Building a brighter future was the resounding message at the Waterford Chamber Annual Dinner on Friday night last in the Tower Hotel.
Two of Waterford’s most successful sons, Irish Ambassador of the US Dan Mulhall and John Treacy, CEO Sport Ireland, took to the podium in front of business leaders at the black tie event which was sponsored by Manguard Plus.
“I am delighted to be in Waterford for this year’s Chamber dinner. These annual gatherings represent an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of Waterford’s business community and to look at the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead”, said Ambassador Mulhall.
“As Ambassador to the United States, I am optimistic about opportunities that exist for our companies to expand their footprint in the US market and about our capacity to continue to attract significant, high-quality investment from the United States. This will require a concerted effort on the part of our business community, supported by Government and our State Agencies with which I work very closely in promoting Ireland in the USA.”
Opening the event, Mayor of the City & County of Waterford, Cllr John Pratt said: “We are all here because we have all chosen to invest in Waterford. We are building a vibrant and sustainable place, strongly leading the South East. We in Waterford are positioned to lead in terms of business development, economic growth and educational excellence. We have set an optimistic and ambitious vision for the future of Waterford. Our city and county welcomes all opportunities as we build a city where businesses can grow and develop and communities flourish.”
Reiterating the message, Waterford Chamber President Jonathan Earl said: “While Waterford Chamber is the voice of business, we all have a voice and a responsibility for what we say. We absolutely should and we are asking for equity, for something better.
“The Chamber has found its voice, one of many voices representing the diversity within Waterford, most speaking a consistent and confident message. But positivity is not enough, we need the kind of confidence that others are jealous of, that inspires others to choose Waterford.”
Taking to the podium, Sport Ireland CEO John Treacy said: “I love my county”. He went on to regale the audience with tales of his sporting glory, while also saying the Olympics “are looking good for Ireland”.
Concluding his address, John Treacy told the business community to “be ambitious, reach for the stars because Waterford is a fabulous city and a fabulous county.”
The Annual Dinner was sponsored by Manguard Plus and the drinks reception was sponsored by McDonald Dwyer Reddy & Byrne Insurances.
