Former Waterford Chamber President Kathleen Fitzgerald RIP
Waterford Chamber is deeply saddened to inform you of the passing of Kathleen Fitzgerald, a highly respected businesswoman and a director of George’s Court Shopping Centre in the city centre, along with a number of other business interests. Kathleen made an outstanding contribution to the business community in Waterford. She served as a Director of Waterford Chamber from 2000 to 2014 and served with distinction as President of Waterford Chamber from 2006 to 2007. In 2011, she also made history as the
Waterford school champions for a cleaner tomorrow
On Monday, December 15th, fourteen Waterford secondary schools were represented at a reception in City Hall in recognition of their dedication to keeping their local areas litter-free. The Schools Litter challenge, now in its fifth year is sponsored by Tom Murphy Car Sales Toyota, in association with Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Chamber, saw secondary schools from across the city and county take part in the challenge. Abbey Community College Ferrybank emerged as the overall winner
Chambers Ireland launch SME WellBusiness Charter
Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, TD with responsibility for Public Health, Well Being and the National Drugs Strategy, today launched a new initiative from Chambers Ireland – the SME WellBusiness Charter. Developed in partnership with Healthy Ireland, the Charter is a free, self-guided programme available to all members of affiliated Chambers to help them build a healthy workplace. Based on the principles of the Healthy Workplace Framework, the Charter is designed for SMEs and provides a dedicated
Network Magazine - Issue 33
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:Waterford Business Awards celebrate outstanding local successPort of Waterford: 1,111 Years of Heritage, Trade, and InnovationWaterford Airport: a catalyst for regional growth and opportunityTaoiseach addresses future leaders at FaithleggMinister Jack Chambers highlights Waterford City Region as Ireland’s most competitive growth hubMajor wins for Dawn Meats GroupCantec Group announces acquisition of OfftechGreenvolt powers ahead in renewable energyWhere
Waterford Business Awards celebrate outstanding local success
The very best of Waterford’s business community was celebrated at the Waterford Business Awards, which took place on Friday night, November 14th, at the Tower Hotel, before an audience that included Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke, Mayor of Waterford City & County Cllr Séamus Ryan, and close to 400 business leaders from across the city and county. The gala evening, hosted by WLR’s Mary O’Neill and organised by Waterford Chamber, with the support of Dungarvan & West Waterford
Waterford Chamber statement on Waterford Airport development
Waterford Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomes the announcement that the Bolster Group has secured an investment partner to advance the development of Waterford Airport. This represents a hugely positive milestone for the South East and a significant step toward realising the airport’s full potential. The economic and social benefits of a fully operational regional airport are undeniable. Waterford Airport has long been recognised as a key piece of infrastructure in the National Planning Framework and is
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Waterford Schools take the Schools Litter Challenge
Great to see images of students from around the county getting involved in this year’s Schools Litter challenge. The competition is proudly sponsored by Tom Murphy Car Sales in association with Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Chamber of Commerce. The Litter Challenge now in its fifth year, ends on Friday the 05/12/2025. Be sure to lend your support with a beep and a wave if you see an army of students in Hi-Vis with litter pickers over the coming days. If you have any images of the
Waterford Age Friendly Alliance meets on International Day of Older Persons
Each year October 1st is dedicated to celebrating the International Day of Older Persons to raise awareness about the challenges and opportunities of ageing. The theme for 2025 ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights’ was at the forefront of the agenda as members of Waterford’s Age Friendly Alliance met to underpin their objectives and to copper fasten Waterford as the Best Place to Grow Older In. In delivering the Waterford Age Friendly
CALMAST Talk on Studying and Careers in Engineering at Toys4Engineers
Thinking about a future in Engineering?CALMAST is hosting a FREE talk on “Studying and Careers in Engineering” at Toys4Engineers! When: Thursday, 2nd OctoberTime: 5:00 – 6:30pmVenue: SETU ArenaCost: FREE This session is perfect for 4th-6th year students (and their parents!) who want to learn more about the exciting opportunities in engineering, from study paths to future careers. Before the talk, come along earlier in the day to explore the Toys4Engineers exhibitions – packed with cutting-edge technology,
Toys4Engineers set to inspire at SETU Arena
Toys4Engineers will return to SETU Arena on October 2, 2025, from 1pm to 7pm, where companies from across Ireland will come together to showcase cutting-edge innovations and breakthrough technologies. With a dynamic mix of expert-led sessions, networking opportunities, and interactive exhibits, Toys4Engineers 2025 promises to be the ultimate hub for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts. Toys4Engineers, organised by Waterford Chamber in partnership with Engineering the South East, is
Export Exploration Zone at SETU Arena
Are you ready to take your business beyond borders? As part of Toys4Engineers 2025, which takes place on Thursday, October 2nd at SETU Arena, Waterford Chamber is delighted to introduce the Export Exploration Zone – a dedicated space designed to support businesses of all sizes in exploring new international markets. This unique feature will give you direct access to expert advice, practical resources, and tailored guidance on how to grow your business globally.What to expect:Expert Support: Onsite
Minister Jack Chambers highlights Waterford City Region as Ireland’s 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 long-term 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
Taoiseach addresses future leaders at Faithlegg
Waterford Chamber, in partnership with Skillnet Ireland, Waterford Chamber Skillnet and Bausch + Lomb, officially launched the 2025 cycle of the Regional Leaders Programme, with a special address by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Arriving at Faithlegg House & Golf Resort, the Taoiseach, accompanied by Minister Mary Butler and Minister John Cummins, was greeted by Chamber President Kevin Doolin, Prof Veronica Campbell, President, SETU; Mark Jordan, CEO of Skillnet Ireland, and Mark Hennessy, Vice President of
SETU celebrates a gathering of nations with Ambassadorial reception
Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) welcomed ambassadors and delegates from six embassies to SETU’s West Campus in Carriganore on Friday, 19 September. Delegations from Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, the People’s Republic of China, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom met with Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, Dr Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of Walton Institute, SETU, and Dr Patricia Mulcahy, Vice President Global Partnerships, SETU. Also in
Step into The Training Zone at SETU Arena
We’re thrilled to introduce The Training Zone, a brand-new space at this year’s Toys4Engineers where all of our expert-led, hands-on workshops are gathered under one roof. It’s your one-stop destination to access practical knowledge, proven strategies, and fresh skills designed to help you and your business thrive. Best of all, these training sessions are completely free, you just need to pre-book your place.THE TRAINING ZONE AT SETU ARENA – Thursday, 2nd October See below what’s already open for
Cyber Security event in Waterford draws huge turnout and raises funds for local charity
A major Cyber Security event hosted by Unitec IT Solutions in Waterford last week has been hailed as a resounding success, attracting a large and diverse audience while generating lively discussions on one of the most pressing challenges of the digital age. The event, hosted at The Woodlands Hotel, brought together business leaders, technology professionals, educators, and community representatives to explore the latest developments in cyber security and to discuss how individuals and organisations can
Strong response to Waterford’s Night-Time Economy (NTE) Pilot Grant Scheme
Waterford City and County Council is pleased to announce that applications for the Night-Time Economy (NTE) Pilot Grant, launched earlier this year, have now been reviewed and approved. A key aim of this funding is to extend Waterford’s nighttime economy beyond weekends and into mid-week programming, as well as supporting off-season cultural activity. The scheme received an excellent response from local businesses, venues, and cultural organisations, with proposals showcasing creativity and a strong
Network Magazine - Issue 32
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:The South East Advantage: A vision of opportunityThe status quo is never enoughChallenges to confront, opportunities to seizeWaterford leads with Innovation, Sustainability, and Inclusive GrowthNorth Quays: Shaping the future of Waterford’s waterfrontIDA’s Mary McEvoy is homeward boundPort of Waterford files multi-million euro offshore applicationGlassworks: Local development with global ambitionEnterprise Ireland driving export growth in the South EastPushing
Waterford City and County Council shortlisted for Excellence in Local Government Awards
Waterford City and County Council has been shortlisted in two categories of the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards 2025. The awards are held in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and showcase best practice in local government and recognise the skills, vision and innovation within local government. The Business Pledge for a Cleaner, Greener Waterford has been shortlisted in the Climate Change category. This category recognises innovative
Decentralise to Deliver: 'Trust Local Authorities to Drive Regional Development'
Chambers Ireland has today (22 August 2025) submitted a series of recommendations to the Local Democracy Taskforce, highlighting the need to devolve greater authority to local authorities. Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, stressed the transformative impact of reform, stating: “It’s time to let local authorities take the lead. Granting them the authority to act is essential to addressing infrastructure challenges such as transport and housing. It ensures decisions are made by those with
Infrastructure build must accelerate to sustain success
Chambers Ireland today launched its pre-budget submission reflecting the shared concerns and aspirations of affiliated Chambers of Commerce around the country. Calling on the Government to take decisive and long-term action, Chief Executive Ian Talbot highlighted the need for urgency: “Our economy continues to grow but our critical infrastructure has not kept pace with rapidly increasing demand. Few would have predicted today’s economic strength during the challenges of the past twenty years and
Chambers Ireland contribution to the consultation on accelerating infrastructure
In our submission regarding the public consultation on accelerating infrastructure, we noted that Ireland’s future competitiveness, housing supply, and regional development depend on urgent, coordinated action. Despite strong economic performance, our infrastructure lags dangerously behind. Planning bottlenecks, under-resourced systems, and fragmented decision-making are stalling critical projects and driving up costs for businesses and communities alike. Among our recommendations, we are calling
Enhancing the Small Benefit Exemption Scheme to strengthen local economies
Waterford Chamber has asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Services, Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers TD, to make further changes to the Small Benefit Exemption Scheme which would strengthen local economies. The increase in the exemption threshold from €1,000 to €1,500, and the expansion to allow up to five non-cash benefits per annum, have been warmly welcomed by employers and employees alike. These changes have significantly enhanced the attractiveness and
Chambers Ireland calls for delivery and accountability on the National Development Plan
Chambers Ireland has today (26 June 2025) issued a call to action for delivering the State’s key infrastructure. Speaking on the ongoing review of the National Development Plan (NDP), Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, Ian Talbot, commented: “Ireland’s GDP growth is estimated at 3.7% for 2025, however the State currently ranks at just 38th in basic infrastructure availability. This contrast between strong economic performance and poor infrastructure represents not just a statistical anomaly, but a
Network Magazine - Issue 31
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:Think Waterford First: New initiative rewards those who support localBridges to the Future: Laying the path for the next generationWorkability Project: Building inclusive workplacesAIB’s annual Community €1 Million FundMessage to Chamber Members from Waterford Food BankUnlocking Global Talent: How EY can support career growth and diversityDovida launches its Waterford officeNolan Farrell & Goff celebrate 50 years in businessWaterford in ProgressWalton Institute:
Chambers Ireland submission regarding the National Housing Plan 2025-2030
In our submission regarding the National Housing Plan 2025-2030, we noted that housing delivery has reached a critical juncture. The urgency of accelerating housing delivery has reached a critical juncture. Capacity constraints in essential infrastructure — particularly water and wastewater treatment and electricity supply — are directly impacting the viability and pace of new developments. These systemic delays are compounded by a congested planning process, where judicial reviews and appeals continue
Chambers Ireland responds to the launch of Small Business Unit
Chambers Ireland has welcomed the announcement of the new Small Business Unit, describing it as a positive step toward supporting SMEs. Speaking after today’s announcement, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive Ian Talbot called for a strategic and collaborative approach to ensure the unit delivers real value: “We welcome the Small Business Unit which has the potential to make a real difference for small businesses across the country but only if it is designed to complement, not duplicate work capable of
'Think Waterford First Accreditation' to celebrate and inspire local pride
In a powerful call to action for community pride and economic resilience, Mayor of Waterford Cllr Jason Murphy, alongside Waterford Chamber President Kevin Doolin, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber President Oren Byrne, and a host of business owners, has officially launched the Think Waterford First Accreditation initiative. This new programme is designed to recognise and celebrate individuals, businesses, and organisations who actively promote Waterford, at home and abroad. Whether you're a sole trader,
Dr Sinead Kane inspires new Regional Leaders
Over 50 business professionals graduated from Waterford Chamber’s Regional Leaders Programme at an inspiring lunch event in Faithlegg. Having worked with mentors and coaches over the past six months, the graduates now join an elite alumni of over 500 leaders who have completed the programme to date, a very powerful network of people who are driving forward business development in our region. Opening proceeding, Kevin Doolin, President of Waterford Chamber said: “The very basis for this programme is to
Skillnet business networks 'Scaling Your Business' event showcases power of talent development
Waterford Chamber Skillnet, County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet and County Tipperary Chamber Skillnet joined forces to deliver an impactful conference dedicated to supporting the competitiveness of businesses based in the South East. Over 150 attendees representing more than 100 businesses from across the region gathered at the Newpark Hotel Kilkenny, on April 9th, for the sold-out ‘Scaling Your Business: Strategies, Systems and Solutions’ event. The unique conference provided an
Exploring potential opportunities in new markets
Following the recent announcement of U.S. tariffs, we’re exploring potential opportunities in new markets – and we'd like to share one such opportunity with you. At the invitation of the South Westphalian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Waterford Chamber, together with Waterford City & County Council and the Waterford Local Enterprise Office, is supporting a return trade delegation to Märkischer Kreis – a highly industrialised and innovation-driven region in central Germany. South Westphalia, often
Chambers Ireland call for measured response to US tariffs
Speaking after the announcement of US tariffs, Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland and Secretary General of ICC Ireland, has called for a focus on competitiveness and strategic trade engagement to mitigate any adverse economic impact. “While the tariffs present immediate challenges, it is essential that Ireland and the EU respond with calm and resolve,” said Talbot. “To navigate these challenges effectively we should prioritise strategies that (a) enhance our competitiveness and (b) strengthen our
Waterford's business and cultural worlds converge at Theatre Royal's After Hours event
A night of exceptional networking and collaboration unfolded at the Theatre Royal in Waterford, as Network Ireland Waterford Branch and the iconic venue partnered for a memorable Waterford Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event. Conceived by Network Ireland Waterford Branch President, Ann Marie Shannon, and brought to fruition through the collaborative efforts of herself and Mary Boland, Theatre Director, the evening proved to be a phenomenal success. Theatre Royal, a cherished cultural landmark
Network Magazine - Issue 30
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:Full Steam ahead: Exploring the opportunities for Offshore WindPowering sustainable growth in the South EastOpportunities abound with off-shore wind in the South EastHome Instead Waterford announces rebrand to DovidaWhy financial advice is important for a self-employed personEY Outlook: Navigating VAT in the Digital AgeAn ambitious step towards a Blue Circular economyEmpowering Innovation: Bridging Technology, Agriculture, and Gender EqualityBite-Size NewsPlus
Chamber calls for targeted tax incentives to tackle housing crisis and revitalise city centre
Waterford Chamber has formally addressed Minister for Housing James Browne, urging the Government to consider a strategic, targeted approach to tax reliefs that will drive housing supply and urban renewal without incurring costs to the Exchequer. Following recent discussions on tax incentives for housing, where Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed the Government’s openness to tax breaks for private developers while Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe ruled out the reintroduction of broad-based reliefs such as
Waterford Chamber welcomes government commitment to exploring planning exemptions
Waterford Chamber has praised Minister of State for Housing, John Cummins, for his efforts in advocating for the extension of planning exemptions to include free-standing, self-contained single or dual-occupancy living units in rear gardens, providing more housing opportunities. Commenting on the development, Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley said: "We are greatly encouraged by the Government’s decision to consider extending planning exemptions for small-scale living accommodations in rear gardens. This
Offshore wind a game changer for the South East
As Ireland works towards achieving its ambitious climate goals, the South East is emerging as a key player in the country’s offshore wind energy sector. This was clearly evident at the Strategic Off-Shore wind meeting held in the Port of Waterford and organised by Waterford Chamber, with the support of Energia and Vårgrønn. According to Kevin Doolin, President of Waterford Chamber: "2025 has the potential to be a pivotal year for offshore wind in Ireland, particularly for the South East. We stand at the
Network Magazine - Issue 29
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:City of Innovation: Chamber President Kevin Doolin's big visionPaving the way for regional growth and innovationEuropean City of Christmas: Your complete guide to wonderful WintervalEnergia & Vårgrønn offshore wind developmentWaterford City & County Council Autumn ReviewThe halo effect of supporting localAIB offers tailored guidance and support to family-owned enterprisesCivic Trust Blue Plaque unveiled at Tramore Coastguard StationChristmas Delights by Jenny
Klearcom takes top prize at Waterford Business Awards
Klearcom was named Overall Waterford Business of the Year at the Waterford Business Awards on Friday, November 8th, by Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr Jason Murphy, during a gala awards dinner at the Tower Hotel. Klearcom is the world's leading Customer Call Path Testing platform, assisting global organizations with real-time contact center testing. The Waterford-based company helps businesses manage incoming calls by testing interactive voice response (IVR) systems. The technology is especially
South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development
South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development, citing Regional Economic Growth and Job Creation potential The South East Chambers of Commerce – representing Waterford Chamber, Wexford Chamber, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, Kilkenny Chamber and Carlow Chamber – have issued a united call to An Taoiseach, An Tánaiste, and Minister O’Gorman for immediate government action on the Waterford Airport expansion project. In a letter addressed to these government leaders, the
Shortlist announced for Waterford Business Awards 2024
A host of Waterford’s top businesses have been shortlisted for this year’s Waterford Business Awards. Organisers Waterford Chamber have joined forces again with partners WLR and Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber for the gala awards ceremony which will take place in the Tower Hotel on Friday, November 8th. Speaking about the awards, Waterford Chamber President Kevin Doolin said, “Congratulations to all the businesses who have been shortlisted, what a fantastic representation of the Waterford business
Walton Institute’s Kevin Doolin takes over as President of Waterford Chamber
Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of Walton Institute at SETU, was elected President of Waterford Chamber at the 237th AGM, which took place today (Monday, September 30th) in the Granville Hotel. Mr Doolin has been involved with Waterford Chamber for a number of years and is an active voice in terms of lobbying, particularly around equitable funding for South East Technological University (SETU) and creating a vibrant city centre. Addressing Waterford Chamber members, Mr Doolin said: “It is a great
Chamber Diaspora Dinner sells Waterford to Dublin
‘Waterford is open for business and looking for investors’ was the resounding message delivered loud and clear at Waterford Chamber’s Dublin Diaspora Dinner, sponsored by EY, Waterford Local Enterprise Office and Waterford Chamber Skillnet, at The Dunmore, Rathmines, with over 90 business influencers with connections to Waterford in attendance. Opening proceedings, Niall Harrington, Waterford Chamber President showed his passion for his home city, the opportunities for development and the need for
Waterford Chamber welcomes Veterinary School confirmation
Waterford Chamber has welcomed An Taoiseach Simon Harris's announcement that a new Veterinary School is to be formed at South East Technological University (SETU). According to Gerald Hurley, CEO of Waterford Chamber, "Establishing a pipeline of highly skilled veterinary practitioners for the South East region is essential, given the the dominance of the Agri Food Industry in the South East. We are extremely proud to have been part of the extensive lobbying of Government for this, along with SETU
Network Magazine - Issue 28
IN THIS ISSUE:Changing of the Guard: Sean McKeown is the new Council bossPowering the PortJim Power: Economic background to Budget 2025Multi-billion offshore investments could boost Waterford’s economy and jobs marketEY Waterford: Growth, Diversification and Sustainability in the South EastAutism Friendly City: A few hours can lead to a lifetime of changeWorking to unite our communityNolke Opticians celebrate 20 years in businessManaging CashflowPaul Nolan honoured as first Patron of Waterford ChamberHome
Waterford Chamber are deeply saddened at the passing of former Waterford Chamber CEO
Under Frank's leadership (1997-2005) Waterford Chamber grew exponentially, developed the first strategic plan, significantly increased services to members and spearheaded local, regional and national lobbying activities. Under Frank's drive and direction, Waterford Chamber won Chamber of the Year in 2004with the chair of the judging panel, the CCI president (Mark Staunton) commenting at the time that 'there was no competition, this is an easy choice, Waterford Chamber had won by a country mile'. The
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Paul Nolan honoured as first Patron of Waterford Chamber
Paul Nolan has been honoured with the title of first Patron of Waterford Chamber. Paul, who has served two terms as President of the South-East's largest business representative organisation, is Group Commercial Director with Dawn Meats and has been a constant in terms of his commitment to Waterford over the past number of decades. According to Niall Harrington, President of Waterford Chamber: “As Waterford’s position as the capital of the South East strengthens and with more and more opportunities coming
Offshore wind energy a 'transformative opportunity' for Waterford and the South-East
Multi-billion offshore investments could boost Waterford's economy and jobs market “The advent of offshore wind energy in Ireland provides a potentially transformative opportunity which must be harnessed for Waterford and the entire south-east region”, the President of Waterford Chamber of Commerce, Niall Harrington told delegates at a special conference held by the Chamber in the Houses of the Oireachtas in Dublin. "Waterford’s proximity to Ireland’s designated maritime areas for wind energy
Network Magazine - Issue 27
IN THIS ISSUE:IDA backing the South EastExpediating off-shore windFighting for regional balanceGarter Lane celebrates 40 yearsSustainability and SanofiNavigating the impact of CGT Retirement Relief reforms for Family Business SuccessionAIB life top five tips for financial planningGerman companies seeking business partnersChamber driving the Waterford agendaEnergia and Vårgrønn advance survey workWaterford City & County Council Spring ReviewWelcome to our new membersBite-Size NewsPlus much more!
Network Magazine - Issue 26
IN THIS ISSUE:Levelling up for changeSanofi Waterford: Being a good neighbourNew Capital Gains Tax Angel Investor ReliefEnerpower Greenvolt to create 100 new jobsAileen Barron on 10 years of Green Acre MarketingThe Influencer Equation: Balancing Rewards and Risks for BrandsAward-winning start to 2024Design your bonus structure wisely to maximize tax reliefGrant aid to support you in businessStunning Mount Congreve Forest HotelBite-Size NewsPlus much more!
Sign up to the new Waterford Gift Card
Waterford Chamber in partnership with Waterford City & County Council are excited to announce that we will soon be transitioning the Waterford Shop Local Gift Voucher Scheme from paper-based to credit card. This will allow much more flexibility of use for all and we see it as a huge step forward in the initiative to support the Shop Local campaign. As a participating business in the Waterford Gift Voucher scheme, we hope for your continued support and we now invite you to sign up to accept the Waterford
