger Fahy at the Official Launch of the All IrelandCorporate Games

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Russel’s Bar in Dooradoyle was the venue forthe launch of CARI’s Annual Mid Summer Feastof Fashion Extravaganza that is offeringLimerick’s most stylish and socially consciousthe opportunity to attend a live fashion extra-vanganza at the same venue on Thursday 12thJune at 8pm.

The launch was hosted by Raphael and PatriciaMullally and in attendance were Celia HolmanLee and models for the Holman Lee agency,incuding Miss Limerick, Lydia Turley and MissClare, Aoife Gallagher, representatives fromthe Boutiques which will be featured at theevent, the main sponsor Tony Byrne, AdvanceBathrooms, Hair at Dromoland, Mandy

O'Loughlin - Make up Artist, Magic Dave andmembers of The Limerick Gospel Choir and FoiBori. Apologies and best wishes were sent byour victorious Munster team who were unableto make the launch due to commitments inCork.

Guests at the launch were treated to cham-pagne, wine, sangria, canapés and an exclusivesneak-preview of the season’s most cutting-edge fashion ideas.

Speaking at the launch, event organiser, AnneByrnes said: “Mid Summer Feast of Fashion isback due to popular demand and we are hop-ing that this event will once again be a completesell out as in past years. We have some veryexciting prizes including an antique massagebath complete with pump, donated by TonyByrne, Advance Bathrooms and a painting ofthe Munster Team donated by local artist, Una

Heaton for our auction. Boutiques that will befeatured on the night are Joanne’s, Eves,Helene Modes, Melie B, Imasa, Gaudi, FrenchConnection and Tony Connelly’s. Shoes are byShoe Flair and fashion by well known LimerickDesigner, Derek Purcell, Die for Love will bewowing the crowd on the night.Entertainment will be provided for this event byThe Limerick Gospel Choir, Magic Dave and FoiBori.”

This event is part of a major fundraisingappeal launched by CARI, Limerick in June2006 to raise an ambitious target of !1.5mil-lion. Funds raised from Mid Summer Feast ofFashion will go towards the refurbishment

costs of a new Child therapy House which wewill be operating from by September/Octoberthis year. The new Child Therapy House willassist and empower even more children andyoung people in the region affected by child sex-ual abuse to claim back their happiness, theirinnocence, and their bright and strong future.With limited government funding to date CARIis entirely dependent upon events like MidSummer Feast of Fashion in order to continueto offer these vital services.

Tickets available from:Anne Byrnes (Fundraising) 087-1333781,Russell’s Bar 061-308080 and are priced at!25Press Queries:Caroline Geraghty (Press) at 01-8308529www.cari.ieNational Helpline 1890 924567

Brian Deegan:ActionCOACHBusiness Coach

CARI’s Launch Annual Mid Summer Feast ofFashion Extravaganza,

Brian Deegan

Brian Deegan’s corporate career was marked bymany accomplishments and he has now decid-ed to use his international experience andknowledge to help Small and Medium sizeEnterprise’s in Ireland

Paul Fagan, ActionCOACH Master Licensee, hasnamed Brian Deegan as the newestActionCOACH franchisee in Ireland. His officewill be based in County Limerick covering theentire North Munster Region of Ireland, includingTipperary, Limerick, Clare and North Cork.

Prior to joining ActionCOACH, Deegan workedas a Managing Director in the ophthalmic lensindustry with Essilor International and managedcompanies from 10 to 500 employees in Ireland,UK and South Africa. Deegan had a memorablecorporate career with many accomplishments. Inhis last position as Managing Director ofJohnston Press in Munster Ireland, Deegan suc-cessfully integrated four acquisitions into thecorporate environment. Deegan was also instru-mental in restructuring two loss making UKacquisitions into one profitable business withinone year. “I developed strong managementteams in each company I worked at,” Deegansaid.

Deegan was looking for a positive career changewhen he came across ActionCOACH. “Havingworked as a change management agent in sixcompanies over a 15-year period, I felt the needfor a change in my own life as well,” he said.Deegan feels that business coaching is in itsinfancy in Ireland with great potential for growth.

Currently Chairman of the Hospital HerbertstownGAA Club, Deegan is a member of the TidyTowns Committee, Tipperary Golf Club andHospital Lawn Tennis Club. He is also a memberof the IBEC -Irish Business and EmployersFederation, and belongs to the University ofLimerick Alumni Association.

ActionCOACH is the world’s number one busi-ness coaching firm, with more than 1,000 officesin 26 countries. To learn more, go to action-coach.com.

The CARI launch was hosted by Raphael and Patricia Mullally, Russells Bar, and in attendance were CeliaHolman Lee agency models.

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Now that we are in the month of Juneall the secondary schools are finishedexcept for exam years and all the pri-mary schools are nearly there. Theweather is sunny and warm(fingerscrossed) and people are beginning totake their summer holidays. Goingindoors into a gym is not that appeal-ing at this time of year for a number ofpeople and this usually means fallingtotally off the wagon which does notneed to happen. Remember the keything is to exercise. Why not get thebest of both worlds and exercise out-doors combined with family bonding.Remember the main thing with keep-ing fit is to exercise and exercisemeans raising your heart rate andincreasing the workload on the lungs.This could be done with a game of

football with your kids and theirfriends, or swimming at the beach, orfor small kids go hiking up hills withbaby strapped to back in the childslings( this will also increase yourworkload). For older kids why not takethem for a run or play a game of tennisor rounders. There is loads that onecan do outdoors it is just doing it.Often the kids are blamed in the sum-mer for the lack of exercise but forinstance when at the beach what isstopping you doing some press-ups orsitups or lunges while the kids buildsand castles – they do it on the beach-es of Los Angeles so why not do ithere. As I said above keep on trackexercise and involve the family andeveryone will be happy.

Destroying Myths “3 Square meals a day is best”

It is amazing that people still think that 3 square meals a day is the best way to eat. Thisthinking is inaccurate for 2 main reasons.1. Usually those that have the 3 square meals have very large quantities at each sitting.This is mainly due to the fact that it could be at 7am, 1pm and 7pm so there are large gapsso each sitting is like a feast. Taking in such large quantities is not good for your systemand actually slows your metabolism as there is too much to process. 2. This method slows down one’s metabolism thus making it easier to store fat and hard-er to burn it. The body is like a fire in that it needs regular fuel and you would never leavea fire burn out completely – when the flames are lowering you would throw in more fuel.Your body is the same and needs regular small meals to keep fuelled but this also keepsthe metabolism high thus your total calories burned in the day.

NUTRITIONCORNER

FLAWS OF THE FOODPYRAMID

The food pyramid was put in place a long time ago and con-tinues to be the standard set for a healthy nutrition plan.However it is my belief that the food pyramid is a big rea-son, besides those that live in McDonalds, why obesity hasbecome such an issue. True the food pyramid says not toeat too many sweet foods and shows people that theyshould eat protein, starchy carbohydrates and lots of fruitand vegetables. However one can gain weight even by eat-ing good healthy food if not in the right portions. One issupposed to eat 2-3 portions of dairy per day, 2-4 fruit and6 -11 starchy carbohydrates. However the dairy will containa high percentage of fat and carbohydrate calories and thefruit and starchy carbohydrates contain high percentage ofcarbohydrate calories as well as sugars. If one eats toomuch carbohydrates each day and has a high sugar intakethey will gain excess fat as well as having very erratic bloodsugar levels throughout the day which will lead to erraticenergy levels. One should aim to have 5 portions(size ofones hand) of carbohydrates including fruit in the day.Remember today’s lifestyle is also far less active thanbefore.

LIFESTYLE AND EXERCISE TIP“No time to cook – buy a steamer”I often get the excuse from clients that they had a take

away because they hadn’t time to cook, or it was late, orthey were after a long day and couldn’t face slaving away inthe kitchen. However these days there is no excuse for notcooking as it does not have to be that time consuming.Most foods just have to be put into pots and boiled andsomething like rice and pasta needs the odd stir. Meat, fishand potatoes can be cooked in the oven. Using a grill is notthat cumbersome. However if you really feel that you can’tface cooking then buy a steamer. They are a great machine.Basically you can for instance put chicken, rice and vegeta-bles in it on different layers and turn it on for required timeand let it off. You can even go for a nap or go out in the gar-den if you so wish. It will turn itself off and there is no dan-ger of burning food or cooker going on fire or pot spillingover. With the steamer there is no excuse whatsoever forsomeone eating healthily and it is the best way to cook foodtoo as it keeps the nutrients in the food unlike most othermethods of cooking which kill alot of them.

Combine Family and Fun toKeep Your Exercise on Track

Tel: 061 424936web : www.davesheahan.ie

email : [email protected]

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First, however, Waterford must overcomeClare in the first round at Limerick’s GaelicGrounds on the first Sunday of this month, acontest which also marks the opening after-noon of first-year championship coverage bynew entrants to the television arena, name-ly TV3. While it’s anticipated that Clarewon’t roll over all that easily, nonethelessJustin McCarthy’s highly experienced cam-paigners are fancied to set-up a repeat oflast year’s memorable All-Ireland semi-finalwith Limerick.

Limerick folk will never forget that fatefulafternoon at Croke Park when Donie Ryanweaved his magic with two classic goals tosent equally-success starved Waterfordtumbling from a championship they previ-ously won way back in 1959. While RichieBennis’ brave troops were forced to settlefor the runners-up spot with Kilkenny, theunexpected tremendous run restored agreat sense of county pride in the flagshipteam.

The Form, however, in this year’s leaguewas disappointing, especially since it didn’treally unearth all that much new talent,something which coach Gary Kirby hadhoped it would do (with Wayne McNamaraof Adare a notable exception). “I don’t thinkthere was anything fundamentally wrongwith the team last year,” notes Limerick skip-per Mark Foley, who will this year make anamazing 15th attempt at ending a faminethat stretches all the way back to 1973, twoyears before Foley’s own arrival into this

world.

“We would be looking to pick up one or twoplayers and I suppose it is not that obviousthat they are not there, but strangers thinkshave happened. Mike Fitzgerald did notstart in the first game against Tippeary lastyear and he came on as a sub in the secondgame and ended up making a big impactafter that. We would be looking for some-thing like that to happen again this yearbecause I do think that there is talent there.”

He adds: “Even though it did not show up inthe league, you would hope that with thehardening of the ground and the ball travel-ling faster and all that that a few of themwould show up, in challenge games betweennow and June 23rd.”

Foley readily insists that Limerick were thesecond best team in Ireland last year, butthe team has one goal as of now with rela-tion to this Summer. “We are looking to thefirst round and we are looking no furtherthan that. But we want to get back into aMunster Final and, if we don’t win in Thurles,we will have failed in our number one goal.Winning is definitely a habit and it really doesbring a team on, and it’s a habit we wouldlike to keep.

“The only thing that motivates me is suc-cess and the chance of success. Once youget to an All-Ireland Final (in Foley’s casetwice, 1996 and last September), it’s a no-brainer really to come back. I would not say

that I’m there to enjoy the training or any-thing like that. I am there for the big daysand to try and win things.”

It seems like only yesterday that the lion-hearted Foley was named Young Hurler ofthe Year in 1996, but a dozen years laterhe’s still as fresh as ever on ChampionshipSundays.

OFF the field, life appears very rosy for theambitious Foley. His day job is with Mr.Binman with whom he works as a SeniorField Executive, while he also owns the verysuccessful Mark Foley’s Bar in the heart ofthe quaint village of Ballyagran, which nes-tles exceptionally close to the Cork border.

At a time of reported drop-off in trade atpublic houses across the country, this cer-tainly isn’t the case in Ballyagran, whereFoley has lodged a planning application oflate with Limerick County Council for anextension of his premises, which is a pro-tected structure, one presumes, with all itsgenuine old world charm and traditionalthatched roof.

Surprisingly (for this scribe anyway), Corkhave been installed as favourites in the bet-ting for the Munster Championship, followedby Tipperay, Waterford, Limerick and Clare.Limerick are a best-priced 7/1 for provin-cial glory and 25/1 for a return of LiamMcCarthy to the county after a very longfamine.

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Hurling Championship Time Arrives for Limerick

AFTER a wait since last year’s heartbreaking All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Final defeat to hotpots Kilkenny,

Limerick will only commence their interest in the 2008 edition of this ancient competition with an expected Munster

semi-final date against Waterford at Semple Stadium, Thurles.

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There is nothing like a perfect ending to a sea-son and Munster provided the most beautifulof finales with their victory over Toulouse inCardiff.Why was this as sweet a win as ever we couldhave hoped to savour? Who knows?Maybe it was the fact that Munster had strug-gled through one of the toughest groups andhad to travel for the knockout stages; maybethe win finally blew away the disappointment ofthe World Cup; or it could have been that we’dbeaten the very best France had to offer. At the end of the day, the reason is probablyirrelevant. The key point was that Munsterwere European Cup champions.In terms of a sporting occasion Cardiff was asgood as it gets. Granted, the result going in ourfavour made it all the better but it was still amagnificent spectacle and a crackingencounter.A lot of neutrals have commented on it notbeing a particularly good game of rugby but Idon’t agree with that assertion. It was a grip-ping and brutal contest.The skill levels were exceptional and the paceand commitment massive. And, anyway, thisgame was never going to be exhibition stuff.The goal was to win and Munster did just that.

I felt that two things stood to the lads on theday; experience and the fact that our mainmen played out of their skins.Declan Kidney alluded to the fact that some-

times you need to lose a final to win one.Maybe that’s just defeated teams trying toconsole themselves, who knows? Still, I think itcounts for something.I was in two losing Heineken Cup final dressingrooms. They are not nice places and the olderheads in the Munster set-up would havewarned the lads of that. The bulk of this squad tasted the craic and themadness of winning two years ago.Recapturing that buzz must have been a realmotivational factor. Although Munster started slowly and allowedToulouse to dominate proceedings for theopening 20 minutes, I thought that their focuswas spot on from the start. Denis Hurley made a few early blunders butour defence still looked solid and well organ-ised. Maybe this was a factor in Jean BaptisteElisalde having early pops for drop goals whenmoving the ball wide may have been a betteroption. That the outhalf landed just one of thoseefforts meant that Toulouse never fully capi-talised on the fact that they owned the ball forthe entire first quarter.That period was probably the most difficult ofthe game for Munster. It’s never easy to playwithout the ball and putting in hit after hit isphysically and mentally draining. Fortunately, it was one of those days when thelads were queuing up to make tackles. Theywere almost getting in one another’s way.

Alan Quinlan set the tone. He made a fewcrunching hits early on and he was never farfrom the action from then until the end. Quinny is a real confidence player and once hestarted well you knew that he was going tohave a right good game. He’s also the sort offellow who lifts the team when he’s going welland it was clear that he was really driving onthe rest of the pack. It was like they were feed-ing off his enthusiasm. The fact that Fabien Pelous gave him a kick inthe arse – and got a yellow card for his trouble– proved that Quinlan had gotten to theToulouse pack. You could say that the Frenchlegend was inadvertently complimenting theTipp man.All in all, the Munster blindside fully deservedthe man-of-the-match award. He was by far thebest player on the pitch and he showed againthat on his day he’s still the finest No 6 in Irishrugby.Another man to have a massive game wasPaul O’Connell. The team needed a big per-

Mick Galwey

“As sweet a win as ever we could have hoped.....”

Jean-Baptiste Elissaldewho criticised Munster'sstyle of play in TheHeineken Cup Final.Terrible taste off thosesour grapes

..Johnnie O'Donnell, PJ Mattews.

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formance from the captain and pack leaderand he didn’t disappoint. The Young Munster man and DonnchaO’Callaghan were outstanding in both the line-out and the loose. As well as taking their ownball, they also managed to upset the French tosuch an extent that William Servat was forcedto throw to the front of the line.This was a serious blow for Toulouse as itmeant that they were unable to get quick balloff the back of the line from which to set theirbackline moving. Just how dangerous those backs were wasamply demonstrated by Yves Donguy’s try. Itwas an exceptional score and all credit toCedric Heymans for having the bottle and skillto make something out of nothing. However, it must be said that having watchedToulouse take a number of quick lineouts,Munster should have started putting the ballinto the stand rather than simply into touch.You can’t take a quick lineout when the ball isin Row Z.Overall, the Munster pack deserves greatpraise. The forwards had to compete if wewere to have any chance. I felt we coped verywell in the front row, while the backrow wonthe battle at the breakdown.The back division were also on the mark. IanDowling had a mighty game and I hope herounds off a cracking season with an interna-tional cap on the tour to New Zealand andAustralia.Ronan O’Gara didn’t set the place on fire buthe kicked the pressure kicks and that steeredMunster home. Tomás O’Leary had a fine outing for a manmaking his debut in a major final. He certainlyhas the temperament to operate on the bigstage. Even so, I was somewhat disappointedthat Peter Stringer wasn’t introduced for thefinal 15 minutes. At that stage Munster were in a position toclose out the game. With Stringer’s fast pass,O’Gara could have dropped into the pocketand slotted a goal. That would have given theteam some breathing space.Clearly, Declan Kidney didn’t feel that a changewas necessary and it’s hard to argue with awinning coach. He has brought Munster tofour Heineken Cup finals and won two of them;it’s some achievement.That he is now moving on to the Irish job is cer-tainly good for the national side. However, hisdeparture, coupled with Jim Williams’ decisionto return to Australia, will leave a big hole inthe set up. The pair of them have been greatservants to Munster rugby.

Still, the show must go on and though theprovince has lost two proven leaders, you’dhave to say that we’ve picked up two excep-tional players this season in Rua Tipoki andDoug Howlett. To see the reaction of the two lads and LifeimiMafi after the game was very interesting. Theyappeared to be just soaking up the atmos-phere and the occasion. That same joy and enthusiasm was seen whenthey performed the haka at the home coming.It will be something else to see them againstthe All Blacks later this year. Reflecting on the result and its implications Imust say that I was especially pleased for theelder statesmen in the Munster squad. Afterthis win they can look back and feel very proudof what they have achieved.Equally, the Munster supporters deserve mas-sive credit. It was sheer joy to be in Cardiff lastweekend. The tens of thousands of Munstersupporters who packed the Welsh capital cre-ated a magic atmosphere.

A magnificent team deserves magnificent sup-porters. We’re lucky enough to have both.Long may it continue!In terms of Munster legends, it was fantasticthat Anthony Foley got the send off from theprovincial side that he deserved. Axel has given Munster and Ireland tremen-dous service down the years and it was onlyright and fitting that that was recognised. Looking forward to the Irish tour to theSouthern Hemisphere and the Churchill Cup, itwill be interesting to see how the lads do. Hopefully the international side can build onthe momentum of Munster’s victory in Cardiffand Leinster’s winning of the MagnersLeague. Given that Ireland have never won in NewZealand and it is 1979 since we won inAustralia, both games will realistically bejudged in terms of performance. If we can staywithin 10 points in both games it will have tobe classed as a successful tour.

Has to be Munster for their achievements in winning TheHeineken Cup. They are deserving champions.Best of luck to Declan Kidney, Anthony Foley and JimWilliams and thanks for the memories....Johnnie O'Donnell, PJ Mattews.

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!25m Clare County Council HQ is OfficiallyOpenedMayor of Clare, Councillor PatriciaMcCarthy today officially opened ClareCounty Council’s new CorporateHeadquarters at New Road, Ennis. ÀrasContae an Chlàir, which has been deliveredat a cost of EUR25m, provides accommoda-tion for 300 staff, as well as meeting rooms,staff canteen, laboratory, Mayor’s office,Council Chamber and 3 party rooms for theelected members. 320 car parking spacesare provided at the rear of the building. TheCorporate Headquarters building incorpo-rates a number of environmentally friendlymeasures and operates as a naturally venti-lated building. Solar panels and a wood chipheating system have been installed.Following a tender process, Clare WoodChip of Flagmount was selected to supplythe wood chip for the building.

Mayor of Clare Councillor Patricia

McCarthy said that Clare County Councilhad made itself more accessible to mem-bers of the public by centralising its principalservices in one location. Mayor McCarthycontinued, “Such ease of access to servicesis complemented by the fact that ClareCounty Council continues to expand the leveland extent of services available to cus-tomers at its various Local Area Offices.Approximately six months ago, for example,the Council officially opened its new AreaOffice and Branch Library in Scariff bringingconsiderable benefits for the people of EastClare. I am confident that the effort andcommitment of everyone involved in thisproject will be vindicated by the valuable con-tribution made by these new facilities to fur-ther improving the delivery of local govern-ment services throughout County Clare”,the Mayor stated.

Sections of the Council were relocated toseveral sites around Ennis when the oldoffices on the New Road site were vacatedin mid 2005. Following a tender processthat generated a lot of interest from manyof the country’s larger developers, the firmof Michael McNamara & Co. BuildingContractors was chosen as the preferredoption to Design, Build and Finance the pro-vision of the new building.

The contractors commenced work inJanuary 2006. The first phase of theworks involved the construction of aMachinery Yard Headquarters atBeechpark on the R474 Ennis-KilmaleyRoad. Work on the construction of the NewHeadquarters has continued since the newMachinery Yard was completed in May2006. Àras Contae an Chlàir opened forbusiness on 21 January 2008.

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ty still weaves a special magic. Now youcan add your own chapter to this endur-ing history at Slí na Manach, rapidlybecoming Limerick’s most sought afteraddress.

The Crescent Shopping Centre on theDooradoyle Road, the biggest and mostsuccessful shopping complex outside ofDublin, is within five minutes drive. Evencloser to home is “Racefield” a well estab-lished neighbourhood shopping centrewith supermarket, Garrett’s butchers,Pharmacy, Russell’s Bar & Restaurantand a wide range of other shops andservices and all of this just two minuteswalk away.

The thriving Raheen Industrial Estate isjust a few minutes up the road whichemploys over 8,000 people and is hometo some of the worlds largestMultinational companies like Dell andStryker. Mungret is well served byschools. These include the 700 pupil St.Nessan’s National School, which offers ahost of extra-curricular activities which is

within safe walking distance, and thenearby Crescent Comprehensive Collegein Dooradoyle.

As befits a thriving community, localsports and leisure activities are well sup-

ported. Mungret St Paul’s GAA Club hasroots stretching back to 1895 while thesuccessful Mungret Regional FC has arange of adult, youth, junior and ladiesteams. There are many other sports andsocial facilities close by.

Last week saw McInereney’s launch their lat-est development in the much sought afterMungret Area. At Slí Na Manach, McInerneyHomes have demonstrated, why it is the coun-try’s largest home builder - imagination indesign, attention to detail and uncompromis-ing commitment to quality. McInerney Homesattention to detail follows through all over thedevelopment. From the high ceilings, high win-dows and top of the range fixtures and fittings,down to the finer details of landscaped gar-dens, cobble lock drives and general superb finishing. McInerney Homes leave develop-ments ready for you to live in.

For thousands of years, going right back tothe Bronze Age, Mungret has been a haven oftranquillity. In the 5th century it was home toover 1,500 monks, a centre of learningattracting visitors from near and far – includ-ing the Vikings! It’s no surprise, therefore, thatto this day its deep rooted sense of communi-

McInerney’s Launch Sli na Manach Development

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JUNE 2008

Helena Gubbins and Claire O'Regan, Sales, McInerney Homes with Donal Quinlivan, AssociateDirector McInerney Homes at the launch of phase one of McInerney Homes new development,Sli Na Manach in Mungret.

Rosemarie Hennebry, Marketing Director McInerney Homes and Donal Quinlivan, AssociateDirector McInerney Homes at the launch of phase one of McInerney Homes new development,Sli Na Manach in Mungret.

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[email protected] (061) 410410

TO LET31 UPPER WILLIAM STREET,

LIMERICK.* Newly constructed 5 storey office building * Fitted out to the highest standards* Lift service throughout* Adjoining multi storey car park* Unit comprises of c. 557 Sq. M (6000 Sq. Ft.)* Rent: !100,000 pa or !16.66 per Sq. Ft. fully fitted

FOR SALE/TO LETEASTLINK BUSINESS PARK,

BALLYSIMON ROAD

* Ground floor 3128 Sq. Ft. First Floor: 1430 Sq. Ft. * Located in the new and popular business park* Direct access on to Limerick’s ring road* For sale in a shell and core state*The property benefits from 8 meters to the eaves* Price: !486,500 Rent: !25,000 p.a.

TO LETPART THIRD FLOOR, IVERNIA HALL,

97 HENRY STREET, LIMERICK.* Third generation office space in Limericks main “CBD” area* Office area: 1,700 Sq. Ft. fitted out to a very high

standard throughout* Car parking available in basement car park * Adjoining occupiers include The Limerick Post, Anglo Irish

Bank, Michael Punch & Partners etc.* Rent: !32,500 or !19.11 per Sq. Ft. fully fitted

FOR SALE/ TO LETELITE BUSINESS PARK,

EAST POINT,SHANNON, CO. CLARE.

* Well located commercial units * Units available on ground & first floor* Adjoining occupiers include arts & crafts, fortune

flooring, curves, chunky browns etc.* Units available from 1,500 Sq. Ft. To 2,750 Sq. Ft.* Units available in a shell & core specification* Rent: Ground floor from !12 per Sq. Ft.

TO LETINDUSTRIAL UNIT WITH YARD AREA,

DOCK ROAD, LIMERICK.* Modern industrial unit of 3000 Sq. Ft. * Yard area of c. 0.5 acre (22,000 Sq. Ft.)* Well located just off Irish Cement roundabout* Ready for immediate occupation* Rent: !35,000 p.a.

TO LETRETAIL UNIT,TODDS BOW

* Centrally located unit just off Cruises Street* Unit comprises of c. 409 Sq. Ft.* Ideally suited to a number of uses* Adjoining multi storey car parking* Rent: !25,000 per annum

TO LETINDUSTRIAL UNITS WITH YARD AREA

PATRICKSWELL,CO. LIMERICK

* Modern industrial facility with extensive yard area* Units available from 5000-20,000 Sq. Ft.* Located in Patrickswell village just off the Southern ring

road, a very secure site* Yard area c. 25,000 Sq. Ft.* Rent: from !6.50 per Sq. Ft.

TO LETUNIT 2, WESTGATE HOUSE,

MICHAEL STREET* Central & accessible location* Adjoining occupiers to include Instore, Granary

Tavern & Gardner House* Unit comprises of ground floor store c. 1500 Sq.

Ft. & first floor offices c. 1500 Sq. Ft.* Good standard of fit out throughout* Rent: !32,500 p.a. or !10.83 per Sq. Ft. to include

2 car parking spaces at rear

LEASE FOR SALE WITHVACANT POSSESSION

GROUND FLOOR & BASEMENT,11 THOMAS STREET

* The subject unit is located in Limericks “Café Quarter” just off O’Connell Street

* Unit fronts onto the newly pedestrianised street* Unit has been recently upgraded & modernised to a high standard

* Adjoining occupiers include the Bagel Factory, O’Connors Restaurant, Relish & Au Bars

* Rent !25,000 per annum: Key Money !75,000

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Spin South West and Tipperary Waterannounced their sponsorship of the 29thWorld Baton Twirling Championship that willtake place from the 5th -10th August 2008.The new agreement was announced atLisnagry National school in Limerick. TheUniversity of Limerick will play host to the29th World Baton Twirling Championships.This event will bring over 3,500 athletes,coaches and supporters from 22 differentnations to the city of Limerick, all withdreams of taking home the championshiptitle.

It is estimated that this World Baton TwirlingChampionships will bring approximately!8.7 million to the Limerick /Shannon econ-omy over the duration of the tournament.The event is been broadcasted by RTE televi-sion and CNN and NKG have both expressedan interest in broadcasting the event.

The sport of baton twirling has being aroundfor over 28 years and has seen resurgencein recent years with over 20 clubs now prac-ticing throughout the country. Numbers aregrowing every year and we hope to grow thesport will become even more popular follow-ing this event in Ireland. There is also a pro-

posal under consideration to make batontwirling an Olympic Sport in time for the2012 Olympic Games in London.

This event is not just a once off, with the bidunderway for the 2009 and 2011 European

Championship that will bring over 14 coun-tries to the city of Limerick for these cham-pionships.

For more details log on to the websitewww.worldbaton2008.com

The Radisson SAS Hotel and Spa, Limerickwas the place to be seen on Thursday May22nd. This beautiful hotel welcomed 60 oftheir clients to a unique Sex and the Cityevent that will be the talk of the town for thecoming months.

Guests were welcomed on arrival with achoice of Manhattan and CosmopolitanCocktails while nibbling on Sushi. They werethen treated to a fabulous fashion show byBrown Thomas Limerick Personal Shopper,Mary Fox, who showed off this season’s topfashions and accessories, with the aid of herSATC models.

Following on from this fashion extravagan-za, guests were lead into the ballroomwhere they were presented with an amazing

Asian Buffet, to keep with the theme of theevening. The room was decorated through-out with elaborate displays of OstrichFeathers, oversized Cocktail glasses andscenes from previous episodes playing inthe background.Brown Thomas goody bags were then givento all guests on their departure.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASECONTACT:

Tom ShanahanDirector of Sales and MarketingRadisson SAS Hotel & Spa, LimerickTel: 061 456200Mobile: 0879244404Email: [email protected]

Sex and the City Arrives at theRadisson SAS Hotel & Spa, Limerick

Sponsorship of the World BatonTwirling Championship Announced

Fourth and Fifth class students from Lisnagry national school who are participating in the Baton Twirlingschools program, An Cathoirleach Kevin Sheehan, Phelim Macken, manager of the county Sports Partnershipwere present at the announcement, along with Lisa Rael, Marketing Manager Tipperary Water and the Spinisfrom Spin South West.

Pictured at the Sex in the City Evening inthe Radisson SAS Hotel & Spa in Limerickwere: Sharon Bromell, Louise O'Hara,Maura McMahon & Tom Shanahan,Radisson SAS

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ACCOUNTANTSBDO Simpson XavierBusiness and Financial Advisors4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172Email: [email protected] Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com

Grant ThorntonChartered Accountants,Mill House, Henry St, Limerick.Tel: 061 314622 / 061 312744Fax: 061 317691 / 061 418038Email: [email protected]: www.grantthornton.ie

HDS PartnershipRegistered Auditors – Accountants – TaxConsultants – Business Advisors2nd Floor,RiverPoint,Lower Mallow Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 445000 Fax: 061 445060E-mail: [email protected]: www.hds.ie

Horwath Bastow CharletonAccountants and Business AdvisorsHorwath House,The Red Church, Henry St. Limerick.Tel: 061 310311 Fax: 061 318899E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.hbcl.ie

Moore Stephens Patrick McNamaraAccountants and Business AdvisorsPamdohlen House,Dooradoyle Road,Limerick.Tel: 061 229666 Fax: 061 302144Email: [email protected]: www.mspatrickmcnamara.ie

Donal Morrissey & CompanySuite 21 Whitethorns, Castletroy, Limerick.Tel: 061 333675 Fax: 061 333677E-mail: [email protected]

John Quirke & Co.Racefield House,Dooradoyle,Limerick.Tel: 061 301260Fax: 061 307863Email: [email protected]

Murphy O’Connor & Associates26 Mallow Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 314266 Fax: 061 314393E-mail: [email protected]

O’Donovan Caulfield Lavin1 Mt. Kenneth Place, Henry St, Limerick.Tel: 061 411000 Fax: 061 411001E-mail: [email protected]

O’Hurley Blair Irwin3rd Floor, Mount Kenneth House, Henry St, Limerick.Tel: 061 401122 Fax: 061 401144E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.obi.ie

O’Sullivan & AssociatesChartered Accountants38 Roches Street,Limerick.

Tel: 061 217000Fax:1890 886803Email: [email protected]

ACCOUNTANCY COURSESBPP Professional Services89 O’Connell Street. LimerickTel: 061 310884 Fax: 061 310984Email: [email protected]: www.bpp.com/ireland

ADVERTISING AGENCYSouthern AdvertisingKilloran House, Catherine Place, Limerick.Tel: 061 310286 Fax: 061 313013Email: [email protected] Web: www.southernad.ie

Spark Marketing Communications100 O’Connell St, Limerick.Tel: 061 409251 Fax: 061 409255E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.sparkmarketing.ie

AIR CONDITIONINGBatt O’Connor Air ConditioningContact: Batt O’ConnorBallykenneddy, Ballingarry,Co.LimerickTel: 069 68407 Fax: 069 68407Mobile: 086 8122220Email: [email protected]

Brian Scully ServicesCastlemahon, Co. LimerickTel: 069 72200 Fax: 069 72266Email: [email protected]: www.bssaircon.ie

ARCHITECTSC.C.H. ArchitectsUnit 2, 1st Floor, Riverfront BuildingHowleys Quay, LimerickTel: 061 312214 Fax: 061 312215Email: [email protected]: www.cch-architects.com

O’Connor & Shanahan Architects93 O’Connell Street, LimerickTel: 061 410708 Fax: 061 [email protected]: www.ocsarchitects.com

ARCHITECTS & BUILDING ENERGYRATING ASSESSORSBrian O’ DonoghueTait Business Centre, Dominic St., Limerick.Tel: 061 410318 Fax: 061 414315 Mob: 086 8122271E-mail: [email protected]

ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, BUILDINGENERGY RATINGS ASSESSMENTS &PROJECT MANAGEMENTAbsolute House Plans Ltd.4 Willow Crescent,Riverbank,Annacotty,Limerick.Tel/Fax: 061 331969Mob: 087 2957494Email: [email protected]: www.absolutehouseplans.ie

ARTISTContact Name: Una HeatonTel: 086 3735015Email: [email protected]: under construction

AUCTIONEERSDTZ SHERRY FITZGERALDHibernian House,105 Henry Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 418111 Fax: 061 418112Email: [email protected] Web: www.dtz.ie

G.L Auctioneers, Valuers & Property Consultants65 O’Connell Street,Limerick.Contact: Geraldine LeddinTel: 061 467188 Fax: 061 467190Email: [email protected]: www.propertylimerick.com

John Shaw Auctioneers M.I.P.A.V.1 Lower Mallow Street, LimerickTel: 061 311133 Fax: 061 314666Email: [email protected]: www.johnshawauctioneers.com

Frontline Estate Agents28 Mallow St, Limerick.Tel: 061 400544 Fax: 061 400585E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.property.ie/frontline

AUDIO VIDEOShannonside AVContact: Deirdre DonnellyUnit G6, Eastway Business Park,Ballysimon Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 412744 Fax: 061 313986Email: [email protected]: www.shannonsideav.ie

BAR, BISTRO & NIGHTCLUBAubars49-50 Thomas Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 317799Fax: 061 317572Email: [email protected]: www.aubars.com

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BARS & NIGHTCLUBSPeter Clohesseys Bar & Sinbin NightclubHowleys Quay, LimerickTel: 061 468100 Fax: 061 468218Web: www.peterclohessey.com

BUILDING CONTRACTORSAce ServicesGlenameadePallaskenry, Co. LimerickTel: 061 393 049 or 061 393 982Fax: 061 393 303Email: [email protected]

BUILDING SUPPLIERSBallysheedy Building SuppliesBallysheedy, Co. Limereick(next to ' Weigh In' bar)Tel: 061 445660/ 061 445666Mob: 087 2490666/ 087 6983444

BURGLAR ALARMS & SECURITY SYSTEMSClifford Security Alarms16 Wickham Street, LimerickTel: 061 313033 / 440151Fax: 061 317412Email: [email protected]: www.cliffordsecurity.com

BUSINESS BANKINGAllied Irish Bank (AIB)Contact: Kieran O’ReganLower Cecil Street, LimerickTel: 061 406200 Fax: 061 409002Email: kieran.j.o’[email protected]: www.aib.ie

Anglo Irish BankAnglo Irish Bank House, 98 Henry St., LimerickTel: 061 461800 Fax: 061 461898Web: www.angloirishbank.com

Bank of Ireland125 O’ Connell St., LimerickTel: 061 419791 Fax: 061 418554E-mail: [email protected]

Bank Of Ireland ParkwayParkway Shopping CentreDublin Road, LimerickTel: 061 415600 Fax: 061 415670Email: noelle.o’[email protected]: www.bankofireland.ie

Bank Of Scotland IrelandBank of Scotland House,Shannon Street, LimerickTel: 061-209300E-mail: [email protected]: www.bankofscotlandireland.ie

IIB BankRiverpoint, Bishops Quay, Limerick.Contact: Damien QuigleyTel: 061 448600 Fax: 061 468468Email: [email protected]: www.iibbank.ie

Permanent TSBSarsfield Street – 061 318922Dooradoyle – 061 484846William Street – 061 317933Email: [email protected]: www.permanenttsb.ie

Ulster Bank Midwest Business Centre14 Henry Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 316757 Fax: 061 312971E-mail: [email protected]: www.ulsterbank.com

BUSINESS COACHESAction Coach Business CoachingUnit 1 C,Annacotty Business Park,Annacotty, Limerick.Tel: 061 338682 Fax: 061 338682Email: [email protected]: www.actioncoach.com/joepower

BUSINESS ENTERPRISESO’Callaghan EnterprisesHead Office47 Upper William Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 414224 Fax: 061 405171Web: www.ocallaghanenterprises.com

BUSINESS ORGANISATIONSLimerick Chamber 96 O’ Connell St, LimerickTel: 061 415180 Fax: 061 415785Email: [email protected]: www.limerickchamber.ie

Shannon & District Chamber of CommerceShannon Business Centre, Shannon, Co. ClareTel: 061 360611 Fax: 061 360440E-mail: [email protected]: www.shannonchamber.com

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SUPPORTPractical Business Solutions Ltd.18 Newtown Mews,Castletroy, Co. Limerick.Tel: 061 332929Email: [email protected]: www.practicalsolutions.ie

BUSINESS SOFTWARE SOLUTIONSBusiness Computer Solutions LtdBCS HouseDock RoadLimerickTel: 061 311 311Lo-Call: 1890 818 400Fax: 061 311 313Email: [email protected]: www.bcsdirect.ie

CompuCount Ltd.18 Cois Luachra,Limerick.Tel: 061 305033 Fax: 061 305291Email: [email protected]: www.compucount.ie

BUSINESS TELEPHONE SYSTEMSLantel Networks LtdRoselawn House,National Technological Park,Limerick.Tel: 061 3503580 Fax: 061 350360Email: [email protected]: www.lantel.ie

BUSINESS TRAINING ORGANISATIONFASFAS Services To BusinessRaheen Business Park,Raheen, LimerickTel: 061-487975 Fax: 061-229447E-Mail: [email protected]: www.fas.ie

HSI Limerick Business School &HSI English Language School.3 Quinlan Street, The Crescent, Limerick.Tel: +353-61-317822 Fax: +353-61-317877E-Mail: [email protected]: www.hsi.ie

CAR DEALERSClareview MotorsEnnis Road, LimerickTel: 061 221000 Fax: 061 221060E-mail: [email protected]: www.clareviewmotors.com

Enterprise CarsJapanese and UK Import Specialist & Light CommercialsDock Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 301301 Fax: 061 301340E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.enterprisecars.com

Pat Keogh BMWTipperary Road, LimerickTel: 061 422600 Fax: 061 422622Email: [email protected]: www.patkeoghbmw.com

Pat Keogh NISSANTipperary Road, LimerickTel: 061 313355 Fax: 061 312311Email: [email protected]: www.patkeogh-nissan.com

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Lyons Of Limerick & NenaghMain Ford Dealers,Ballysimon Road, LimerickTel: 061 413344 / 067 33442Fax: 061 413699 / 067 33436E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.lyonsoflimerick.com

Tom Hogan LexusDock Road,Limerick.Tel: 061 225995 Fax: 061 306306Email: [email protected]: www.tomhoganlexuslimerick.com

CARPETS & FLOORINGFirst Floor Furniture & Flooring Ltd.Croom Road, Adare, Co. LimerickTel: 061 395939 Fax: 061 395939Email: [email protected]: www.firstfloor.ie

Nolans Carpets & FlooringMain Street, NewportCo. TipperaryTel: 061 373739 Fax: 061 373722

Provincial Floor CoveringsRaheen Business Park,Raheen, Limerick.Tel: 061-227100 Fax: 061-227000E-Mail: [email protected]: www.pfl.ie

CATERINGCountry Fresh CateringBulgaden, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick.Tel: 063 20001 Fax: 063 20165E-mail: [email protected]: www.bulgadencastle.com

Mortell Catering49 Roches Street, LimerickTel: 061 415457 Mob: 087 7973419E-mail: [email protected]: www.mortellcatering.com

CCTV & ACCESS COMMUNICATIONSAdvanced MonitoringNo.2 Pillar House, Little Ellen St. LimerickTel: 061 319 375 Fax: 061 311 805Mobile: 087 2596955 / 087 2395039Email: [email protected]

CHARTERED SURVEYORS, VALUEENGINEERS, & PROJECT MANAGERSBruce Shaw PartnershipBruce Shaw House,6 Hartstonge Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 493515 Fax: 061 493516E-Mail: [email protected]: www.bruceshaw.ie

CLEANINGClean HabitB2 Smithstown Industrial Estate,Shannon,Co. Clare.Tel: 061 361461Fax: 061 361868Email: [email protected]: www.cleanhabit.com

ISS FacilitiesUnit 11, Ashbourne Business ParkDock Road, LimerickTel: 061 500300 Fax: 061 500301Contact : Brian KellyMobile: 087 9159108Email: [email protected]: www.iss.ie

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE SERVICEElite Cleaning ServiceRose Cottage, Woodpark, Castleconnell, Co. LimerickTel: 061 372133 Fax: 061 372627E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.elite-contract-cleaning.com

Noonan Services LimitedDocklands Business Park,Dock Road, LimerickTel: 061 312077 Fax: 061 315712E-mail: [email protected]

COACH HIREMartin’s of LimerickAnnacotty Business Park,Biddyford, Annacotty, Co. Limerick.Tel: 061 333100 Fax: 061 333102Email: [email protected]: www.martinscoaches.ie

Mike Hynan CoachesCappamore Co. LimerickTel: 061 381700 Fax: 061 381965Mob: 086 2500433E-mail: [email protected]: www.mikehynancoaches.com

CLEANINGComplete Cleaning & MaintenanceServicesDirector: Pat McLoughlinRoxboro Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 409596Mob: 087 9622222Fax: 061 409591www.compclean.ie

COMPUTER NETWORKING SALES & SUPPORTBCS ComputersBCS HouseDock Road, LimerickTel: 061 311 311Lo-Call: 1890 818 400Fax: 061 311 313Email: [email protected]: www.bcsdirect.ie

Fitzpatrick Computer GroupContact: Jackie DeereMill House, Henry Street, LimerickTel: 061 493300 Fax: 061 417219Email: [email protected]: www.fcg.ie

O’Connor Network Services (ONS)Ardnataggle,O’Briens Bridge,Co. ClareTel: 061 343412 Fax: 061 343413Mobile: 087 8118690E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ons.ie

PAQ IT SolutionsPAQ IT House,Mayorstone,Limerick.Tel: 061 326792Ennis: 065 6868333Galway: 091 755666E: [email protected]: www.paqit.com

CONSTRUCTIONFrank McGrath Construction Ltd31 Upper William Street; LimerickContact: Paula Shinners or Allan RyanTel: 061 417 374 Fax: 061 414 922Email: [email protected]: www.frankmcgrath.ie

G-Mack Racking Ltd.Contact: Noel HydeFreephone: 1890 812218Fax: 061 304888Mob: 087 6357639Email: [email protected]: www.g-mack.com

Roadbridge LtdBallyclough, Ballysheedy, Co. LimerickTel: 061 419855 Fax: 061 414767E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.roadbridge.ie

CONTRACT & EVENT CATERERSMasterchefs HospitalityEpicurean House,Robert Street, LimerickTel: 061 411522 Fax: 061 402021Email: [email protected]

CORPORATE GIFTSCraft Innovations Corporate Gifts Ltd. 5 Quin Street, Limerick Tel: (061) 415198 Fax: (061) 415208 Email: [email protected]: www.craftinnovations.ie

Friendship Wines & HampersTel: 061 455225 Mob: 087-2533966E-mail: [email protected]: www.friendshipwines.com

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CRECHE / MONTESSORILittle Treasures CrecheOakleigh Wood, Dooradoyle Road, Limerick Tel: 061 307427 Lisa: 086 6017174 Sheila: 086 8587927

DINING FURNITURE SOLUTIONSG & A Manifold(Showrooms)Unit 6E,Docklands Business Park,Dock Road,Limerick.Tel: 061 312777Fax: 061 313434Email: to [email protected]: www.gamanifold.ie

SignLynxContact: Jack O'LoughlinFranklin Motor Yard, Cahernorry, Ballysimon, Limerick.Tel: 061 333736 Mob: 086 8094420Fax: 061 333737Email: [email protected]: www.signlynx.ie

DRAINAGE & ENVIRONMENTALSERVICESWalsh Environmental ServicesDrainage & Environmental SpecialistsThe Cottage, Lower Meelick, Co. ClareTel: 061 325757 Fax: 061 325700

DRY CLEANERSAmbassador Dry CleaningRaheen Industrial Estate,Raheen, Limerick.Tel: 061 301999Mob: 087 9572365

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS Des Ryan ElectricalBallyneety, Co. LimerickTel: 061 351643Mobile: 087 9121561Email: [email protected]: www.desryanelectrical.com

EVENT MANAGEMENTEvent SuccessRathurles,Nenagh, Co.TipperaryTel:067 33464 Fax: 067 33465Mobile: 086 8079763Email:[email protected]: www.eventsuccess.ie

Funireland Event ManagementLittle Orchard,Dooneen, Crecora, Co. Limerick.Tel: 061 320292 Fax: 061 320294Email: [email protected]: www.funireland.com

Woulfe Event Management,Tower View House,Glenview Avenue,Farranshone, Limerick.Tel: 061 321979Mob: 087 7631999Email: [email protected]: www.woulfemanagement.ie

FINANCIAL CONTROL / ACCOUNTING / BOOK-KEEPING SERVICESHogan Financial Management Ltd50 O’Connell Street, LimerickTel: 481444 Fax: 061 481445Email: [email protected]: www.hoganfinancial.ie

FITNESS EQUIPMENTGymfix ( Irl) Ltd.Unit 1,Dromkeen Industrial Park,Dromkeen, Limerick.Tel: 061 388000Fax: 061 388011Fax: [email protected]: www.gymfixireland.com

FLORISTFlowers ForeverDesigner FloristRachel & David HannonRaheen Roundabout, Limerick.Tel: 061 307123 Fax: 061 307123Email: [email protected]

FOOTWEAR RETAILERMichael Gleeson Shoes26 William Street, LimerickTel: 061 417407

FREIGHT FORWARDING & LOGISTICSInternational Cargo ServicesICS HouseRaheen Business Park, Raheen, LimerickTel: 061 500 800 Fax: 061 500 801Email: [email protected]: www.intlcargo.com

GLASS AND MIRRORSMirror and GlassworxUnit 1b, Annacotty Business Park,Limerick.Tel: 061 333630 Mob: 087 2808184Fax: 061 333631Email: [email protected]: www.mirrorandglassworx.com

GOLF COURSESAdare Golf ClubAdare Manor Hotel & Golf ResortAdare, Co. Limerick.Tel: 061 605274Fax: 061 605271Email: [email protected]: www.adaregolfclub.com

Limerick County Golf ClubBallyneety, Co. LimerickTel: 061 351881 Fax: 061 351384Email: [email protected]: www.limerickcounty.com

Limerick Golf ClubBallyclough, Co. LimerickTel: 061 414083 Fax: 061 319219Email: [email protected]: www.limerickgc.com

Mc Sweeney Golf Academy4 PGA ProfessionalsLimerick County Golf Club, Ballyneety, Co. Limerick.Tel: 061 352905 Fax: 061 352787E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.limerickcounty.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN CONSULTANCYOptic Nerve Design GroupThe Mill, Glentworth Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 316955 Fax: 061 316965E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.opticnerve.ie

GRAPHIC & WEB DESIGNCreative E-Biz Ltd.Trebor House, Toreen, Ballysimon, LimerickTel: 061-335042/061-330049Email: [email protected]: www.wsicreativeebusiness.com

Customer Care SolutionsAnne Sheehan, Harbour House, Locke Quay, Limerick.Mobile: 087 6684819E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.customersolutions.ie

Edgewater GraphicsContact: HughCharlottes Quay, LimerickTel: 061 318318 Fax: 061 318308Email: [email protected]: www.egraphics.ie

GRAPHIC, WEB & FILM DESIGNIrish Design Front (IDF)Marine Village,Killaloe,Co.ClareTel: 061 375412Mob: 086 8176337Email: [email protected]: www.idf.ie

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GYM/ PERSONAL TRAININGDAVE SHEAHAN GROUPDave Sheahan Personal Training -Southcourt Hotel, Raheen & Lahinch Road, Ennis.Dave Sheahan GymWindmill Street, LimerickDave Sheahan, Just for Her - Courtfields,RaheenTel: 061 424936Email: [email protected]: www.davesheahan.ie

HANDHELD EDI SOLUTIONSCompuCount Ltd.18 Cois Luachra,Limerick.Tel: 061 305033 Fax: 061 305291Email: [email protected]: www.compucount.ie

HEALTH & SAFETYO.T.S. Ltd (Operative Training Services)Roselawn House,National Technology Park, LimerickTel: 061 633236Email: [email protected]

C&M Safety LtdContact Name:Margaret CulhaneThe Curlews, Killeaney, Glin, Co. LimerickTel:068 34527 Fax: 068 34562Email: [email protected]:www.cmsafety.com

HOME FURNISHINGSLimerick Paint SuppliesPennywell Road, Limerick. Tel: 061 411292Thomondgate, Limerick. Tel: 061 329828 Fax: 061 415874 Mob: 087 2503448

HOTELSADARE MANOR HOTEL & GOLFRESORT.Adare, Co. Limerick.Tel: 061 396566Fax: 061 396124Email: [email protected]: www.adaremanor.com

Castletroy Park Hotel,Dublin Road,Limerick.Tel: 061 335566Fax: 061 331117Contact: Ursula CullenEmail: [email protected]: www.castletroy-park.ie

Hilton HotelEnnis Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 421800Fax: 061 421866Email: [email protected]

Web: www.limerick.hilton.comLimerick Marriott HotelHenry Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 448700Fax: 061 448701Contact: Ursula CullenEmail: [email protected]: www.LimerickMarriott.com

Radisson SAS Hotel & Spa LimerickEnnis Road, LimerickTel: 061 456200 Fax: 061 327418Email: [email protected]: www.limerick.radissonsas.ie

The Castleoaks Hotel & AcornRestaurantCastleconnell, Co. LimerickTel: 061 377666 Fax: 061 377666Email: [email protected]: www.castleoaks.ie

Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel &SpaAdare, Co. LimerickTel: 061 605100 Fax: 061 396073Email: [email protected]: www.woodlands-hotel.ie

HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE ASSESSORSAuray Assessors Specialists in Property ClaimsTel: 061 317264 Fax: 094 9541723Email: [email protected]: www.aurayltd.com

HR ConsultantsThe HR ChannelContact: Fiona O’CarrollBallycarney,Clarina,Co. LimerickTel: 061 353154Mobile: 086 2051727Email: [email protected]

HUMAN RESOURCES CONSULTANTAND EXECUTIVE & BUSINESS COACHElaine Ryan & AssociatesUnit 7,Elite Business Park,Smithstown,Shannon,Co.Clare.Tel: 086 2381555Email: [email protected]

INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISERSGK Wealth Management Ltd20 The Crescent,Limerick.Tel: 061 448420Fax: 061 312882Email: [email protected]: www.gkwealth.ie

INDUSTRIALSercom SolutionsSarsfield Rd: Raheen Business Pk;Raheen, Limerick.Tel: 061-226600 Fax: 061-226640EMail:[email protected]:www.sercomsolutions.ie

INK REFILL & TONERSInk Refill Depot7B Denmark Street,Tel: 061 446446 Fax: 061 446456Email: [email protected]: www.inkrefilldepot.ie

INSULATIONAerobord Ltd.Askeaton, Co. LimerickTel: 061 604600 Fax: 061 604601Email: [email protected]: www.aerobord.ie

INSURANCE BROKERS & ADVISORSAON GroupContact Name:Shane O’Farrell17 / 19 Patrick Street,LimerickContact: Shane O’FarrellTel: 061 402300 Fax:061 310726Email: [email protected]: www.aon.ie

Michael Henchy Insurances5 The Crescent, LimerickTel: 061 318688 Fax: 061 316631Email: [email protected]

Robert Ryan Insurance3 Newenham Street,Limerick.Tel:061 319268Email: [email protected]

IT INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENTAvocent InternationalAvocent House,Shannon Free Zone,Shannon, Co. Clare.Tel: 061 471877 Fax: 061 471871Email: [email protected]: www.avocent.ie

LABEL MANUFACTURERSImpact Labelling Systems Ltd.Contact: Richard FoxImpact Labelling Systems Ltd.77/78 Eastlink Business Park,Tipperary Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 437990 Fax: 061 437995Email: [email protected]

LAUNDRYAmbassador Dry CleaningRaheen Industrial Estate,Raheen, Limerick.Tel: 061 301999 Mob: 087 9572365


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LETTING AGENTS & PROPERTYMANAGERSCastle Estates50 O’Connell Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 440411Fax: 061 311907Email: [email protected]: www.castle-estates.ie

LIFE & PENIONSNiall Cantrell Life & Pensions(Tied Agent of Eagle Star)Kilmore, Co. Clare (via Limerick).Mobile: 087 2545718.E-mail: [email protected]

LIFE & BUSINESS COACHINGPathfinder31b Cecil St. LimerickTel: 061 215750 Mob: 086 8123834E-mail: [email protected]

LIFT SERVICESMid Western LiftsCorcanree Business ParkDock Road, LimerickTel: 061 400123 Fax: 061 400121Email: [email protected]: www.mwls.ie

LIMOUSINE HIREIrish Diamond LimousinesRaheen, LimerickMob: 086-6030380Email: [email protected]: www.irishdiamondlimousines.com

LUXURY DEPARTMENT STORESBrown Thomas16 O’Connell Street, LimerickTel: 061 417222 Fax: 061 412191Email: [email protected]: www.brownthomas.com

MARQUEE HIREO’Donovan MarqueesBirdhill, Co. TipperaryTel: 061 379328 Fax: 061 379328Email: [email protected]: www.odonovanmarquees.com

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTSProfiles at WorkExecutive Coaching, Training, Psychometric TestingBallyheefy, Killaloe, Co. ClareTel: 061 376461 Fax: 061 375496Mob: 087 2640028Email: [email protected]: www.profilesatwork.com

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANCY SERVICESMay Day Management ConsultantsTait Business Centre, Dominic Street, LimerickTel: 061 316960 Fax: 061 314161Email: [email protected]: www.maydaymanagement.ie

MARKETINGCustomer Care SolutionsAnne Sheehan, Harbour House, Locke Quay, Limerick.Mobile: 087 6684819E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.customersolutions.ie

Molly D MarketingCastlecrine, Sixmilebridge, Co.ClareTel: 061 369898Mob: 086 2371508Email: [email protected]: www.mollydmarketing.ie

MARKETING CONSULTANTSMartin Mc Guire & AssociatesDock Road, LimerickTel: 061 228822 or 061 229233E-mail: [email protected]: www.martinmcguire.com

MARKETING RESEARCH &CONSULTANCY BDO Simpson Xavier4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172Email: [email protected] Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com

MODULAR CONTAINERS, CABINS &OFFICESBallysimon ContainersEastway Business ParkBallysimon Road, LimerickTel: 061 312530 Fax: 061 313520Email: [email protected]: www.asp-ire.ie

MODULAR OFFICE ACCOMODATIONAsp-ire Advance Space ProvidersIrelandEastway Business ParkBallysimon Road, LimerickTel: 061 312530 Fax: 061 313520Email: [email protected]: www.asp-ire.ie

MORTGAGE & FINANCIAL SERVICESMary Larkin Financial Services38 Roches St, Limerick.Tel: 061 411822 Fax: 061 411840Email: [email protected]

ODCL Financial Services and Mortgages1 Mount Kennett Place,Henry Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 411000Email: [email protected]

MORTGAGES, PROPERTY,MAINTENANCE & INVESTMENTSMoore Stephens Patrick McNamaraFinancial Planning & Mortgage SolutionsLife & Pensions – Mortgages – Investments – Wealth ManagementPamdohlen House, Dooradoyle RoadTel: 061 229666 Fax: 061 302144Email: [email protected]: www.mspatrickmcnamara.ie

Redmond Mortgage & Pensions1A Hartstonge Place,Upper Hartstonge Street, LimerickTel: 061 446629 Fax: 061 446809Mobile: 087 8290736E-mail: [email protected]

OFFICE EQUIPMENTGerry Webb Office Equipment72 Wolfe Tone Street, LimerickTel: 061 467380 Fax: 061 467380Mobile: 087 2625768Email: [email protected]

OFFICE EQUIPMENT / PRINTING & STATIONERYCurley Copy CentreLittle Ellen Street,Limerick.Contact: EileenTel: 061 315331Fax: 061 315171Email: [email protected]

OFFICE FURNITURE SYSTEMSG & A Manifold(Showrooms)Unit 6E,Docklands Business Park,Dock Road,Limerick.Tel: 061 312777 Fax: 061 313434Email: [email protected]: www.gamanifold.ie

Metro Office SuppliesUnit 2 Crossagalla Enterprise Centre,Ballysimon Road, LimerickTel: 061 432000 Fax: 061 432001E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.metrooffice.ie

OPTICIANSVision 2 Opticians6 Henry Street, LimerickTel: 061 469310 Fax: 061 469309Email: [email protected]: www.vision2opticians.ie


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OVERSEAS PROPERTYBalkan Property Investments Ltd(BPI)4 Pery Square, Limerick.Tel/Fax: 061 313200Email: [email protected] Web: www.bpigroup.ie

PACKAGINGIPS Industrial Polythene SolutionsContact Name: Sean O’CarrollAnnacotty Business Park,Annacotty, Limerick.Tel: 061 508980 Fax: 061 508984Email: [email protected]: www.ipspackaging.ie

PEST CONTROLCurtin Pest ControlRosmadda Business Park, Ballysimon Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 419901 Fax: 061 419504E-mail: [email protected]: www.curtinpestcontrol.ie

Rentokil Pest ControlBallysimon Road, LimerickTel: 061 412588 Fax: 061 310836Email: [email protected]

PENSIONS & INVESTMENTSKarl Daly Pension & Investment Ltd.2nd Floor, Riverfront BuildingHowleys Quay, LimerickTel: 061 318701 Fax: 061 318702Mobile: 086 2602326Email: [email protected] Web: www.karldaly.com or www.ssiaideas.ie

PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURERSchwarz PharmaUCB (Schwarz Pharma Ltd)Shannon Industrial Estate,Shannon, Co. Clare.Tel: 061 714100 Fax: 061 714101Email: [email protected]: www.ucb-group.com

PHOTOCOPIERSMJ Flood (Ireland) Ltd.(Sales & Service)23 John Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 312211Mob: 087 7815252 Fax: 061 415595Email: [email protected]: www.mjflood.ie

PHOTOGRAPHYBrendan Gleeson LIPPA NUJ25 Cherry Avenue, Caherdavin Lawn, LimerickTel: 061 453253 Mobile: 087 2159325Email: [email protected] www.bgleesonphoto.com

John O’Brien PhotographyHigh Street, Limerick CityTel: 061 412833 Email: [email protected]: www.jobrienphotography.com

PicSure Ltd.Contact: Kieran Clancy3 Rosebrook, Fr. Russell Rd;Limerick.Tel: 061 301723 Mob: 087 2532015Email: [email protected]: www.picsure.ie

PLANT HIRE & SALESNewport Plant & Tool HireBallymackeogh, Newport, Co. Tipperary.Tel: 061 373737 Mob: 086 0664137E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.npt.ie

PUBLIC TRANSPORT BUS SERVICES & PRIVATE HIREBus EireannColbert Station LimerickTel: 061 313333 Fax: 061417166Email: [email protected]: www.buseireann.ie

PRINTINGMc Kerns Print & DesignGlentworth Street, LimerickTel: 061 417611 Fax: 061 419816Email: [email protected]

Mc Namara PrintersSmithstown Industrial EstateShannon, Co. ClareTel: 061 361782 Fax: 061 363271Email: [email protected]: www.mcnamaraprinters.ie

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTSAble Marketing50 Thomas Street, LimerickTel: 061 417575 Fax: 061 410055Email: [email protected]: www.ablemarketing.ie

PROPERTY DEVELOPERSTiernan PropertiesArthurs Quay HouseArthurs Quay, LimerickTel: 061 412462 Fax: 412251Email: [email protected]: www.tiernanproperties.ie

PROPERTY INVESTORS, MORTGAGE &FINANCE, PROPERTY MAINTENANCE &BUILDING SERVICESMuldowney Group ServicesBranches NationwideNational Lo-call: 1890 350450Email: [email protected]: www.muldowneygroup.com

PRIVATE HOSPITALSBarringtons Hospital LtdTel: 061 490500 Fax: 061 312939Email: [email protected]: www.barringtonshospital.com

PUBLIC RELATIONSEcho Marketing5 The Mews,Hartstonge Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 409353Mob: 087 9892463Email: [email protected]

Molly D MarketingCastlecrine, Sixmilebridge,Co.ClareTel: 061 369898M: 086 2371508Email: [email protected]: www.mollydmarketing.ie

MRPA Kinman CommunicationsContact: Niamh Quinn22 Log Na gCapall, South Circular Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 303779 Fax: 061 305802Mobile: 087 1220119E-Mail: [email protected]: www.mrpakinman.ie

O’Brien Communications30 Ashbrook GroveEnnis Road, LimerickTel/Fax: 061 457999 Mobile: 086 6019214Email: [email protected]

PUBLIC RELATION CONSULTANTSFianancial DynamicsCois Na Sionna,O'Briens Bridge, Co. ClareTel: 061 372643 Mobile: 087 2497290Fax: 061 372645Email: [email protected]: www.fd.com

PUBLIC RELATIONS & EVENT & MEDIAMANAGEMENTWoulfe Event ManagementTower View House,Glenview Avenue,Farranshone,Limerick.Tel: 061 321979Mob: 087 7631999Email: [email protected]: www.woulfemanagement.ie

RADIO STATIONS (NATIONAL)Limerick Live 95 FMP.O Box 295 Radio House, Richmond Court,Dock Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 461900 Fax: 061 419595E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.live95fm.ie

RTE Lyric FMCornmarket Square,Limerick.Tel: 061 207300Fax: 061 207390Email: [email protected]: www.rte.ie/lyricfmContact: Aodán Ó’Dubhghaill & JulieKnight

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RECRUITMENTBDO Recruitment BDO Simpson Xavier4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172Email: [email protected] Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com

Brooks RecruitmentHotel & Catering86 O’Connell St., Limerick.Tel: 061 413022 Fax: 061 312799E-mail: [email protected]: www.brooksrecruitment.com

Brunel98 Henry Street,Limerick.Tel: 061 430950 Fax: 061 435933Email: [email protected]: www.brunel.ie

Irish Recruitment ConsultantsDeloitte & Touche House,Charlottes Quay, LimerickTel: 061 313744 Fax: 061 417553Email:[email protected]:www.irishrecruitment.ie

La Crème98 Henry Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 430939 Fax: 061 435933Email: [email protected]: www.lacreme.ie

Premier98 Henry Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 430940 Fax: 061 435933Email: [email protected]:www.premier.ie

Richmond RecruitmentHibernian House,Henry St: Limerick.Tel: 061-413111 Fax: 061-416699E-Mail: [email protected]: www.richmond.ie

Staff SolutionsUnit 2 Belfield House, Ennis Road, LimerickTel: 061 329250 Fax: 061 329252E-mail: [email protected]: www.staffsolutions.ie

RECRUITMENT CONSULTANCYRECRUITMENT WEBSITEIrishJobs.ieHead Office South Block,The Malthouse, Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2.Tel: +353 1 670 9900 Fax: +353 1 670 9901Email: [email protected]: www.irishjobs.ie

WWW.JOBS.IEData Business Centre,Roselawn House,National Technology Park,

Castletroy, LimerickTel: 061-633663 Fax: 061-633334Email:[email protected]: www.jobs.ie

RECRUITMENT SPECIALISTSWork Access Ltd.1st Floor, Pillar House,Little Ellen Street, Limerick.Tel: 061 493095 Fax: 061 409345Email: [email protected]: www.workaccess.org

RESTAURANTSMayur TandooriExotic Indian Cuisine and Take Away2-3 Steamboat Quay, LimerickTel: 061 311575 Fax: 061 311578

PoppadomAward Winning Indian CuisineUnit 2C, Robert Street,Corn Market Square, LimerickTel: 061 446644www.poppadom.ie

Thai GourmetThe White HouseNo.2 Glenthworth Street, LimerickTel: 061 312012 Fax: 381773Email: [email protected]: www.thaigourmet.ie

SALES AND MARKETING SERVICESSMSSales and Marketing Services IrelandContact: Bryan MarshallStudio 7B, Chapel Court, Cathedral Place,LimerickTel: 061-404606Email: [email protected]:www.smsi.ie

SECURITY Avantguard Security SolutionsAvantguard HouseCoonagh Cross, LimerickTel: 061 323832 Fax: 061 323834Mobile: 086 6004350Email: [email protected]: www.avantguard.com

Advance SecuritiesImperial House, Roches St., LimerickTel: 061 411197 Fax: 061-400695E-mail: [email protected]: www.advancesecurities.com

Westside Security Systems Ltd.Private Security Licence Number: 00095Rathuard, Donoughmore, Co. LimerickTel: 061 419610 Mobile: 086 8164444Email: [email protected]: www.westsidesecurity.com

SECURITY SHREDDING & CONFIDENTIAL WASTEDGD Papers Ltd.Bay M1, Raheen Business ParkLimerickTel: 061 491333 Fax: 061 491335Email: [email protected]: www.dgdpapers.com

Shred-itOn-Site Confidential Document Destruction.Nationwide ServiceTel: 1800 747 333Email: [email protected]: www.shredit.com

SIGNAGESignLynxContact: Jack O'LoughlinFranklin Motor Yard, Cahernorry,Ballysimon, Limerick.Tel: 061 333736 Mob: 086 8094420Fax: 061 333737Email: [email protected]: www.signlynx.ie

Sign It LtdUnit 6, Eastway Business Park,Ballysimon Road, Limerick.Tel: 061 469900 Fax: 061 417502Email: [email protected]: www.signit.ie

SignsplusUnit 7,Eastlink Business Park,Ballysimon Road,Limerick.Tel: 061 437950 Fax: 061 437940Email: [email protected]: www.signsplus.ie

SOLICITORSHolmes O’Malley SextonBishopsgate,Henry St: Limerick.Tel: 061-313222 Fax: 061-310414E-Mail: [email protected]: www.homs.ie

TAXATION BDO Simpson XavierPersonal and Corporate Tax Advisors4 Michael Street, Limerick Tel: 061 414455 Fax: 061 414172Email: [email protected] Web: www.bdosx-limerick.com

TEAM BUILDINGFunireland Team Building SpecialistsLittle Orchard,Dooneen,Crecora, Co. LimerickTel: 061 320292Fax: 061 320294Email: [email protected]: www.funireland.com


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TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING /DELIVERYOriginal SolutionsThe International Science Centre,National Technology Park,Limerick.Tel: 061 507900 Fax: 061 507901E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.originalsolutions.ie

TRAINING & CONSULTANCYProcad TrainingPortal House,Raheen Business Park, Limerick.Contact: Adrian CarmodyTel: 061 498900 Fax: 061 304080Email: [email protected]: www.procadtraining.com

VALUERJim O’ Shea AuctioneersMungret Village, Co. LimerickTel: 061 210055 Fax: 061 210248Mobile: 087 2361439Email: [email protected]: www.auctioneer-oshea.ie

WATER COOLERS & DISPENSERSCrystal ClearLeamy House, Hartstonge St: Limerick.Tel: 061-454962 Fax: 061-454449Mobile: 087-2561239E-Mail: [email protected]

WATER CONSULTANTSAllied Aquatech Water TreatmentConsultants3 Kyle House (office & shop)Henry Street, LimerickTel: 061 319777 Mobile: 086 1555568Fax: 061 319778Email: [email protected]: www.h2o4u.ie

WASTE MANAGEMENT AND DISPOSALMr BinmanLuddenmoreGrange, Kilmallock, Co. LimerickTel: 061 351127 Fax: 061 351918Email: [email protected]: www.mrbinman.com

WEB DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENTIEG DESIGNContact: Padraig O’ConnellRailway Road, Kilmallock,Co. Limerick.Tel: 063 20869 Fax: 063 20775Email: [email protected]: www.iegdesign.com

WEIGHT LOSSMotivation Weight ControlClinic58/59 Thomas Street,Limerick.Tel: Limerick 061 411699Cork: 021 4272735

WINDOWS & DOORSMaintenance & RepairsWindow & Door Solutions3 St.Nessans Park, Dooradoyle,Limerick.Tel:061 424891 Fax: 061 424891Mob: 086 8282869/ 086 8247760Email: [email protected]: www.wdsireland.ie

WINE MERCHANTDavide WinesDavide BisaschiSelected WinesItalian Wines SpecialistTel: 085 7593228Email: [email protected]

WINE RETAILERSFine Wines Fine Wines Group,Tipperary Road, Ballysimon, LimerickTel: 061 417784 Fax: 061 417276Email: [email protected]: www.finewines.ie

The Wine Buff17 Upper Mallow Street, LimerickProprietor: Mike O’ MaraTel: 061 313394E-mail: [email protected]: www.thewinebuff.com

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To subscribe to our Business Directory Listing please contact:Yvonne Sheehan on 061 - 214738 or Email: [email protected]

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As part of an agreement known as‘Sharing Success’ made in 2007,National Irish Bank and IBOA, thefinance union, agreed to a review ofthe pension arrangements for staff inthe Bank. The review, which com-menced in January of this year, wassubsequently referred to an inde-pendent chairman, Mr. Kevin Foley ofthe Labour Relations Commission, asprovided for under the ‘SharingSuccess’ agreement. Mr. Foley hasnow issued his Recommendationwhich National Irish Bank is pleasedto accept. Under theRecommendation the Bank will closeits existing Defined Benefit pensionscheme to new employees from 1stAugust 2008. The Bank will replacethat scheme with a new HybridPension Plan for employees who joinNational Irish Bank from that date.Pension scheme arrangements forexisting pensioners and employeesare not affected by this change.

The Recommendation also includesadditional benefits for existingemployees. Under theRecommendation the Bank willimplement a fully funded PermanentHealth Insurance (PHI) scheme for allemployees. This is a new benefit forstaff which will provide income pro-tection, in the event that a staff mem-ber is permanently unable to workthrough illness or disability. Staff willalso receive an extra day’s annualleave in 2009. Kevin Gallen, DeputyChief Executive at the Bank said thatthe decision to close the Bank’sDefined Benefits scheme to newentrants was taken to protect theinterests of current members of thescheme in the years ahead. Mr.Gallen said that the decision reflectsdevelopments in the Irish financialservices sector. After 1st August2008, new National Irish Bankemployees will join the new HybridPension Plan. The scheme is in linewith recent developments and willdeliver a competitive pension schemefor new entrants. The hybrid modelwhich comprises two elements – acash balance plan and an investmentaccount plan – aims to deliver a pen-sion of 64% of final salary in additionto the social welfare state pension atage 65.

National Irish Bankto IntroduceHybrid PensionAgreement

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For many businesses, e-commerce and astrong online presence means they have thepotential to grow incredibly quickly.When a business increases in size and clientbase, so must its server hardware becausethe more information stored online, themore servers necessary to keep it there.Additionally, when a website starts to receivea lot of traffic, many companies find that theyneed to upgrade their server solution fromshared to dedicated hosting. This is becauseof the need for increased bandwidth, pro-cessing power and the desire to develop thesolution to integrate with databases andother functional software.The more customers that rely on a websiteto work all day, every day, the more missioncritical it becomes. Similarly, as a business’scontent becomes more vibrant and variable,increased dedicated bandwidth proves itselfnecessary.Providing dynamic content on your site is fan-tastic for customer experience. However,video, audio, contact detail forms and otherinteractive features mean larger files fordownload and as a result, more bandwidth tocater for each visitor.

Growing SMEs also require the ability toincorporate additional database servers andpersonalised software that a client on ashared server would be prohibited frominstalling. So as a business builds its onlinestrategy it pays to make sure the hostingsolution can scale upwards in the most effi-cient way possible.

How can your company benefit from moreecologically friendly methods?

Companies who involve themselves in corpo-rate social responsibility positively promotetheir brand image which is attractive to cus-tomers in the current social clime. Today,this especially includes greener options forbusinesses.· Reputation Management – credibility isenhanced when a business gives somethingback to the community· Financial Performance – going greenermeans lower running costs and financial sav-ings (i.e. tax benefits)· Risk Management – it is in line with EUdirectives and government regulations· Employee Satisfaction – a caring culture

is created in workplaces and this promotes asense of belonging and loyalty amongstemployees. It can also promote employmentlevels as reports suggest qualified graduatejobseekers are more likely to want to workfor eco-friendly companies· Customer Loyalty - consumers are morelikely to buy from eco-friendly companies whoare committed to reducing their impact onthe environment*

When a business’s online presence growsto a larger size it may need to increase itsserver solution to rely on more substantialdedicated hardware.Ecoserver solutions are not suitable for siteswhich entertain large amounts of traffic forexample e-commerce Websites. Nor arethey suitable for websites which contain vastamounts of data such as social networkingof heavily subscribed community sites.An IEG Design dedicated server solutionwould more than likely be necessary in thissituation to provide:1 Greater processing power2 Larger hard drive space3 More RAM

Scalable Solutions for GreenerConsciences

by Padraig O’Connell


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Documents

Business Limerick Magazine 06/08