CHAMBERlinkOctober 2010 I Issue 9

Cover StoryChamber Annual Conferencesponsored by HSBC News StoryThe search is on for Cork Company of the Year

What’s on?Upcoming Training Courses & Networking EventsMembers NewsAnnouncements & News

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CONTENTS

Dear Chamber Member

The Chamber through 2010 has placed a particualar focus on developing international relationships and market opportunities for the Cork business community. Our primary strategy is to maximise the relationships which currently exist with our sister cities in San Francisco and Shanghai. As a continuation of this strategy this years Chamber Annual Conference on November 4th titled “New Reality / Big Opportunities” will explore with the benefit of industry expertise from a local, national and international perspective the opportunities and challenges that exist and point a way forward for the Cork region. All businesses in the region from SMEs to MNCs are encouraged to attend and contribute to what will be an interesting and stimulating half day conference. Recent weeks have also seen the Chamber complete and submit to Government our 2011 Pre Budget Submission which places particular emphasis on the need for economic stimulus through targeted measures in the areas of taxation, public sector reform and focused infrastructural development. In additon we launched the results of our Q3 Economic Trends Survey which highlighted a fall in business confidence levels and deterioration in confidence in the Governments handling of the economy. Recent Chamber events show a continued appetite for networking among members and I would encourage you to check out our upcoming events schedule and to book your place online.

Best regards,

ConorConor HealyChief Executive

2 Connect with New Members3 Influencing Decisions5 International Trade6 Press Clippings7 Appointments at Cork Chamber8 Industry - Education links9 News Story - The search is on for Cork Company of the Year10 Cover Story - Chamber Annual Conference11 What’s on?13 Training Services14 Networking Events16 Promote your business17 Marketing Cork18 On the move19 Members News

CHAMBERlinkOctober 2010 I Issue 9

Cover FeatureChamber Annual Conferencesponsored by HSBC News StoryCork Company of the Year

What’s on?Upcoming Training Courses & Networking EventsMembers NewsAnnouncements & News

Front Cover: Launching the Cork Chamber Annual Conference 2010 “New Reality / Big Opportunities - Two Way Traffic East and West” , sponsored by HSBC are Ivan Yates, Conference Facilitator; Professor Fan Hong, Director of the Irish Institute of Chines Studies and Alan Duffy, Head of HSBC Corporate Banking Ireland.

Chamberlink is sponsored by:

Getting in Touch with the Chamber Team

Conor HealyChief ExecutiveT: (021) 450 9044 or E: conor@corkchamber.ie

Lisa HuntExecutive Assistant T: (021) 453 0131 or E: lisa@corkchamber.ie

Lucy O'DonoghueMembership Development & PR Manager T: (021) 453 0145 or E: lucy@corkchamber.ie

Leigh Gillen Events ManagerT: (021) 453 0133 or E: leigh@corkchamber.ie

Imelda MulcahyExport Documentation Manager T: (021) 453 0130 or E: imelda@corkchamber.ie

Margaret GoodAccounts AdministratorT: (021) 453 0134 or E: accounts@corkchamber.ie

Katherine FitzpatrickEU, Trade & Innovation Services Manager T: (021) 453 0137 or E: katherine@corkchamber.ie

Siobhan HoranEU, Trade & Innovation Services Executive T: (021) 453 0138 or E: siobhan@corkchamber.ie

Alma Murnane Policy & Research Manager T: (021) 453 0147 or E: alma@corkchamber.ie

Sean O’LearyPolicy & Research ExecutiveT: (021) 453 0143 or E: sean@corkchamber.ie

David Bennett Policy & Research Assistant T: (021) 4530 144 or E: david@corkchamber

Emma WalshTraining Services ManagerT: (021) 453 0142 or E: emma@corkchamber.ie

Tara MullallyBiznetcork Network AdministratorT: (021) 453 0141 or E: tara@corkchamber.ie

Aisling HynesMunster Finuas Network AdministratorT: (021) 453 0148 or E: aisling@corkchamber.ie

Cork Chamber, Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, Cork T: (021) 4509044F: (021) 4508568E: info@corkchamber.ieW: www.corkchamber.ieRegistered in Ireland no. 13918

Computers / HardwareCompunetI.T assistance to small & medium commercial clients. We provide dedicated on-site engineering support as requiredContact: Bill MaherT: (021) 431 1033E: bill@compunet.ieW: www.compunet.ie

Education / Training / LanguagesTSS LtdTraining and development organisation with offices in Cork and Dublin. Specialise in the development of Managers, Supervisors, Sales People and Customer Service staff by offering a range of interactive skills development programmesContact: Paula MulcahyT: (087) 650 0996E: paula@tss.ieW: www.tss.ie

Health / SafetyAll Ireland Air AmbulanceRegistered Charity dedicated to the provision of helicopter services for the people of IrelandContact: Ellen MillerT: (066) 710 2000E: ellenmarymiller@gmail.comW: www.aiaa.ie

Safety 4UHealth & Safety Counselling and Training / E-Training / Asset Managetment & MaintenanceContact: Noel DunneT: (01) 892 8030E: info@safety4u.ieW: www.safety4u.ie

Management ConsultantsCygnus SolutionsAdvice in all aspects of research management including development of research strategy, market research and business care analysis, concept design, project planning, intellectual property management, team building and delivery of innovative resultsContact: Jenny PattersonT: (021) 482 3020E: jenny@cygnussolutions.ieW: www.cygnussolutions.ie

ManufacturersGraepel Perforators & WeaversManufacture & fabricate products from sheet steel & wireContact: Fred GraepelT: (021) 477 2105E: fred@graepel.ieW: www.graepel.ie

Public RelationsProfile CommunicationsA full service marketing firm, providing outsourced marketing solutions to businesses, as well as branding, corporate identity, marketing campaigns, online marketing and media relations Contact: Renate MurphyT: (021) 432 0067E: renate@profilecommunications.ieW: www.profilecommunications.ie

Recruitment / Executive SearchGrafton RecruitmentRecruitment ConsultantsContact: Niall HarrisT: (021) 425 0653E: nharris@graftonrecruitment.comW: www.graftonrecruitment.com

ServicesCork Air Park ServicesCar Valeting, Car Servicing, Car Storage with courtesy transport to and from the Airport TerminalContact: Mark MurphyT: (021) 432 1944E: mark@corkairparkservices.ieW: www.corkairparkservices.ie

TransportSprint Logistics Ltd t/a DPDNext day parcel delivery throughout Ireland with 38 regionally-based depots, also offering a range of services to Great Britain, Europe and InternationalContact: Aidan MurnaneT: (021) 500 5400E: aidan.murnane@dpd.ieW: www.dpd.ie

TelecommunicationsMuskerry Satellite SystemsProviding satellite systems around Ireland. Main retailer for Sky in Ireland. Activities encompass sales and instillationsContact: Ray MulroyT: (021) 421 4965E: ray@satellitestore.ieW: www.muskerrysatellitesystems.com

Waste Management / RecyclingLehane Environmental @Industrial Services LtdHazardous Waste Disposal, Pipe & Tank Cleaning, Tank Decommissioning, Interceptor Cleaning, Drain Cleaning, Spills, Soil Redemption, Sludge Dewatering, Chemical Cleaning & Passivation, CCTV SurveyingContact: Martin LehaneT: (021) 435 1020E: martin@lehaneenvironmental.comW: www.lehaneenvironmental.com

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CONNECT with new membersWe welcome the following New members. To maximise your Membership remember to do business with fellow Members.

The Cork Independent in conjunction with Curraheen Park, EazyCork and Profile Communications, is to hold a charity race night at Curraheen Park on Thursday 4 November. With the aim of raising funds for the poorest in Haiti, the night will include a full dinner with wine sponsored by Tindal Wines. Ticket prices range from €10 (entry only) and €50 for dinner with wine, to full corporate sponsorship packages including branding and promotional opportunities, priced at €550 and including dinner for four people. With a number of corporate sponsors already secured, this will be a valuable business networking opportunity, with some added fun. Why not make it your staff night out? To book tickets or for further information please contact: Deirdre O’Shaughnessy (editor@corkindependent.com) or Renate Murphy (renate@profilecommunications.ie)

Night at the Dogs - Charity Race

Chamber Pre-Budget Submission 2011Cork Chamber has outlined our Pre-Budget priorities in advance of Budget 2011. The submission outlines the Chamber’s proposed measures aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, removing unnecessary red tape and protecting existing levels of economic activity both nationally and in the local Cork economy.

Whilst the Chamber recognises the difficulties in funding a stimulus for the economy, feedback from Chamber members indicates that support for the struggling SME sector is vital to kick start growth in the Irish economy. We believe that this can be achieved through targeted measures in the areas of taxation, pensions’ reform, local government reform and focused infrastructural development.

The tax changes we have recommended take account of the reality that the Government has limited resources available to grant new tax reliefs. Therefore our proposals should not result in a significant loss of tax receipts. In particular, our proposals are aimed at stimulating and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in the economy. One means of doing this is through the introduction of an entrepreneurs’ relief which would reduce the effective Capital Gains Tax from 25% to 12.5% for “qualifying disposals”. Experience of a similar scheme in the UK has been positive to date and we feel that this relief would incentivise entrepreneurs to grow the value of their businesses in a way that will create employment and stimulate economic growth.

The Chamber has also proposed the introduction of a new round of applications for the employment subsidy scheme to assist companies who can demonstrate a realistic possibility of survival. We have also made specific recommendations regarding taxation support for R&D, the expansion of Seed Capital and BES relief and the introduction of a tax regime to attract key executives and decision makers to Ireland. We have also welcomed the proposed introduction of a Universal Social Contribution that would merge PRSI, the health levy and income levy into a single contribution, thereby reducing the administrative burden on businesses and the Government, in addition to broadening the tax base.

The Chamber has sought Government support for a range of infrastructural projects that will stimulate economic activity in the Cork region. These include the long-awaited upgrade of the N28 Cork – Ringaskiddy route, the provision of enabling infrastructure in the Docklands and the development of a modern public transport system for Cork.

We also stated that it is imperative that the Government uses December’s budget to clearly indicate its views on the project and commit to the necessary funding and targeted fiscal stimuli. The Chamber believes that another year of speculation on the future prospects of the project is unsustainable and it will seriously damage the economic prospects of the Docklands, the City and the Region.

Cork Chamber also highlighted the need to implement the recommendations of the recent Local Government Efficiency Review Group and to pass the resultants savings onto businesses in the form of reduced commercial rates and service charges.

A comprehensive summary of the measures contained in the Chamber’s Pre-Budget Submission for 2011 can be found in this month’s Q3 Economic Bulletin.

For a copy of the Chamber’s Pre-Budget Submission for 2011, please contact alma@corkchamber.ie

Q3 Survey Results Indicate that Challenges RemainThe Chamber’s Economic Trends survey records a drop in confidence amongst members in Quarter Three, bringing to an end five successive quarters of increasing optimism. Although 70% of members say they are still confident about the future of their business, this is down 5% from the second quarter.

The survey also shows a deterioration in confidence in the Government’s handling of the economy. More than two-thirds say they are no longer confident in the Government’s management of the banking crisis (up from 57% in the last quarter) and over half of respondents are not confident in the Government’s budgetary policy. According to the survey, 79% of members are not confident in the Government’s handling of the issue of public sector pay.

Public sector reform is identified as the issue members wish to see the Government tackle first, those saying the Government must make this its number one priority increased 8% to 35.83%. The survey gives a clear message regarding December’s budget. When asked what the budget must focus on, members identified two clear priorities: Investment in Stimuli (prioritised by 39.5% of respondents) and Expenditure Reductions (37.82%). Less than 2% felt further increases in taxation could be considered. The Chamber’s recommendations on how to implement such policies are detailed in our Pre-Budget Submission.

In relation to local government members present a stark message. Commercial rates are jeopardising the viability of 40% of businesses, according to the survey while just 4% of respondents believe they are getting value for money from the rates they pay. While support for domestic water charging has increased to 55%, a majority (57%) still oppose an annual property tax.

A detailed analysis of Cork Chamber’s Q3 Economic Trends Survey can be found in this month’s Chamber Q3 Economic Bulletin.

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INFLUENCING decisionsFor more information on any of the issues in this section please contact Alma, Sean or David

Q3 Economic BulletinDuring October, all members of the Chamber will receive the fourth issue of the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Bulletin. This service aims to provide you with important and relevant information on the national and regional economy, in addition to outlining the Chamber’s position on key issues, which we are representing your interests on both locally and nationally. We hope that you will find this service of benefit to you and your business.

Chamber meets with Aviation StakeholdersA Cork Chamber delegation recently met with representatives of the Dublin Airport Authority to discuss the ongoing development of Cork Airport and other general issues regarding the aviation sector in Ireland. The Chamber outlined the positive findings of our recent Business Air Travel Survey and raised a number of concerns that our members have with regards to services at Cork Airport.

The Chamber also met with Aer Lingus CEO Christoph Mueller to discuss ways in which the Chamber can be of assistance to Aer Lingus services in Cork, in addition to the airline’s future plans for development in the region.

Cork Chamber believes that Cork Airport is intrinsic to the economic development of the Cork and wider Southwestern region and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the Airport provides a wider range of routes and services for business users.

Chamber submission to Draft Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Spatial Planning and National RoadsThe Chamber recently made a submission to the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding the Draft Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Spatial Planning and National Roads.

Cork Chamber acknowledged the interdependency between transportation and land use planning and the requirement for integrated land use and transportation planning in local development plans. Similarly, we welcomed the reaffirmation in these guidelines of the strategic role of the national road network and the protection and safeguarding of that function.

The Chamber stated our belief that the primary purpose of the national road infrastructure is to support and facilitate the economic development of the state in line with national, regional and local policies. In addition, we also reinforced the importance of the strategic role the national road network plays in facilitating the movement of export goods to the State’s external transport hubs.

Government launches integrated plan for trade, tourism and investmentThe Taoiseach, Brian Cowen TD, has launched an ambitious five-year integrated Government plan for trade, tourism and investment aimed at generating 300,000 jobs and boosting exports by one third. The new plan, ‘Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy’, is the first integrated strategy to promote overseas trade, tourism and investment.

The plan aims to:• Createover150,000directnewjobsinmanufacturing, tourism and internationally trading services, with another 150,000 spin-off jobs• IncreasethevalueofIrishexportsbyindigenous agency-assisted firms by one third• IncreasethenumberofoverseasvisitorstoIrelandto eight million• Attractanextra780foreigninvestmentprojects through IDA Ireland

The Government will set up a new Foreign Trade Council comprising all relevant Departments and agencies to implement the five-year plan.

The Foreign Trade Council will:• Devisenewcommon‘brandIreland’initiatives• ExploitmarketingplatformssuchasStPatrick’sDay and trade missions• OpennewmarketsforIrishSMEs• Alignourvisapolicywithstrategicbusinessinterests• Maximisetheeffectivenessofouroverseasdiplomatic and agency representatives in key markets

For further information on the “Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy”, please visit the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation website – www.deti.ie

Forfás launches report on future of Enterprise in IrelandForfás recently published a report entitled “Making it Happen - Growing Enterprise for Ireland”. The report outlines a coherent narrative for enterprise policy within the context of the Smart Economy. It highlights the actions needed to ensure a competitive, sustainable enterprise base that will deliver growth and jobs within the medium-term to 2015.

The report indicates that growth and jobs within Ireland’s enterprise base will be driven by four complementary critical success factors: innovation, productivity, cost competitiveness and a strong enterprise mix (expanding upon Ireland’s existing strengths in sectors and markets).

The report’s recommendations focus on the essential areas of education and skills, R&D and innovation, management development, public procurement, access to finance, infrastructure priorities, the regulatory environment and competition policies, which are relevant to all firms. Creating this optimum environment requires coordinated action across the whole of Government. For a copy of the report, please visit the Forfás website - www.forfas.ie C

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INFLUENCING decisions

Cork Chamber led a delegation to Shanghai from 5-12 September 2010. The Chamber delegation made up part of an overall delegation of approximately 50 people from Cork who travelled out to China the same week, including representatives of University College Cork, Cork Institute of Technology, Cork City Council and Culture Ireland as well as TRASNA and the Cork Music Ensemble.

The Chamber programme included a day at Shanghai EXPO, where all Cork organisations collaborated to host a reception to promote Cork to key business, government and educational organisations from Shanghai and beyond. The Chamber delegation met with two sister Chambers in Shanghai and signed an MOU with the Hangzhou Chamber of Industry and Commerce.

There were several business-matching events with the Chambers and also with the Enterprise Europe Network-Central China. Furthermore, the delegation met key people from the Irish state agencies in Shanghai (Enterprise Ireland, IDA, Tourism Ireland, Bord Bia) who advised and informed the group about the current economic climate in China and trade relations between Ireland and China. Over the course of the week, the delegation also had the opportunity to meet and network with members of the Irish business community in Shanghai.

If you would like further information about doing business with China or if you would like further information about the Chamber’s contacts in China then please contact katherine@corkchamber.ie.

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INTERNATIONAL trade

Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber and Zhang Bilai, President Hangzhou Federation of Industry & Commerce signing the Memorandum of Understanding.

The International Chamber of Commerce has launched the latest revision of its internationally-recognised trade terms Incoterms® 2010. The rules are used by companies all over the world in countless business transactions. The new rules will come into effect on 1 January 2011.

Short for ‘international commercial terms’, the Incoterms® rules – were first created by International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in 1936 to help traders avoid misunderstandings by clarifying the costs, risks, and responsibilities of both buyers and sellers in the delivery of goods. Representing a radically new concept in an industry regulated by local rules of law, the rules caused a sensation in the international business world when ICC first introduced them. They were the first real attempt to bring legal certainty to business transactions while simplifying the drafting of international contracts.

The introduction of Incoterms ®2010 means Irish businesses will need to alter their commercial practices in order to incorporate a number of key revisions in relation to domestic and international contracts of sale. Companies should have their processes altered and be ready to ‘hit the ground running’ on the 1st January without any delays to their export or contract procedures.

Chambers Ireland, sponsored by Ulster Bank, is hosting a series of seminars in order to assist businesses prepare for these changes. These seminars will take place in Dublin, Galway and Cork, on the 9th, 10th, 11th of November. For more information, to purchase a copy of Incoterms® 2010 or to register for the seminar, please email mary.meehan@chambers.ie or mark.omahoney@chambers.ie

Cork Chamber leads business delegation to Shanghai

Cork Chamber outlines Budget Priorities Cork Chamber has highlighted the priorities contained in their Pre-Budget Submission for Budget 2011. The submission outlines the Chamber’s proposed measures aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, removing unnecessary red tape and protecting existing levels of economic activity both nationally and in the local Cork economy.

Commenting on the submission, Cork Chamber President Ger O’Mahoney stated that, “While the Chamber recognises the difficulties in funding a stimulus for the economy, feedback from Chamber members indicates that support for the struggling SME sector is vital to kick start growth in the Irish economy. We believe that this can be achieved through targeted measures in the areas of taxation, pensions’ reform, local government reform and focused infrastructural development”.

Economic Trends Survey Shows Drop in Confidence and Increased Dissatisfaction with Government Economic PolicyCork Chamber’s economic trends survey for quarter three records a drop in confidence amongst Cork’s business community, bringing to an end five successive quarters of increasing optimism. This is combined with a sharp increase in dissatisfaction with central and local government.

Discussing the results, Cork Chamber Chief Executive Conor Healy said, “Although 70% of business people in Cork say they are still confident about the future of their business, worryingly it is down 5% from the second quarter of 2010. The survey also reveals a marked deterioration in confidence in the Government’s handling of the economy. 70% of Cork’s business community say they are no longer confident in the Government’s management of the banking crisis (up from 57% in the second quarter). In addition, over half of respondents (52% up from 38.51%) say they are not confident in the Government’s budgetary policy. 79% of respondents are not confident in the Government’s handling of the issue of public sector pay”.

Cork Chamber Provides Funded Training Opportunities Mr Billy Kelleher, TD, Minister for Trade and Commerce, launched the Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network Autumn training schedules. Both training networks are promoted by Cork Chamber and funded by member companies and the Training Networks Programme (TNP) and the Finuas Networks Programme respectively, managed by Skillnets Ltd. and funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Education and Skills.

The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) Supports Ireland’s Largest Business Networking EventThe Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) in Cork Chamber is encouraging businesses to sign up for CORKMEET 2010, in order to take advantage of the excellent opportunity it offers for networking and making business contacts. Katherine Fitzpatrick, Manager of the EEN in Cork says, “Our network is dedicated to assisting companies to find suitable business partners, and this is the whole idea behind CORKMEET 2010. With pre-arranged, one-to-one meetings, CORKMEET presents a fantastic opportunity for Irish businesses to unlock opportunities with potential clients and suppliers throughout the country and internationally. It is a must attend event for businesses this year”. Katherine went on to say, “The Enterprise Europe Network has a strong network worldwide and an in-depth knowledge of the European markets. We have a significant role in educating and assisting local businesses to generate new trading alliances between Ireland and the rest of Europe, as well as answering many types of business enquiries. Staff from the Enterprise Europe Network centres country-wide will be on hand at CORKMEET 2010 to answer queries on European projects, funding opportunities and doing business abroad. Companies who sign up to CORKMEET will also have the opportunity to arrange a one-to-one meeting with EEN experts in technology transfer, licensing and innovation, in order to gain specialised advice in these areas”.C

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PRESS clippingsFor more information in relation to Chamber PR please contact Lucy (lucy@corkchamber.ie)

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APPOINTMENTS at Cork Chamber

Seán O’Leary has been appointed as Policy & Research Executive, joining an expanded Policy & Research Department which engages in a range of policy areas and represents members’ interests to government and key decision makers. Prior to joining Cork Chamber Seán worked as Policy and Communications Officer with Irish Rural Link, the national network of rural community groups. There he gained significant experience in advocacy and public affairs. Seán started his career in local and community development, working with Blanchardstown Area Partnership amongst others. He holds a BSc in Government and Public Policy and a Masters in Planning and Sustainable Development from University College Cork.

Katherine Fitzpatrick was recently appointed to the position of EU, Trade & Innovation Services Manager in Cork Chamber. Having worked for nearlyfour years in the assistant position to this role, she is now responsible for EU queries, international trade and innovation services at Cork Chamber. A key aspect of this work is the management of the Enterprise Europe Network centre. Other areas of work include organising trade missions, market information seminars & running various EU projects. Katherine holds a Certificate in International Trade Practice (FETAC 5), a BA in European Studies (UCC) and an MA in Italian Translation (NUI Galway). She speaks Italian and French and recently completed a Certificate in Chinese Language (UCC).

Siobhan Horan recently joined Cork Chamber as EU, Trade & Innovation Services Executive. She is responsible for assisting the Enterprise EuropeNetwork Manager with the EU, trade and innovation activities at CorkChamber. This includes answering enquiries and providing assistance tocompanies looking for information on EU and trade issues, as well asassisting with EU projects. Siobhan holds a BA in Economics and German (UCC), a Postgraduate Certificate in International Marketing Practices (MII) and a CPD PG Diploma in International Business Development (DIT). She has recently completed an MA in German Studies (UCC) and before joining the Chamber was working for Lidl Ireland.

Barrie O’Connell new Honorary Treasurer

The Chamber is delighted to announce Barrie O’Connell as the new Honorary Treasurer. Barrie was appointed Partner in KPMG Cork in November 2007 and leads the Cork Audit Practice within KPMG with particular focus on the Financial Services sector. Barrie has over 14 years experience providing Audit and Advisory services across the Private Irish Business, Financial Services and Multinational sectors under Irish GAAP, IFRS and US GAAP. Barrie holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from University College Cork and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland having completed his training articles with Arthur Andersen. He is a current Board member of Cork Chamber and outgoing Chairperson of the Cork Chamber Working Group on Financial Services. Barrie is also a member of the IRFU National Referee Panel.

Seán O’Leary, Policy & Research Executive

Katherine Fitzpatrick, EU, Trade & Innovation Services Manager

Siobhan Horan, EU, Trade & Innovation Executive

Barrie O’Connell, Honorary Treasurer

New appointments to the Chamber Team

Collaboration for mutual benefit Earlier this year, the Chamber led a delegation to Brussels to meet with key representatives of the European Commission. One of the Commission’s key targets in terms of creating a culture of Entrepreneurship and Innovation throughout Europe, is to encourage and highlight the importance of collaboration between industry and education providers.

Cork Chamber is happy to support both UCC and CIT in the work that is being done by both institutions to place students in companies throughout Cork, as an integral part of their third-level courses. Approximately 3500 students from the two third-level institutions complete placements each year, from all disciplines ranging from humanities to science and engineering, right up to Masters and PhD level. Furthermore, international students on placement, such as Chinese students, can bring additional benefits to companies who are interested in new markets.

Some of the benefits of work placements to employers:

• Students can undertake projects or other work at peak times of year when permanent staff are on holidays.

• Participation in a placement programme is an ideal opportunity for employers to screen potential fulltime employees in the most reliable way, i.e. in their own environment and over an extended period.

• Work placement can lead to closer interaction between the Higher Education Institutions and Industry, to benefit both parties.

• Companies can improve their profile on campus, which can be of benefit to employers who regularly recruit graduates each year

• The placement allows enough time for a student to settle into their role and give value back to the company in the work they complete

What the Companies say:

“HR Locker is a small Cork-based software company. We were looking to enter the Chinese market with our online human resource application. We didn’t have any Chinese staff in house so we were delighted to hear that we could get two Chinese student programmers from UCC to work with us for a couple of months. After about two months working in our office the students had fully localised our application into Chinese. They proved invaluable in giving us a Chinese perspective on our software... I was delighted with our engagement with UCC and the staff in the work placement department were a pleasure to work with.”

John Dennehy, HR Locker

“Taking advantage of the CIT student placement project has enabled our company to benefit from the injection of fresh opinion and talent as well as allowing us to free up valuable time and resources for new and existing projects. The candidates all have a wide range of theoretical and practical knowledge so they are able to fit into any role well. I would use the program again and would highly recommend it to any other company.”

Gareth Cuddy, DirectEbooks

The Chamber would like to encourage companies who may not have done so before, to avail of the opportunities that work placements can offer their business.

For more information on student placement programmes in UCC and CIT please contact: Clodagh Kerr (c.kerr@ucc.ie) or Sharon Burke (sharon.burke@cit.ie)

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INDUSTRY - EDUCATION linkS

Cork Chamber is delighted to announce its partnership with Vodafone for Cork Company of the Year.

Entrants from all business sectors and company sizes are welcome in the following award categories: • Cork Large Company of the Year (>100 employees)• Cork SME of the Year (<100 employees)• Emerging Cork Company of the Year (<5 years in

business)

This year, an overall winner of the Cork Chamber Cork Company of the Year will be selected from the winners and announced at the Annual Dinner on Friday, 4th February 2011.

You can nominate a company that you believe should be the Cork Company of the Year by completing the form enclosed in this magazine, and returning it to Cork Chamber, Fitzgerald House, Summerhill North, Cork. Alternatively companies may apply directly for the Cork Company of the Year Awards on our website – www.corkchamber.ie/corkcompany

Please provide a compelling business case as to why this company should be potentially recognised as the Cork Company of the Year including evidence of the following criteria: Strategic Vision, Innovation, Performance, Sales & Marketing and Sustainability. Deadline for entries: Monday, 1st November 2010

A shortlist of companies will be selected from the applications and nominations for Cork Company of the Year. Further information and documentation will be required at this stage, and interviews may be necessary in the final stage.

Judges include Ger O’Mahoney, Chamber President; Conor Healy, Chamber CEO; Leo O’Leary, Vodafone; Paul Hands, Qumas; Mark Whitaker, Johnson & Perrott Motor Group and Niall Welch, Welch & Co.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on T: (021) 4509044 or E: info@corkchamber.ie

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NEWS story

The search is on for Cork Company of the Year

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COVER story

Who should attend:

• Executives and Owner Managers of Cork Businesses

• Indigenous Manufacturing and Services Enterprises

• Multinational Manufacturing and Services Organisations

• State Agencies• 3rd Level Institutions• Tourism & Hospitality Interests• Professional Services• Media Organisations• Community/Local Authority

Representatives

Chamber Annual Conference 2010New Reality / Big Opportunities

Two Way Traffic East and WestCork Chamber will hold its Annual Business Conference sponsored by HSBC

on Thursday 4th November 2010 in the Rochestown Park Hotel, 12.30pm to 5.30pm.

The focus of the 2010 Chamber Conference is the opportunity which exists for Cork to benefit from strengthening relationships with the United States, China and India with particular focus on Cork’s two sister cities, San Francisco and Shanghai. This conference will explore, with the benefit of industry expertise from a local, national and international perspective, the opportunities and challenges that exist and point a way forward for the Cork Region and businesses in Cork.

Conference speakers include:• Sean O’Driscoll (Chief Executive, Glen Dimplex)• Alan Duffy (Head of HSBC Corporate Banking Ireland)• Jim Herlihy (Cork/San Francisco Business Initiative & San Francisco-Shanghai Sister City

Committee) • Professor Fan Hong (Director of the Irish Institute of Chinese Studies, UCC)• Frank Ryan (Chief Executive, Enterprise Ireland)• Mr D Ramamoorthy (Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of India) • Barry O’Leary (Chief Executive, IDA Ireland)

An interactive Q&A Forum facilitated by skilled interviewer and businessman Ivan Yates.

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WHATS on?Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie

Upcoming EventsMaximising your Membership

Thursday 14th October7.30am – 9.00am

Clarion Hotel

Please register your place at www.corkchamber.ie

This event has been created so that you can learn more about how to “Maximise your Membership” through networking, events, training, doing business with other Chamber members and utilising the wealth of knowledge and expertise within the Chamber team. This is your opportunity to see exactly how your membership can work best for you and how to avail of all the tailor-made and general services that are provided. As always, we encourage members to bring business cards as there will be plenty of opportunity to network with your fellow members before and after the event.

Wednesday 20th October6.00pm – 8.00pm

National Software Centre

This event is FREE for Cork Chamber members, but you must register your place at

www.corkchamber.ie

The National Software Centre is a multi tenanted, purpose built business environment with flexibility and scalability in mind. The NSC offers superior business solutions for all types and sizes of companies, providing the most advanced technology and office services. There will be an opportunity to learn more about the National Software Centre, networking opportunities and a chance to win 2 tickets to one of the hottest events at the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival.

Business After Hours in association with

Business Breakfast in association with

with Guest Speaker Jim Costello,

CEO of SouthWestern

Thursday 21st October7.30am– 9.00am

Imperial Hotel€20 members / €35 non

members

Jim Costello is the CEO of SouthWestern and has worked with the company since 2003. Previously he spent 15 years in the Information Technology and Outsourcing Sectors in Ireland and Internationally. He joined SouthWestern as the company moved from IT processing in Department of Agriculture into a full Business Process Outsourcing company. As always, there will be opportunity for you to network at this event, please be there in time and bring plenty of business cards.

New Reality/Big OpportunitiesTwo Way Traffic East and West

Thursday 4th November12.30pm – 5.30pm

Rochestown Park Hotel€75 members / 2 places for €125

The focus of the Conference is the opportunity which exists for Cork to benefit from strengthening relationships with the USA, China and India with particular focus on Cork’s sister cities, San Francisco and Shanghai. This conference will explore, with the benefit of industry expertise from a local, national and international perspective, the opportunities and challenges that exist and point a way forward for the Cork Region.

Cork Chamber Annual Conference 2010 sponsored by

Cork Regional Chambers Breakfast in association with

ESB Networks Five Year Plan in Cork

Thursday 11th November7.30am – 9.00am

Gresham Metropole Hotel

FREE for Regional Chamber members. Please register your place at www.corkchamber.ie

Cork Regional Chambers will host a business breakfast on ESB Networks in the Cork Metropolitan and Regional area. The presentation will cover a range of areas including ESB Network’s five year investment plan for the electricity infrastructure in Ireland and how it will support the national sustainability strategy, as well as information on the smart metering initiative. Join with your fellow Regional Chamber members for an informative morning session and as always, there will be plenty of opportunity to network and meet new business contacts at this event.

Complete Presentation Skills (incl. Powerpoint) Tuesday 12th & Wednesday 13th October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €300This course will help the participant understand presentation techniques and how to effectively use various visual aids including PowerPoint. A practical hands-on approach is taken, allowing participants to practice and deliver their presentations a number of times throughout the 2 days.

Practical Employment Law for SME’s Thursday 14th October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €120Learn about contracts of employment, employee handbooks, NERA requirements, employment law and the legal framework around disciplinary issues.

Bid to Win! Effective Tendering Tuesday 19th Oct, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €185This one day course aims to equip course participants with the tools and techniques to find, qualify and win tender opportunities.

Train the Trainer - FETAC Level 6 Tuesday 19th, Wednesday 20th October & Tuesday 2nd November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €550The programme will help participants to gain the skills to design, deliver and evaluate training programmes.

Diversity & Equality Awareness Thursday 21st October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €110This course is designed to create awareness of the broad spectrum of diversity and equality issues. The programme will explore diversity in a workplace context and will examine current equality legislation. This course is ideal for current and prospective FETAC centres.

Mastering MS Word 2003 (Intermediate) Thursday 21st October, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €100Some of the topics covered on this course include creating basic headers & footers, setting up different sets of headers, footers & page numbering, effective document layout and using tables within the document.

E-mail and Business Letter Writing for MAC Users Wednesday 3rd November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €120Good business writing is as important as ever. Being able to recognise and correct problems and define your communication goals are all critical factors for effective business writing.

Mastering MS Excel 2003 (Intermediate) Wednesday 3rd November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €100This course will cover the following topics: working with and linking multiple worksheets, creating charts, managing lists (Sorting & AutoFilter) among some other options.

Mastering MS Powerpoint 2003 Thursday 4th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €110This course is suitable for anyone who would like to produce and run professional looking slide shows. No previous experience of MS PowerPoint is required; however, it is important that those attending have a good working knowledge of other Microsoft applications e.g. MS Word or Excel.

What Effective Managers Really DoThursday 4th & Thursday 11th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €225This programme has been designed to strengthen the skills of newly/recently-appointed managers, supervisors and team leaders to meet the challenges facing their organisation. It addresses the importance of communication; setting clear direction and building trust. It also covers the benefits of training and developing the team.

MS Excel Expert 2003 (Advanced) Tuesday 9th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €100A large proportion of the course is dedicated to using the Database Features in MS Excel – this is a very powerful side to Excel that not many people utilise to its fullest potential. It is highly recommended that you firstly attend Mastering Excel 2003 (Intermediate) prior to attending this course.

Finance for Non-Financial ManagersTuesday 9th & Wednesday 10th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €190A highly participative workshop providing practical and enduring knowledge of financial statements, how they are used to assess business performance and how they are shaped by everyday business decisions and events.

Business English incl. TOEIC exam (20 hours)Tuesday 9th November, 5 – 7 pm. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5.00 – 7.00 pm for 5 weeksMember rate: €250This 20 hour course is aimed at intermediate or above students wishing to improve both language and business knowledge. This course includes TOEIC exam.

Project Management ProfessionalTuesday 16th, Wednesday 17th & Thursday 18th November, 9.30am – 5.00pmMember rate: €370Project Management Professional is designed to establish a detailed understanding of Project Management terms, concepts and methodologies.

Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie/training - Courses are being added to the schedule regularly. If your company’s training needs are not addressed by the courses above, we are happy to work with you to organise training tailored to your company’s needs at significantly discounted rates. Contact a member of the team to discuss how we can support your company’s training needs.

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WHATS on?Book Now on www.corkchamber.ie/training

Up-coming Training Courses Limited FREE places for unemployed on all courses.

Training from €100 per day!

BiznetCork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network Autumn launchRecently Mr Billy Kelleher, TD, Minister for Trade and Commerce, launched the Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network Autumn training schedules at a well-attended event in the Rochestown Park Hotel. The Minister spoke of the importance of continuing to invest in training in order to “help firms enhance productivity by focusing on the importance of continuous professional development, reskilling and training in the workplace.”

Speaking at the event, Ms. Avril Kelly, Managing Director of Citco Fund Services, who provide a full range of fund administration services from sixteen strategic centres globally, spoke of their considerable engagement with the Munster Finuas Network, and explained how a company based in Cork and operating in such a specialised area can benefit from being involved with a training network such as the Munster Finuas Network.

Mr. Alan Nuzum, CEO of Skillnets Ltd., complimented both networks and Cork Chamber for their continuing efforts in what have become very competitive and challenging times. “Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network funded and trained over 730 participants on over 70 training courses during 2009, and the Autumn training schedule indicates that the networks will continue to provide quality, cost-effective training for their member companies in the coming months”.

Through Cork Chamber’s State-funded training networks, you can avail of significant discounts on training for your team. Skillnets funding allows us to organise more cost-effective, locally-delivered, needs-specific training for companies across all industry sectors.

Don’t delay - Contact the Training team in Cork Chamber to discuss how we can help you continue to invest in training to help increase productivity, competitiveness and morale in your business.

Please see p12 for a list of up-coming training courses. For full details, please visit www.corkchamber.ie/training or contact a member of the Training team.

Munster Finuas Network training schedule The dates for Munster Finuas Network courses are being finalised at present. Courses include:• Advanced Derivatives• US GAAP Compliant Financial Reporting• IFRS Compliant Financial Reporting• Regulatory Requirements for Irish Domiciled funds• Irish Stock Exchange Listing – Continuing

Requirements• Current Market Developments – Equity / Fixed

Income Products / Commodities• Hedge Fund Industry Developments – Guide to

Sound Practices• Credit & Liquidity Risks and How they Impact the NAV

If you are interested in attending any of these courses, please contact Aisling Hynes, e: aisling@corkchamber.ie or t: (021) 4530148. Limited free places will also be available on the above courses for those who are unemployed.

FREE training places for JobSeekers on Cork Chamber trainingBoth Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network have a limited number of FREE places available on all of their open training courses for those who are unemployed. For someone who is looking for a new position, participation on our courses can provide the ideal opportunity to remain networked to the workplace while adding market-relevant skills to their skillset.

We would appreciate the assistance of Chamber members to promote this initiative by mentioning it to friends, family and colleagues (past and present).

Please visit www.corkchamber.ie/trainingunemployed or contact any member of Training team for further details.

Contacting the Training TeamFor further information on Cork Chamber’s Biznetcork Skillnet and Munster Finuas Network, please visit our website www.corkchamber.ie or contact one of the Training Team:

Emma WalshTraining Services Manager T: (021) 4530142E: emma@corkchamber.ie

Tara Mullally Biznetcork Skillnet AdministratorT: (021) 4530141E: tara@corkchamber.ie Aisling HynesMunster Finuas Network AdministratorT: (021) 4530148E: aisling@corkchamber.ie

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TRAINING services

Emma Walsh, Cork Chamber; Minister for Trade & Commerce, Billy Kelleher T.D. and Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber.

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NETWORKING events

Bill Walshe, CEO Doyle Collection (centre) guest speaker at the Business Breakfast in association with Irish Examiner with Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber; Ruairi O’Connor, General Manager The River Lee Hotel; Mairead Maher, Irish Examiner and Ger O’Mahoney, President Cork Chamber.

Business Breakfast with Bill Walshe, CEO of Doyle Collection

Bill Walshe addressed an audience of Cork Chamber members on 23rd September in the River Lee Hotel.Bill joined The Doyle Collection (formerly Jurys Doyle Hotel Group) as Chief Executive Officer in July 2007. In his first 18 months, he steered the group through a massive €200million refurbishment programme, which culminated in the rebranding to the Doyle Collection towards the end of last year.

Bill joined the Group from the Dubai luxury hotel group Jumeirah where he was a senior member of the Board and held the role of Chief Marketing and Business Innovation Officer. Jumeirah Group has revenues in excess of €1bn and owns the seven star Burj-Al-Arab hotel, one of its flagship properties.

Chamber members heard about the significant investment the Doyle Collection had made recently in upgrading their hotels, both from a branding and IT perspective, as well as the key role of the team in relation to customer satisfaction and the importance of training and development.

Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2011 Key dates for your diary

The Cork Chamber Annual Dinner will take place on Friday 4th February 2011 in City Hall Cork. The Annual Dinner is a “must attend” event, giving you the opportunity to network with almost 1000 local and national businesses and is the largest business event held in Cork.

Tickets go on sale at 10.00am on Friday 19th November 2010

on www.corkchamber.ie

Book early to avoid disappointment as tickets for this event are very popular and sell out early. Mark the date in your diary and remember to book online.

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Business After Hours Event in association with O’Donovan’s Off Licences

Cork Chamber held its October Business After Hours Event in the Clarion Hotel, which was run in association with O’Donovan’s Off Licences and included a wine fair, educating guests on wines from around the world. Chamber members had the opportunity of tasting wines from France, Spain, Italy and Australia as well as wines from the New World, including Chile, Argentina, New Zealand and South Africa, as well as a selection of champagnes and sparkling wines.

Almost 100 people attended the event signifying a strong return for Chamber members into the networking season. Chamber CEO Conor Healy congratulated Cork Independent on their 5th year anniversary and also recent Chamber members Otterbox on the announcement of their expansion leading to new jobs in Cork. O’Donovan’s kindly sponsored a crate of Thomond Reserve wine which was won by Paud O’Mahony of Wilson Architecture – congratulations! O’Donovans also offered discounts on all wines on show exclusively for Chamber members.

Kate Slattery, Matt Clark and Rhona Cashman from Otterbox.

Andrea Kennedy, Vivian O’Brien and Deirdre O’Callaghan from Shipping and Transport Cork Ltd.

Conor Healy, Chief Executive Cork Chamber welcomes Terence O’Sullivan, Terence J. O’Sullivan Solicitors and new member Paul McGonigle, Supplies Team.

Peter De Monfort and Micheal Burke from Bloxham with Mary Daly, Mary Daly & Associates.

Lucas Korepta, Gary O’Donovan and Joe Murphy from O’Donovan’s Off Licences. (Ger McCarthy Photography)

Caroline McAdoo and Deirdre Roberts from Roberts Communications.

Vodafone launches innovative Control UK tariff for SMEs

Despite the recent turbulence in the economy, Irish businesses are continuing to maximise growth opportunities and develop new markets both at home and abroad. While there is still considerable focus on managing operating costs, businesses are benefiting from increased value offered by service providers to make the most of the opportunities that come their way.

Given their close proximity to Ireland, the UK and Northern Ireland are very important markets for Irish businesses, across every sector. In 2009 alone, the value of Irish exports to those markets totalled €13,441.2 million. The 9,954,850 passengers that travelled to the UK through Ireland’s three airports in 2009 is indicative of its popularity as a destination for business travellers.

“The UK is the number one destination for our business customers who use their mobile abroad, some 57% of SME customers do so on a monthly basis”, said Anne O’Leary, business and enterprise director with Vodafone Ireland. “We consistently work with our customers to create propositions that best meet their needs and we have

extended our popular Vodafone Control UK allows Irish customers to maximise business opportunities on both sides of the water without having to worry about what it costs”

Vodafone Control UK is a new business price plan offering customers unlimited calls to Irish mobiles and landlines, unlimited calls to the UK, and unlimited calls home and to UK numbers when travelling in the UK. The innovative price plan will allow executives focus on business without having to worry about costs. With Vodafone Control UK companies pay just €30 per mobile per month, plus a fixed monthly fee of €250 .

“Irish customers who call the UK or Northern Ireland regularly or whose business takes them to either or both locations, will really benefit from the added value offered by Control UK. However, SMEs who have employees that frequently travel to these locations for business purposes and also those customers located along the border with Northern Ireland will also benefit from the additional value.”

Businesses that tend to make a number of international calls, other than to the UK or Northern Ireland, on the mobile can opt for an International Voice Add On that allows unlimited calls to Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Business users who have a high demand for text messages can also opt for an unlimited National Text Add On. Each Add On costs €10 per user per month.

For further information on Vodafone Control UK please visit www.vodafone.ie/business

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PROMOTE your businessAvail of Advertising Opportunities in the 2011 Diary & Membership Directory

The 2011 edition of the Cork Chamber Diary & Membership Directory will be published in November 2010 and we are delighted to offer you the opportunity to advertise in this edition.

The Directory: • Contains a detailed guide to Chamber services• Acts as an excellent reference tool for members• Enables you to market your products and/or services

directly your 1000 fellow members companies• Allows you to promote your business to key

management executives and top decisions makers within the Cork business community

• Is a means to source products and services from fellow members

The Directory is sent to all members, partner organisations and given to visiting business delegations.

For advertising rates further details on this opportunity please contact:

Paul ClemensonSales DirectorAshville Media GroupTel: (01) 432 2200Email: paul.clemenson@ashville.com

Cork Autumn FestivalsCork Autumn Festivals are worth checking out “Cork Festival Calendar” on www.cometocork.com

Congratulations to the Cork Folk Festival on the success of their festival and the Céilí Mór last month.

Still to come are:• Kinsale Gourmet Festival - October 8-10th

• Guinness Cork Jazz Festival – October 22-25th

• Corona Cork Film Festival – November 7 – 14th • A Christmas Celebration on Grand Parade – Dates TBC

Christmas in Cork.ie Cork Marketing Partnership has recently published the 2010 www.christmasincork.ie website. All Cork Christmas event organisers, promoting carol concerts, pantomimes, Christmas charity events, etc. are invited to submit details by email to: steve@corkmarketingpartnership.ie

The Christmas in Cork website is an important seasonal promotional tool for Cork, driving strong interest nationally and internationally in Cork’s Christmas off er. Last year the Christmas in Cork website and online newsletters where promoted by tour operators and tourism organisations in UK, France and US.

Better Buildings 2010

The 2010 Cork Better Building Awards will be announced by the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Michael O’Connell on Tuesday, November 2nd, 7.30am, venue to be confi rmed. For information Cork Marketing Partnership on t: (021) 4317895.

Cork gives a Business Class welcome to Top International Conference BuyersA group of top international conference buyers from the US, Great Britain, Mainland Europe and South Africa were in Cork last month as part of a familiarisation trip of the South West region, prior to the offi cial opening of the Convention Centre Dublin (CCD).

Fiona Buckley, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Operations in the South West said: “These buyers represent up to €500 million worth of potential business for Ireland over the next three years.  A range of tours and information events were planned by Fáilte Ireland, ensuring that the group enjoyed the full Irish experience in the South West.” 

The group enjoyed a tour of Cork City before experiencing Vertigo in the County Hall, where they were given a presentation on Cork.  Cork City Gaol was the unusual setting for dinner, followed by an evening of fun with some traditional Cork entertainment!  Among the many attractions of Cork, the group visited the coastal village of Crosshaven, including a visit to Crosshaven House and the Royal Cork Yacht Club, the world’s oldest yacht club, where they boarded a boat to Kinsale and surrounding area.

‘International Student Hairdressing Championships’ coming to CorkSt. John’s college in Cork has successfully secured the international student hairdressing championships for Cork in 2011. Three committee members from Iceland, Norway and Sweden visited Cork on the 16th September to view facilities, hotels and venues for the event in April. Cork Convention Bureau (CCB),working closely with Anita Kirby head of hairdressing at the college, put together an itinerary for the site inspection to ensure the international committee members got to see all that Cork has to off er. It is expected that up to 200 international students will attend the event in 2011.

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MARKETING cork

Cork Convention Bureau and Fáilte Ireland Super Fam Group at a dinner in Cork City Gaol during their Cork tour.

Supplied by Cork Marketing Partnership & Cork Convention Bureau

Cork Marketing Partnership, established in 2007, is an initiative that brings together Cork City Council, Cork County Council, Cork Chamber, Irish Hotel Federation - Cork, Cork Business Association, Port of Cork, Cork Airport Authority and Fáilte ireland South West Region to undertake marketing initiatives, develop and promote business tourism with the establishment of the Cork Convention Bureau and assist in promoting economic development in the Cork region. For more information contact T: (021) 4317895

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ON the move

Kevin Burke, Head Chef, Castlemartyr Resort

Leading Cork Marketing and PR agency announces new appointments H+A Marketing + PR in Cork is growing its PR team with the announcement of the appointments of Jill Collins as Account Director for Consumer and Corporate PR and Lorraine Kelleher as Account Executive, at the Cork-based marketing and PR agency.

Jill comes to H+A from Dublin PR company O’Herlihy Communications, where she was Director of Corporate and Public Affairs, working across a range of clients in the financial services, pharmaceutical, hospitality, construction, transport and social affairs sectors. Her clients included ITMAC, the Irish Tobacco Manufacturers’ Advisory Committee, 3 Mobile, Ireland’s first electric car, Greenaer’s REVAi, and the Louis Fitzgerald Hotel Group. Jill has a strong background in national and international media relations, public relations practice and political experience at the highest national level. Formerly, as political adviser to the Government Chief Whip in the Department of An Taoiseach and she was also in Leinster House for three years prior to that, working with TDs and MEPs. Jill holds a HDip in Business Studies from the Michael Smurfit Business School and an Honours BA in English and History from University College Dublin.

H+A has also recently welcomed new Account Executive Lorraine Kelleher on board. Originally from Cork, Lorraine holds an Honours BA in Marketing from Waterford Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Business in Tourism from Tralee Institute of Technology. Lorraine is actively furthering her qualifications by completing a part-time Higher Diploma in Arts in Public Relations at Cork Institute of Technology.

New Head Chef at Castlemartyr ResortCastlemartyr Resort in East Cork is delighted to announce the appointment of Kevin Burke to the role of Head Chef. Originally hailing from Bandon in Cork, Kevin returned to Cork in 2009 from London where he spent four years working for Michelin-starred restaurant, Foliage, in The Mandarin Oriental. He was promoted to the role of Head Chef at Castlemartyr from the position of Senior Sous Chef, which he’s held at the hotel since February 2009. Prior to joining Castlemartyr, Kevin held a number of key positions in award-winning kitchens in London includ-ing the celebrated French restaurant, 1 Lombard Street and the Michelin-star restaurant, Foliage at the Mandarin Oriental. Kevin’s career began in Ireland where he worked in the kitchens of The Kingsley Hotel in Cork City and Dromoland Castle Hotel & Country Estate.

Veronica joins The Discovery PartnershipVeronica Murphy has recently joined The Discovery Partnership, a network of Professional Management Consultants and Business Advisers as a Partner. She is a Commerce Graduate from University College Cork and subsequently completed an MBA in Strategic Management and Strategic HRM. Veronica was the Principal of Effective Solutions, a company that provided Organisational consultancy, training and development as well as Mediation Services to private clients and semi state organisations. She has worked in the Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, Technology, Retail and Banking sectors and has also held senior management level positions in Operations, Human Resources, International Supply Chain & Business Information Systems.

Veronica Murphy, Partner, The Discovery Partnership

Jill Collins, Account Director for Consumer and Corporate PR H+A Marketing + PR

Lorraine Kelleher, Account Executive H+A Marketing + PR

Cork Independent celebrates 5th birthdayThe Cork Independent, Cork’s leading free weekly newspaper, celebrated its fifth birthday in style recently with a coffee morning in aid of Marymount Hospice at the River Lee Hotel. The coffee morning was well attended by clients and readers of the Cork Independent, as well as local dignitaries. According to the newspaper’s editor, Deirdre O’Shaughnessy, “The newspaper has been going from strength to strength in recent times, and has just recorded a boost in circulation to 56386, making it the highest circulating weekly free newspaper in Cork and Ireland. We felt it was fitting to celebrate our birthday in a way that gives something back to the paper’s loyal clients and readers, and Marymount is one of Cork’s worthiest causes. “Here’s to the next five!”

JobFit to launch in CorkNational Learning Network, in partnership with TBG Learning, is pleased to announce the roll out of the JobFit training programme in Cork. JobFit, a new initiative to help people who are unemployed to retrain, upskill and improve their chances of getting a job has just commenced with the opening of a new centre in Blackpool Retail Park. JobFit provides participants with free training, work placements with local employers, job search support and access to a variety of job vacancies from employers. It is available to people who have been unemployed and in receipt of benefits for three months or more and who have a Junior Cert level of education or below. The official launch of JobFit will take place in the TBG Centre in the Atrium Business Centre, Blackpool, on Tuesday 19 October, 5 pm-7pm. For more information Call Cork JobFit on 1800 303 356 or email cork@jobfit.ie or simply log onto www.jobfit.ie

Barry Group opens new €1.5m central distribution base Barry Group has opened a new €1.5 million extension to its state-of-the-art Central Distribution Base in Mallow. The new 145,000 sq ft central distribution will help accelerate the Barry Group’s ambitious three year growth plans which includes opening another eight new Buy Lo stores before the end of 2010, bringing the total number of Buy Lo stores to ten. The company also plans to double the number of Carry Out specialist off licence stores by 2012.

Marymount Hospice Ball Details of the forthcoming Marymount Hospice Ball were announced recently. Similar to last year, the five star Gala Fundraising Dinner is being held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ditchley House, Little Island, which has proven to be a wonderful venue for the ball, with over 400 patrons attending previous events. This year’s ball will take place on Friday 3rd December 2010 and is co-sponsored by Heineken Ireland, BAM Contractors and Keanes Jewellers. This is the fourth year of the Marymount Hospice Ball and funds in excess of €250,000 have been raised. To support this very worthy cause and to enjoy a night of great style with lots of fun, book your tickets from any member of the organising committee now. Tables of ten cost €1,500 per table. Individual tickets may be bought at €150 each. more info Marion Bradley t: (021) 4514302

Trocaire launch Global Gift listWhy not send a child to school in Somalia for a year for €80? The Gift of an Education is one of nine life-changing gifts for you to choose from our Global Gift list this Christmas. Each gift has been carefully selected to make a long lasting difference to the world’s poorest families. All gifts are practical, ethical and locally sourced, helping to fuel the development of entire communities. Corporate gifts are also available. Call to Trócaire’s Office on 9, Cook Street Cork to purchase gifts or t: (021) 4275622 or log onto www.trocaire.org/globalgift

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MEMBERS news

The Cork team made a special appearance with the Sam Maguire Cup to help launch the Marymount Hospice Ball at a reception in Heineken Ireland.

Children attending Primary School in Somalia.

Deirdre O’Shaughnessy, Cork Independent with Raymond Kelleher and Liam Sheehan.

To submit Members News send to Imelda (imelda@corkchamber.ie)For more Members News go to www.corkchamber.ie

New season launch at The CornstoreThe Cornstore hosted a reception to announce details of its new Autumn Menu and upcoming events. This season’s Autumn menu includes an fantastic selection of monkfish and sea bass, wild venison and pork belly. Forthcoming events include a ‘Gourmet Evening’ with leading wine writer Mary Dowey and Gilbeys of Ireland on Thursday 14th October. The evening will celebrate the best of French food and wine with a special 6 course tasting menu, (€59 to include accompanying wines). The Cornstore’s Thanksgiving Dinner, will take place on Thursday 18th November with a special ‘one-night-only’ menu, (€35, ex wine). Bookings for events and general enquiries t: (021) 4274777 or e: reservations@cornstorecork.com.

INEC wins Aviva Events Industry AwardThe INEC, Killarney was awarded the highly coveted Best In-House Event Team at the Aviva Events Industry Awards held recently for its handling of the Google EMEA Sales Conference. The events team, under the direction of Breffni Ingerton, at the INEC, Killarney wowed their target audience as in excess of 2,500 delegates attended the Google Conference which took place across three days.

Festive Print Buying Guide out now! Designing.ie@Printing.com has launched a Christmas Print Buying Guide 2010. Just like them, it’s jam packed with great print ideas. Inside you’ll find a selection of high quality and cost effective ways to give your business the edge this festive period. From Promo Diaries and festive menus to party posters and calendars. For your free guide and samples contact E: corkcentral@printing.com and get your festive promotions all wrapped up.

Support Action on Disability!Enable Ireland has launched their 2010 Christmas Card collection. This year the collection features a selection of traditional Christmas images, contemporary designs and historical Cork scenes. Enable Ireland provides a range of free services for adults and children with disabilities and their families. All proceeds from the sale of these cards which are produced locally will go directly to Enable Ireland Cork. To order cards or request samples contact Ann or Edel T: (021) 429 4434

Otterbox plans EMEA HQ in CorkOtterBox, an innovator of protective solutions for leading global handheld manufacturers, wireless carriers and distributors, is establishing its Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) HQ in Cork, creating up to 50 jobs over 2 years. The activities to be carried out from the Cork site will include in-house sales, customer service, accounting, engineering, public relations, marketing, web design, graphics, supply chain, human resources and warehousing. Speaking about the announcement Matt Clark, Managing Director OtterBox EMEA, said “This has been a very exciting year for OtterBox with the opening of the EMEA office here in Cork and also OtterBox’s inclusion on the INC 500 list of fastest growing companies in the United States. As the company expands, we are looking to firmly establish our presence in the EMEA market and Cork is the perfect location for that with its access to Europe, the Middle East and Africa as well as our headquarters in Colorado.”

Quality Standard for WinthropWinthrop Engineering was recently awarded accreditation to ISO:9001:2008 by National Quality Assurance – (NQA) for their Quality Management System. Winthrop Engineering is one of Ireland’s leading Mechanical and Electrical Contracting companies. Established in 1995, Winthrop has offices in Dublin, Cork, Waterford and recently opened an office in London where they have commenced a number of new contracts. “This accreditation is a significant milestone in our ongoing development,’’ says Ger O’Leary, Managing Director of Winthrop Engineering, “It will provide a management system to continually improve our performance and productivity and a template to achieve Business Excellence. This is an important step in consolidating our position and underpinning our plans for future growth and success.’’ C

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MEMBERS news

Breffni Ingerton and Cara Fuller from INEC Killarney receiving the award from Andy Carroll, Monte Carlo Entertainment (Award sponsor)

Kerli Estnurm, Kate O’Donovan and Sarah Lamb at the launch of the new season at The Cornstore.

Richard Coughlan, Quality Manager and Gerard O’Leary, Managing Director Winthrop Engineering with Sam Glenn, NQA UK & Ireland, (centre).

To submit Members News send to Imelda (imelda@corkchamber.ie)For more Members News go to www.corkchamber.ie

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The route to new markets

ec.europa.eu/enterprise-europe-network

European CommissionEnterprise and Industry

Enterprise Europe NetworkEA

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Available to customers with 3 - 50 subscribers. All users on the account must be signed up. Prices quoted exclude VAT. Subject to 18 month contract, fair usage policy and €250 monthly fee.Excludes roaming outside the UK, international calls to countries other than the UK and calls to premium rate numbers. For terms and conditions see vodafone.ie/business

Whatever side of the water you do business, unlimited calls for €30.Now you can do business wherever you need to with unlimited calls at home and in the UK for just €30 per mobile per month.

To switch to Vodafone call 1800 577 577

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