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 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
Klearcom establishes US office with 20 new jobs
Klearcom will open its new office in New Jersey and is hiring 20 new team members to support its growing US customer baseStateside expansion will strengthen key relationships with US clients such as Google, Mastercard and Visa, while opening new doors to prospective clientsThe Waterford-based company is continuing to strengthen its position in the $5.9BN interactive voice response market Headquartered in Waterford, Klearcom is currently pursuing aggressive growth in the US market. The new base will enable
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
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
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
Start of construction work on two major capital projects at SETU
South East Technological University (SETU) is delighted to welcome the start of construction work on the second phase of the Higher Education Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme, which includes two significant capital projects for SETU. The Engineering, Computing, and General Teaching Building at the University’s Cork Road Campus in Waterford, along with the Advanced Science Building at the Kilkenny Road Campus in Carlow, are among the five projects included in this project bundle. The new
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
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage views North Quays Public Infrastructure Project
On Friday, May 23rd, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD visited Waterford to view progress on the North Quay Public Infrastructure Project. Joined by Minister of State with responsibility for Planning and Local Government, John Cummins TD and Government Chief Whip Minister Mary Butler TD, they visited the South Quays Plaza site for an update on the project which is supported by over €170m in Government funding, €100.6m from the Department of Housing, Local Government
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,
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!
