InBusiness - Autumn 2025

COMMUNICATION WITH PURPOSE

JIM WALSH on four decades of PR excellence

MEATH COUNTY COUNCIL CE KIERAN KEHOE ON WHY MEATH IS PRIMED FOR GROWTH

LEARNING without LIMITS

How to take an Irish start-up global with LearnUpon’s BRENDAN NOUD

Your pension is our business

At Davy, our team of tax, pension and investment experts can help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning, offering bespoke pension advice and solutions.

Irrespective of how and when you plan to retire, we think a conversation with a member of our team is one worth having. Call us on +353 1 614 3346 or visit davy.ie/pensions

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Brendan Noud talks about the challenges of taking an Irish start-up global

Meath County Council CE Kieran Kehoe on the opening of the new Thrive Centre of Business Excellence in Navan 24 COVER STORY: THRIVE IN MEATH

Innovation & Tech

Lua Health is bringing AIpowered wellbeing insights to the modern workplace

AMTCE

Want to Grow Your Business by Selling to Government?

The Irish Government is Open for Business — and We Want You There. Government Supply Expo 2025: Pathways to Public Tendering

Tuesday, 11th Nov 2025

9am - 4pm Aviva Stadium, Dublin

FREE to attend Registration now open

The Office of Government Procurement (OGP) in partnership with InterTradeIreland is hosting Ireland’s largest public procurement event — and it’s your opportunity to meet the buyers, decision-makers, and procurement teams behind billions of euro in government spending.

Whether you’re an SME, micro-enterprise, or growing supplier, this is your chance to:

• Network directly with procurement leads from all major Government departments and sectors

• Discover upcoming tender opportunities across goods, services and construction related works

• Attend expert-led talks and panel discussions on how to win public contracts and navigate the tendering process.

• Learn about the many supports available to SMEs including InterTradeIreland’s award-winning Go-2-Tender programme, offering insightful workshops, topic specific masterclasses and tailored 1:1 mentoring.

• Explore over 40 exhibitors in one day via our interactive event app

Scan to register for the event and for full event details

Scan for more information on InterTradeIreland’s Go-2-Tender programme

The Irish Government is committed to improving access for small businesses — don’t miss this opportunity to break into or expand in the public sector. It’s free. It’s valuable. It’s where your next opportunity might be.

“Meath

is a place where innovation and ambition are encouraged. Whether we’re advising a large multinational or a small start-up, our message is clear – County Meath is open for business.”

BERNARD WALSH JOINS FAIRSTONE IRELAND

Fairstone Ireland has appointed Bernard Walsh to the role of Head of Investments & Pensions. With deep expertise in portfolio management and global markets, Bernard will lead Fairstone’s investment strategy and play a pivotal role in ensuring the continued growth and success of the Fairstone Funds. His appointment coincides with the launch of the Fairstone Market Funds, designed to provide investors with globally diversified, expertly managed portfolios. Bringing together the expertise of JP Morgan Asset Management along with investment firm Vanguard, the Fairstone Market Funds give clients access to world-class investment in Ireland. “I am delighted to join Fairstone Ireland at such an exciting time, with the launch of the Fairstone Market Funds. This is a unique opportunity to help shape how we bring smarter, more accessible investment solutions to clients across Ireland,” said Walsh.

American approval

INNOVATION A BIG DRAW

More than 95% of US multinationals have a positive view of Ireland as an investment location, according to a survey of American Chamber of Commerce Ireland members.

Business BITES

A new report from Auxilion shows that a third (33%) of workers in Ireland are applying for jobs in more innovative companies. Almost a fifth cited a lack of innovation as a reason for leaving their job.

FIBRUS SCORES TOP BROADBAND ROLLOUT AWARD

Esri Ireland recently announced that broadband provider Fibrus won a Special Achievement in GIS Award (SAG) at Esri’s annual User Conference in San Diego. Fibrus was recognised for its application of Esri’s ArcGIS technology to accelerate the delivery of next-generation fibre broadband to homes and businesses across Northern Ireland and Cumbria. The technology was implemented across its government backed infrastructure rollouts, including the recently completed Project Stratum in Northern Ireland and Project Gigabit in Cumbria. To date, Fibrus has laid more than 25,000 kilometres of fibre, reaching over 440,000 homes across Northern Ireland and Cumbria, with plans for further expansion. The Esri solution is saving 500 hours per week across Fibrus, its contractors and subcontractors, due to the automation of previously manual processes.

TOP-QUALITY WORKSPACES DRIVING EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION

Employees in Ireland continue to value physical workplaces for focused work and collaboration. That’s according to the latest survey from JLL, which shows that Irish employees value and are motivated by high-quality o ice environments that support focused work, o er great amenities and foster positive workplace culture. Features such as well-designed workspaces and onsite wellbeing amenities are important factors in attracting and retaining talent. Two-thirds (67%) have fixed o ice days and 63% feel positive about return-to-o ice policies. The report also shows that hybrid working is presenting challenges for employees –three in 10 report feeling isolated or lacking connection with their colleagues, while 42% express significant anxiety about ongoing workplace changes. Nearly onethird scored low on feelings of engagement and commitment to their work, highlighting the need for strategies that foster stronger connection and stability in the evolving work environment.

Carbon neutrality

THREATS FROM US

A DataSolutions survey reveals that while 78% of tech companies have plans to achieve carbon neutrality, 65% have not yet measured their carbon footprint.

36% of Irish financial organisations say the softening of US data privacy and cybersecurity rules represents the greatest compliance risk to their business. 23% cite President Trump’s tari s and trade restrictions as the most significant threat.

O’Sullivan,

PICTURE THIS

Harkin, Minister of State for

Female Founders

JOBS GROWTH AHEAD

Last year funding into female-founded start-ups surged 120% to reach a record €230m, according to a TechIreland report published to coincide with International Women’s Day.

The latest Labour Market Monitor from the ERF, supported by ICON Accounting, shows that recruiters expect vacancy levels to rise in the months ahead but warn that access to talent remains the biggest challenge.

and

Fibre broadband

MENTAL HEALTH LEAVE

New data published by Comreg has revealed that fibre-to-the-premises technology in the Irish market is now on a par with cable broadband subscribers for the first time.

A survey from SD Worx Ireland shows that 24% of employees took leave for their mental health in 2024, higher than the European average of 18%. 29% admit that working in their organisation negatively impacts their mental health.

FINANCE BARRIERS FACING WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Accessing investor networks, inequitable funding opportunities and AI gender bias were amongst the topics discussed at Network Ireland’s National Conference and Businesswoman of the Year Awards. The two-day event, held in the Great Southern Hotel in Killarney, saw hundreds of women-led businesses and businesswomen discuss the barriers facing them in advancing the growth of women-led businesses and innovation in Ireland. Network Ireland is an all-island membership organisation working to support the professional and personal development of women in Ireland. “Network Ireland is the voice of women in business in Ireland and at our national conference this year we are using our collective voice to discuss and to breakdown the many barriers that are still facing women in business. The conference is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on some of the lesser discussed barriers such as the lack of access to investor networks and funding opportunities and how these issues might be addressed, as well as a valuable opportunity for attendees to network, learn and inspire each other,” said Amy O’Sullivan, National President of Network Ireland.

.IE CELEBRATES 25TH BIRTHDAY

.ie marked its 25th anniversary with a celebration at the EPIC Museum in Dublin, attended by Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan, CEO David Curtin and key stakeholders from Ireland’s digital and business community. Over the past 25 years, .ie has mirrored Ireland’s digital transformation. In 2000, just 20,000 .ie domains were registered. Today, that figure stands at over 330,000, a 2,000% increase. As part of the anniversary, .ie launched “.ie Gives Back”, a 25-day charity initiative where €1 from every .ie domain registration and renewal was donated equally to five charities – An Cosán, DSPCA, Make-A-Wish Ireland, Focus Ireland and UNICEF Ireland.

HELEN DIXON APPOINTED TO REPAK BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Helen Dixon has been appointed to Repak’s Board of Directors. She served as Commissioner at the Commission for Communications Regulation in Ireland until February 2025. From 2014 to 2024, she was Ireland’s Data Protection Commissioner. “I’m delighted to take up this independent non-executive role on the board of Repak. In a world where so much is ‘fast’ and disposable, initiatives to reduce, reuse and recycle are critical to environmental sustainability. As regulatory requirements for packaging and recycling evolve, I’ll be especially keen to support Repak in identifying how best to encourage, incentivise and drive best practice and compliance.”

CAUTIOUS BUSINESS SENTIMENT AS TRADE UNCERTAINTY CONTINUES

Business activity in the Irish SME sector has edged into negative territory for the first time since 2020, according to a new business confidence survey by Linked Finance. Only one-in-five mid-sized businesses expect Q3 2025 to bring a boost in business, compared to almost one-in-two when surveyed this time 12 months ago. On the positive side, large SMEs remain optimistic for Q3, with 46% expecting an upturn in business. Post pandemic trade was strongest for SMEs in 2022 and over the last three years, that has remained in positive territory, until now. While that sentiment reflects the overall general picture, sectors within the SME sector are still performing well, particularly larger businesses. One-in-three SMEs reported that business results were lower yearon-year, an increase of 2% on the same period last year. While the increase is not overly significant, it does show that several factors – both externally and domestically – are affecting the performance of SMEs. While just over two-inthree businesses reported that their activity is the same, or higher, compared to the same period 12 months ago, it is the first time in five years that the tracker tipped into negative territory in terms of the gap between positive and negative (-3%). Given the uncertainty in the markets and geo-politics in Q2, this still shows a good degree of resilience. Linked Finance CEO Niall O’Grady said: “There are several positive take-aways from the data, particularly that large companies remain bullish for the next quarter –which is important as they employ the most people here. In addition, micro businesses are seeing a slight improvement while the retail and wholesale trade is showing some green shoots.”

Mike Scanlan, Tax Director at RBK Chartered Accountants, on the tax measures for businesses in Budget 2026

SEEKING STABILITY IN UNCERTAINTY

Budget 2026, amounting to €9.4 billion, was presented as a “sensible budget” aimed at maintaining economic stability and strengthening Ireland’s resilience amid global uncertainty. The Government outlined plans to move away from temporary supports toward more targeted and permanent measures, while maintaining a focus on balanced public finances. Framed as both cautious and forward-looking, the Budget sets out to address ongoing pressures in housing, investment and the cost of living, while supporting employment and economic competitiveness.

Taxation measures for Entrepreneurs and Business

» Increase in the lifetime threshold for Entrepreneur’s Relief from €1,000,000 to €1,500,000 for disposeals made from 1 January 2026

» Increase in the first year payment threshold in the R&D Tax credit from €75,000 to €87,500

» Increase in the R&D tax credit from 30% to 35%

» Changes to be introduced in relation to the definitions within R&D legislation along with outsourcing rules

» Introduction of a new exemption from stamp duty for Irish start-ups below a market capitalisation value of €1 billion

» In relation to the Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) regime for company cars, the Minister extended for a further year the temporary universal relief of €10,000 to the Original Market Value (OMV) which was first introduced in 2023

» Review of the complex Irish tax rules for deductibility of interest to be undertaken

» Updating and enhancing rules for participation exemption by expanding their geographic scope

» Accelerated Capital Allowances for energy efficient equipment extended to 2030.

The Minister’s focus on ensuring Ireland remains competitive along with seeking to reinforce economic stability and support employment is positive. For businesses and individuals alike, understanding the practical impact of these changes will be key in the months ahead.

The number of SMEs that will participate in an IRDG Innovation Skillnet programme to drive business growth and accelerate innovation.

HOW IT ALL STARTED

Mark

Kelly CEO & FOUNDER, KATOAI

Company Location:

Guinness Enterprise Centre, Dublin

Product or Service:

AI-powered learning management system that enables personalised and instructor-led language learning.

Number of Sta : 4

How have you funded the business to date?

We were initially funded via an Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund in 2023. We spent two years iterating the technology in DCU before spinning out in August 2025. We’re now backed by private investors. What’s the best advice you’ve been given?

It was something my father said when I was about 14. I arrived home after receiving my Junior Cert results, I’d done pretty well. When I told him he was happy for me, but he added a stern warning that I wasn’t to always expect success in life. He said I would inevitably fail at many things, but that my response to those failures would be more important than my successes. At the time I didn’t understand, but in the past couple of years I’ve thought back to that moment many times!

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned starting out?

I’ve learned so much that it’s hard to pick one thing. I can be a bit impatient at times, so it might be the balance of knowing when impatience can serve you well in the start-up world and when it might do more harm than good. I’m still on that learning curve, but I think it’s an important one.

Your biggest make-or-break moment?

It was probably back in 2023 just before we began our work in DCU as a ‘spin-in’. We had received EI funding but unfortunately one of our team members became ill. I had closed down my previous business to commit fulltime to the Kato project but there ended up being a nine-month delay before we o icially started. That was a di icult time, but luckily it all came together in the end.

Is there anything you would change in hindsight?

I don’t think so. Without the hiccups, I wouldn’t have learned as much.

CALLING ALL FOOD AND DRINK START-UPS

Food Works, the State-funded initiative that helps companies launch, scale or secure investment, has announced a call for applications to its 2026 programme. The 10-month programme is designed to help food and drink entrepreneurs scale faster and smarter. Participating companies take part in workshops across various disciplines such as strategy, finance, sustainable manufacturing and marketing. They also get the opportunity to avail of feasibility grant funding of up to €30,000.

THREE START-UPS JOIN ESA BIC IRELAND

Three new start-ups have joined the ESA BIC Ireland initiative at NovaUCD in Dublin – Better Futures, Polliknow and Restore Blue.

Better Futures, founded by Anthony McLoughlin, is an AI-focused start-up which has developed EVATM, a vertical AI platform for engineers and manufacturers, that automates paperwork with engineering verified assistants. Founded by Meg Brennan, Polliknow utilises AI-powered ground sensors to monitor insect pollinators. Restore Blue, set up by Dr Sarah Cosgrove, helps developers identify NatureInclusive Design (NID) opportunities and embed biodiversity preservation into their projects.

SCANINSIGHTS NAMED START-UP OF THE YEAR AT PLOUGHING

ScanInsights won the ‘Start-Up Innovator of the Year Award’ at the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena competition at the 2025 National Ploughing Championships. The Cork-based company received their award, including a €10,000 prize, for their technology which utilises AI to give real-time information on bovine scanning. The ScanInsights App makes scanning dairy and beef cows more accurate and more e icient. Built on a database of 2.5 million scans from bovine scanning in dairy and beef markets, the technology provides a real time estimate to the operator while the scanning process is ongoing. Other winners included GlasPort Bio who scooped the Green Impact Award and Herdwatch, who won the 2025 Innovation Arena Champion Award.

CHANGING THE GAME FOR ATHLETE SAFETY

Sports Impact Technologies, an Irish start-up that has developed a behindthe-ear sports wearable that detects head impacts in real-time, has secured €650,000 in pre-seed funding. The device works by monitoring head impacts during a game by recording head accelerations. Data and alerts are transmitted in real-time via an app to coaches or medical sta . Founder and CEO Eóin Tuohy said: “We are launching beta-testing programmes with pilot customers in sports ranging from American football and rugby to soccer, hockey and GAA football this September, which will position us for a full product launch early next year.”

Founded by Rory McEvoy, QuizWizards is a gamified sports technology company specialising in quizzes that promote fan engagement and help businesses and organisations learn more about their customers. It recently signed a deal with Leinster Rugby to provide unique fan engagement solutions at matches and via social media and has raised €750,000 in funding to-date. The start-up recently joined the Guinness Enterprise Centre and will have the opportunity to avail of its space, ecosystem and supports. The Centre also recently announced it has surpassed the 1,500 resident companies mark.

“We are immensely proud to be the 1,500th company through the Guinness Enterprise Centre’s doors. The flexibility to grow our o ice space has been hugely valuable as we ramp up, having raised €750k to date, including recent investment from Enterprise Ireland. We are now making waves in global fan engagement, working with Leinster Rugby, AIG, the NCAA, Phoenix Suns, HaytersTV and appearing on NBC, ESPN and FOX,” said Rory McEvoy.

Safe Events

MARK BREEN, Strategic

Director

at Safe Events Global, on seeking

out challenging

projects and why it’s all about getting the timing right

GL BAL

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE?

We provide crowd and event safety services to the global events and entertainment industries. We work on everything from ensuring the work to build the events – staging, lighting etc – is done safely, through to making sure the event site is designed properly to keep attendees safe, that crowds ow easily, that barrier designs add to things rather than cause issues, that people can get out in an emergency and more. We work predominantly in Ireland, the UK and the Middle East, o en keeping hundreds of thousands of people at a time safe, on everything ranging from massive dance music festivals through to temporary venues developed for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. We are event people who specialise in safety and we seek out and enjoy challenging projects that ‘typical’ safety people have less interest in.

“Our other main di erentiator is HOW we do what we do. We talk about people + process in here a lot – so we are looking to include the best people on our operational teams and support them with the best processes and platforms”

HOW IS BUSINESS GOING?

It’s going well. We have won quite a lot of new business this year, having reshaped our business development function. We will be working on Formula 1 events in the Middle East again, but in a new country this time. We also look set to be working on the safety for a huge international sporting event taking place in Ireland in 2027. We’ve recently taken on an ongoing contract supporting the Goodwood venue in the UK with their annual horseracing calendar, as well as some other events.

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES THE BUSINESS FROM SIMILAR COMPANIES?

We are event people who do safety. Since day one, we have always been an event company with a particular focus on safety for events. Over the years we have evolved into a company who, internationally, is solely a crowd and event safety company. We are not a H&S company who saw opportunities in the events and entertainment industries; we’re an event company who saw requirements within our industry that we could meet. While that might read like a minor distinction, it’s a key one when it comes to how that experience and understanding of events themselves in uence our work to help make them safe. Our other main di erentiator is HOW we do what we do. We talk about people + process in here a lot – so we are looking to include the best people on our operational teams and support them with the best processes and platforms.

ARE CLIENTS FROM ACROSS VARIOUS SECTORS OR MORE SPECIFIC ONES?

We operate principally in the events and entertainment industries. at said, clients can be across a wide variety of sectors as pretty much all companies run events in some shape or form that may need external professionals. Our most common clients are promoters, local authorities, venues and festivals themselves. Current and recent clients and projects include some

of the concerts run by MCD, Dublin Zoo ahead of this year’s Wild Lights event, the Department of Justice for their Culture Night activity, Motel (a brand experience agency in Dublin) for an activation for Messi’s so drink as well as Soundstorm, the largest annual festival in the Middle East.

HOW HAS THE EVENTS INDUSTRY CHANGED IN RECENT YEARS?

People are more conscious of crowd and event safety as speci c disciplines and things their events may bene t from. What we do is being sought out by promoters and organisers and is more understood as something that stands apart from ‘security,’ which it has previously been perceived as. e locus of opportunity has shi ed too to the Middle East predominantly. at’s where the majority of work has been in recent years and it looks set to continue that way. We’ve been out there for over eight years and things are only getting busier for us.

HAS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFORMED THE SECTOR AND IF SO, HOW?

Yes - technology plays a vital role in what we do and importantly, how we do it. We integrate digital tools and solutions into our core services, supporting expert teams with real-time data, testing capabilities and continuous monitoring to enhance safety outcomes without inhibiting creativity. Our people + process approach to safety combines the best safety professionals with bespoke, class-leading systems developed by our in-house Digital Operations Department.

IS THERE A SPECIFIC PROJECT THAT YOU’RE ESPECIALLY PROUD OF?

It’s hard not to cite Soundstorm, MDLBEAST’s agship festival in Saudi Arabia. e scale of the build, development and workload on an annual basis is easily the largest in our work ow. We work on it strategically on a year-round basis and tend to have operational teams on the ground across 6-8 months each year, with the team size increasing as we near the event in December. Close to home, we are immensely proud to be Dublin Pride’s Event Management Partner. We’ve worked with them for 11 years, starting the year of the Marriage Referendum.

WHAT’S SOMETHING THAT COMPANIES LOOKING TO RUN AN EVENT OFTEN DON’T TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION?

While not as bad as it once was, the timing of clients involving their crowd and event safety people can still be later than is ideal. Recent years have seen more understanding of our role as well as more emphasis on the importance of the part we and our competitors play. at has led to improvements that see us getting involved in some projects earlier than was previously the case. Still, it could be better and we will continue to beat the drum loudly where and when we can, that your crowd and event safety people should be involved from day one. It will not necessarily cost more money than involving us late in the day and in many instances, it can save you money. It will de nitely save you headaches and hassle.

NEW APPOINTMENTS IN THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY

STEPHEN SHANNON

NEW TITLE:

Chief Commercial O icer

EMPLOYER: Storm Technology

PREVIOUS ROLE: Business Development Manager, Avenade

Storm Technology, a Littlefish company and Microsoft business technology solutions consultancy, has appointed Stephen Shannon as its new Chief Commercial O icer. Stephen will lead Storm Technology’s commercial strategy, support business growth and focus on strengthening Storm’s presence in the public sector, while also developing opportunities in the private sector.

JENNIFER O’BRIEN

NEW TITLE: Head of HR

EMPLOYER: Orbitus

PREVIOUS ROLE: Director of People & Culture, Fastnet

Irish legal and tax advisory firm Orbitus has appointed Jennifer O’Brien to head its newly established HR division. In her new role, Jennifer will provide companies and employers nationwide with specialist HR services and support. She will work closely with Orbitus’ legal and tax teams to o er integrated guidance, ensuring that client HR processes are aligned with relevant legal, tax and compliance requirements.

PIARAS POWER

NEW TITLE: Partner, Finance & Projects

EMPLOYER: Addleshaw Goddard

PREVIOUS ROLE: Partner, Eversheds Sutherland

International law firm Addleshaw Goddard has appointed Piaras Power as Partner to its Finance & Projects practice in Ireland. Piaras brings to the firm more than 20 years’ experience as a Partner working in acquisition finance, cash flow, asset-based lending, real estate and development finance, with a particular focus on the residential, healthcare and alternative asset sectors.

LORNA MARTYN

NEW TITLE: Head of Corporate Services Technology

EMPLOYER: Fidelity Ireland

PREVIOUS ROLE: Ireland Site Lead, Fidelity Ireland

Fidelity Investments Ireland (Fidelity Ireland), part of the privately held asset manager that employs more than 78,000 associates globally, has announced the promotion of current Ireland Site Lead, Lorna Martyn, to Head of Corporate Services Technology. Lorna’s new role is an Enterprise CIO role within Fidelity Investments. The appointment highlights the career development and advancement opportunities within Fidelity Ireland.

SLOWER PROMOTIONS FOR WOMEN AND HYBRID WORKERS

A new report from LinkedIn shows that women and hybrid workers face more obstacles when it comes to being promoted. The data shows that men consistently advance faster than women, with 10% of men promoted within 65 months, compared to 74 months for women. Hybrid roles are resulting in delayed promotional opportunities, with men and women being promoted within 70 months and 72 months respectively. The report also ranks Ireland first for the availability of remote roles. In August, about 9.1% of Irish job postings on the platform were seeking remote workers, while about 37% of Irish jobs postings on LinkedIn were categorised as hybrid working.

from fossil fuels

Fuels for Ireland CEO KEVIN MCPARTLAN talks about the balancing act of pushing for environmental progress while representing members who are adapting in real time

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH FUELS FOR IRELAND?

I’ve held the role of CEO at Fuels for Ireland for almost seven years. Previously, we were known as the Irish Petroleum Industry Association (IPIA). About 10 years ago, the organisation realised they needed to up their game and get involved in conversations around the energy transition away from carbon-based fuels into new, renewable, sustainable energy sources. That led to a review within the membership and that’s when I came on board. Currently in Ireland, about 50% of our total energy needs come from liquid fuels and that has to change. We’re focused on how we achieve that.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SOLUTIONS YOU’RE PROPOSING?

A couple of years ago, we doubled the level of biofuel in petrol. In a two-week period, we reduced emissions from the transport sector by more than all the EVs on the road. At that time and I would guess even still today, all the EVs on the road had less impact than 10% biofuel in petrol. We also have an ongoing campaign around heating fuel. In rural Ireland, 50% of homes depend on liquid fuel. We want to put 20% of biofuel into that, which would reduce emissions by almost 20%. We’re already leading the way in Europe on EV charging so that transition has begun. For us, it’s about being practical and ensuring that what we propose is deliverable. I think there’s an element of cognitive dissonance around how far we’re willing to go to protect the environment.

IN

WHAT WAY?

Every sane person wants to do the most they can to protect the environment. But how many of us say I’m not going to go on holiday this year? How many are willing to turn the thermostat down three degrees in the winter and put an extra jumper on? The truth is that while yes, we’re all committed to addressing the climate emergency, we’re also quite committed to the lifestyles that we currently have and our ways of doing business. I think we have to be realistic. Instead of saying we’re going to cut the number of flights taken from this island nation by 30% in five years, which I don’t think is feasible, we should be putting more effort into the development of sustainable aviation fuels so that we stop doing irreparable damage to the environment, while maintaining our way of life.

WHAT’S THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN THE PAST SEVEN YEARS?

That pure data by itself is only part of the story - you have to make it relatable and create a narrative that people can understand and get behind. I think that’s what we have done at Fuels for Ireland. When I first took up this role, I naively thought that if I just went in with graphs that showed what I was saying was correct, policy would follow. That’s not how it works. A good example would be heat pumps – instead of just talking about their slow take-up, I’d talk about the 60% of homes in rural Ireland that don’t have one. Immediately, you’re picturing your granny’s house in the country that’s got a very poor BER rating and won’t get a heat pump without a significant amount of work. That’s just not feasible for a lot of people right now, so we’re saying a 20% biofuel blend into home heating oil would have the same impact as installing 160,000 heat pumps. Getting that message across with just pure data doesn’t work – you have to make it relatable.

WAS IT DIFFICULT TO GET STAKEHOLDERS TO ENGAGE WITH YOU IN THE EARLY DAYS?

Very difficult. Even when we changed our name, people still thought of the Irish Petroleum Industry Association. There was an assumption that we didn’t want to engage in a conversation about how we transition into a net-zero future. And we absolutely do. We all want to do the right thing but we have to recognise that 50% of Ireland’s total energy comes from liquid fuels and that’s going to continue. I had a meeting very early on with a politician who upon meeting me said, “I’m a leave it in the ground’ person. I said, well, I hope your granny doesn’t need an ambulance tonight because at the time, there were no electric ambulances operating in the country. We have to be realistic; if we were to switch off

the oil pumps at midnight tonight, deaths would have occurred before Morning Ireland went on air tomorrow morning as a result of there being no liquid fuels. If my members were to say they’re going to continue selling only diesel, petrol and kerosene for the next 20 years, that would be equally absurd. So we need to base policy on what’s realistic and deliverable.

FOR YOUR MEMBERS, HAS THE COMMITMENT TO A CARBON NEUTRAL FUTURE BEEN DIFFICULT?

It’s a change in mindset and it’s definitely challenging. I think of one member, for example, that went very early into the EV charging space and invested a significant amount of money. That equipment was obsolete before it had ever been paid for. There’s a risk that people will say, I’m not doing that again. From a business perspective, it’s difficult to make those investment decisions but that’s what our members are doing.

HOW FEASIBLE IS NET ZERO BY 2050?

It’s not impossible, but it’s extremely challenging. If we simply do more of what we’re doing now, we won’t hit it. That’s why we need to be looking at radical approaches that add more impact. If we could look at adding biofuel to diesel, that would very quickly make a difference. For a long time we talked about transition, but focused only on the objective. There’s increasing awareness that we must look at these transitionary steps. If we take all of these steps, then it’s possible.

We all want to do the right thing but we have to recognise that 50% of Ireland’s total energy comes from liquid fuels and that’s going to continue”

“We saw an opportunity to create a solution that would enable customers to get up and running in a couple of hours, rather than months. That really resonated because there was so much pent-up frustration in the space”

Learning

BRENDAN NOUD, Co-Founder of LearnUpon, talks to Jennifer McShane about taking an Irish start-up global and building a culture that’s as focused on fun as it is on scaling for growth

Our rst 15 LearnUpon customers were all international before we got our rst Irish customer,” recalls Brendan Noud. “We knew the Irish market wasn’t going to be big enough on its own. We de nitely wanted to become a global player and have that scale.”

at outlook has shaped LearnUpon since the beginning. Founded in Dublin in 2012 by Noud and CTO Des Anderson, the learning management company has grown into a platform supporting more than 25 million learners worldwide. Today, it serves over 1,500 organisations, from major Irish brands such as Brown omas, Arnotts, Easons and Keelings to large multinationals.

Even as it has grown internationally, the company’s Irish roots are at the core of the company. “We take our customers and the business really seriously, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” says Noud. “It’s a place where you work hard, but also have a good time. We don’t get hung up on titles and our customers notice it. When we meet them at our customer conference, they always talk about how great our team are to work with.”

SPOTTING THE GAP

Noud and Anderson knew the LMS sector well before starting out. Between them, they had spent nearly two decades working with existing platforms and could see the frustrations rsthand.

“Most people didn’t like their current LMS,” Noud re ects. “ e solutions were clunky, di cult to use and took months, sometimes years, to implement. We saw an opportunity to create a solution that would enable customers to get up and running in a couple of hours, rather than months. at really resonated because there was so much pent-up frustration in the space.”

By keeping the focus on user experience and customer support, LearnUpon won traction early. Its message was simple but di erent enough to stand out in a crowded market.

GOING GLOBAL EARLY

e founders’ decision to go international from day one is one of the de ning features of the company’s success. Noud says it required thinking di erently about everything, from customer support to marketing.

“In the US, for example, we were competing with local competitors. We always operated on the basis that if prospects were talking to us, they wouldn’t feel any di erence; that we were based in Ireland versus being in California. So we did 24/7 support right from the start.”

Sta in Ireland worked day and night shi s to cover di erent time zones and the team even placed an early hire in Australia. “If you’re an Irish company looking to start selling in the States, you really have to think through support and customer experience,” Noud advises. “Don’t just assume it will work without putting some thought into it.”

Localisation mattered too. “In the early days, our website pricing was in dollars and the language was US English. We made it feel like we were a local vendor. It was only when they got on the phone and heard the Irish accents that they realised we were based out of Dublin.”

CARRYING CULTURE ABROAD

As LearnUpon began hiring in the US, embedding culture became a priority. Offices opened in Philadelphia in 2016 and Salt Lake City in 2022. In both cases, team members from Ireland relocated to support recruitment, onboarding and culture.

“When we opened Salt Lake, we asked for volunteers,” Noud says. “Two of our sales team relocated and helped with hiring, training and building culture. It’s difficult just to hire people and assume they’ll get the culture quickly.” That deliberate effort helped ensure consistency across Dublin, Belgrade, Philadelphia, Salt Lake and Sydney.

THE POWER OF NETWORKS

Scaling globally has not been without challenges. For Noud, professional networks have been a vital source of advice and reassurance. He highlights Enterprise Ireland’s Leadership for Growth programme, the Endeavor network and most recently, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) community.

“When you go on a founder journey, it can be quite lonely at times,” he reflects. “You don’t always have that many people you can confide in or learn from. Networks have been a big factor. With Endeavor, for example, we could tap into SaaS founders who are further along in their development journey than we are. With EY, the scale of the companies is incredible and it’s not all software. Learning from founders in other industries is hugely valuable.”

He values the openness of the EOY group.

“What I’ve found with the EOY network is that people are very open and generous with their time. Everyone wants to see Irish companies be successful. It’s not just about their own company; people will make the time to jump on a call or chat through challenges.” Now, Noud enjoys mentoring earlier-stage founders.

“All the mistakes I’ve made, you can help these companies to avoid them.”

A SERBIAN CONNECTION

LearnUpon’s international reach is also rooted in personal ties. Anderson’s wife is Serbian and when the company was founded, he was living in Belgrade. From the outset, part of the team was based there and today, around 60 staff work in the city.

Through the Irish Serbian Chamber of Commerce, Anderson and Noud built stronger links. “It’s been great for understanding legislation, building networks and even raising LearnUpon’s profile in Serbia through media coverage, which helps with hiring. It’s surprising the number of Irish companies that actually have operations in Serbia and vice versa.” For Noud, those connections highlight a broader lesson: global ties often start with personal ones.

ADAPTING TO CHANGE

We’re always looking to sharpen our focus and be the obvious solution for our ideal customers”

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and Noud sees both opportunity and responsibility in learning technology’s role. “Jobs today won’t be the same in five years,” he says. “Learning and Development has moved from just compliance training to actually helping people develop careers. Companies are looking at career mobility, reskilling, upskilling. The pandemic accelerated that and AI is now doing the same.”

LearnUpon is embedding learning in the flow of work. Its product, LearnUpon Anywhere, integrates microlearning into other apps while an AI-powered exam engine generates assessments in seconds.

“Instead of manually coming up with all the questions, you can put in the content and generate 20 questions instantly. It saves so much time,” Noud explains.

“Everyone’s moving fast in this space. It’s evolving quickly. But for us, there are lots of exciting opportunities.”

Thirteen years in, Noud reflects on the importance of focus. “Our space is so big and broad. In the early days we focused on training companies, then evolved into corporate training more broadly. We learned you can get stretched if you go too broad. So we’re always looking to sharpen our focus and be the obvious solution for our ideal customers.”

He also recognises the need for sustainability, not just for the business but personally. “It’s a long journey. We’re 13 years in. I’d tell my younger self: Carve out time for health and fitness. It’s easy to get sucked into the laptop too much. If you want to build a really large company, it’s going to take time. You need to last the pace.”

LOOKING FORWARD

“When people buy a CRM, they think of Salesforce or HubSpot,” says Noud. “I’d love for us to get to the position where, if a business is buying a learning management system, they immediately think of LearnUpon. We want to be a really successful SaaS company, but headquartered out of Ireland.”

PILLAR BANKS TO LAUNCH RIVAL TO REVOLUT

After a previously failed attempt in 2023, the three pillar banks have once again announced a joint initiative to launch a mobile payments app, similar to Revolut. AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB will launch “Zippay” in early 2026, an in-app service available through the banks’ existing mobile banking apps. It will allow customers to send, request and split payments instantly by using the mobile number of contacts who are also Zippay users. The banks say the service will be rolled out to their more than five million customers on an opt-out basis. Banking & Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI) CEO Brian Hayes said the service will provide a quick and easy way to send and receive money or split bills. “It comes with all the same high levels of security, protection and digital safety. It avoids the need for topping up a digital wallet or downloading a separate app.”

Mobile-first for all generations

TOPIC

Mobile payments

“The launch of Zippay is both a necessary and welcome development in Ireland’s financial banking sector. For too long, traditional banks have lagged behind digital-first competitors like Revolut and N26. Zippay signals that Irish banks are finally responding to consumer demand for instant, seamless and mobile-first payments. While Revolut set the benchmark for simplicity and speed, Zippay offers something different –integration with your existing current account. This makes it more inclusive, particularly for consumers who may not want or need a standalone digital wallet. It also keeps the money within the Irish banking system, which strengthens consumer protection.”

Nick Charalambous, Managing Director at Alpha Wealth, commenting on the news that Zippay will launch in 2026

According to the PYMNTS Intelligence report “Pocket Revolution: How Mobile Wallets Are Changing Payments Worldwide”, mobile payments continue to grow in popularity around the world. The report found that mobile wallets now power 35% of online transactions and 21% of in-store transactions across the 11 countries studied for the report. It also found that although Gen Z leads in mobile wallet adoption, this trend is expanding across all generations – mobile-first payments are gaining in popularity among millennials, Generation X and baby boomers, increasingly embraced by a cross-generational group of consumers.

Earlier this year, JIM WALSH was announced as the first inductee into the newly established Public Relations Consultants Association Hall of Fame. The founder of Walsh:PR (recently rebranded to Walsh - Communication with Purpose) chatted to InBUSINESS about the role he has played in the industry to date

COMM UNICA TION

CONGRATULATIONS ON THE AWARD. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT IT?

It’s very humbling and it’s a recognition that I wasn’t expecting. It’s as much for the team at Walsh and my family as it is for me – they tell me it was a proud moment for them too.

HOW’S BUSINESS AT WALSH?

It’s good. The nature of this business is that you begin every year almost with a blank sheet. You have a set number of retainer clients, but a lot of your work comes from projects as the year progresses. You don’t know what’s going to happen but once you’ve got the basics right and you’re watching your costs, then you’re in a good position. I think the PR world in general is doing quite well at the moment, but it has changed quite a bit.

HOW SO?

Clients are increasingly seeking strategic communications services. They’re looking for counselling particularly around communicating, not just with media but with various stakeholders. The media side is obviously still there and it’s important, not just traditional media but also online media.

HOW’S THE NEW PODCAST GOING?

It’s great, it’s really given me a new lease of life. It’s called “Off the Fence with Purpose” and I co-present with Ellen Gunning, who would be very well known in the PR world. We interview guests from different business sectors and through their stories, we offer advice to people looking for a way up the career ladder or looking to move. It’s been absolutely fascinating and I’m learning something new all the time. One of the things that’s common among guests is that increasingly, people aren’t confined to just one job. More and more people have what they call “side hustles” – they might be a journalist during the day and in the evening, they’ll be making videos or doing podcasts. There are huge opportunities out there for people to pursue.

PURPOSE with

PURPOSE

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHANGES YOU’VE SEEN IN YOUR 40 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY?

Technology has obviously been the biggest change. My career started in the old Department of Post and Telegraphs before moving into printing. After that, I became publicity manager in Gill and Macmillan [now known as Gill] and at the time, I had an endless supply of Letraset – sheets of peel-off letters that you’d use to create a design. I moved onto a PR company where we had the first electronic typewriters in the country. From then on, technology changed everything and now we’re in the era of AI. I think there will be both downsides and upsides to AI. We use it at Walsh, primarily for prompts. It’s great for starting from scratch with presentations or letters, but you’ll always need the human touch. Anything I get from ChatGPT, for example, might give me 25% of what I want but then I’ve got to get the nuance in there myself.

YOU’VE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL WHEN IT COMES TO DEVELOPING PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS AROUND PR IN IRELAND

I became involved in PR education in my early days because basically, I didn’t know too much about it and wanted to educate myself. I got involved with the Public Relations Institute of Ireland and we began to build up the course – today, you can do a Master’s in PR. Regulation and governance in PR has come to the fore over the last number of years. In my speech at the awards, I mentioned that staying principled in this business is key. For young people coming up, that’s what it’s all about. You’ve got to treat people well and do what’s right.

HAS RECEIVING THE AWARD BEEN THE PROUDEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

Yes, I think so. I’ve had a lot of proud moments in terms of working with different clients and the goals I’ve achieved. Walsh is a small and quiet agency; we’re not out there blowing our trumpet all the time. But when you look at the clients we’ve worked with, like Avonmore, Flahavan’s, Wavin and Superquinn as it used to be called, I think that speaks for itself. We also work with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul and we’re very proud of the work we’re doing there. Seeing the effect that my work has had on my family also makes me proud. My wife Sheila, who’s the director of the company, was very actively involved in the early days and has been a great support.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT LESSON YOU’VE LEARNED IN YOUR CAREER?

One is to network. It’s really important but seems to be less so for young people nowadays who are working online. Going back to the “Off the Fence with Purpose” podcast, a few of the guests have said networking really helped their career. The other lesson is around volunteering. Put your hand up. If something needs to be done, do it.

IS THERE A CAMPAIGN OR A PROJECT OVER THE YEARS THAT KEPT YOU AWAKE AT NIGHT?

Staying principled in this business is key. For young people coming up, that’s what it’s all about. You’ve got to treat people well and do what’s right”

Not in a bad way, but one that stands out was a project back in the 1980’s called “The Spirit of Dublin”, designed to commemorate the millennium of Dublin. Through the Sunday Independent and leaflets distributed in Superquinn, we asked the public to nominate a person they felt represented the spirit of Dublin. Somebody was chosen each month and they’d come along to the Mansion House for lunch with the Lord Mayor and Feargal Quinn. At the end of the year, all 12 came together for a big banquet in Kilmainham and the overall winner got a trip to San Jose, which was twinned with Dublin at the time. It was actually a driver from Dublin Bus that won the overall prize. That project kept me awake several nights; I was anxious that we ran it properly.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A PR FIRM STARTING OUT?

Keep very tight control on costs. I know of companies who start up and hand everything over to their accountant, but you’ve got to know yourself where you stand on a month-by-month basis. Word of mouth is still crucial and that comes back to the importance of networking. I’d say 99% of our business came from word of mouth in the early days. That might be down to about 80% now and the rest comes through the website. Also, don’t accept business from everyone that approaches you. At Walsh, they must be within the business sectors we’re interested in.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE INDUSTRY?

Meeting people and learning from them. Also the variety of work we’ve had at Walsh over the years and the people I’ve worked with. We’ve had and continue to have great people. We’ve had very little turnover and I think in the first 25 years, I could hold my hand up and say we never lost a staff member to a competitor. It’s a fantastic industry to be in and I’m proud to be a part of it.

THRIVE C

MEATH

Co Meath is a hub of economic development and with the opening of the new Thrive Centre of Business Excellence in Navan, that growth is set to continue. InBUSINESS chats to KIERAN KEHOE about his ambitions as CE at Meath County Council and why the region is primed for growth

ounty Meath is very much open for business. That was the message from Meath County Council Chief Executive Kieran Kehoe at the official opening of the new Thrive Centre of Business Excellence – a “one-stopshop” for support services for businesses in the county. Located beside Meath County Council’s HQ in Navan IDA Business Park, the 21,000 sq ft centre will provide supports to businesses of all sizes, from start-ups and small SMEs to larger indigenous companies operating on a global scale. It’s just one part of the Council’s overall aim of driving economic development across the county and demonstrates its commitment to creating an economically vibrant and sustainable region.

Meath is, says Kieran, a great place for people to live, to work and to do business in. The new Thrive Centre will make the business part of that proposition much easier. Whether its supports around economic development, tourism, food business development, broadband provision or climate action, the new centre’s got it covered. “Our new e-brochure, available online, details the full range of supports that businesses can avail of. We’ve also brought our Local Enterprise Office into the new centre – every possible support that a business needs to grow and thrive is available at Thrive,” says Kieran. Easy access to resources, mentorship, networks and workshops will help entrepreneurs, start-ups and larger businesses to build vital skills and scale up. Dedicated business development teams at the centre will engage with companies to identify how they can help them grow. “Over the last few months, we’ve held workshops in the centre with a variety of different businesses to find out what their main challenges are. These businesses operate across a host of different sectors – we have identified several categories – and our business development teams have engaged with them to find out what help and support they need. On the back of that, we have created information packs that can be used by businesses operating in each of those

Meath is a great place for people to live, to work and to do business in. The new Thrive Centre of Business Excellence will make the business part of that proposition much easier“

We liaise regularly with IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland to ensure Meath is considered among potential locations when pitching to investors”

sectors.” at sharing of information helps to create a supportive network. “You have a situation where companies realise, actually I’m not on my own here. at collaborative piece is so important.”

A pro-business ecosystem across the county has led to the development of rive, says Kieran. It’s a sentiment shared by Meath Chamber. “We have a phenomenal relationship with Paula McCaul, CEO at County Meath Chamber. She works hard for Meath businesses and we work closely together to make sure they get the support and help they need. I think we’re both o en struck by the people that run these businesses – their drive, determination and their wish to succeed. It makes our jobs far easier.” e acquisition of 50 acres is set to further strengthen the Council’s focus on economic development. e land will, says Kieran, be used for industrial units. “ ere’s a great need across the county for units, it was something that businesses were regularly saying to us. We’re going to start promoting the units shortly and development will

kick o towards the end of this year. It’s not a money-making exercise; obviously we have to recoup our costs but we didn’t acquire the land to make a pro t. is is an initiative to help businesses grow and to re ect the fact that Meath is a great place to do business.”

In comparison with other counties, FDI into Meath has been historically low. Recent gures show that trend may be shi ing; over the last ve years, there has been a 61% increase in employment in FDI clients in the county thanks to investment in Research, Development & Innovation (RD&I). Currently there are 16 IDA-supported companies in Meath, employing 3,047 people in total. With the opening of rive, FDI into the region is expected to expand further. “We liaise regularly with IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland to ensure Meath is considered among potential locations when pitching to investors. We’ve also produced a new brochure for FDI marketing, along with a new podcast and a series of videos highlighting the county’s infrastructure, workforce, quality of life and pro-business eco-system. e brochure was developed in conjunction with a number of leading experts in that area. It’s so important that what we’re doing is right and correct and being done in a way that attracts businesses.”

rive Centre of Business Excellence isn’t just about providing businesses with the services and supports they need to scale and grow. “We have instilled a culture of support, of hand-holding and advice and a culture of being a trusted partner to businesses of all sizes. at kind of support is just as important.” Part of Kieran’s remit is also getting the message across that Meath is a great place to live. In terms of schools,

Meath County Council is focused on driving sustainable, economic growth and development across a range of sectors by the year 2030. Seven key areas where the Council is working to support and promote economic development in the county include:

» Indigenous industry/SMEs

» Foreign Direct Investment

» Tourism/Hospitality & Heritage

» Innovation

» Retail

» Agriculture/Food Industries

» Creative Economy

sports, activities and culture, it’s got it all. “There’s a great sense of place in Meath, which really contributes to the community piece. Culture and history are also so important herethere are eight heritage trails across the county. Meath welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists each year.” Tourism to Meath is also expected to get a shot in the arm thanks to a new Council-produced six-part TV series. Hosted by Darragh McCullough, the show highlights Meath as an excellent location for tourism, craft, enterprise and food culture. It’s set to air on PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) in 2026 and is also being pitched to broadcasters in other regions. “That series will be watched by millions of viewers across the world. They’ll get the opportunity to see all the county has to offer – Newgrange, the Hill of Tara, Loughcrew, our craftspeople, our food, our hotels, everything. I’m excited to see what it will deliver in terms of FDI and tourism.”

International interest in the Púca Halloween Festival, held in Athboy and Trim in October, has gone far beyond what Meath County Council and Fáilte Ireland initially envisioned. A totally unique event in the Irish festival landscape, figures show that in 2023, Púca brought €3 million into the local economy. “Meath is the birthplace of Halloween and that’s a message that Fáilte Ireland has really gotten behind. The festival has grown to become an important economic driver for business across the region. We’re working with Fáilte Ireland to promote our heritage assets; we want to create an interpretive centre close to Tara, which will become the centrepiece of a Celtic Festival. There’s so much potential there.”

In a further effort to drive economic development in the region, the county’s first permanent Regional Enterprise Plan Programme Manager was recently appointed, with responsibility for developing and delivering the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment initiative for the mid-east region. “All of our recent initiatives have been developed to showcase the county as a leader in job creation. It’s a place where people and businesses thrive, where innovation and ambition are encouraged. Whether we’re advising a large multinational or a small start-up, our message is clear –County Meath is open for business.”

MEATH IN FACTS

Over acres of zoned economic land Motorway network connecting to over of Ireland’s population 4,500 60%

university students within a Over mile radius

77%

59% of Meath’s population are in employment of businesses are happy or very happy that their business is located in Meath

226,000 60

60% of Ireland’s population is connected by motorway network

portswithin 6

Major employment industries include: technology, pharma, medical, manufacturing, engineering, agriculture and food development

The future is bright

County Meath Chamber President NIAMH GIFFNEY and CEO PAULA MCCAUL talk to InBUSINESS about why Meath is the ideal location for connection, collaboration and sustainable growth

WHAT MAKES MEATH SUCH A GREAT PLACE TO BOTH LIVE AND WORK?

Niamh Giffney: Meath offers both a thriving business environment and an exceptional opportunity for a great quality of life. Its location gives businesses direct access to Dublin and major transport links while offering employees space, community and affordability. The county’s rich heritage, stunning landscape, ancient sites, historic towns, vibrant festivals and cultural attractions add a unique depth to daily life, blending opportunity with a genuine sense of place.

Meath is a county renowned for enterprise and innovation. It is home to global companies, ambitious start-ups and family businesses that go back generations and which form the backbone of local life. Beyond business, Meath is a place where people can truly put down roots. It really is a spectacular county in which people can live, work and grow.

HOW DOES THE CHAMBER RESPOND TO THE NEEDS OF ITS MEMBERS?

Paula McCaul: As a Chamber, our strength lies in our connection to our members and we take great pride in that. Every decision we make and every initiative we lead is grounded in the real needs of the fast-growing business network which we represent from large international corporates such as Meta, Indaver and Boliden Tara Mines, right down to sole traders and across all sectors. Each and every member is important to us and is represented. As the voice of Meath business, listening, understanding and acting on those needs is the very heart of what we do.

Connection is key for our members. On a regular basis, we connect business through our

BEYOND BUSINESS, MEATH IS A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE CAN TRULY PUT DOWN ROOTS. IT REALLY IS A SPECTACULAR COUNTY IN WHICH PEOPLE CAN LIVE, WORK AND GROW”

Meath Business Owners Network (MBON) and our Women in Business & Tech Network. These are both powerful collaborations with stakeholders which provide a platforms for sharing ideas, learning and networking.

Recruitment and retention of staff continue to be major challenges for our members and they have asked us for help in that field. That’s why County Meath Chamber spearheads two major expos each year – the Meath Careers Expo and the Meath Apprenticeship Expo. These expos showcase employment and apprenticeship opportunities in the region and shine a light on the strength of our Chamber partnerships with a variety of key stakeholders in doing so. Both expos are now established in the county’s calendar for both employers and job seekers. They are vital in supporting the talent pipeline that our members and the wider business community depend on to thrive here in Meath.

Retail is the backbone of any thriving town or village. It is vitally important that we continue to champion and support our local retail businesses. The Mí Meath Gift Card initiative has become a pillar of support for local retail. It is a practical way for people across the county to directly contribute to local job growth. It also gives Meath businesses an ideal opportunity to reward their teams while giving back to their community – a true win-win for Meath. Every euro stays within the county, making Mí Meath one of the most sustainable and impactful initiatives we’ve ever delivered.

Advocacy remains central to our mission. As the voice of business in Meath, we focus on the issues

that matter most – from infrastructure, energy and housing to skills and sustainability. We engage regularly with policymakers and stakeholders to ensure Meath’s business community is heard and represented where it counts.

Sustainability remains a key focus for our members. County Meath Chamber will continue working with members and stakeholders to promote responsible business, build local resilience and support Meath’s transition to a greener economy. Sustainable business is smart business and those taking action now will lead the future. We will continue to support Meath businesses on their journey toward a more resilient, energysecure future.

HOW MUCH OF AN IMPACT DO YOU THINK THE NEW THRIVE CENTRE OF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE WILL HAVE?

Niamh: I believe the new Thrive Centre of Business Excellence will strengthen the entire business ecosystem in Meath and across the wider MidEast region. I commend Meath County Council led by CE Kieran Kehoe on his vision in bringing it to life. For the first time, businesses will have a central space to connect directly with the Economic Development, Tourism, Climate Action and the LEO teams. This level of connectivity will serve as a real catalyst for growth.

It is a wonderful resource for us too as a Chamber. We are all about helping local business connect with the right people and making supports more accessible. We’ve always worked hand in hand with the various teams mentioned above, but now they are all under the one roof in Thrive. It is fabulous and it is so accessible for business. Together we have already delivered some events in Thrive such as the In4Green Business Panel Discussion and we have some exciting new collaborations in the pipeline. We will continue to work together on programmes and initiatives that foster innovation and support business growth. Thrive is an exciting step forward for Meath.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES FACING BUSINESS?

Paula: Businesses across Meath, like those across the whole of Ireland, are operating in a period of rapid change. Rising costs, energy and skills shortages and housing pressures continue to challenge growth, while the pace of digital and environmental transition to greener economies adds new demands. Many SMEs are managing inflation and tariffs while trying to stay competitive and sustainable, particularly in sectors like construction, hospitality and tech. The housing shortage also makes it harder to attract and retain talent locally.

Yet with challenge comes opportunity and that’s where I believe County Meath Chamber and the County Council’s Thrive Centre of Business Excellence can help. We are all here to support and we take that role seriously. The aim is to deepen

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT FOR MEATH. COUNTY MEATH CHAMBER WILL CONTINUE TO CHAMPION MEATH NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY AS A COUNTY WHERE BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY THRIVE SIDE BY SIDE”

our support in practical ways by connecting businesses with the right people and advice, whether that’s through sector-specific initiatives, supports for grants and funding or advice for expansion and growth. The Thrive Centre provides a shared space to achieve that better than ever. We are here to help businesses face challenges head-on. Ultimately, we want them to grow and thrive with confidence here in Meath. I would encourage any business, regardless of its size or stage, to get in touch and see how the Chamber can support your next step.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO A BUSINESS CONSIDERING MEATH AS THEIR LOCATION?

Niamh: Meath has a unique and unparalleled competitive advantage within Ireland. To any business considering Meath as their location, I would suggest that they come ahead and they are welcome. We stand ready to support you. Meath is already home to a diverse range of industries including manufacturing, agri-food, construction, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, technology and tourism. This is a county full of opportunity with a thriving business community, skilled workforce and strong local supports.

Strategically located on Dublin’s doorstep, Meath offers connectivity with the capital city along with the breathing space, affordability and quality of life that modern businesses and their teams value. Whether you’re expanding, investing or starting out, Meath is the perfect place for connection, collaboration and sustainable growth.

WHAT IS THE CHAMBERS GOAL?

Paula: It’s simple – to make sure Meath remains a great place to do business. County Meath Chamber plays a vital role in supporting local enterprise, influencing policy and fostering collaboration. I want to build on that momentum; ensuring that our members, from start-ups to multinationals, feel supported, represented and empowered to grow.

Working hand in hand with our members and stakeholders, County Meath Chamber’s focus is on championing infrastructure, promoting skills development and driving sustainability and innovation. These are the priorities that strengthen existing businesses, attract new investment and underpin long-term success.

The future is bright for Meath. County Meath Chamber will continue to champion Meath nationally and internationally as a county where business and community thrive side by side.

READING BETWEEN THE LINES

From academic research to real-world impact, Lua Health is bringing AI-powered wellbeing insights to the modern workplace. InBUSINESS caught up with Co-Founder MIHAEL ARCAN to find out more

Mental health awareness has come a long way in the corporate world over the past decade. However, data shows workers in Ireland are still struggling. According to a survey carried out by iVOX, 24% of employees took leave for their mental health last year, higher than the European average of 18%.

Despite how far we’ve come, employees remain reluctant to report mental health issues to their line managers for fear of stigma or judgement. Add to that the rise of remote working and it becomes increasingly di cult for employers to catch cases of burnout, anxiety and depression in sta before they escalate.

Galway-based start-up Lua Health believes everyday workplace communication can be part of the solution. In July, the company launched a new platform that uses AI algorithms capable of detecting early signs of declining wellbeing based on how a person writes. e system integrates with an organisation’s preferred communication channel, such as Microso Teams or Slack, and can be deployed in under a week.

WHERE AI MEETS PSYCHOLOGY

Founded in 2023 by computer scientist Dr Mihael Arcan and psychologist Fionn Delahunty, Lua Health is a University of Galway spin-out that combines the founders’ disciplines of AI and psychology. eir shared study into the correlation between language and wellbeing caught investors’ attention. A er publishing research on how textual data analysis can be used to detect declining mental health, Lua received a pre-seed investment round of €500,000 from early-stage investment rm, Growing Capital, and Enterprise Ireland to build a product.

While Delahunty has since stepped back into an advisory role, Arcan has assumed the Chief Executive position, leading a small team of ve. Already working with consultancy company CPL Group, Arcan says Lua’s so ware is ready to be rolled out and ll a much-needed gap in the market, helping clients to deliver measurable wellbeing outcomes, reduce attrition and show return on investment.

“We know from speaking with clients and through research, that only around 5% of employees use services provided through their Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs),” says Arcan. “We know that a much larger percentage of people have issues with stress and burnout. Our product helps ll this gap, proactively nudging people to take the rst step and not waiting until someone is already in crisis mode.” e technology is backed by extensive research. e team collectively has over 100 peer-reviewed publications in the areas of AI, natural language processing and psychology. e tech’s focus is on psycholinguistic patterns, some of which were identi ed in behavioural science within the last century and others created by Lua itself.

For example, it could be as subtle as how a person

It’s about helping them transform their culture and communication. That, for us, is one level of success. Then, on the product side, we can always improve our predictive models and provide even more help to employees"

writes about the future that triggers an alert. Lua so ware searches for patterns like these at scale and is capable of running analysis of millions of messages a day.

BALANCING INNOVATION AND PRIVACY

For those wary of “Big Brother” technology, Arcan is quick to stress the company’s robust privacy framework. It operates on an opt-in or opt-out basis, so employees have the right for their data not to be analysed. “We are fully GDPR-compliant and it is 100% anonymised, so we don't share any private information with anybody else except you,” he says. According to Arcan, Lua is ready to partner with any business type, from SMEs to multinationals, because company size does not determine stress or burnout levels. Lua packages its platform for EAP providers and HR and business leadership, targeting industries where employees are in high-risk roles, such as content moderators and trust and safety agents.

Lua has already run a successful pilot with global BPO, InTouch CX, where Arcan says content moderators opted in for the tech, welcoming the idea that “somebody was looking over their shoulder to take care of their health”.

Building on insights from pilots like this, the startup also helps its clients understand the results of the analysis and recommends next steps – whether that’s modifying their EAPs, how they communicate them or o ering extra support to a team that’s struggling.

FROM RESEARCH LAB TO BOARDROOM

For Arcan, the main focus of the next year will be on expanding its client list and further developing the product. “It’s not just about winning clients,” he says. “It’s about helping them transform their culture and communication. at, for us, is one level of success. en, on the product side, we can always improve our predictive models and provide even more help to employees.”

It’s a learning curve that mirrors Arcan’s own journey from academic researcher to entrepreneur. “As a researcher, you always think about how good the system is and what you can do with it,” he says. “But now I’m focused on how you can actually deploy it in the real business world and how to talk to clients and show them the bene ts. at's de nitely something new. It's a completely new world for me. But it's interesting and I love it.”

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Lua comes from the Irish term ‘go luath’, which means “early”. It’s a nod to the company’s core mission of early intervention in mental health. “That's what we try to do – identify any kind of issue in wellbeing as early as possible,” says Arcan. “That’s how Lua came about.”

SKILLS & TALENT

Advanced manufacturing needs to be at the heart of Ireland’s industrial transformation.

So says Martin G. O’Brien, Chief Executive at Louth & Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) and founder of the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) in Dundalk. Established in 2021 by the LMETB Chief Executive, with the support of EI and SOLAS, AMTCE delivers the kind of hands on, skills-oriented training that’s needed to underpin the transition of Irish enterprise to industry 4.0-based operations. Courses span a variety of industries such as

Tomorrow’s Skills Today

To remain competitive in an increasingly digital, automated industry, Irish manufacturers must upskill. AMTCE provides companies and their sta with the skills they need to transition to Industry 4.0

manufacturing, pharma, food and drink, construction and engineering, ensuring that both individuals and employers can adapt and thrive in an increasingly automated and competitive global market.

“At AMTCE, we believe Ireland can continue to set the global standard by embracing collaboration, innovation and forward-thinking strategies. Our facility will help future-proof Irish manufacturing and develop our capacity as a manufacturing nation that can withstand global shocks,” says Martin. AMTCE is well positioned to be part of Ireland’s reskilling, upskilling and business development movement in advanced manufacturing. In 2023 and

2024, over 330 employers accessed the centre’s broad range of training courses. “Training courses give employers the opportunity to transform innovation into pro t and increase their resilience, productivity and competitiveness by taking advantage of the latest technologies and practices. In collaboration with Enterprise Ireland and IDA, we work to attract high value investment from existing and new companies into Ireland. We also supports companies on their transition journey to adopt the latest emerging technologies.”

Some of those technologies include 3D construction printing, an overview course that’s designed to introduce the technology with theoretical overviews and physical demonstrations. To date, 184 people have undertaken the course from a variety of professions, from construction operatives and design engineers to architects and

quantity surveyors. It’s a technology that works; in 2024, three new houses were built in Dundalk using 3D concrete printing technology. It took just two weeks to construct the houses. “The housing crisis has many layers and aspects that need resolved, but it’s clear that the adaption of this technology would support a significant element in the resolution of the housing crisis.”

The first all-island robotics and automation apprenticeship, in collaboration with SRC in Newry, is also currently being run at the centre. According to the 2025 All-Island Industry 4.0 Future Skills Report, launched at AMTCE, skills gaps are particularly acute in robotics and other areas including AI, automation, MMC, cybersecurity and process design. Later this year another robotics course – the QQL6 Robotics and Automation apprenticeship –will be launched, the first of its kind in the country.

“The robotics and automation courses are in high demand. In saying that, it’s a broad church with regards to offerings and we strive to be agile and responsive to industry needs. We also have strong interest in our science offerings driven from the food, pharma, medtech and bio sectors. The manufacturing and automation sectors have very strong interest in the digitisation of manufacturing processes and the courses that enable the integration of technologies.”

In an increasingly tech-driven economy, education and skills developments are particularly crucial drivers of competitiveness and productivity. “By fostering a stronger culture of continuous learning, Ireland can maintain a competitive advantage, further enhance productivity and economic growth, as well as build a

thriving workforce of the future.” To further embed a culture of continuous learning, Martin says the National Training Fund (NTF) should be strategically targeted among underrepresented groups (such as older male workers) and workers in sectors of rapid change to increase lifelong learning participation. “Consideration should also be given to setting an upper limit on the surplus of the NTF and a new Action Plan on Lifelong Learning should be developed.”

Advanced technologies also offer a key opportunity to deliver productivity improvements across the public sector and within Ireland’s domestic enterprise base. “Ireland’s productivity landscape continues to be characterised by a persistent gap between smaller, Irish-owned enterprises and large multinationals. Addressing this divide will require investment in digitalisation and advanced technologies to improve productivity within domestic enterprises.”

This year, several new courses will be launched at AMTCE – The Utilising Robotics in Advanced Manufacturing (URAM) micro qualification; a Consumer Electronics course focused on the diagnostic and repair of household electrical devices; an updated QQI L6 cyber security apprenticeship for county council staff; and sustainability courses for employers and employees. “These courses highlight the fact that growth should be embraced and not feared. By experiencing the centre, people leave excited and not fearful as they see opportunity for new roles and a demand for specialised skills to work alongside the advancing technologies.”

The perception that technical education isn’t as viable an option as third level degrees has changed. “I think that’s clear from the

growing diversity of options, particularly new apprenticeships. Traditionally there were about 26 craft apprenticeships; today that figure is at 78. The lines between vocational and traditional higher education are moving closer together, with some vocational pathways leading to degrees in universities, further broadening the perception and appeal of technical education as a pathway to a highly paid career.”

ChiefExecutive at Louth&MeathEducation

CHALLENGES FACING IRISH MANUFACTURING COMPANIES

» Factories need to gear up for a full digital transition

» Accelerated adoption of automation in manufacturing

» Finding the Real Strength of Additive Manufacturing

The lines between vocational and traditional higher education are moving closer together, with some vocational pathways leading to degrees in universities, further broadening the perception and appeal of technical education as a pathway to a highly paid career”

» Adoption of digital twins to enhance manufacturing efficiency and sustainability

» Growing International Competition in Advanced Manufacturing

» Competitiveness, economic viability, lean manufacturing, adhering to quality standards in manufacturing, ability to withstand global shocks, embrace low volume high value manufacturing, sustainability and manufacturing in a green environment.

MENTOR: MARK HEATHER NumbersGAME

From pouring pints to business insights: MARK HEATHER of the Purty Kitchen chats about his lifelong love of the hospitality industry, running the numbers and leveraging technology to make more time for human connection

LIKEmany successful business people, for Mark Heather of e Purty Kitchen gastrobar, it’s in the blood. His parents didn’t get much of an education, but they ran a successful business – a shoe shop – and did their own accounts. Growing up working in the shop, he got plenty of work experience, but when he wanted to travel, his father advised him to get some pub experience before he le , to add another string to his bow. at advice translated into a job at the infamous north Dublin nightclub Tamango’s (‘Where the gang goes!’).

Stepping behind the bar on a busy Friday night it was love at rst pint… “I couldn’t believe I was getting paid to do this. I would be there anyway; it was just so much fun.”

A er a couple of months, he went on to an Irish bar in Essex and built his career in the hospitality trade from there, moving up through the ranks in various management, group general management and now director/owner positions.

A er returning from the UK he went to study hospitality in TU Dublin – or DIT as it was then. A part-time job two nights a week in Club M in Temple Bar

turned into three nights, then four, then more, until he was offered a manager role and quit college. “I was there for nearly seven years and to this day, I still maintain that it was the most fun I’ve ever had in any job, including working for myself. Seven nights a week, the place was so busy, and the atmosphere was just insane. I had so much fun that during that time, it was like, ‘This is what I’m going to do. I don’t want to do anything else.’”

However, it’s not all fun and games and after the crash, Mark had built up a lot of expertise in the sector which he put to use founding Keystone Management to work with insolvency practitioners trying to turn around ailing businesses. He now brings those years of expertise to a consultancy

business, Hospitality Projects Ireland, which he operates alongside his business partner, James Burgess.

With a relentlessly analytical mind, he is numbers-driven but people-focused and it’s this duality that is at the crux of success in the industry. Time and again the conversation circles back to keeping a keen eye on numbers, but also being present and engaged with staff and customers.

Heather’s natural comfort with numbers gives him an edge. “I’ve been asked before, ‘What do you think you’d be if you weren’t doing what you’re doing?’ And I think I’d probably be the world’s most frustrated accountant, because I love working with numbers, and I love spreadsheets, and I have an analytical mind in that regard.” But

it’s the balance of data with human connection that has been a throughline in his approach. Even now, he says, he will hire for “personality and a desire to work, and then everything else is trainable”. One thing he always trains staff to do is to step out from behind the front desk when they greet customers –it’s all about removing that barrier – “set the tone from the offset” he says.

Technology, in Heather’s hands, isn’t about replacing that interaction – it’s about making more space for it. He’s quick to adopt tools that remove friction from service, such as handheld ordering systems, so staff actually have more time to spend with customers at the table, rather than running back and forth. But he’s also keen that tech stays in its place. “Success is when you walk in the front

When they go out, people want to know they’re getting the best bang for their buck, so that’s why we’ve moved to a higher quality beef”

Success is when you walk in the front door, you give us your name, you sit down at your table and you don’t look at your phone for two hours.”

door, you give us your name, you sit down at your table and you don’t look at your phone for two hours,” he says. “You just chat with the people that you’re with and then you take out your phone to pay your bill... And you’ve had two hours of just complete disconnection from the outside world and 100% connection with the people that you’re here with.”

He’s currently trialling software using AI technology that will automate some

scheduling, and he hopes, give his managers back time that they can use more effectively on the floor or training staff. His till system is also entirely cloud-based and he does a weekly flash P&L to keep on top of things. “I can log in through my phone if I want to at home and I can see what sales are happening on what table live at any time, what products are selling.”

A wine and menu analysis every

month quickly shows up how trends and tastes are changing. “That’s become more important with the challenges facing the industry in terms of overheads and produce cost; you can’t afford to carry products on your menus anymore that don’t sell, that risk going off, because the margins have been squeezed so tightly over the last two to three years.”

While some restaurateurs have opted for a tighter menu of favourites, others have experimented with cheaper cuts of meat. Heather has gone in the opposite direction and doubled down on high quality. “When they go out, people want to know they’re getting the best bang for their buck, so that’s why we’ve moved to a higher quality as beef prices have risen non-stop for the last two or three years.”

After switching suppliers and raising prices, he says they are now selling more steaks than ever – because the product is “exceptional”.

From pouring pints in a nightclub to running polished, data-driven operations, Heather’s career has been a masterclass in marrying the art of service with the science of data analysis. His success comes down to a deceptively simple formula – watch the numbers, mind the details and never forget the people in front of you.

Through Hospitality Projects Ireland, Heather plans to offer a free hospitality health check on the website soon, hoping to encourage other business owners to look at what information they are gathering and how they are using it. See hospitalityprojects.ie for more

“My vision for Waterford as Chamber President is clear – to strengthen its role as an economic driver, a national strategic hub, a counter-balance to Dublin and a leader in sustainable growth.”

Éadaoin Carrick, President, Waterford Chamber

A ROUND-UP OF ALL THE NEWS AND EVENTS FROM THE CHAMBER NETWORK NATIONWIDE

South African Chamber of Commerce launches in Ireland

The newly launched South African Chamber of Commerce aims to boost opportunities for bilateral trade and investment, initially focused on small and medium size enterprise, while driving community engagement between South Africa and Ireland. The Chamber believes in the potential for businesses that are ready to scale internationally and will focus on building diaspora connections by reaching out across all cultures and maximising the close working relationship it has with its embassy in Dublin. “This Chamber is more than a business network – it’s a bridge between our nations,” said Chairman & CEO John Mulder. “It’s an ecosystem, a platform for dealmaking and a community. We are going to ensure it thrives and we are going to have a lekker time doing it.” The Chamber will host events, foster strategic partnerships and advocate for inclusive growth on behalf of its diaspora in Ireland. Whether you’re a business leader, community member or policymaker, the Chamber invites you to be part of shaping the future of community.

Éadaoin Carrick elected President of Waterford Chamber

Éadaoin Carrick, Executive Chairperson of the Cantec Group, was elected President of Waterford Chamber at the 238th AGM which took place in September in the Granville Hotel. Ms Carrick has been involved with Waterford Chamber for a number of years and is an active voice in terms of lobbying, particularly around support for SMEs. “It is a great honour for me to be nominated by the board and endorsed by the members to serve as Chamber President. My vision for Waterford as Chamber President is clear – to champion this city as the regional capital it is destined to be. To strengthen its role as an economic driver, a national strategic hub, a counter-balance to Dublin, and a leader in sustainable growth. To support our SMEs, empower female entrepreneurs, and create an environment where innovation and ambition are matched with opportunity and success,” she said.

New toolkit empowers small business owners

Start-ups and small businesses now have access to a powerful new support resource with the launch of the Business & Branding Bundle – a 50-page toolkit designed to help entrepreneurs plan, promote and grow their businesses with confidence. Created by Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber and supported by Waterford Local Enterprise Office (LEO), the Bundle brings together essential elements of business development in one easyto-use package. It’s the first resource of its kind to be tailored specifically for micro-enterprises and early-stage entrepreneurs in the region and is available free of charge from the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber and Waterford LEO.

Meath Careers Expo 2025

Now in its seventh year, the Meath Careers Expo has firmly established itself as one of the most important dates in the calendar for both employers and jobseekers in the mid and northeast region. Organised by County Meath Chamber, the Careers Expo continues to respond directly to one of the key challenges facing businesses – the recruitment and retention of staff. At its core, the Expo is about connecting people – ensuring that employers can access a strong and diverse local talent pool, while giving jobseekers and career switchers the chance to explore meaningful opportunities closer to home. By keeping more people, skills and economic activity within Meath, the event strengthens not only businesses, but also local communities and the wider county economy. With over 50 leading employers exhibiting across a wide variety of sectors, there will be hundreds of live opportunities on offer. Speaking at the launch, Niamh Giffney, President of County Meath Chamber, said: “This event is not just about jobs – it’s about creating opportunities and showcasing the very best of Meath business. For many, it’s about ending the commute and securing a role closer to home – something we know is a priority for thousands of Meath residents. When people live where they work, they invest in their towns and communities, helping to build a stronger local economy. As a Chamber, we proudly champion Local.”

Cobh & Harbour Chamber leads pilot DRS to support local charities

Cobh & Harbour Chamber, through a Joint Sustainability Council initiative with Mallow Chamber, has launched a pilot Deposit Return Scheme in Cobh that invites a range of local businesses, institutions and community groups to host designated recycling stations for bottles and cans. All proceeds from the returned deposits are being directed to local charities to promote sustainable waste disposal while supporting non-profit organisations in the community. This pilot project is made possible with the generous support of AIB Cobh, which has sponsored the indoor collection bins. Toddy Stafford, President of Cobh and Harbour Chamber, said: “Recycling through the deposit return scheme is a simple act that creates a powerful ripple effect. Not only does it help keep Cobh clean and green, but when those deposits are donated to local charities, it directly supports the heart of our community.”

Local retailer applauds Love Tipperary Gift Card

County Tipperary Chamber is proud to highlight the success of the Love Tipperary Gift Card, which has made a significant impact on local businesses in its first six months. Award-winning retailer, Diarmuid Moran of Moran’s Menswear in Thurles, praised the initiative, saying: “We’re proud supporters of the independent sector and the power of shop local. If a person shops with Amazon that money is leaving Ireland but if you buy local, it stays local and gets reinvested in the economy through jobs and community support. The Love Tipperary Gift Card is all about encouraging people to shop local and providing support for local businesses, so we are very happy to be a part of it. I think it’s a great initiative for Tipperary.” With over 300 businesses onboard, the Love Tipperary Gift Card is helping to drive footfall, increase customer loyalty and boost local economic activity. It’s become a go-to choice for personal gifts, corporate rewards and seasonal occasions.

Dundalk Chamber hosts cross border seminar

Dundalk Chamber recently held a cross border breakfast briefing on HR issues for Cross Border Workers & Employers, in partnership with the Cross Border Partnership for Employment Services (CBPES) in the Carrickdale Hotel. This initiative is a joint effort between the Department for Communities and the Department of Social Protection, aimed at encouraging and supporting cross-border employment. John McGahon, CEO of Dundalk Chamber, opened the event by thanking CBPES for their ongoing support. He welcomed guest speaker Martin Casey of Cross Border Solutions, who spoke about turning negatives into positives for your potential cross border employees. He also discussed making the most of your tax and social security position as a cross-border worker. Brenda McGeeney, CBPES Advisor, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting crossborder workers and employers, highlighting the Chamber’s vital role.

Cynthia Ní Mhurchú takes a trip to Kilkenny

In August, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú MEP visited Kilkenny with a group of MEPs from the Transport Committee who were touring the South East of Ireland. They met with tourism and other business representatives and were treated to a recital by the Lady Desart Choir.

Future Leaders

Waterford Chamber, in partnership with Skillnet Ireland, Waterford Chamber Skillnet and Bausch + Lomb, launched the 2025 cycle of the Regional Leaders Programme, with a special address by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Chamber President Kevin Doolin said: “At its heart, the Regional Leaders Programme is about people. It is about harnessing the incredible talent, ambition and vision that exists in our region and ensuring it is given every opportunity to flourish.”

Waterford City Region is most competitive growth hub

The Waterford City Region Advantage Dinner convened key stakeholders from Government, enterprise, international embassies and academia to examine the South East’s role in Ireland’s longterm economic strategy and regional development objectives. Organised by Waterford Chamber, in partnership with the regional Chambers of Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Dungarvan & West Waterford, and Tipperary, the event at Faithlegg underscored the unique advantages of the region as a driver of investment, innovation and sustainable growth.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers TD, emphasised the South East’s potential as a region of scale and opportunity. The evening also featured an economic overview from Dr Loretta O’Sullivan, Chief Economist, EY Ireland, who outlined the economic trends shaping national and regional competitiveness.

Kilkenny Business Awards celebrates 25th year

Kilkenny Chamber is celebrating its 25th Kilkenny Business Awards this year. Partnering once again with its main sponsor Vhi, who is also celebrating 25 years in Kilkenny, the Awards were launched in early September and the winners will be announced at the Gala Awards evening in the Lyrath Estate Hotel on 22nd November. Once again, the host will be the inimitable Marty Whelan from Lyric FM.

Delivering real climate action

Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy chats about the chamber’s extraordinary win at the World Chambers Competition in Australia – the first ever Irish winner –and how the ‘Green Deals’ project could be replicated

Can you tell me about the 'Facilitating Sustainable & Competitive Growth through Local Green Deals' project?

The project is about fostering formal partnerships between organisations and Cork City Council to take meaningful climate action. Cork Chamber developed a replicable Local Green Deal (LGD) framework and over 2024-2025, helped targeted members engage with it while also implementing our own LGD. It supports sustainable business growth, accelerates Cork’s transition to a climateneutral economy and delivers economic and environmental benefits, positioning Cork as a leader in the green transition.

What is it about this project that makes it award-winning?

Working with Cork City Council we set up a straightforward, repeatable process that got organisations and local government talking and solving real problems. The chamber’s role was to convene members, surface practical needs and link those needs straight to council action. That model is easy to replicate by other chambers in other regions or on other topics. As a result, Cork City won an award through the European Commission’s Intelligent Cities Challenge for this project. That success has now been recognised worldwide, with Cork Chamber taking first place in the ‘Best

The project supports sustainable business growth, accelerates Cork’s transition to a climate-neutral economy and delivers economic and environmental benefits, positioning Cork as a leader in the green transition"

Collaboration of Chambers, Business and Government’ category at the World Chambers Competition in Melbourne, Australia.

Do you think it will be replicated by other Chambers?

This initiative is highly replicable because it demonstrates how chambers can work directly with local authorities to deliver real climate action. By creating a simple, repeatable framework, we showed that chambers can convene businesses, connect them with local government and turn shared challenges into practical solutions. It is a model designed to travel and our hope is that others will replicate it to deliver similar impact.

What does the award mean to you and for businesses in the region?

This award is recognition not just for Cork Chamber, but for Cork as a whole. It shows that when business and local government work side by side, we can deliver real, practical climate action. For our members, it is proof that their leadership on sustainability is being noticed at a European level and now on a global stage. For Cork, it reinforces our reputation as a city and region that is ambitious, forward-looking and willing to innovate in how we tackle big challenges like the green transition.

How

is

business in Cork?

Our latest Economic Trends survey shows that business confidence in Cork remains strong and this has been consistent in each quarterly survey conducted throughout the year. The real source of optimism lies in our long-term strengths, our deep talent pool, major infrastructure projects like the M28 and Luas Cork, planned improvements in our public transport offering and our position as a hub for renewables, pharma, tech and international services. At the same time, businesses are navigating significant cost pressures. The clear message is that Cork’s growth potential is enormous but unlocking it will depend on making the right policy and investment decisions. In our pre-Budget submission, we called for ambitious commitments on housing,

Our latest Economic Trendsurvey shows that business confidence in Cork remains strong and this has been consistent in each quarterly survey conducted throughout the year"

infrastructure and energy. We are hopeful that the measures announced in Budget 2026, coupled with the details set out in the National Development Plan, will ensure that Cork realises its full potential.

What are the main challenges facing businesses?

The main challenges are consistent; the need for more housing to attract and retain talent, infrastructure that keeps pace with growth and costs that are putting pressure on competitiveness. Energy transition is also important – companies want to decarbonise but need certainty, infrastructure and supports to get there. The ambition is clear in Cork, but it must be matched by delivery on housing, transport and energy if we are to sustain our momentum. Our latest Q3 Economic Trends survey also highlights wider pressures, with geopolitical uncertainty and shifting consumer spending patterns emerging as significant threats to business.

Recognising a Model of Sustainability and Partnership

The Local Green Deal model brings together chambers, government and other organisations across the business, private, community and voluntary sector in formally signed agreements that include:

» Measurable sustainability targets

» Defined timelines

» Shared accountability across sectors

So far, this approach has mobilised tens of millions of euros in green investments, involving partners from banking, academia, small enterprises and more

Local Green Deals: A new Framework for Climate-Driven Economic Policy

While sustainability is often driven by national or international mandates, Local Green Deals (LGDs) represent a ground-up, place-based approach to climate action. Inspired by the EU Green Deal but tailored to local realities, LGDs empower regions like Cork to:

» Align economic competitiveness with environmental responsibility

» Create binding, cross-sector agreements with measurable outcomes

» Mobilise private and public investment into sustainable infrastructure

Why it Matters

The award represents more than recognition, it reflects Cork’s ability to deliver innovative, scalable models of sustainable growth, with the power to influence global best practices.

» First-ever win for an Irish chamber at the World Chambers Congress

» Validates the Local Green Deals as a replicable policy tool for other cities

» Demonstrates the effectiveness of cross-sector collaboration in meeting climate and economic goals

Celebrating Excellence in Sustainability

Tesco Ireland took home top honours at this year’s SBI Awards

The Sustainable Business Impact Awards showcase best practice in sustainable development and social responsibility undertaken by companies of all sizes across Ireland.

e UN Sustainable Development Goals are at the heart of these Awards, celebrating sustainable business practices and championing Chambers Ireland’s alignment with the Goals. is year’s awards took place in Dublin on Wednesday, 24th September, marking their 22nd year. Tesco Ireland received the Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Business Impact Award. ese awards are kindly sponsored by BAM Ireland and run in association with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, sponsors of the Partnership with a Social Enterprise category.

Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director of BAM Ireland, said: "I would like to commend Chambers Ireland for their ongoing leadership in this important initiative. Recognising excellence in sustainable development and social responsibility is crucial for building

Darren Devane, Director of Building, BAM Ireland; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland; Geo Byrne, CEO, Tesco; Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland

momentum toward a greener future. BAM is proud to sponsor the Sustainable Business Impact Awards once again. Congratulations to all participants and winners, with special recognition to Tesco Ireland. It was a privilege to serve on the judging panel. e standard of entries this year was very high, with each one showing innovation and commitment."

Margaret Considine, President of Chambers Ireland, said: "Congratulations to Tesco Ireland and to all the category

winners. ese awards highlight businesses that put sustainability at the centre of what they do. eir e orts show how economic success can support environmental and social progress. is is about the work of entire organisations and the impact they can have."

e awards are held in association with the Department of Rural and Community Development, which sponsors the Partnership with a Social Enterprise category.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS IMPACT

Tesco Ireland

Pictured (l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Derek Tutty, General Manager, Keeling Logistics Solutions; Lorraine Shiels, Head of PR, Tesco Ireland; Samantha Owens, Public A airs Manager, Tesco Ireland; Darren Devane, Director of Building, BAM Ireland; Rosemary Garth, Communications Director, Tesco Ireland; Geo Byrne, CEO, Tesco Ireland; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland; Andrew McGregor, Head of Sustainability, Tesco Ireland; Deirdre Corrigan, CR Manager, Tesco Ireland; Stephen Fitzpatrick, Acting Head of Internal Communications and CSR, Tesco Ireland

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS IMPACT AWARDS

*LIC = Large Indigenous Company *MNC = Multinational Company

Pictured (l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Caitlyn Buchanan, Marketing Executive; Nikita Anil Awasthi, Marketing Executive; Hollie Dunne, Marketing Executive; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

COMMUNICATION (LIC)

Esri Ireland

Celebrating GIS Excellence: Empowering GIS Community Through Customer Success

Pictured (l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Jack Gibson, Pro Bono Lawyer, A&L Goodbody LLP; Katie Mannion, Managing Solicitor, Irish Refugee Council Independent Law Centre; Nick Henderson, Chief Executive O icer, Irish Refugee Council; Eithne Lynch, Head of Pro Bono, A&L Goodbody LLP; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

PARTNERSHIP WITH CHARITY (LIC)

A&L Goodbody LLP

Pictured (back row l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Hannah Ahern; Debbie Good, CSR Lead; Liz Anderson; Shereen McMahon, CSR Lead, Manager External Partnerships; Eilish Foley; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland Pictured (front row l to r): Daniel Gallagher; Ben Mullamphy; Ciaran Murphy; Adam Lambe

10+ years of partnership – ALG and the Irish Refugee Council

PARTNERSHIP WITH CHARITY (MNC)

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine

J&J and The Crann Centre: One Year, Lasting Impact

Pictured (l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Sinéad Murphy, Head of Sustainability, The Shannon Airport Group; Elaine O’Connell, Sustainability Data Specialist, The Shannon Airport Group; Caroline Kelliher, Public A airs Director, The Shannon Airport Group; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

ENVIRONMENT & BIODIVERSITY (LIC)

The Shannon Airport Group Biodiversity Enhancement & Conservation Grazing Project at Thady’s Hill

Pictured (l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Sabina Cotter, Director of Responsible Business, McCann Fitzgerald LLP; Eithne Lynch, Head of Pro Bono, A&L Goodbody LLP; Katie Mannion, Managing Solicitor, Irish Refugee Council; Caroline Kenny, Pro Bono Legal Executive, Arthur Cox LLP; Mary Henderson, Solicitor, Immigrant Council of Ireland; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

VOLUNTEERING & PRO BONO SERVICES

Arthur Cox

Providing critical legal support to unaccompanied refugee minors through partnership

Pictured (l to r): John Ryan, Department of Rural and Community Development; Sinéad Hickey, Group Sustainability Director, Sisk; Anthony Burrowes, Social Value Manager, Ireland & Europe, Sisk; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

PARTNERSHIP WITH A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

Sisk

Sisk’s Commitment to Social Enterprise Growth

Suppo r t loc a l to l i ft us a l l

All Ri s e All Ri s e

Ch am p i o n G r ee n . i e

Pictured (l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; John McCarthy, Facilities Manager, CluneTech and Project Lead, WeCan; Kaylyn Burke, People and Culture Partner, CluneTech; Adam McCarthy, WeCan Ambassador; Suzanne Meagher, Receptionist, CluneTech; Gary McCarthy, WeCan Driver; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

COMMUNITY PROGRAMME (LIC)

CluneTech

WeCan

(l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Stephen Fitzpatrick, Acting Head of Internal Communications and CSR, Tesco Ireland; Deirdre Corrigan, CR Manager, Tesco Ireland; Geo Byrne, CEO, Tesco Ireland; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

COMMUNITY PROGRAMME (MNC)

Tesco Ireland

Tesco Stronger Starts Food Programme, supporting children’s health and wellbeing

(l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Meghan Buckley, Communications Project Specialist; Mick Ryan, Design Services Operator; Aoife Monahan, Senior R&D Engineer; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Medtronic

CUBBIE Medtronic – The first corporate sensory space

(l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Sinéad Hickey, Group Sustainability Director; Monika Hayes, Learning and Development Coordinator; Amy Martin, EDI Partner; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION

Sisk

Sisk: It’s Only Banter

Pictured (l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Antoinette O’Reilly, Director, Homeshare; Thomas Suter, Coordinator, Homeshare; Lucie Cunningham, Founder & CEO, Homeshare; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

SUSTAINABLE IMPACT BY A SMALL BUSINESS

The Homeshare

Help4Housing

(l to r): Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland; Mark Graham, Recycle IT; Una Lavelle, Recycle IT; Gerard Jordon, Recycle IT; Margaret Considine, President, Chambers Ireland

SUSTAINABLE IMPACT BY A MEDIUM BUSINESS

Recycle IT Recycling in the Community

CHAMBER CEO Q&A

CHAMBER XXXXXX

Punching above their weight

It’s time for businesses in Co Carlow to make their voices heard, says Nicola Doran, Co Carlow Chamber CEO

How long have you held the role of CEO at Co Carlow Chamber?

I joined County Carlow Chamber of Commerce in May 2024 –so I’m mid-way through my second year in the role. Previously I had my own business and before that, I worked as a Programme Manager for a national support agency for over 20 years.

How is business in the region?

Despite the global economic challenges and the rising cost of doing business, Carlow businesses are coping well. While we are a small county, we have quite a high percentage of businesses across a broad variety of sectors that are bedded into the community – many of them are second and third generation. So, there’s a sense of resilience and determination to face the current challenges with positivity and practicality.

What type of Government supports would help to improve the business environment in Carlow?

Our members want to see more investment in infrastructure, greater energy independence and more focus on competitiveness. Issues like lack of water capacity are preventing growth – and not just in the housing market. For example here in Carlow town, Uisce Eireann has just announced a 10% increase in interim capacity as a stop-gap until new infrastructure can be put in place in 2029. The concern is that date is more likely to be 2031 and in the meantime, that extra 10% capacity translates to just 1200 new homes for that period. Our towns face similar challenges – for example a large commercial development in Bagenalstown was recently refused planning permission due to issues with water capacity. This would have been a €35 million investment in that town.

How important are the Carlow Business awards?

The Carlow Business Awards, sponsored by Carlow Credit Union, are one of the highlights of our calendar. They were held in September and they play a dual role of both recognising and rewarding excellence, and of fostering a spirit of connection and mutual support. They’re an opportunity for businesses to take stock of how far they’ve come and recognise the successes they have achieved. We had over 400 attendees at the event, which was held in the VISUAL Carlow Arts Centre.

How does the Chamber respond to the needs of its members?

We work hard to ensure that all voices are heard. As a membership organisation, it is vital that we are open and approachable – that we listen to the needs of members and adapt our services to support those needs. Central to our Chamber strategy is a focus on being responsive, flexible and customerdriven. We encourage members to connect directly with us and we believe that together we are stronger – we work closely with SETU, Carlow County Council, the Local Enterprise Office, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, KCETB, the IDA, Waterways Ireland, Failte Ireland, Carlow Tourism and more.

What are the main challenges facing businesses?

One of the key challenges is uncertainty. We are living in an unprecedented time of global uncertainty and this is unlikely to change in the near future. One of the results of this is a drop in confidence – consumer, business and investor. It’s vital that governments focus on what can be controlled and don’t get caught up in the narrative of doom. Creating an environment where businesses can be competitive, opening doors to markets that are more stable, supporting businesses to identify and prepare for the opportunities that also come with change – these are practical solutions.

As Chief Executive, what are your ambitions?

My ambition is to grow our member base by being more accessible, relevant and visible. I’m a blow-in to Carlow – I’m originally from Galway and moved here over 20 years ago. The advantage of that is you can clearly see the positives of the county – you’re coming in with no pre-conceived notions. I would love for Carlow-based businesses to get better at shouting about how good they are! This small county punches above its weight but too often hides its light under a bushel. My ambition is to shout from the rooftops about the talent that we have throughout County Carlow.

CHAMBER FEATURE

ICC Ireland in Paris

ICC Ireland and ICC Netherlands strengthen ties at ICC International Court of Arbitration

On 26 September 2025, representatives from ICC Ireland and ICC Netherlands convened in Paris for a landmark joint visit to the ICC International Court of Arbitration. e event, hosted at the Court’s headquarters and the brand-new ICC Hearing Centre in Paris, provided a unique opportunity for cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange within the international arbitration community.

e day began with a warm welcome from Claudia Salomon, President of the ICC Court, who shared insights on recent developments and best practices in international arbitration. is was followed by a presentation from Hélène van Lith, Secretary to the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR, highlighting the latest reports and task force updates.

A key feature of the programme was a roundtable discussion with members of the ICC Court Secretariat and the ICC International Centre for ADR. Delegates from both countries engaged in a candid Q&A, addressing topics such as the practicalities of set-aside actions in Ireland and the Netherlands, the impact

of geopolitical tensions on arbitration and the evolving role of ADR communities. e session, held under the Chatham House Rule, fostered open dialogue and strengthened professional networks.

e visit also included a tour of the new ICC Hearing Centre and informal discussions over lunch, further deepening connections between Irish and Dutch practitioners. e event underscored the ICC Court’s global reach, with over 830 new arbitration cases led in 2024 alone, and highlighted Ireland’s active participation in the Court and Commission. e Irish delegation comprised 18 representatives from e Bar of Ireland, e Law Society of Ireland and e Chartered Institute of Arbitrators – Irish Branch. is collaborative initiative not only showcased the vibrancy of Ireland’s arbitration community but also reinforced the importance of international partnerships in advancing best practices and innovation in dispute resolution.

The Irish delegation comprised 18 representatives from The Bar of Ireland, The Law Society of Ireland and The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators – Irish Branch"

Making Better Happen. For Every Community, Every Delivery, Every Day.

Making happen

Delivering a Sustainable Future

An Post is helping to make it easier for people to live more sustainably

Having deep roots in Irish life and a presence in every community, An Post recognises its responsibility to leave a positive mark – both socially and environmentally. is is re ected in our Purpose: to act for the common good and to improve quality of life in Ireland, now and for generations to come.

We believe in empowering local communities for the betterment of Ireland. With the unrivalled reach of our Post O ce network and postal operatives, we’re here to keep Ireland connected, trading and thriving every day – not only to make better happen for the nation, but for the planet too.

Embedding Circular Economy Thinking

We’re actively designing waste out of our operations and enabling customers to participate in the circular economy.

Our “Sell it. Send it. Cash it in.” campaign modernised a legacy prepaid packaging product to support second-hand fashion – making it easier for people to sell and send what they no longer wear or want. We’ve also developed circular partnerships with businesses like Vinted, Zara, Nespresso and Sculpted by Aimee, helping make reuse, return and recycling part of everyday life.

Internally, we’re piloting reusable packaging, developing new materials and engaging suppliers through sustainable procurement practices. We

also recognise the role we can play in enabling circular living for others. With our extensive national network, An Post is uniquely placed to support Ireland’s transition to a circular economy – helping to make it easier for customers to return, repair, reuse, repurpose, resell and recycle items through the postal system and Post O ce network.

As our world changes, An Post is helping make it easier for people to live more sustainably – and to leave

Wellbeing at work

Gillian Bane on how the new SME WellBusiness Charter from Chambers Ireland works and how it can foster a healthier workplace

Once considered a ‘nice-to-have’, employee wellbeing is now central to driving business performance. Recognising this shift, Chambers Ireland has launched the SME WellBusiness Charter – a framework designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) build healthier workplaces.

What is the SME WellBusiness Charter?

It is a free, practical, self-guided programme available to all members of affiliated Chambers. Developed in partnership with Healthy Ireland and grounded in the Healthy Workplace Framework, it is tailored for SMEs that often face barriers such as limited time, resources or expertise. The programme provides a dedicated platform with resources, guidance and training modules, plus opportunities to join in-person and online events and webinars – creating a supportive community where businesses can share experiences and learn from one another.

Organisations can adopt the Charter in four simple steps:

1. Commit – Secure leadership support by signing the Charter and appointing a Wellbeing Champion.

2. Consult – Engage employees through a needs assessment to understand priorities.

3. Create – Develop and implement an annual wellbeing plan using the programme’s resources and training modules.

4. Continue – Regularly review progress, celebrate achievements and refine initiatives.

These steps are designed to foster a healthy workplace, with a focus on four key areas – supporting individual health, designing good work, promoting positive team dynamics and embedding wellbeing into business strategy.

Why it matters for SMEs

Chambers Ireland recognises that people are an organisation’s most valuable asset and neglecting workplace health carries costs – from absenteeism to turnover. Conversely, a strong wellbeing culture yields measurable returns. Deloitte highlights that every £1 invested in employee mental health can return £4.70, while inaction carries financial and reputational risks. For SMEs with tighter margins and fewer buffers, small improvements in workforce health can have magnified effects, boosting productivity, resilience, retention, morale and ultimately profit.

How

SMEs

can get onboard

"Chambers Ireland recognises that people are an organisation’s most valuable asset and neglecting workplace health carries costs – from absenteeism to turnover."

Launching at the end of 2025, the programme will be available to all Chamber-affiliated members via the Chambers Ireland website. The portal, offering templates and resources, will go live at year-end, with training modules following in early 2026. Initial information sessions will also start this year and businesses can sign up to the newsletter to stay informed. Flexible and adaptable, the programme can stand alone or complement existing wellbeing strategies. Committed businesses are publicly recognised, signalling that wellbeing is a priority and helping SMEs make it central to workplace culture and performance.

Gillian Bane is Healthy Workplace Co-ordinator at Chambers Ireland

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Balancing Cashflow and Growth

AIB’s flexible savings solutions are here to support Irish businesses in an uncertain economic climate

In today’s unpredictable economic environment, Irish businesses are actively seeking effective strategies to manage their cashflow and maximise returns on surplus funds. Recent research conducted by AIB highlights both the growing appetite for enhanced returns and the perceived barriers businesses face in utilising traditional savings accounts.

Our research indicates that although 78% of Irish businesses are saving, the majority prefer to hold their reserves in current accounts. This preference is driven by a desire for immediate access to capital, despite the potential for higher interest earnings elsewhere. Only 8% of businesses have taken the step of opening a dedicated savings account to improve returns on excess cash. Many businesses are cautious and cited obstacles such as concerns about accessibility and a perceived lack of added value.

Nonetheless, there is a notable willingness to consider alternatives – 73% of respondents would be open to locking away funds for as little as one month, provided the benefits are clear.

Strategies for managing surplus cash

While maintaining daily operational liquidity is essential, AIB highlights the advantages of transferring surplus funds into savings accounts such as the 31 Day AIB Business Notice Deposit account. The key benefits include:

Security: Saving surplus funds provides a financial buffer against unexpected costs and helps build a safety net, supporting business resilience.

Effective Planning: Setting aside money supports cashflow management, providing line of sight for future financial obligations like tax settlement and future investment in the business.

Controlled Access: Funds can be deposited as needed and accessed with just 31 days’ notice, striking a balance between flexibility and return.

Interest Generation: With the current variable rate of 1.5% A.E.R. on the 31 Day AIB Business Notice Deposit account, a balance of €20,000 could earn €300 gross per annum, before Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT).

Adapting to economic uncertainty

To meet the evolving needs of our business customers, we now offer a 31 Day Business Notice Deposit, giving businesses the flexibility to earn a return on surplus cash while retaining the option to access funds at short notice"

Despite Ireland’s robust economy, businesses remain vigilant in the face of potential challenges such as geopolitical tensions, evolving trade policies, increased regulation, and rising costs. This environment of cautious optimism has prompted many companies to explore ways to strengthen their cash reserves.

The 31 Day AIB Business Notice Deposit account is positioned as an ideal solution— allowing businesses a flexible way to save, to earn a return on their funds while retaining access within a short period.

Elaine Downey, Head of Retail SME at AIB, notes: “To meet the evolving needs of our business customers, we now offer a 31 Day Business Notice Deposit, giving businesses the flexibility to earn

a return on surplus cash while retaining the option to access funds at short notice. In today’s environment, this optionality is crucial. AIB’s business advisors are on hand to help customers explore the full range of AIB’s Business Demand, Notice, and Fixed Term accounts to identify the option most suitable for their needs. We also provides a full suite of longer-term investment options to help companies make their cash and capital reserves work harder for them.”

AIB Business Customer Advisors are here to help Mary Browne, Business Customer Advisor at AIB’s Ennis branch, emphasises the importance of personalised advice: “We work closely with our business customers to understand their ambitions and challenges. Our goal is to help them maximise returns on surplus funds, plan for long-term growth, and protect against future risks. We offer a comprehensive suite of savings options, including Demand, Notice, and Fixed Term accounts, and strive to make the process as straightforward as possible, meeting customers at a time and place convenient for them.”

We work closely with our business customers to understand their ambitions and challenges"

AIB Business Customer Advisors are available across 170 branches nationwide to assist businesses in optimising their cash management strategies. The variable interest rate for the Business Notice Deposit account is currently 1.50% A.E.R. as of 01 October 2025, subject to change. Interest is paid gross and may be subject to DIRT at the prevailing rate.

To find out more or to explore the full range of business savings options have a look at our website: AIB/Business/Business Accounts/Business notice deposit account

A.E.R. stands for Annual Equivalent Rate. Interest is subject to Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT), where applicable, at the prevailing rate on the day interest is paid. Terms and conditions apply. Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

A Call for Urgency, Delivery and Bold Reform

To build a more competitive and sustainable economy, commitments made in Budget 2026 must be backed by action, writes RONAN WARD, Policy and Communications Associate at Chambers Ireland

The emphasis on high-density housing developments is also encouraging but the challenge remains in translating these commitments into real progress on the ground"

As Ireland’s largest business network, Chambers Ireland welcomes the commitments outlined in Budget 2026, particularly those addressing long-standing priorities such as infrastructure and housing. However, we must be clear – this budget’s success will be judged not by what is promised, but by what is achieved.

A Budget of Two Halves

Budget 2026 has been described by our Chief Executive, Ian Talbot, as “a budget of two halves.”

On one hand, it offers welcome investment proposals and a clear acknowledgement that housing and infrastructure delivery must be addressed. On the other, it leaves many businesses questioning where the direct support lies. Initiatives such as the extension of the Living Cities Initiative and the introduction of the Derelict Property Tax are positive steps, but the key issue is that they are swiftly implemented to unlock stalled projects and revitalise urban centres. The emphasis on high-density housing developments is also encouraging but the challenge remains in translating these commitments into real progress on the ground.

Infrastructure:

The Foundation of Competitiveness

Infrastructure is the backbone of our national competitiveness. We have consistently called for multiannual funding in water and wastewater treatment, continued investment in transport networks, and grid reinforcement to support energy security. However, a real concern that the Chamber Network aligns on is that economic growth has now outpaced infrastructure delivery. This gap threatens our long-term prosperity and we must act decisively to close it. Each delay to project delivery such as

planning delays increases both the pressure and the ultimate cost. This was front and centre of our pre-budget submission, where we emphasised the need for a whole-of-Government and State Agency approach that uses every lever available, including tax incentives and legislative reform, to accelerate infrastructure delivery.

Housing: Progress with Caveats

We welcome the €5 billion capital investment in housing and the additional funding for the Land Development Agency and Approved Housing Bodies. These measures are essential to addressing

the housing crisis, which continues to overshadow other service shortfalls. However, increased targets must be matched by capacity and delivery. Without adequate housing, businesses cannot attract or retain talent and our urban centres cannot thrive. Consistent with our acknowledgement that every level must be pulled to accelerate delivery, we also support other initiatives announced in recent months to stimulate Modern Methods of Construction and the expansion of retrofitting supports. These are vital if we are to see progress in delivery.

These measures are essential to addressing the housing crisis, which continues to overshadow other service shortfalls. However, increased targets must be matched by capacity and delivery"

The emphasis on high-density housing developments is also encouraging but the challenge remains in translating these commitments into real progress on the ground"

Business Supports

We had hoped Budget 2026 would seize the opportunity to deliver bold and transformative reforms, reforms that would simplify the complex web of business reliefs, foster a culture of entrepreneurial risk-taking, and shield SMEs from the escalating weight of regulatory obligations. For example, the minor change to the taxation of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) is a missed opportunity to redirect over €160 billion in lowyield deposits into productive investment. The incremental adjustments which were committed to fall short of the scale and urgency required. In addition, our tax system remains overly complicated, particularly for SMEs. There is also a necessity to streamline reliefs, one that reduces administrative overhead, improves accessibility, and ensures that businesses can focus on growth rather than compliance. Instead, most businesses are left dependent on the trickle-down impact of infrastructure delivery, which will have substantial impacts in the medium to long term but not have benefit in the short term.

Skills, Social Infrastructure and Urban Renewal

We are pleased to see continued investment in skills development and social infrastructure. The emphasis on upskilling the workforce is particularly welcome, given Ireland’s persistent skills mismatches and the growing demand for specialised talent across sectors. Investment is social infrastructure is critical to fostering thriving towns and cities. In addition, tackling vacancy and dereliction, developing urban areas in line with sustainable principles, and prioritising childcare and education are all essential to building inclusive communities.

Conclusion

There are many positive aspects in this budget. It will be a good budget for job creation and retention in the future, as long as there is a relentless focus on delivery. The commitments made in Budget 2026 must be backed by action. Only then can we build a more competitive, inclusive and sustainable economy.

Getting to grips with pensions

Colm Power on how to ensure your business pension setup is fit for purpose

It is a pivotal time for business owners across Ireland, as the coming months will require them to make significant and potentially far-reaching decisions regarding the best approach to pension coverage for their workforce.

From 1 January 2026, auto-enrolment will go live in Ireland under the new My Future Fund scheme. This marks a major shift in pension delivery, requiring all businesses to assess its impact. Over the coming months, employers must review their current pension arrangements and determine what changes, if any, are required to meet their obligations under the new requirements.

Businesses already providing an occupational pension scheme to their employees may believe that they don’t need to take any action but unfortunately, it’s not so simple. These employers will need to evaluate whether their existing scheme is sufficient to meet all their auto-enrolment obligations under the new rules. In some cases, it may be necessary to review and potentially update the membership criteria of their occupational pension scheme to ensure that all employees who would otherwise be auto-enrolled are adequately covered by existing measures.

On the other hand, businesses that do not currently offer an occupational pension scheme will face a different set of decisions. They will need to consider whether to establish a company pension scheme from scratch or to simply sign up to the new My Future Fund. Each option comes with its own set of implications, costs and administrative requirements, so careful consideration is essential.

GIVEN THE CHOICES THAT BUSINESSES FACE IN THE MONTHS AHEAD REGARDING THE FUTURE OF THEIR PENSION FUNDING, NOW IS THE TIME TO DECIDE NOT ONLY HOW TO BEST MEET THE NEEDS OF THEIR STAFF”

As businesses decide how best to structure their pension arrangements in this new regulatory environment, it is also an opportune time to assess whether these schemes are truly fit for purpose, not just for the wider workforce, but also for the needs of business owners and senior management. Standard schemes that offer limited investment flexibility and lack access to tailored advice are unlikely to suit those with more complex financial needs.

Business owners and senior managers typically require more from their pension arrangements. Personalised advice and guidance on how to fund your retirement is essential, as is access to holistic financial planning that considers a wider range of objectives. These individuals also value much greater investment flexibility and a broader array of options.

For many business owners, the best approach may be to provide access to a separate pension scheme, distinct from the one provided to the wider workforce, that provides members with a dedicated financial adviser, more sophisticated investment options and a personalised financial planning framework. Given the choices that businesses face in the months ahead regarding the future of their pension funding, now is the time to decide not only how to best meet the needs of their staff, but also how to ensure that the needs of owners and senior management are fully addressed.

Colm Power is Director of Financial Planning at Davy For more information, see www.davy.ie/pensions

Ensuring adequate funding for increased costs and tariffs

Credit Review is here to help if you are having difficulty securing funding from your bank

With rising global trade tensions Irish micro businesses must ensure they protect their financial stability. Tariffs and increased costs can eat into working capital, squeeze profit margins, disrupt supply chains, and delay growth plans. To stay resilient, ensuring you have access to finance to deal with short term shocks is essential.

Proactive planning today can safeguard your business tomorrow. In the short-term businesses should engage with lenders early to secure credit before costs escalate. Traditional bank credit or alternative lenders

offer tailored solutions to cover upfront costs, working capital, and market expansion, while Microfinance Ireland now provides unsecured loans up to €50,000, ideal for micro enterprises. And remember, securing credit can take longer than expected.

Longer term, businesses need to plan to mitigate tariff risks, and there are noncredit funding sources that could also be considered. For example, Enterprise Ireland has grants to help exporters diversify – Market Research and New Markets Validation.

What if I am having difficulty securing credit from my bank?

Credit where it’s due.

Having difficulty getting a new business loan or restructuring your existing debt with your bank?

Established by the Minister for Finance, Credit Review is here to help.

Talk to the credit experts today on 0818 211 789 or visit creditreview.ie

Credit Review can help. We provide an independent appeal service for businesses who have had credit facilities refused, reduced, restructured/refinanced or withdrawn by AIB, BOI and PTSB for amounts up to €3m. We also operate a helpline – sometimes credit issues can be resolved without a formal appeal, which is appreciated by both banks and borrowers!

Our appeals process is flexible and responsive. Our credit experts will engage directly and provide comprehensive insights into your credit application/ decline process.

For more information on our independent appeals process and information services, visit creditreview. ie to request a call back, or call the helpline directly on 0818 211789.

Empowering Teams

SOLAS

outlines the business value of Skills

to Advance

Irish companies face a constantly changing business environment. With global and national economic shifts, climate change and advances in technology, local enterprises need to remain agile and adaptable. Skills to Advance is a national upskilling initiative, created and funded by SOLAS, that assists business owners to develop new skills in their teams and increase their competitiveness through highly subsidised training.

Delivered flexibly by the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) around Ireland, Skills to Advance programmes are accredited and available to companies of all sizes. Employers and employees can choose from inperson, online or blended learning formats, with tutor support and online resources to enhance the learning experience.

One such business benefitting from Skills to Advance upskilling is Great Southern Killarney, a landmark hotel that first opened its doors in 1854. While speaking to Caoimhe Spillane, Cluster HR Manager at Great Southern Hotel, about how the hotel has maintained such a stronghold in the hospitality industry, she details: “Our team is at the heart of everything we do, and providing opportunities for development not only strengthens individual confidence and skills but also supports the continued success of our business.”

The constant and rapid development of the hospitality industry is a key motivator for the hotel to upskill their team. To this, Spillane says: “We want our team to feel empowered, adaptable, and ready to embrace new challenges. The programme offers practical learning that complements their dayto-day roles while encouraging creativity. It also aligns with our values of inclusivity and open communication, ensuring that every team member feels supported and valued in their growth journey.”

Employees completed several programmes with their local Education and Training Board, Kerry ETB, including Developing Your Leadership Style and Motivating People in the Workplace. Speaking of their experience with the ETB, Spillane notes: “Our experience with the ETB has been extremely positive. From the outset, the team were approachable, supportive, and made the process very straightforward. The course

delivery was clear, engaging and tailored to suit the needs of our team, which ensured that the learning was both practical and enjoyable. Accessibility was excellent, with flexibility that worked well alongside their busy schedules. The content itself was highly relevant, providing valuable skills that could be applied immediately in the workplace.”

Spillane’s parting message to any business owner or employee considering a Skills to Advance course is this: “My advice would be simple – do it! The Skills to Advance courses are a fantastic opportunity to invest in your team. They’re accessible, practical, and designed to build confidence as well as skills. The support from the ETB makes the whole process straightforward and the impact on day-to-day work is immediate. It’s a chance to grow, to feel empowered and to bring real value back to your workplace.”

Since 2019, over 100,000 training opportunities have been availed of under the initiative. All Skills to Advance programmes are accredited at Levels 5 and 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications. A wide range of programmes are available, such as healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing sustainability skills, digital business skills, AI and more.

To explore available programmes or discuss a tailored training solution, contact your local ETB today or visit skillstoadvance.ie

OUR TEAM IS AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING WE DO, AND PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT NOT ONLY STRENGTHENS INDIVIDUAL CONFIDENCE AND SKILLS BUT ALSO SUPPORTS THE CONTINUED SUCCESS OF OUR BUSINESS”

Green is the New Competitive Edge

How Sustainable Shipping Powers Profit and Planet

Imagine a supply chain that not only delivers on time but also delivers a cleaner, healthier planet. That’s the promise of sustainable shipping— cutting carbon while cutting costs.

In today’s fast-moving logistics landscape, sustainability isn’t a nice-tohave—it’s a must-have for growth-minded businesses. Eco-friendly logistics reduce environmental impact without sacrificing efficiency or profitability. From right-sized packaging and optimised delivery routes to renewable fuels and electric vehicles, the choices you make today can future-proof your operations and strengthen your brand.

At DHL, we’ve seen firsthand how a greener approach doesn’t just meet customer expectations—it can transform a company’s bottom line. Here’s why sustainable logistics is the smartest move you can make right now.

» Boost Brand Reputation

Consumers want brands that share their values: 88% of customers are more loyal to companies that actively support environmental or social causes. Communicating your sustainability goals clearly—and backing them up with measurable action—deepens trust and attracts environmentally conscious buyers.

» Increase Efficiency Green strategies often go hand in hand with smarter operations. Route optimisation software shortens delivery times, reduces emissions, and lowers fuel costs.

» Save Costs Long-Term

While some eco-friendly initiatives require initial investment, they deliver lasting returns. Practices like waste reduction, recycling, and switching to renewable energy can cut operational expenses and improve margins.

» Stay Compliant and Reduce Risk

With regulations tightening worldwide, from the EU Emissions Trading System to local carbon reporting requirements, a robust sustainability strategy ensures compliance and positions you as an industry leader ahead of policy changes.

PRACTICAL STEPS TOWARD GREENER SHIPPING

» Rethink Packaging

Reduce packaging waste by right-sizing boxes and using recycled or compostable materials. Even small touches—like a “10% less packaging” label—signal your commitment to sustainability and help customers feel part of the solution.

» Offset and Inset Carbon Emissions

Offsetting funds external projects like reforestation, while insetting tackles emissions directly in your supply chain— for example, by planting trees near your facilities or switching to sustainable fuels.

» Embrace Reverse Logistics

With up to 30% of online orders returned, reverse logistics—repairing, recycling, or reselling products—extends product life, reduces landfill waste, and resonates with eco-conscious customers.

HOW DHL HELPS YOU GO GREEN

» GoGreen Plus with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

Our GoGreen Plus programme allows you to reduce shipment emissions by using SAF, which cuts greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. Even individual shipments can go green—perfect for SMEs and e-commerce retailers.

» Electric Vehicle Fleet

We’ve committed to deploying 80,000 electric vehicles for last-mile delivery by 2030, with 60% of our fleet running emission-free.

SMART PACKAGING WITH OPTICARTON

Our AI-powered OptiCarton system minimises empty space in packages, reducing material waste and transport emissions.

THE STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE OF PARTNERING WITH DHL

As the first logistics company to commit to net-zero emissions by 2050, DHL offers the innovation, infrastructure, and expertise to help you meet your sustainability goals— while delighting customers and driving profitability. Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for business.

Learn more about building a sustainable shipping strategy at: www.dhl.com/discover/en-ie/logistics-advice/sustainability-and-green-logistics/ sustainable-shipping-with-dhl

Gas Networks Ireland’s leading customer focused culture

Gas Networks Ireland owns and operates Ireland’s €3 billion, 14,758km national gas network which is considered one of the safest and most modern renewables ready gas networks in Europe.

As Ireland’s energy system undergoes a significant transformation, Gas Networks Ireland is at the centre of the transition to a greener, more sustainable future. The company’s Pathway to a Net Zero Carbon Network sets out plans to repurpose the existing national gas infrastructure to transport biomethane and green hydrogen. With the potential to carry biomethane and green hydrogen, the gas network will continue to play a pivotal role in supporting Ireland’s climate targets while also opening new opportunities for energy security and economic growth.

AS IRELAND’S ENERGY SYSTEM UNDERGOES A SIGNIFICANT TRANSFORMATION, GAS NETWORKS IRELAND IS AT THE CENTRE OF THE TRANSITION TO A GREENER, MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE”

Central to this strategy is Gas Network Ireland’s customer base. Over 720,000 Irish homes and businesses trust Ireland’s gas network to provide efficient and reliable energy to meet their heating, cooking, manufacturing and transport needs.

To assist large industrial customers in hard-to-abate sectors such as high-temperature processes in manufacturing, food processing and pharmaceuticals, Gas Networks Ireland established a dedicated Customer Solutions team in 2024. This team is focused on helping these businesses achieve their decarbonisation goals by understanding energy requirements specific to each sector, identifying opportunities to integrate renewable

Gas Networks Ireland was named “Best in Customer Experience and Communications” at the 2025 InBUSINESS Recognition Awards. The award reflects Gas Networks Ireland’s strong customer focus, underpinned by a 94% Customer Satisfaction score, a 31% reduction in complaints and a company-wide commitment to listening to, learning from and consistently delivering for customers.

gas into their operations and navigating compliance with regulatory frameworks such as the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS). By offering expert guidance and tailored support, Gas Networks Ireland is enabling industrial customers to plan and transition toward a lower-carbon future.

Further information on how Gas Networks Ireland is helping to shape Ireland’s energy future is available at www.gasnetworks.ie.

€100m Invoice Finance Partnership Unlocks Additional Funding for Ambitious Irish SMES

For almost two decades, Bibby Financial Services’ has been at the side of Irish businesses, helping them access the funding they need to grow, invest, and thrive. As a specialist provider of working capital solutions, Bibby Financial Services’ has built a strong track record for delivering flexible, practical finance tailored to the real-world needs of ambitious businesses. From familyrun firms to fast-scaling enterprises, Bibby Financial Services has supported companies across every sector with solutions designed to keep them moving forward.

This track record has been further strengthened through strategic partnerships, most notably its role as the Stra-

tegic Banking Corporation of Ireland’s (SBCI) exclusive invoice finance liquidity partner. Together, Bibby Financial Services’ and the SBCI have been helping SMEs strengthen cashflow, improve resilience, and unlock capacity to invest in their futures. This support isn’t just about individual businesses, it’s about creating jobs, fuelling innovation, and powering Ireland’s broader economic growth.

MAJOR MILESTONE

A major milestone was reached recently when the SBCI increased its funding allocation to Bibby Financial Services from €70 million to €100 million. Since the partnership began nearly a decade ago, this government-backed

support has enabled SMEs nationwide to access facilities of up to €5 million over 24 months, with competitive pricing, including discounts of up to 1.3%, ensuring affordability.

The latest €30 million uplift from SBCI comes at a crucial time. With economic conditions still challenging, access to flexible funding can mean the difference between holding back plans and seizing opportunities, whether that’s expanding into new markets, training staff, investing in technology, or pursuing M&A activity. Invoice finance allows businesses to turn unpaid bills into fuel for growth, giving them the freedom to seize opportunities, hire talent, invest in new projects, and move at the pace they deserve. With invoice finance, the hard work pays off today, not tomorrow.

ACCESS TO FINANCE

And the need for access to funding is clear. Bibby Financial Service’s latest SME Confidence Tracker found that almost half (48%) of businesses believe securing funding has become harder in 2025, while half say banks are less willing to lend to smaller companies. At the same time, 43% report rising demand for external finance. Traditional lending processes, with high rejection rates, mismatched loan sizes, and long approval times are leaving many SMEs underserved.

Invoice Finance is designed to bridge this gap. By releasing the value locked in unpaid invoices, SMEs gain fast, reliable access to working capital without taking on additional debt. This is particularly valuable in sectors like manufacturing, wholesale, food and beverage, transport, construction, recruitment, and professional services, where payment delays can strain day-to-day operations.

And despite today’s challenges, ambition remains high, with 92% of SMEs planning to invest in the coming months, with expansion, recruitment, training, and digital innovation, including AI, topping their priorities.

In this landscape, alternative finance isn’t just an option for growth minded businesses, it’s an enabler that unlocks potential, turns bold ideas into reality, and helps businesses across the country move from ambition to achievement.

To partner with us call 01 297 4911 or visit bibbyfs.ie

Connecting, Innovating, Succeeding with the EEN

The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) has helped companies, like Medtex Medsolution Ltd, find international partners and secure funding for sustainable growth.

Through the EEN, Medtex Medsolution Ltd has successfully connected with global partners across multiple industries.

“Working with EEN is fantastic,” says Janet Huang, Managing Director. “With the support of our designated EEN Advisor, we’ve been able to easily expand our business globally. Since joining EEN, we’ve explored opportunities with partners in Ireland, Singapore, the US, the UK, France, and Turkey.”

When Medtex identified a profile in the EEN Partnership Opportunity Database from a French company seeking a supplier of high-resolution turbidimeters for private swimming pool water monitoring, they reached out to their EEN Advisor. The Advisor submitted an Expression of Interest on

EU funding streams to help the business with its sustainability journey.

After undertaking a comprehensive sustainability audit with the EEN Sustainability Advisor housed in Dublin Chamber, Ted4parts was advised of their potential grant opportunities – EENergy and Up2Circ. Upon completion of the audit Ted4Parts proceeded with applications for both funds, with the assistance of Miriam Tuomey, Dublin Chamber/EEN Ireland Sustainability Advisor.

Medtex’s behalf and was soon contacted by the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Région Bretagne. An introduction was facilitated, and discussions quickly progressed.

The collaboration resulted in a cooperation between France and Ireland, developing innovative solutions to improve energy efficiency in swimming pool maintenance and enhance water quality monitoring.

Huang adds: “This kind of cross-industry, international collaboration is fabulous. For B2B development, EEN is definitely the best platform you should consider.”

SECURING GRANT AID

The EEN also helps companies secure grant aid for a more sustainable company and a more circular economy.

Ted4Parts (www.ted4parts.com) leads innovation in car dismantling and green parts recovery in Ireland. Through participating in the EEN’s sustainability advisory services, Ted4Parts was able to secure two different

Ted4Parts was awarded the EENergy grant of €10,000. This was used to implement a comprehensive solar energy project that aligns with the company’s action plan to enhance sustainability and reduced carbon footprint. The installation of solar panels, with a capacity of 20kWp, is expected to cover 50 per cent of the total energy consumption of the company, reducing grid dependency by 50 per cent.

Ted4Parts was also successful in receiving a €15,000 feasibility study grant to develop a circular solution for automotive insulation by recovering, processing, and repurposing it as insulation for homes and construction.

Typically, Ted4Parts recovers around 5–10 kg of insulation per car, from circa 5,200 cars per annum. This project will assess recovery methods, refine treatment processes to meet building standards, and validate the performance of the recycled material for construction use.

Utilising the Up2Circ grant to undertake feasibility testing using advanced technologies, such as material testing and lifecycle analysis tools, will ensure product quality and environmental performance. Collaboration with sustainable builders and circular construction advocacy will drive social innovation, supporting broader climate and sustainability goals.

Shaping better outcomes through strategic acquisitions

Ray Ryan, CEO of The Noledge Group, discusses leading with vision, culture, and strategy on the Group’s acquisition journey

Q. WHAT WAS THE ORIGINAL VISION BEHIND THE NOLEDGE GROUP’S ACQUISITION STRATEGY?

A. Our core value is simplifying our customers’ businesses through enterprise resource planning (ERP) and accounting solutions. Our acquisition strategy has been to integrate companies who can play a key role in delivering this value at each stage of our customers’ growth journeys, and to offer solutions that will meet their unique and evolving needs. This means we can support customers as they grow, offering the right solution and never having a one-size-fits-all approach.

Q. HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHICH COMPANIES ARE THE RIGHT FIT FOR ACQUISITION, AND IS THERE A COMMON THREAD AMONG THE BUSINESSES YOU’VE ACQUIRED?

A. We’re always on the lookout for great businesses in our sector. In particular, we love companies who match our focus on delivering amazing service experiences. That’s why we look for businesses who are renowned for outstanding implementation, training, and customer support, because getting it right first time is critical to customer success.

Q. WHAT MEASURABLE BENEFITS HAVE YOU SEEN SINCE FORMING A GROUP STRUCTURE?

A. Prior to starting our acquisition journey, reading The Innovator’s Dilemma taught me a key lesson: every successful venture must be sustained by its inherent strengths and the dedication of those involved. With that in mind, as we expanded, we kept our teams in each

company, product, and sector separate, enabling them to remain fully focused on the success of their own business.

However, this approach created a new challenge. As each company promoted a different software platform, our messaging had to align with a variety of solutions, and this resulted in fragmented communications. To overcome this, we established a unifying brand for the Group. This allows us to deliver a consistent, overarching message which is true to our culture but still gives each company the freedom to showcase its own personality and strengths.

This unified approach strengthens brand recognition, builds trust with stakeholders, and ensures that our communications clearly convey the Group’s value proposition – of simplifying businesses – while reinforcing our commitment to delivering the best outcomes.

Q. WHAT’S YOUR APPROACH TO INTEGRATING ACQUIRED COMPANIES - ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO PEOPLE AND CULTURE?

A. It’s crucial to remember that you’re not just buying an organisation, you’re bringing on board a team of people. Times of transition can create uncertainty, so it’s essential to approach the process with empathy and an understanding of the human emotions involved. This leads to better outcomes for everybody and ensures we remain driven by creating value for both customers and employees.

That’s why we emphasise the powerful outcomes that collaboration makes possible: combining the strengths of each business, creating new opportunities, and recognising the vital contribution every team member brings to shaping the Group’s future success. Culture is the cornerstone of any acquisition.

Delivering excellence

David Fox, Managing Director at Sodexo Ireland, on leading the way in sustainability and fostering a culture of care for people and planet

TELL US ABOUT SODEXO

Sodexo is a global workplace dining and facilities management company, founded in Marseille in France in 1966. We have approximately 423,000 colleagues globally and our focus is on creating experiences within the workplace by being a partner for our clients. We have been present in Ireland since 1991 and have almost 3,000 colleagues across the island of Ireland working in approximately 200 client sites.

HOW IS BUSINESS AT SODEXO?

Busy! Sodexo has experienced significant growth in the past 36 months alongside an industry leading client retention rate of 98%+. We operate across public sector and private business and industry including professional services, technology, pharma manufacturing, education and healthcare. We take a personalised approach to our client partnerships focusing on experience and operational excellence, meaning we’re constantly pushing boundaries in terms of how we do business, the technology we use to support service delivery, the way we communicate and how we create social impact.

HOW IMPORTANT IS SUSTAINABILITY AT SODEXO AND WHAT INITIATIVES DO YOU HAVE IN PLACE TO BE MORE SUSTAINABLE?

Sustainability is a fundamental. In practice, that means designing more plant-based menus, using by-products (what is typically considered waste, such as peelings) in our menu design to help eliminate food waste, introducing technology to reduce energy and water consumption, eliminating chemicals from our cleaning process and utilising electric vehicles. We have put clear and ambitious net zero targets in place for our supply chain partners to ensure they can meet our net zero requirements, however, our small and medium sized suppliers don’t always have the resource or expertise to set net zero targets and implement initiatives, so we provide free net zero

mentorship to support our supply partners on their own journeys to net zero. We are committed to our net zero journey as much as we are committed to supporting our small and medium sized suppliers, therefore this initiative creates a win scenario for all. We’ve been awarded the Net Zero Carbon Award at the Business and Finance ESG awards in 2024 and 2025 for our approach to impacting both our own and our clients’ net zero ambitions. We were the first organisation in our industry to become a member of Origin Green, Ireland’s evidence-based food and drink sustainability programme and awarded Ecovadis Gold, putting us in the top 5% of companies globally in relation to our sustainability management.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR 2026?

A continued focus on our people, our clients and delivering sustainable growth as the partner of choice for workplace dining and FM. In tandem we remain focused on social impact, including deepening community partnerships with our social impact partners, The Open Doors Initiative and A Lust for Life.

WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR BIG WIN AT THE CHAMBER AWARDS TO?

The award celebrates excellence, innovation and community impact and that is exactly what our people deliver every day. We have a clear strategy which is regularly communicated with our teams and we measure our progress as a leadership team, holding ourselves accountable to deliver excellence. We measure ourselves against five key pillars – Culture, Continuous Improvement, Growth (People and Business), Social Value and Zero Harm. Creating a culture of pride and ownership where we stive for excellence and growth means our people are the driving force behind our success, including being awarded Company of the Year at the InBusiness Recognition Awards – combining great food, facilities expertise and a culture of care for people and planet.

Big Picture Thinking

At Drogheda and District Chamber, the opportunities around the M1 Corridor are critical when it comes to selling the ‘big picture’ on a local, national and international stage

In February, Drogheda and District Chamber travelled to Portsmouth to address the South Coast Business Week as part of a new agreement with Hampshire Chamber of Commerce. One of the elements in the Chamber’s presentation was the M1 Corridor. “We have well over two million people living within one hour of the corridor. When you want to paint a picture of future investment options – in all sectors – these are the telling figures you need to put on the table,” said Chamber CEO, Hubert Murphy. “People were impressed when hearing about this region for the first time. That’s what we have do to – spread the word.

“We are perfectly positioned at the centre of the Dublin-Belfast economic corridor, offering great flexibility and options for those who want to be close to the major cities on the island, but not in them. Drogheda is the biggest town in Ireland with excellent transport links and the country’s biggest airport right on our doorstep. The more we sell these unique features, the more we will see the results.”

The Chamber has become a far-reaching entity, boasting members from the USA, Spain, Portugal and China. They are intent on building relations in every corner of the planet, promoting the region as somewhere to do business and enjoy life.

“From an infrastructure point of view, we are looking at truly massive investment in the town and district in the coming years. The key to that is the completion of the Northern Cross Route, a new stretch of road that will lead to the completion of 7,500 new homes and the creation of thousands of jobs in lands that will open up as a result.

“We are lobbying to get this delivered within three years, along with a new train station to serve the northern environs. The town and the area in general are a footstep away from being at the centre of so much, not just nationally, but internationally. As a Chamber, we have a unique voice and a firm place at the table and we’ll be using every avenue possible to beat the drum for the betterment of the entire district,” he added.

Hubert feels ‘big picture’ thinking must be the focus going forward, bringing in interested parties, introducing them to the concept of the M1 Corridor and then delivering as a team to make sure everyone benefits.

“Everywhere will have strengths and weaknesses, but putting proper, sustainable planning in place will help meet those

YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO BE OPEN TO DOING BUSINESS, BE PREPARED TO TAKE CALCULATED RISKS AND FIRST AND FOREMOST, BE PROUD OF WHERE YOU COME FROM AND BE PREPARED TO FIGHT YOUR CORNER FOR THIS LITTLE PIECE OF IRELAND WE CALL HOME”

challenges. Drogheda, for instance, is waiting to develop a major new IDA Park. It will be an ideal location to bring clients who want a new challenge. Dundalk has a different offering, so has Newry.

“What has been successful for our Chamber in recent years is the promotion of a team ethos, a ‘can do’ attitude to growing membership and delivering on the ground results. Bringing that team concept to the M1 Corridor, with the other vital

stakeholders, is paramount for us.”

How the M1 Corridor is promoted to reach its full potential will be vital, but as a Chamber body, Drogheda and its hinterland is signed up for the long haul. “You always have to be open to doing business, be prepared to take calculated risks and first and foremost, be proud of where you come from and be prepared to fight your corner for this little piece of Ireland we call home.”

Creative Spark: Igniting the M1 Corridor’s Creative Economy

Transcending the scope of a traditional enterprise centre, Creative Spark is building a resilient and vibrant creative ecosystem that mirrors the ambition and energy of the M1 Corridor

Strategically located in the heart of Ireland’s M1 Corridor, Creative Spark has established itself as a pivotal force in driving regional innovation and enterprise within the creative industries. Far more than a conventional workspace, it operates as a dynamic ecosystem fostering collaboration and growth for entrepreneurs, artists, designers, and technology professionals.

Creative Spark supports both nascent and established businesses across diverse sectors including the creative industries, innovation, technology, and sustainable energy. Its comprehensive offerings in Dundalk include dedicated training facilities, a cutting-edge Enterprise FabLab, a fully equipped Fine Art Print Studio, and adaptable workspace solutions. The centre’s vibrant community thrives on daily networking, peer-to-peer exchange, and a culture that seamlessly blends creativity with commercial ambition.

Further cementing its commitment to urban regeneration and community engagement, the Creative Spark Downtown Hub was established in 2022. This additional location extends the organisation’s footprint into the heart of Dundalk, providing accessible spaces for meetings, workshops, exhibitions and collaborative projects, and acting as a vibrant touchpoint for creative activity within the town centre.

ENABLING

DIGITAL MAKERS

A cornerstone of Creative Spark’s value proposition is its Enterprise FabLab, a state-of-the-art digital fabrication facility. This advanced workshop provides users with access to high-end tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines, empowering them to transform conceptual designs into tangible products.

The FabLab has developed a one-year NCAD-accredited Professional Diploma in Digital Making in partnership with Creative Futures Academy, providing participants with hands-on training in digital fabrication,

electronics, and design thinking—equipping a new generation of makers, designers, and entrepreneurs with essential skills for an increasingly digital economy.

Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab also holds the distinction of being Ireland’s inaugural Fab Academy node, with a fivemonth intensive programme on advanced digital fabrication tools and technologies.

DRIVING INDUSTRY 5.0

The Creative Spark Enterprise FabLab plays a critical role in Ireland’s rapid transition towards Industry 5.0, a movement emphasising sustainable, socially conscious, and high-tech manufacturing. Its expertise has led to its recognition as an official consortium member of FactoryXChange, a European Digital Innovation Hub initiative.

As one of only six select partners, Creative Spark provides Irish enterprises with crucial innovation consultancy, upskilling opportunities, and “try-before-buy” technology services, effectively de-risking their innovation journeys. Creative Spark is excited to facilitate FactoryXChange’s 2026 programme, focusing on Future of Work roles, skills pathway development, and industry needs assessment, underscoring its influence on workforce evolution.

Beyond its direct economic contributions, Creative Spark significantly enriches the M1 Corridor’s cultural and community fabric. Through various initiatives, including artist residencies, exhibitions, youth programmes, and public art installations, it nurtures cultural expression and promotes social inclusion.

By actively collaborating with local authorities, educators, and cultural organisations, Creative Spark plays an integral role in shaping the region’s creative identity and vibrancy, actively building a resilient and vibrant ecosystem that mirrors the ambition and energy of the M1 Corridor.

CREATIVE SPARK SUPPORTS BOTH NASCENT AND ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES ACROSS DIVERSE SECTORS INCLUDING THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES, INNOVATION, TECHNOLOGY, AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY”

Unlocking potential

Newry Chamber CEO Michael Savage on the power of the M1 Corridor in driving sustainable growth and ensuring communities north and south of the border thrive

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE M1 CORRIDOR TO NEWRY?

The M1 corridor, which stretches from Drogheda right up to Newry, is a vital economic conduit on the island of Ireland. It serves a population catchment of 2.8 million, all within an hour’s drive. It’s really the heart of the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC). At Newry Chamber, our ambition is to take advantage of the economic opportunities that it presents and to collaborate with our bordering counties, including Dundalk and Drogheda, to unlock the enormous economic potential that exists along the corridor. Newry Chamber has long held a strong relationship with our cross-border chambers – I think we play to each other’s strengths. This year was the tenth year that we held our successful cross-border trade and economic conference in the Carrickdale Hotel, with over 350 delegates in attendance. We believe very firmly that there needs to be a strong crossborder approach to the economy in the eastern sea border of Ireland – we see Newry playing a key role in that growth.

WHAT WOULD THAT ROLE ENTAIL?

One of the key opportunities that came out of the Windsor Framework was around the dual market access piece. We’re trying to position Newry as the ideal location to maximise those dual market access opportunities and we’re seeing significant interest from companies operating in the warehousing and fulfilment logistics industries. Partnerships are also playing a role – we’re working with the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) and Southern Regional College to really take advantage of the opportunities that are out there. From a Northern Ireland perspective, I think there has been a bit of frustration that up until now those opportunities haven’t been explored. I think that it’s only through partnership that we can achieve our ambitions.

HOW IMPORTANT IS THE NEW WASTEWATER TREATMENT PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED EARLIER THIS YEAR?

We welcomed the news that Newry is to get a new wastewater pilot scheme that will release

WE

BELIEVE VERY FIRMLY THAT THERE NEEDS TO BE A STRONG CROSS-BORDER APPROACH TO THE ECONOMY IN THE EASTERN SEA BORDER OF IRELAND”

capacity over the next 5-10 years. It’s an investment by NI Water and the Department of up to £25 million and it’s urgently needed. That capacity has unlocked upwards of 29 major investments in the city that had a question mark over them due to wastewater restrictions. We have a real infrastructure deficit across the city and particularly across our wastewater treatment network. We need to find funding solutions for a major upgrade to the Newry Treatment Works but in the meantime, the new pilot programme should meet our needs for the next few years. Dundalk is also nearing capacity and needs a significant investment in wastewater treatment. Both chambers are taking the lead on this and looking to see if we can source funding from PEACEPLUS –an EU-funded cross-border program for Northern Ireland and the border counties. We’re working together to come up with a cross-border solution to the wastewater treatment issue. Without that investment, ambitions for the two regions will be somewhat tempered. So we welcome the pilot programme but this is only the tip of the iceberg – there’s huge potential for the region. Although Newry and Dundalk have flourished since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement, I think Newry never really fulfilled its potential. Our time is coming now.

WHAT’S THE ETHOS AT NEWRY CHAMBER?

We’ve got three core pillars. The first is continuing to develop Newry Chamber into one of the largest

business organisations in Northern Ireland. We now have upwards of 350 members and a social media following of 22,000. The second is around addressing the infrastructure deficit so we can unlock the Greater Newry Area’s development and investment potential. We believe that over the last 45 years, infrastructure in this area has been badly neglected. An infrastructure deficit remains from The Troubles – we feel that the UK government needs to address this. It’s not good enough to expect the Northern Ireland Executive, juggling a very difficult budget, to address that. The third is bringing businesses, education and training providers together to develop a localised strategy to tackle the region’s skills and recruitment challenges. To achieve these objectives, we’ll continue to work on a cross-border basis. We’re proud of the strong voice we have and it’s a voice that needs to be heard in Stormont, Westminster and in Dublin.

HOW IMPORTANT IS FDI TO THE REGION?

It’s very important. I was recently on a trip to Pittsburgh to attract more companies to set up in the area. Out of that trip, a decision was made to work on a cross-border basis to help companies develop synergies within this cross-border hinterland. That work will help international businesses maximise the advantages that the two regions bring; for example, they could benefit from

WHILE GLOBAL TRADING IS VERY TOUGH AT THE MOMENT, THIS LITTLE PART OF THE WORLD COULD POTENTIALLY GROW AND THRIVE. WE’RE READY TO USE OUR UNIQUE STRENGTHS TO BOOST EACH OTHER SO THAT WE CAN OFFER POTENTIAL INVESTORS AN ATTRACTIVE PROPOSITION”

the corporation tax incentives in the Republic while taking advantage of the dual market access incentives in Newry. These things take years to germinate, but we’re hoping that this will be the start of a healthy and strong relationship.

ARE YOU OPTIMISTIC THAT THE M1 CORRIDOR WILL BE THE CATALYST FOR GROWTH THAT YOU HOPE FOR?

Yes, I am. We see the M1 corridor as crucial for development. Equally, it’s crucial that the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor is further developed. We’re great cheerleaders for DBEC and there’s a lot of work going on around relationship building and seeing where the synergies lie. While global trading is very tough at the moment, this little part of the world could potentially grow and thrive. We’re ready to use our unique strengths to boost each other so that we can offer potential investors an attractive proposition.

Major new housing developments for Balbriggan and Skerries underway; landmark day as Carlingford Lough Greenway is completed; and Ireland’s first permanent Regional Enterprise Programme Manager announced by Meath County Council.

Limerick showcases investment vision in New York City; National Women’s Enterprise Day event announced for Cork and Kerry; and One Opera Square building is o icially launched in Limerick.

Sligo County Council drafts Biodiversity Action Plan 2025–2030; Roscommon communities to benefit from over €150k in funding under Local Enhancement Programme 2025; and major milestone reached in Sligo’s World Heritage bid.

Belfast City Council agrees to purchase Assembly Rooms as city centre regeneration continues; €2.66m secured for Donegal Retrofit Mission project; and Killybegs 2040 Regeneration Project is o icially opened.

Donegal County Council, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, is delighted to announce the completion of significant public realm enhancements and installation of public artwork in the tourism town of Bundoran. In 2020, Fáilte Ireland launched its Destination Towns Capital Investment Scheme with the aim of supporting local authorities nationwide to increase the attractiveness and tourism appeal of towns across Ireland. Under this scheme, Donegal County Council was awarded a grant of €500,000 to upgrade access routes within Bundoran, improve its streetscape, installation of public artwork, and install new wayfinding signage throughout the town. The project is a testament to the work of Paul Doherty Architects, Contractor W Doherty Construction Ltd, and artist Kevin Callaghan. The project was funded by Fáilte Ireland, Destination Towns Capital Investment Scheme and Donegal County Council.

Pictured: New public artwork in approach roundabouts to the vibrant tourism town of Bundoran.

[ FINGAL COUNTY ]

Major new housing developments for Balbriggan and Skerries underway

[ COUNTY LOUTH ]

Fingal County Council has welcomed the commencement of two new affordable and social housing developments which, when completed, will deliver in excess of 1,100 homes to the Fingal area.

The official sod-turning ceremonies, attended by representatives of Fingal County Council, the Land Development Agency, Lydon, Ballymore, and the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, marked a major milestone in the delivery of affordable homes in Fingal.

Hampton Demesne, formerly known as Castlelands, will comprise a total of 817 homes, including 377 houses and 440 apartments in Balbriggan, and will be constructed in partnership with Ballymore. The development will include a childcare facility, playground,

café and recreational amenities for children of all age groups.

Priory Fields, formerly Hacketstown, will deliver 345 homes, including 39 houses and 306 apartments and duplexes in Skerries. These will be broken down into 101 social houses, 117 cost rental homes, and 127 affordable purchase homes. The proposed lowrise development will include a crèche, community space and pedestrian and cycle routes.

Speaking at the sod turning, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, said: “I’m really pleased to see these two major projects for 1,162 new homes underway. The homes will provide a great opportunity for families to make their home within the wonderful communities of Balbriggan and Skerries. Community infrastructure is a key part of these developments and the €10m Balbriggan Swimming Pool Project in Balbriggan will complement these new homes.”

Landmark day as Carlingford Lough Greenway is completed

Louth County Council, in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council and East Border Region, is proud to announce the completion of the Carlingford Lough Greenway, a transformative cross-border active travel route connecting Newry in County Down to Carlingford in County Louth.

The Carlingford Lough Greenway is a project supported by the European Union’s INTERREG VA Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). This newly completed 11.4km section, which was officially celebrated on Friday, September 12, forms part of a wider 20km greenway stretching from Newry City to Carlingford, offering a world-class facility for commuters, recreational users, and tourists alike.

The route links with the existing Newry–Portadown Cycleway and Towpath, creating a continuous 52km off-road corridor along the east coast of Ireland. This enables walkers and cyclists to travel off-road between Belfast and Dublin via Sustrans Route 9, also known as the Great Eastern

Greenway. The Carlingford Lough Greenway provides a scenic, safe, and sustainable travel option, enhancing connectivity between communities on both sides of the border.

Once the Narrow Water Bridge is completed, it will further strengthen cross-border links, offering direct access from County Louth into the wider County Down area.

Louth County Council, in partnership with Newry Mourne and Down Council

and East Border Region, secured funding of €5.14m from the EU’s INTERREG VA Programme managed by the SEUPB to deliver the Carlingford Lough Cross Border Greenway. Match-funding for the project under the INTERREG VA Programme has been provided by the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland and the Department of Transport in Ireland.

[ COUNTY MEATH ]

Meath County Council and An Garda Síochána held a Road Safety Awareness Day at Emerald Park, Kilbrew, Co Meath in August, supported by the Road Safety Authority and staff and management of Emerald Park, with a performance by the Garda Band. “With so many people heading through the doors of Emerald Park every day, it really was the perfect place to deliver these important, life-saving messages to as many people as possible,” says Meath County Council Road Safety Officer Audrey Norris.

Ireland’s first permanent Regional Enterprise Programme Manager announced by Meath County Council

Meath County Council has announced the appointment of Michelle Goodwin as the first permanent Regional Enterprise Programme Manager (REP) in the country for the Mid East region. This landmark appointment, with Meath County Council hosting the role, signifies a major step forward in delivering strategic enterprise initiatives across Meath, Wicklow and Kildare. Michelle will work directly with Owen Brennan, Executive Chairman of Devenish and Chair of the Regional Steering Committee to drive the Department of Enterprise Tourism and Employment (DETE) initiative. Michelle, who has extensive experience in enterprise and economic development and strategic programme management, will be responsible for the development, establishment and

servicing of appropriate structures to support and facilitate enterprise and economic development and growth throughout the region.

The REP Programme Manager will engage with senior level stakeholders including the DETE, Local Authorities, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, higher education institutions, education and training boards, tourism agencies, industry leaders, Chambers of Commerce and the broader business community to ensure a cohesive approach to the plan’s objectives.

A key aspect of Michelle’s role will involve working closely with a Regional Skills Forum Manager to ensure an integrated approach to skills development across various industries in the region supporting job creation and ensuring clear career pathways.

2,942 annual housing target for Meath

The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage published a National Planning Framework implementation setting out new housing growth requirement guidelines for planning authorities. Meath County Council has been given a target of 2,942 new houses annually from 2025 to 2034, and 1,362 annually from 2035 to 2040.

“This region holds immense potential, and I look forward to working with all our partners going forward to maximise new opportunities, to collaborate and build a resilient and scaling enterprise environment in the Mid East,” says Michelle Goodwin.

Work on the Regional Plan will commence shortly with an expected launch in Q1 2026.

Limerick showcases investment vision in New York City

Limerick City and County Council unveiled its newlook Invest in Limerick promotional video at a high-profile launch event in New York City, marking a major milestone in its international investment strategy.

The event, hosted by Mayor of Limerick John Moran, in collaboration with the Irish Centre and attended by business leaders, diaspora investors, and public officials, showcased Limerick’s dynamic economic offering, its Atlantic edge, and European embrace. The new promotional video, developed in partnership with stakeholders across the business sector, was premiered to an enthusiastic audience.

The launch formed part of a wider itinerary for the Limerick delegation in New York, which included a meeting with the Executive Director of the Irish Centre, George Heslin, a Friends of Limerick Business Networking Lunch, a meeting with the New York State Comptroller, Thomas DiNapoli, and attendance at the Munster Rugby Fundraising Dinner.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of Limerick, John Moran said, “This is about telling Limerick’s story to the world, a story of innovation, resilience, and ambition. The new Invest in Limerick video captures the energy of a city that’s growing, evolving, and ready to welcome global investment. We are proud to bring this message to New York, a city built by Irish hands,

and, of course, the city where I began my career, and invite the next generation of investors to be part of Limerick’s future.”

The Invest in Limerick video highlights the key reasons to invest in the city, including its strategic location, innovation ecosystem, talent pipeline, and commitment to sustainability. It also showcases success stories from global companies that have chosen Limerick as a base for growth.

Cork County Council officially opened extensions to two segregated pedestrian and cycle routes in West Cork. The ribbons were cut on the walkways in Clonakilty and Bandon by the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley; Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy and Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien; and Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell. In Clonakilty, the N71 Gallanes Active Travel project adds to the existing Joe Walsh Walkway, which first opened on the outskirts of Clonakilty in 2019. The route has been extended through the West Cork Technology Club and connects the town with Clonakilty Rugby Club. The completed works include an additional 1km path, new car park, picnic tables, lighting and a safe road crossing. Bandon’s Clare O’Leary Walkway has been upgraded and extended by 1km connecting it to Bandon town. The 3-metre-wide off-road path is now 2.7km in length and includes a new amenity space with picnic tables and seating.

Local Enhancement Programme funding approved for Co Kerry projects

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer announced the successful projects under the Local Enhancement Programme 2025. The funding will provide supports to local community groups and organisations. Just over €200,456 has been approved to support 201 projects in Co Kerry.

Pictured is Mayor of Limerick, John Moran (centre) with Thomas DiNapoli, NYS Comptroller (left) and businessman Michael Benn.

One Opera Square building officially launched in Limerick

Anew landmark building was launched in September in Limerick City, marking the first completed project in the long-awaited €80m Opera Square development.

Barry O’Sullivan, Chair of the 50:50, €80m Treaty Stone Partnership joint venture between the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) and Limerick Twenty Thirty DAC, said that the €80m development, delivered on budget, demonstrates what can be achieved when local ambition is matched with the scale and strength of investment vehicles such as ISIF.

The commitment by ISIF is its biggest to date under its €500m regional cityspecific investment programme launched

[ CO CORK AND CO KERRY ]

three years ago to enhance the economic potential of Cork, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick and Waterford and a cornerstone of ISIF’s investment strategy. ISIF also recently announced an additional €500m commitment to this investment programme, bringing total funding for regional cities to

€1bn. For Limerick Twenty Thirty, which was established almost a decade ago to develop key strategic sites in Limerick as catalysts for economic growth, this is the completion of its first development in the transformational 3.7-acre Opera Square project in Limerick city centre.

National Women’s Enterprise Day event announced for Cork and Kerry

Female entrepreneurs and businesswomen from across Cork and Kerry are encouraged to register for this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day. The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) initiative for the South West region will be hosted by LEOs Cork and Kerry on Thursday, October 16 in the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Little Island, Cork. The event is designed and led by women to promote and encourage female entrepreneurship.

National Women’s Enterprise Day shines the spotlight on businesswomen and encourages the prospect of entrepreneurship to women who may not have considered it before, highlighting the supports available. The event also provides valuable networking opportunities to connect with industry experts together while acknowledging the achievements of women in enterprise.

The theme of this year’s event, Making it Happen, will encourage businesswomen to take that next step, whether that be to act on an idea, grow their business or take steps to change or innovate in their business. The event will outline the key supports that are available from financial and consultancy to training and mentoring to help them along the way from starting out right through to bringing a business to global markets.

Broadcaster and podcast host Síle Seoige will be the day’s MC, network facilitator and interviewer. The members of the interactive panel discussion of “Leading Lights” representing LEOs Cork and Kerry are Marie Toft, Emotionise AI, who is also the event’s regional ambassador; Norma Kelly, Praline Pastry & Chocolate Shop; Claire Keane, Second Street Bakeshop; and Yasmina Renaudin, RedaCare. The afternoon will feature a “fireside chat” with special guest Noella Gabriel, Global President and Co-founder of Luxury Skincare Brand, ELEMIS.

[ COUNTY SLIGO ]

Sligo County Council drafts Biodiversity Action Plan 2025–2030

Sligo County Council is developing a new Biodiversity Action Plan to guide the protection and conservation of the county’s biodiversity. The draft plan outlines an ambitious five-year framework to protect, restore, and enhance the county’s rich and diverse natural environment.

The draft plan highlights the variety of species and habitats found across Co Sligo – from sand dunes to salt marshes to the curlew and common dolphin. However, this rich natural heritage is under increasing pressure from threats such as habitat loss, invasive species, pollution and environmental degradation.

To address these challenges, the plan proposes 52 targeted actions organised under five strategic themes: knowing –strengthening the scientific and local understanding of biodiversity through research, monitoring, and community-led surveys; acting – implementing practical conservation measures to restore habitats, improve water quality, and enhance green infrastructure; promoting – fostering a deeper public appreciation of biodiversity through education, school programmes, and outreach events; practising –integrating biodiversity into everyday decision-making within the council through policy development and staff training; partnerships

Roscommon communities to benefit from over €150,000 in LEP funding

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer TD, have announced funding allocations under the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2025, with Co Roscommon set to receive a total of €151,686 to support 104 local community groups across the county. The allocation comprises €129,710 in capital funding and €21,976 in operational cost support, aimed at enhancing local facilities, services, and supports provided by voluntary and community organisations.

Launched in November 2024 with a national budget of €7m, the LEP 2025 is designed to provide small-scale capital and current funding to thousands of local groups nationwide, particularly those serving disadvantaged or rural areas. Nearly 4,500 community organisations across Ireland will benefit from this initiative, supporting over 5,400 individual projects.

– building strong collaborations with state agencies, NGOs, farmers, landowners, and local communities to deliver shared goals.

This draft Biodiversity Action Plan has been developed through extensive collaboration between Sligo County Council and the Sligo Biodiversity Working Group. Established in 2024, the Sligo Biodiversity Working Group brings together representatives from local government, state agencies, farming organisations, landowners, the education sector, and the community and voluntary sector. The plan also reflects input from public consultation as well as engagement with organisations working in biodiversity, conservation, and land management.

The draft plan builds on the previous Biodiversity Action Plan and is closely aligned with the National Biodiversity Action Plan 2024–2030.

Sligo County Council has announced that the construction contract for the new link road connecting Mail Coach Road to Burton Street has been awarded to Harrington Concrete and Quarries in Kilkelly, Co Mayo. Substantial completion is expected by early summer 2026. The project includes a comprehensive upgrade of the surrounding road network and pedestrian infrastructure. These enhancements will create a safer, more efficient and welcoming environment for active travel users, including cyclists and pedestrians. The project will also integrate with future active travel schemes planned for Pearse Road and Temple Street, contributing to a more connected and sustainable urban transport network. The new infrastructure will visually enhance the public realm, improving the overall appearance and accessibility of this key area of Sligo town. Back row, from left: Paul Hardiman, Sligo County Council (SCC); Kieran O’Gorman, A/Director of Services, SCC; Colin Wilson, O’Connor Sutton Cronin Consulting Engineers; Cllr Declan Bree; Pat English and Declan O’Connor, Harrington Concrete and Quarries; and Michael Ryan, SCC. Front row, from left: Francis Harrington, Harrington Concrete and Quarries; Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council Cllr Dónal Gilroy; and Martin Lydon, Chief Executive, SCC.

Sligo’s UNESCO World Heritage bid underway

Sligo’s campaign to secure UNESCO World Heritage Site status for The Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo has reached a key milestone, with a first formal nomination team meeting, which took place in July. Chaired by Martin Lydon, Chief Executive of Sligo County Council, the nomination team convened to progress Ireland’s bid to inscribe “The Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo” on the World Heritage list.

Following a site visit to Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, the first official nomination team meeting was held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Rosses Point, Sligo. The meeting brought together a

[ COUNTY MAYO ]

Dormant Accounts

Funding of €4.17m has been announced by Ministers and Sport Ireland for sports and community initiatives for 2025. In Mayo, the allocation included €20,000 towards phase5 of the Ballina Community Sports Hub and €54,500 to phase 1 of a new Community Sports Hub in Ballycroy; €20,000 was allocated to volunteer supports with the remaining €30,000 for equality, diversity and inclusion initiatives.

cross-sectoral team of national and local stakeholders, including representation from the National Monuments Service, the Office of Public Works, Sligo County Council, Coillte, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Sligo Leader, Fáilte Ireland, Sligo Neolithic Landscapes group and the Farming Pillar.

The nomination team will guide the preparation of a nomination dossier and management plan for The Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo. The bid aims to achieve global recognition for one of Europe’s most significant prehistoric landscapes.

The World Heritage bid is led by Sligo County Council in partnership with the National Monuments Service (Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage) and the Office of Public Works, and a Memorandum of Understanding to progress the World Heritage bid has been signed by the parties. Sligo County Council will act as lead proponent for the World Heritage bid.

Dating back over 5,000 years, The Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo includes renowned sites such as Carrowmore, Carrowkeel, and Knocknarea. It is a landscape of extraordinary international importance, and the nomination process offers an opportunity not just to secure UNESCO status, but to deepen our understanding and protection of these unique prehistoric sites, in partnership with local communities.

Sod turned on new water sports facilities in Keel and Carrowmore

The sod was officially turned on July 24 on the new €1.2m water sports facilities in Keel, Achill and Carrowmore, Louisburgh in Mayo by Minister of State for Small Business and Retail & Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD.

These facilities, which have been developed by Mayo County Council in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, will provide best-in-class outdoor tourism facilities to enhance the visitor experience and serve as a central hub for outdoor activities in both of the stunning locations on the Wild Atlantic Way.

The new facilities in Keel and Carrowmore will help extend the outdoor tourism season by providing year-round hot showers, changing area, toilets, secure storage, and induction space at both beaches. Accessibility and sustainability will be key focus points for these projects, ensuring full wheelchair access and the installation of solar heating panels. It will also feature changing facilities along with accessible toilets.

After breaking ground to mark the beginning of the construction phase of the project, Minister of State, Alan Dillon TD said, “These projects represent a significant investment in Mayo’s tourism infrastructure and a strong commitment to sustainable, inclusive outdoor recreation. By enhancing the visitor experience and supporting local communities, we are ensuring that Mayo continues to thrive as a premier destination along the Wild Atlantic Way.”

Head of Activities at Fáilte Ireland, Fiona Monaghan said: “Carrowmore and Keel are important destinations on the Wild Atlantic Way, with so much potential to attract both international and domestic visitors. These facilities in Keel and Carrowmore are the seventh and eighth water sports activity facilities to begin construction under this scheme, with a total of 19 to be developed across 13 counties.”

Belfast City Council agrees to purchase Assembly Rooms as city centre regeneration continues

Belfast City Council has agreed to purchase the historic Assembly Rooms and associated adjoining lands and buildings from Castlebrooke Investments, as part of its continued focus to drive forward the regeneration of the city centre.

Vacant since 2000, Assembly Rooms is a Grade B1 listed heritage building on the corner of North Street and Waring Street which dates to 1769 and is one of Belfast’s most prominent and architecturally important public buildings. It’s where plans to establish a slave trading company were rejected in 1786, the famous Belfast Harp Festival was held in 1792, and where Henry Joy McCracken was sentenced to death in 1798.

In addition to the Assembly Rooms, adjoining lands and buildings to be purchased by the council include part of the Donegall Street car park, 5-9 North Street (former Laffin Travel building) and Braddell’s Building, a Grade B1 listed building at 11 North Street.

“Assembly Buildings is a significant acquisition for the council. It’s going to secure the future of a truly historic Belfast building, breathe new life and vibrancy into the Cathedral Quarter, and boost civic pride,” says Chair of Belfast City Council’s Strategic Policy and Resources Committee, Cllr Natasha Brennan. “Along with our work on the nearby Belfast Stories – which will be a visitor attraction, public space and creative hub, integrating the restoration of the unique 1930s Art Deco former Bank of Ireland building when it opens in 2030 – we’re investing in parts of our city centre which have great historic character to ensure that these wonderful heritage assets are given life, purpose and relevance for generations to come. We’re continuing to focus on revitalising and enhancing our city centre because it’s the beating heart of Belfast.”

The Buncrana Night-Time Economy Action Plan 2025–2026 was officially launched at Buncrana Library, marking a major milestone in enhancing Buncrana’s after-dark culture, community, and economy. Developed by Donegal County Council in line with the national Night-Time Economy Taskforce Report, the Action Plan sets out a framework across five key pillars: Governance and Sustainability, Transport and Access, Placemaking and Public Realm, Safety and Security, and Activation and Engagement. The plan aims to strengthen local business, improve safety, enhance public spaces, and expand cultural and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors after 6pm. “Buncrana is one of only nine pilot towns and cities across the country leading this transformation,” says Minister of State Charlie McConalogue TD. Pictured from left: Sophie Gallagher, Buncrana Night-Time Economy Advisor, Donegal County Council; Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister of State at the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media; and Edel Doran, Sligo Night-Time Economy Advisor. Photo: Brendan @ Inishowen Computers.

€2.66M

secured for Donegal Retrofit Mission project

Donegal County Council and the North West Energy Agency (NWEA) are delighted to secure €2.66m Project Development Services financing through the ELENA Facility under the InvestEU Advisory Hub for the Donegal Retrofit Mission project, which is set to boost the ongoing establishment of an energy agency for the North West. The NWEA was established by the council to support homeowners, businesses and communities to implement building energy efficiency improvements throughout Donegal.

Killybegs 2040 Regeneration Project officially opened

On Friday, June 27, Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, together with Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Sport and Postal Policy, officially opened the Killybegs 2040 Regeneration Project, which includes the regeneration of the existing derelict Island House property located at Shore Road, Killybegs to provide a tourist information and reception centre, public conveniences and office space; and a revitalised public realm located at the Diamond, Main Street and Shore Road areas of Killybegs.

The scheme is jointly funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) and Donegal County Council.

“Working on this project from an idea to its inception has been a long road but a fruitful one,” says Cllr Niamh Kennedy, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council.

“I am particularly proud of this project in my home town, and this building and town centre is a huge investment in our future, a town centre that any town in the country would be proud of.”

“With the support of over €4m from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, this transformative project has

brought the Island House building and Diamond civic space in Killybegs back into active use, becoming a new economic and social focal point for the town,” says Minister McConalogue. The scheme was designed by McCabe Architects, Donegal Town and constructed by McDermott & Trearty Construction Ltd, Letterkenny.

Members of the North West Regional Development Group (NWRDG), a partnership of Donegal County Council (DCC) and Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC), met with Northern Ireland’s Department for Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins in relation to rail connectivity to the North West. NWRDG members highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration at a national and regional level to ensure that the recommendations of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review to connect both Letterkenny and Derry to the existing rail network at Portadown were delivered. The group welcomed the Minister’s announcement to ringfence £1m in 2025–26 for progressing proposals. The group also made the case for a review of rail links along the Atlantic Economic Corridor from Derry to Letterkenny, Sligo, Galway, Limerick and Cork. From left: Garry Martin, Director for Economic Development, Information Systems and Emergency Services, DCC; Paul Canning, Cathaoirleach, DCC; Karen Phillips, Director of Environment and Regeneration, DCSDC; Cllr Emma McGinley, DCSDC; Minister Liz Kimmins; Cllr Sandra Duffy, DCSDC; and Alderman Derek Hussey.

€383,173 in Outdoor Recreation Funds announced for Co Cavan [ COUNTY CAVAN ]

Almost €400,000 in funding has been secured for Co Cavan under the Outdoor Recreation Scheme, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD has announced. Together, Cavan County Council and Cavan County Local Development have secured funding of €387,173 towards improving recreational facilities such as walking trails, cycleways, waterbased amenities and mountain access routes in Co Cavan.

As the evenings grow longer, curl up with our choice of great reads this autumn

A QUARTER DEAD AND HALF ALIVE

by Steve Denehan

A Quarter Dead and Half Alive is a beautifully crafted, wide-ranging collection that lingers on the intersection of humanity and the environment. Foregrounding ageing parents and new family members arriving, and zooming out to take in the beauty of the natural world, this is a wildly relatable collection, shot through with humour – a companion in all life has in store. A prolific and widely published Irish poet, Steve’s seventh collection builds on the strength of his previous works, in which everyday experiences and the profound sit side by side with the joys of the creative arts and the darker side to life on Planet Earth.

NINETY-NINE WORDS FOR RAIN (AND ONE FOR SUN)

by Manchán Magan

Irish writer Manchán Magan’s latest book was published just before his untimely passing at the age of 55. Ninety-Nine Words for Rain (and One for Sun) explores the richness of the Irish language and the detailed weather observation skills of the past, focusing on the many Irish words for rain. Meet the néaladóirì (cloud-watchers) and réadóirì (stargazers) from our past who, without the luxury of Met Éireann at their disposal, observed birds, trees, animals as well as markers on land and sea for signs of weather change. Evoking countless sodden, shivery experiences on this Atlantic-swept island of ours, this beautifully illustrated gift book uses Irish words to grasp an almost-lost world through the wisdom stored in the Irish language.

JIBRIN (pronounced Jib-REEN), the latest release from Blasta Books, is the first cookbook by Izzeddeen Alkarajeh and Eman Aburabi. The couple run the award-winning Palestinian Izz Café in Cork city and their new book includes recipes that will take the reader on a culinary journey of their homeland. You’ll learn how to load your table with delicious mezze dishes of Ful mudammas (fava bean dip), makdous (stuffed pickled aubergines) and plate up bowls of roasted Freekeh topped with lamb in a spiced broth. Just like guests leaving Izz Café, JIBRIN will make sure you, your family and friends always leave the table with full hearts and even fuller stomachs.

BIOGRAPHY

Young

She Died Young is the literary work of an astonishing mind in which intellect, madness, art and raw honesty unite. It is as far from a ‘celebrity memoir’ as you can get. With

humour, honesty and a poetic sensibility, Brenda Fricker traces a life-journey in which her resilience and inner strength shine brightly. She talks frankly of her complicated adult relationships and describes the difficulty of surviving sexual violence and living with mental illness. Her work in films like The Field, Swann, The Swallow, Home Alone 2 and My Left Foot is widely acclaimed and her character, Megan, in TV series Casualty, was a huge success. She is the first Irish actress to win an Oscar.

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