Cork Chamber Honours Jim Barry with Outstanding Contribution to Business Award 2024
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has announced Jim Barry, Managing Director of Barry Group, as the recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Business Award 2024. Presented at Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner, the award celebrates Jim’s profound impact on Irish business and recognises his significant achievements in developing Barry Group into a powerhouse in the Irish wholesale distribution market. Under Mr Barry’s leadership, Barry Group has transformed from a local family-run operation into
Cork is uniquely positioned as a model city for urban evolution
The Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner, held this evening at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY, showcased the vital collaboration between Cork and Dublin and its significance to the prosperity of Ireland as a whole. The event was attended by over 600 leaders from Ireland’s business, political, and diplomatic sectors. The keynote address was delivered by the former Tánaiste, Simon Coveney TD, who is stepping away from politics after 25 years of public service. Drawing on his experience as
Supporting Infrastructure Critical to Facilitate Docklands Development
The decision yesterday by An Bord Pleanála to refuse planning permission for Goulding Chemicals to develop port facilities at Marino Point in Cork Harbour, facilitating the relocation of the firm’s facilities from the South Docklands in Cork City to the lower harbour, represents a setback to the regeneration of the Docklands. Supporting and enabling infrastructure, such as the critical R624 Cobh Road, must be prioritised and delivered to facilitate the Port of Cork’s move to the lower harbour, opening up
New Research Identifies Cork’s Potential as ‘Leading International Financial Services Destination'
-New research from Cork Chamber Skillnet, one of 70 Skillnet Business Networks nationwide, has identified the potential for Cork to become a leading European destination for International Financial Services (IFS)-The Skillful Futures: Strengthening Cork’s Role as a Leading IFS Destination report was officially launched at the Cork Financial Services Forum’s annual Financial Services Summit. The event, co-hosted by Cork Chamber, was attended by over 230 financial services sector leaders, government
Election 2024 - Business Priorities to Shape Cork’s Future
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today launched its General Election 2024 manifesto, outlining the key priorities for businesses and the wider economy across Cork City and County as the election approaches. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, “Through our continuous engagement with members across Cork City and County, Cork Chamber has a unique understanding of the key priorities and concerns for businesses and individuals in Ireland’s fastest-growing city region, Cork. The next
Accelerating Sustainability in Irish Business
-Cork Chamber Spotlights Energy Efficiency as Key to Sustainable Business Growth- Cork Chamber hosted the first national REEValue event today, focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency in business. The event forms part of the REEValue project, an EU-funded initiative that aims to accelerate sustainability across sectors through collaboration, innovation and practical solutions. Among the attendees were international project partners from Malta, as well as local business leaders, government
Progress on Events Centre welcome, but undue delays must be avoided, say Cork Business Associations
In a joint statement, Cork Chamber, the Cork Business Association (CBA), the Cork branch of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), the Vintners Federation (VFI) in Cork, and the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) have expressed disappointment at the news that the Cork Events Centre is set to be hit by further delays, but welcome the commitment to delivery by Government. Following today’s decision by Government, the Cork Events Centre – a critical infrastructure project for Cork City and County – is
Progress in offshore renewable energy welcomed by the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum
The Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF) has welcomed recent progress towards the development of the offshore renewable energy industry, both in Cork and across Ireland. The approval of both the Planning and Development Bill and the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan for Offshore Renewable Energy (DMAP) by the Dáil last week marked significant steps forward for the offshore renewables industry, and continued cooperation between industry, policymakers and developers is critical to ensure
Planning and Development Bill a Step Forward in Planning Reform
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed the passing of the Planning and Development Bill by the Dáil yesterday evening. This long-awaited bill will consolidate planning legislation into one bill, and has the potential to provide transformational reform to Ireland’s planning system, helping to progress vital infrastructure projects around the country and here in Cork Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, commented: “We welcome the passing of the Planning and Development Bill by the
New York and European capital cities the most sought-after routes for future connectivity for Cork’s
New York, alongside key European cities, is top of the wish list of businesses in Cork for future connectivity, according to the results of the Cork Business Travel Survey 2024. The survey, conducted by Cork Chamber in cooperation with Cork Airport, provides key insights into the priorities of business travellers and airport users in Cork, as well as their most wanted destinations for future connectivity. Cork Airport plays a key role in the economy of Ireland’s southern region, contributing over €1
Welcome supports for infrastructure in Budget 2025, but more ambition needed for urban areas
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, welcomes the publication of Budget 2025 today, with much-needed funding announced for critical housing and enabling infrastructure. However, concerns remain around the cost of doing business, as well as investment in urban areas around the country. A welcome boost to infrastructure and housing delivery Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, “Infrastructure is a critical priority for our members, and indeed for businesses across Ireland; we cannot
Cork Chamber’s business awards open for entries
The Cork Company of the Year Awards 2025 are open for entries. The Cork Chamber awards are widely regarded as a coveted platform through which ambitious businesses can gain much-deserved recognition for their advances, innovation and growth. The four distinct award categories allow for all variety of businesses to enter so that the true diversity of the Cork business community can be celebrated.Rob Horgan, President of Cork Chamber, said, "Cork is a key contributor to Ireland’s economy and society, and
National Planning Framework falls short on Cork’s growth needs
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has called on Government to be more ambitious for Cork’s development in the Chamber’s submission to the public consultation on the first revision of the National Planning Framework (NPF). Cork Chamber President, Rob Horgan, commented, “While this draft revision of the National Planning Framework sets out welcome targets for regional development in the years ahead to 2040, far greater ambition is needed for the Cork region. Cork is a thriving second-city
New cooperation agreement between Department of Transport and European Investment Bank welcomed
Cork Chamber and the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF) welcome today’s announcement of an advisory partnership between the Department of Transport and the European Investment Bank to support the development of port infrastructure for offshore renewable energy. Catherine Sheridan, Chair of CORIF, commented, “Building Ireland’s capacity for offshore renewable energy presents the economic opportunity of a generation, and will also play a critical role in achieving our 2030 climate and energy
WorkAbility Cork Paving the Way for Inclusive Employment in Cork
SECAD Partnership and Cork Chamber are today launching an exciting new partnership to support a more inclusive and diverse workforce. WorkAbility Cork: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme is an ambitious five-year initiative, running from 2024 to 2028, designed to enhance employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities in Cork. The WorkAbility Cork Programme is designed with three core objectives: Enhancing Employment Prospects: Improving the employment opportunities of individuals with
Multi-annual funding is needed to provide certainty for higher education, says Cork Chamber
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, supports the call from Sean O’Driscoll, the Chair of UCC’s Governing Authority, for the introduction of structured, multi-annual funding for the higher education sector. Current uncertainties around funding prevent third level institutions from developing and delivering the long-term strategies needed to maintain and enhance Ireland’s competitiveness into the future. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, commented, “Cork Chamber has raised the issues regarding the
Cork Chamber outlines business priorities for Budget 2025 in meeting with Minister for Finance
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, met with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers as part of the Minster’s visit to Cork today. Chamber representatives from across the Cork region and key sectors joined in the meeting to discuss the current business landscape in Cork with the Minister, as well as key priorities for Budget 2025. President of Cork Chamber Rob Horgan said, “We very much welcome the opportunity to meet with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers in Cork today. With Budget 2025 fast
Cork Chamber expresses concern at delays to critical transport projects
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has expressed concern at comments made by Transport Infrastructure Ireland chief executive Peter Walsh, who has warned that key transport infrastructure projects, including the M20 Cork to Limerick and M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorways, could face significant delays because of issues around funding allocation. Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO, said, “It is concerning to hear that some of the most critical infrastructure projects planned for the Cork region are
Cork Chamber welcomes announcement of plans for 217 new apartments in the city's docklands
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed today’s publication of plans for 217 new cost-rental apartments in the south docks, an important step forward in the rejuvenation of Cork’s docklands. The development, ‘The Railyard Apartments,’ is a partnership between the JCD Group and Cork City Council and will include a mix of studios, one- to three-bed units, and between 40 and 50 units designed specifically for older people and those with a disability. Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy,
Strategic Rail Review Marks Milestone for Enhanced Connectivity
-Greater ambition and clarity on timelines required for Cork- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today welcomed the publication of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review Final Report. Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy, said, “The publication of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review Final Report is a significant milestone in our journey to be a more connected and sustainable island. Connectivity is the cornerstone of a successful country and is key to the future economy of Cork as it continues
Urban Evolution Deals are needed to drive sustainable urban development, says Cork Chamber
- Chamber pre-Budget submission emphasises Urban Evolution Deals, bespoke funding agreements between the Government and Local Authorities to revitalise urban centres - Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today launched its 2025 pre-Budget submission calling on Government to reinvigorate Ireland’s urban centres through the creation of Urban Evolution Deals to drive sustainable urban development. Delivering vibrant, safe urban centres is essential for Ireland’s economic and social
Cork Business Organisations express disappointment at delay to Events Centre funding decision
In a joint statement, Cork Chamber of Commerce, the Cork Business Association (CBA), the Cork branch of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), the Vintners Federation (VFI) in Cork, and the Restaurant Association of Ireland (RAI) have expressed disappointment that Government is to further delay a decision on funding for the Cork Events Centre. Despite significant funding commitments made by the private sector, the Government continues to delay the decision around vital state funding for the Events Centre,
Cork Chamber welcomes Motorola Solutions’ new investment in Cork City
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed Motorola Solutions’ announcement that it is to open a new Research & Development Centre in Cork, creating 200 jobs. The R&D Centre’s 200 highly skilled jobs will be focused on software design for the firm’s comprehensive land mobile radio (LMR) portfolio, supporting both public safety and commercial initiatives. Director of Public Affairs at Cork Chamber, Cathal McSweeney, welcomed today’s announcement: “Motorola Solutions’ decision to base its new
Cork Business Organisations Call on Government to Fund Transformative Cork Events Centre
In a powerful demonstration of unity and vision for the future of Cork, all major business organisations across the city region have come together to urge government to approve the funding to enable the development of the Cork Events Centre. With a final decision expected in the coming weeks, this coalition of influential groups highlights the transformative potential of the project for the local economy and community. The Cork Business Association (CBA), the Cork branch of the Irish Hotels Federation
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Businesses believe Cork will not achieve Project Ireland 2040 targets due to lack of Funding, Cork C
-SMEs need further support measures in Budget 2025- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has published its latest Economic Trends survey, proudly sponsored by PTSB. The survey, capturing insights from Cork Chamber members for Q2 2024 and their outlook for Q3 2024, also reflects their sentiments and priorities ahead of Budget 2025.Key Findings from the Q2 2024: Housing stimulus is the top business priority for Budget 2025. 82% of respondents call for increased Government investment in Cork to
Cork Chamber welcomes progress on delivery of Cork to Limerick N/M20
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, welcomes the announcement that the Cork to Limerick N/M20 is to be upgraded to a full motorway, improving travel times between the two cities by an estimated 30 minutes. The announcement represents a significant milestone in the development of multimodal connectivity between the two largest and growing cities in Ireland’s southern region. Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy said “The confirmation that the N20 connecting Cork and Limerick will be upgraded to a full
Cork Chamber launches the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has this week launched the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF), a new forum for the renewable energy industry to drive the development of Cork’s offshore renewables sector. CORIF will bring together representatives of the offshore renewables industry to identify key policy and infrastructure enablers that will ensure Cork benefits fully from the development of offshore renewables. Capturing the full value of renewables will support the achievement
.From Pixels to Progress.
-Cork Chamber launches the Cork Digital Marketing Awards 2024- The Cork Digital Marketing Awards are back for 2024, set to honour the most innovative and impactful digital marketing achievements in the Cork region. Organised by Cork Chamber, the awards aim to recognise and celebrate the outstanding teams, projects, and businesses that have harnessed the power of digital media to drive success. Designed to be inclusive, these awards welcome a wide range of entrants from small businesses to large
Urban Evolution: New Chamber President Focuses on Welcoming and Vibrant Urban Spaces
-Cork Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New President Rob Horgan at 2024 AGM- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today announced Rob Horgan, entrepreneur and owner of Velo Coffee, as its new President, marking another milestone in the Chamber's history. At the 205th Annual General Meeting held at the Imperial Hotel Cork, Mr Horgan outlined his vision and commitment to furthering Cork's economic and social prosperity. Mr Horgan articulated a forward-thinking vision for Cork, emphasising a
Cork Chamber Welcomes Progress Announcement for Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, is delighted to welcome Minister Eamon Ryan’s announcement today of the commencement of the next phase in transforming the Cork Area Commuter Rail network. This phase will deliver eight new commuter rail stations across the Cobh, Midleton and Mallow lines, a new fleet maintenance depot and the electrification of the network. This will play a pivotal role in transforming Cork's transport infrastructure, creating a well-connected, efficient, and sustainable
High-Speed Rail & Restoration of Internal Flights would Transform All-Island Connectivity
-An All-Island Collaboration Promises Economic Growth-[Belfast, May 24th] In a landmark mission, a delegation of business leaders and politicians from across the island came together to discuss key areas for an all-island approach to economic development. Led by the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, Cork Chamber, and Dublin Chamber, this series of events marks the first collaborative initiative of its kind, focusing on enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth.Connecting People and
Cork Chamber Launches Elections Manifesto
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today launched the Cork Chamber Local and European Election Manifesto. Through Ireland 2040, the government has set targets for Cork which includes a 50% growth in population. This will require a concerted effort to build houses, create circa 75,000 jobs, deliver an enhanced public transport system and provide a range of health, social, community and cultural services. While Cork has potential to accommodate significant economic and spatial change to play
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Childcare Disproportionately Affects Women in the Workforce, Cork Chamber Survey Reveals
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has published its latest Economic Trends, proudly supported by PTSB. Cork Chamber members shared their experiences through the most recent business quarter Q1 2024 and their outlook for Q2 2024. This quarter, Cork Chamber members also expressed their views on the provision of childcare services in Cork and the impact childcare provision has on their employees. The Q1 2024 survey found: 77% expressed confidence in the Irish economy 63% of respondents either
Driving energy transition: Cork Chamber launches REEValue to support the decarbonisation of business
-Adopting energy efficiency measures or investing in renewable energy can help Irish businesses to lower their energy bill by 10%- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, announced today a new service that delivers advice to businesses aiming to become more energy efficient and invest in renewable energy sources. This free service, which is open to members and non-members nationwide, is being delivered through a wider European Commission funded project, called REEValue and focuses on the food,
Continued Investment and Acceleration of Key Cork Developments Essential to Safeguard Cork’s Future,
- Support of the green transition in areas such as renewables needed to propel the Cork region to further success - Cork has a real opportunity to integrate economic growth and environmental responsibility, while cementing its position as a world-leading destination of choice for global companies, said President of Cork Chamber, Ronan Murray at the 2024 Chamber Annual Dinner sponsored by AIB. “We are indeed at the very heart of our national eco-system with an offering that continues to win on the world
PepsiCo's Winning Formula - Crowned Cork Company of the Year 2024
-PepsiCo Cork Marks 50 Glorious Years with Prestigious Award Win- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, is pleased to announce PepsiCo as the recipient of the prestigious Cork Company of the Year Award 2024. This esteemed accolade recognises the outstanding contributions to the region’s business community and celebrates the excellence and innovation demonstrated by PepsiCo. The award was announced along with individual category winners at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner which brought together
Cork Chamber welcomes amendments to Tax Debt Warehousing scheme
Cork Chamber the voice of business in Cork has today welcomed the amendments to the Tax Debt Warehousing scheme announced by Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath T.D. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber said, “the announcement of the changes to the Tax Debt Warehousing scheme will offer some relief to the affected businesses. It has been a very challenging time for business. There are many and mounting pressures, and we have seen the cost of doing business rising across our membership." "The reduction of
Businesses remain proactive in addressing skills shortages
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has published its latest Economic Trends, proudly supported by PTSB. Cork Chamber members shared their experiences through the most recent business quarter Q4 2023 and their outlook for the first quarter of 2024. In response to skills availability posing a significant threat to business growth, the Q4 survey also asked about skills gaps breakdowns.The Q4 2023 survey found: 80% expressed confidence in the Irish economy 81% of respondents’ net profit either
Leadership, peace and progress
Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO As we reflect on 2023, it has without doubt been a year of great progress for the business community in Cork, undeniably marked by significant advancements. However, amidst this progress, the region did not emerge unscathed from the reverberations of conflict, a reality that manifested itself prominently in 2023. In the past year Cork continued to grow in every sense and the city itself is showing real signs of transformation with ambitious and exciting new projects on the
Pat McGrath Honoured with Outstanding Contribution to Business Award from Cork Chamber
Cork Chamber has recognised Pat McGrath for his outstanding contribution to business. The award was presented at the Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner where the keynote speaker was An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar. The event, held at the Clayton Hotel Burlington Road and sponsored by EY, brought together 600 prominent figures from the political and business sectors. Mr McGrath’s exceptional role at PM Group played a significant part in his career. In the early 00’s, Mr McGrath was appointed CEO and was
Ireland has the potential to become a renewable powerhouse
The Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner held this evening celebrated the collaborative spirit between Cork and Dublin and the importance of this synergy to the success of Ireland Inc. Held in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY, the keynote was delivered by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar T.D. to more than 600 people from across Ireland’s business, political and diplomatic landscape. In his keynote address, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar T.D. said “The Government and I strongly believe that more
Cork Chamber’s business awards seek brightest and best
-Cork Company of the Year Awards 2024 open for entries- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has opened the Cork Chamber Cork Company of the Year Awards 2024 for entries. For a quarter of a century, these awards have served as an exclusive platform for businesses in the region to celebrate their successes and gain recognition for their achievements. The four distinct award categories allow for businesses of all sizes and backgrounds to enter so that the true diversity of the Cork business
