Network Magazine - Issue 35
Click here to view/download PDF. IN THIS ISSUE: Built in the South East, competing on the world stageNew app for Waterford A new flight path for Waterford and the South EastTrading with confidence in an uncertain economyEmpowering women in business, sport, and communitySanofi Waterford: Global Impact, Rooted in CommunityCouncil review: Waterford on the moveEngineering the South East: New chapter for a growing regionEY Insight, EU Pay TransparencyUnderstanding Entrepreneur and Retirement ReliefBite-Size
Guaranteed Irish backs trailblazing Town & City Gift Cards concept
In May 2026, the trailblazing Town & City Gift Cards concept achieved prestigious accreditation as a Guaranteed Irish business – one of the 2,500 Guaranteed Irish businesses in the country and the only local Gift Card provider – meaning when you buy Town & City Gift Cards, you’re powering Irish communities. Town & City Gift Cards was awarded the accreditation by Guaranteed Irish in recognition of its work supporting communities across Ireland through its growing network of 16 local Town & City Gift Card
Waterford Chamber calls for major investment commitments in new regional strategy
Waterford Chamber has submitted a detailed response to the Southern Regional Assembly’s consultation on the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) 2027–2040, calling for a decisive step change in investment and delivery for the South East region. The submission identifies three priority areas essential to unlocking the region’s full economic potential: expanded higher education provision through SETU, significantly improved regional connectivity, and stronger cross-boundary governance for the
Applications still open for Innovators Entrepreneurship Academy
Waterford Chamber has been overwhelmed by the level of interest in The Innovators Entrepreneurship Academy, highlighting the clear demand that exists across the South East for practical, high quality business support focused on growth and scaling. Since launching the initiative, enquiries and applications have come from a wide range of businesses and entrepreneurs, demonstrating that there is a strong appetite for programmes that go beyond theory and provide direct access to experienced mentors, strategic
Waterford Airport development takes off with landmark sod turning ceremony
A significant milestone in Ireland’s aviation infrastructure has been marked with an official sod turning ceremony at Waterford Airport today (Monday, 18th May 2026). The ceremony was performed by the Deputy Mayor of Waterford, Councillor John Pratt and members of Waterford City and County Council. Public representatives, stakeholders and members of the local business community gathered in the terminal building before stepping out across the existing Runway 21 to officially turn the sod on the new €30
SOLVE Initiative launched to support businesses affected by Tycor fire
Following the devastating fire at Tycor Business Centre over the weekend, Waterford Chamber and Waterford City and County Council have jointly launched the SOLVE Initiative (Supporting Our Locally Vulnerable Employers) to provide structured support to impacted businesses. The initiative has been established in response to significant outreach from the local business community, with many companies expressing a strong desire to assist those affected. SOLVE will act as a coordinated framework to ensure
Applications open for new South East Innovators Entrepreneurship Academy
Applications are now open for The South East Innovators Entrepreneurship Academy, a new six-month programme designed to support ambitious individuals looking to start their own high-potential scalable businesses across the region. With places strictly limited, those interested are being encouraged to apply early via www.theinnovators.ie Led by Waterford Chamber, and supported by Waterford Local Enterprise Office and Klearcom, the Academy is focused on identifying ambitious entrepreneurs with the potential
Inspirational speakers at Regional Leaders Programme Closing Lunch
The closing lunch of Waterford Chamber's Regional Leaders Programme at Faithlegg, brought together participants, mentors, coaches, and business leaders to celebrate the conclusion of another highly successful leadership development journey. The programme has provided participants with an invaluable opportunity to develop their leadership skills, broaden their perspectives, and build strong networks with peers from across the region. Throughout the programme, mentoring, coaching, and shared learning have
Get motoring to George Corbett’s for Chamber Business Expo
Waterford’s dynamic business community will be celebrated in style at the Waterford Chamber Business Expo, taking place on Thursday, April 23rd from 4pm to 7pm at George Corbett Motors on the Cork Road.Free to attend and open to the public, the Business Expo will bring together businesses of all sizes, sectors, and stages of growth, creating a powerful platform for networking, collaboration, innovation, and regional economic promotion.According to Gerald Hurley, CEO Waterford Chamber: “We call this the
Network Magazine - Issue 34
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:The power behind our regionSouth East positioned for major economic boost from offshore renewable energyEY Ireland hosts Dynamic Manufacturing Leadership eventEastgate Engineering expands operationsCommunity Awareness & Inclusion Forum announced for WaterfordAIB: supporting you and your employees to own your own homePenneys in 2026: What today’s retail landscape can learn from Arthur RyanCouncil review: a season of plans, progress and possibilityClem Jacob Hire
South East positioned for major economic boost from offshore renewable energy
The South East of Ireland stands to secure a transformative economic uplift from offshore renewable energy development, according to a new report from the South East Energy Agency launched today (March 9th) examining the economic, business and community opportunities arising from the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan (SC-DMAP). The report and launch event was funded by the four South East local authorities, and a key theme was the strategic alignment between Waterford, Wexford, Carlow and
Changing of the guard at Kilmeadan Station
Waterford Suir Valley Railway (WSVR) has announced that its General Manager, Maria Kyte, will step down from her role after 25 years of dedicated service to the railway. Maria has managed the development of this award-winning heritage railway since its inception through to operating a very successful social enterprise as it preserves and promotes Ireland’s rich railway heritage and has become an integral part of the tourism offering in Ireland’s Ancient East, contributing to the local economy. Maria feels
Chambers Ireland launch trade report showing impact of tariffs, trade wars & protectionism
With the looming threat of additional US tariffs over Greenland and EU discussions on retaliatory actions, Chambers Ireland has said that new analysis underlines and quantifies the harmful effect of trade policy uncertainty on investment throughout the European Union. The latest report by Chambers Ireland and Eurochambres – the association of European chambers of commerce - is based on data from 24 European countries, spanning the past 25 years. The results show that: Trade policy uncertainty (i.e.
Skillnet Business Networks launch new Business Health Checker Programme to support SME growth
Waterford Chamber Skillnet and Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet have announced the launch of Business Health Checker, a new collaborative programme designed to help businesses assess, understand and strengthen their overall performance through a structured, data-driven approach. Launching on 3rd February 2026, Business Health Checker provides participating businesses with access to a bespoke digital portal that evaluates their organisation’s health across a range of key business indicators. These indicators
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,
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
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
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
'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
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
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
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
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!
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
