Karen Burns, General Manager at Sun Life Financial, entertained and inspired at Waterford Chamber’s Inspiring Women in Business lunch at the magnificent One the Waterfront in Tramore.

Sponsored by Waterford Local Enterprise Office, the event saw over 100 businesswomen enjoy a mulled cider reception with thanks to Legacy Irish Cider and a sumptuous meal.

Taking to the podium after the meal, Karen Burns spoke on her path to success, the challenges of work/life balance and the importance of wearing the right shoes, which certainly resonated with all the stylish ladies in attendance.

The festive afternoon concluded Waterford Chamber’s calendar of events for 2019, after what Deputy President Danette Connolly described on the day as “one of the busiest and most successful yet”. Ten lucky ladies went home having won Waterford Gift Vouchers, while the rest left inspired and satisfied after a wonderful afternoon.

Waterford Chamber’s festive season officially kicked off at our November Business After Hours at Musgrave Marketplace, with a very special visitor.

Santa arrived in full cheer to meet with members and their children for what was a fun-filled night, with delicious food and drinks thanks to exhibitors and an on-site chef.

Speaking at the event, Jonathan Earl, Waterford Chamber President said: “Just looking around the store here, you can’t help but getting into the festive spirit. Christmas is such a special time in Waterford, particularly with Winterval, but there are so many other offerings as well.

“And then of course we have the Waterford Gift Vouchers. We are asking all members to consider giving the gift of choice this Christmas. You can be guaranteed by giving a Waterford Gift Voucher, the money will be spent locally. They are a great gift idea, but also a fantastic way to reward staff and of course the offer a tax emption, which is no bad thing!

“Waterford Chamber are proud to be pushing a Shop Local campaign this Christmas, so it is fitting that we host our last business after hours here in one of Waterford’s largest retail outlets. Musgrave Marketplace has always been a great supporter of the Chamber and we wish Patricia and the team continued success.”

Patricia Hattersley, General Manager of Musgrave Marketplace spoke of her admiration for Waterford Chamber the business community in Waterford, which she has been getting to know since her appointment earlier this year. She also encouraged guests to take time to look around the store and showcased the wide range of hampers available for the Christmas period.

The evening concluded in great spirits as guests engaged in a hamper making shopping dash around the store, much to the delight of the children and competitive parents!

Medite SmartPly took home the magnificent House of Waterford Crystal trophy at the Waterford Chamber Annual Golf Classic, in association with EY.

Players John Browne, Aidan Tracey and Conor Bohan (John O'Sullivan not pictured) were the winning team, pictured here with Ronan Clinton, EY; Tom Walsh, House of Waterford Crystal; Jonathan Earl, Waterford Chamber President and Brian Devereux EY.

In second place was the Faithlegg team with Liam Moran, Derry Kiely, Michael Coleman and Rory Milne were second, while EY Team B of Karl O'Donnell, Pat O'Brien, Michael Queally, Pat Crowley were third.

“Together we are better” was the powerful message delivered by The Irish Times Editor Paul O’Neill, at the annual Waterford Chamber President’s Lunch on Friday (June 21st) at the Majestic Hotel.

Paul orated an astounding insight into his career as a journalist, beginning in the Waterford News & Star over three decades ago, moving to London and covering what are now significant moments in history, including the release of the Guildford Four and IRA bombings, to now being at the pinnacle of his career as Editor of Ireland’s most prominent newspaper.

The intervening years have brought many changes to the media industry as Paul outlined. “We have witnessed a revolution – an information revolution – but it has crept up on us. Our desktop computer and an internet connection gave us limitless information in an instant. Our phones made that information mobile – always on, always with us, 24-7.”

However, to succeed, he says, you have to embrace that change. “You can’t hold back the tide. But you can try to harness it. A turning point for The Irish Times was when we stopped seeing digital as a threat and embraced it as an opportunity. That means that as far I and my colleagues are concerned, a reader is a reader. It’s not for me to decide how you interact with us. My task is to ensure that we meet your needs however you choose to do so. And that has meant huge change.”

Paul also spoke of the importance of local media. “For all this talk of change, however, my core message to you is that what’s critical is the survival of good independent journalism. For all the imperfections of the media – including newspapers – we shine a light into areas where many would prefer we didn’t.

“That applies as much to the News & Star, the Munster Express and WLR in Waterford as it does to The Irish Times from a national perspective. If Darren Skelton hadn’t helped to expose the shortcomings in mortuary services at Ardkeen, who else would?

“In focusing public attention on very different issues like these – poor public services, the workings of the political system and enduring societal inequalities – the media, local, national – but most of all indigenous – helps to inform and enrich our communities. I believe we can and do make a difference.”

Addressing guests, Waterford Chamber President Jonathan Earl emphasised the importance of finding our own confidence.

“The next few years will be such an exciting time for Waterford, there are so many projects on the cusp of realisation. Thankfully some of these are coming to fruition already, the Waterford Airport funding and Waterford Port’s new Rotterdam service are just two examples of a new confidence in the region.

“There seems to be a shift from Waterford looking for a hand-out to Waterford seeking investment partners. Like the Irish Times stopped seeing digital as a threat and evolved, Waterford needs to stop focusing on what other regions or cities are getting and focus on ourselves, our strengths and our potential.”

The event was sponsored by AIB Bank, and Marian Keane, Head of Homes with AIB Waterford and Kilkenny said, “For all of us in AIB, our purpose is to back our customers to achieve their dreams and ambitions. Belief turns houses into homes and we back belief with a fair mortgage. The planned developments for Waterford herald an exciting new era for Waterford and we very much look forward to continuing to support our community in achieving these dreams and ambitions.”

Saying there was an optimistic horizon for Waterford, Marian said, “Nationally we are seeing strong growth in mortgages with projections of €10bn for this year, up from €8.7bn in 2018. Mortgage approvals are up strongly. This year in Waterford alone we have had €43 million in applications with €42m million in current approvals for customers in Waterford, which is an uplift of 24% on 2018. We have a long association with Waterford and are proud to support the property market in the South East for which we see potential for further strong growth.”

A large crowd gathered at Murphy Larkin Timber Products in Rivertown Business Park, Tramore, as the hosts and Chia Bia were celebrating 10 years in business at the May Waterford Chamber Business After Hours.

As guests networked among the magnificent displays in the showroom, they had the opportunity to learn more about both company’s products.

Speaking at the event, Waterford Chamber President Kathryn Kiely congratulated both businesses on reaching the 10-year milestone and commended them on their bravery in opening their businesses at the height of the recession.

“When we look around this magnificent showroom, it’s not hard to see how Murphy Larkin have become so successful, both here and in Clonmel. They have all the values a small local business should have – exceptional customer service, a passion for what they do and the highest standards in terms of delivery and promotion.

“Chia Bia, one of Waterford’s greatest success stories trading internationally and growing in terms of operation year on year and we look forward to following the Chia Bia story for many years to come.”

Chia Bia owner Barrie Rogers, spoke of his passion for Tramore and the work/life balance it presents, while Ger Murphy told guests how their business grew from one small unit to now having two large premises in Tramore and another showroom in Clonmel.

The event concluded with Lynda Lawton, Operations Officers at Waterford Chamber giving an update on the work Chamber is doing in Tramore, including renovating the tourist office, working with An Garda Siochana on a Business Watch initiative, supporting Tidy Towns and growing the Waterford Gift Voucher Scheme.

The next Waterford Chamber event in Tramore is the President’s Lunch on Friday, June 21st in the Majestic Hotel with guest speaker and Waterford native Paul O’Neill, Editor of the Irish Times. For tickets, please go to www.waterfordchamber.ie/events or contact Lynda Lawton on 051 311130.

Waterford’s historic Theatre Royal and one of Waterford’s newest eateries Everett’s Restaurant joined forces for the first Waterford Chamber Business After Hours of the year.

Speaking on behalf of the Theatre Royal, Manager Mary Boland launched the Spring Programme, while Keith Noonan from Everett’s explained the great fit of the pre theatre menu available at their High Street venue.

As guests enjoyed a selection of delicious hors d'oeuvres and drinks in the new Stage Door Bar at the Theatre, Chamber President Kathryn Kiely said: “Tonight we will also get a preview of what lies in store for the season ahead and in a city steeped in culture, with a long standing reputation for supporting the arts, and I’m sure there will be something for everybody, be it music, comedy or musical theatre.

“We are also delighted to be joined by Peter and Keith from Everett’s Restaurant and thank you for the beautiful food. It has been an exciting few weeks for them as they have been shortlisted for a Waterford Business Award and also been named in the McKenna Guides top 100 restaurants in Ireland. So can we extend a massive congratulations to you and your team – what an outstanding achievement in your first year in business.

“We are delighted to see two businesses coming together to host an event like this – both of whom compliment each other in creating a lovey night out. The coming together of businesses and the desire to work together is what will ensure the future development of our city. As an organisation, we are working with various stakeholders on your behalf. By keeping the lines of communication firmly open and with ongoing engagement on the key issues, we can and will maximise the potential of Waterford as the Capital City of the region.”

Exuding positivity and a passion for Waterford, entrepreneur Louise Grubb entertained and inspired a capacity audience at Waterford Castle for the sixth annual Waterford Chamber Inspiring Women in Business Lunch, sponsored by Waterford Local Enterprise Office. A proud Waterford woman, Louise is the CEO and Founder of Q1 Scientific and prior to that founder and Managing Director of Nutri Science Ltd. Never one to rest on her laurels, she has recently launched a new company, TriviumVet.

Speaking at the lunch, Louise said: “I am inspired by the incredible women in attendance today and the network that we have grown in Waterford to support business in general and women in particular. In order to achieve goals you need inspiration but behind the inspiration is the need for support, networks and a lot of hard work. Today is a testament to the support and networks that are available and I would encourage all participants and the wider business community of Waterford to reach out and take advantage of the help on offer.”

Opening the event Waterford Chamber President Kathryn Kiely thanked Louise and the guests for their continued support of the organisation, while also recognising the important support Waterford Local Enterprise Office offers female entrepreneurs.

“Today is all about celebrating our successes and taking the time to learn from our peers, be inspired by each other and celebrate what we have achieved.

“While we often speak of a lack of balance in representation at a Government or Executive level, it is worth noting the powerful impact women are having in our society. Look at Vicky Phelan – a brave, courageous and utterly inspiring woman who is challenging authority and whose efforts will have a lasting and positive impact on all our lives.

“Being brave, passionate and determined are key factors in achieving success – something our guest speaker Louise Grubb has in spades.”

Speaking on behalf of Waterford Local Enterprise Office, Jacqui Gaule said: “Female entrepreneurship is an important part of our remit at Waterford Local Enterprise Office and Louise is a shining example of how hard work and determination can lead to success.

“We are delighted to partner with Waterford Chamber on this important event and will also continue to lend our support to the many amazing women in business in Waterford as we lead the way as the Capital of the South East region.”

Think Global, Act Local was the resounding message at the Waterford Chamber Annual Dinner on Friday night last as An Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney topped the bill of a stellar line-up of speakers.

Speaking at the event, keynote speaker An Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney addressed guests saying: “Think Global, Act Local” - is your clarion call out of tonight’s event.

“It’s an attitude I like, and one that I think defines the formula that is present whenever we get something just right in Ireland. From our tourist towns to the IDA trying to attract the biggest firms in the world - “Think Global, Act Local” - is present in the successes we see - We have all the ambition of a Global island married with all the security and heart of a local community.”

He added: “Project Ireland 2040 recognises that Waterford is the principal urban centre in the South East and is unique in having a network of large and strong regional urban centres in close proximity within each of the surrounding counties. From a national perspective, a stronger Waterford City will lead the development of the wider South East.

“The key challenge for Waterford is to build scale and enhance urban quality through employment led growth.”

Addressing Brexit, the Minister said “it is the biggest danger facing our country and society and it is not of our making”.

“EU Chief negotiator Michel Barnier fully understands our unique concerns and supports our key priorities, particularly those around the importance of protecting the Good Friday Agreement. Mr. Barnier has our complete confidence in his ongoing negotiations on the EU’s behalf.

“The Irish Government has no hidden agenda regarding Northern Ireland. We didn’t ask for Brexit and we didn’t want it, and questions around the border only arise because of Brexit.

“We have been very clear on the status of Northern Ireland throughout the Brexit process. The Good Friday Agreement represents the fundamental interests of everyone on this island and the Irish Government is a co-guarantor of that Agreement. We will never do anything that departs from it, and this is why we believe it is so important to avoid the return of a hard border on the island.”

Opening the evening, Mayor of the City and County of Waterford, Cllr Declan Doocey said: “I am confident in my capacity as Mayor of Waterford City and County Council that Waterford is now best placed to build on the recent news of investment by companies like West Pharma, Eurofins and Eirgen Pharma and to continue to work to realise the significant opportunity that presents us with the North Quays SDZ. The recent good news was welcomed and appreciated by each and every one of us here tonight.

Speaking to over 300 business people President of Waterford Chamber, Kathryn Kiely said: “For our city to best serve our region - to rise to the needs and expectations of a growing population - to compete internationally for talent, trade and investment we, of course, need Government to share our ambitions and to deliver on the commitments and targets set by the National Planning Framework.

“Reflecting on the progress of the past year I am confident that we collectively have the determination to build on this progress and that together with shared ambitions Waterford’s future as a City region is bright.”

Taking to the podium, Mr Frank Ryan, Chairman of IDA Ireland said: “In the years ahead the role each of us will play in the workforce and in the Irish economy will largely be determined by the knowledge we possess and the skills we develop. So education and knowledge will not only directly impact employment prospects but in a collective sense will determine the very future economic performance of Waterford and the South East region.”

This was re-iterated by Waterford Chamber Skillnet Network Manager Sara Mullally and event sponsor, who said: “We are in the enviable position to be one of the few Skillnet Networks in the country that is not only Regional but also cross sectoral. Thanks to the increase in the recent Budget, our training fund has grown and we have never been in a better position to support you. In our drive to support life long learning among our workforce, we will continue to work with all stakeholders and it is in this spirit of connectedness that we are committed to solidifying our region as a centre of excellence for communication, collaboration and further education.”

The Annual Dinner was sponsored by Waterford Chamber Skillnet and the drinks reception was sponsored by McDonald Dwyer Reddy & Byrne Insurances.