SETU expands access to Home Economics with new degree for the southeast
SETU expands access to Home Economics with new degree for the southeast South East Technological University (SETU) has launched its Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) (Hons) in Home Economics. The programme is the first of its kind in the southeast region that gives students the opportunity to study home economics at degree level alongside an additional minor subject from arts and humanities. This is a future-focused, dynamic degree that promotes healthier, more sustainable ways of living across homes, schools,
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SETU to host sixth annual Women in Technology event
SETU to host sixth annual Women in Technology event South East Technological University’s (SETU) sixth annual Women in Technology event will bring together role models from industry and academia to challenge perceptions of technology and encourage more young women to consider careers in the sector. The event at SETU Arena in Waterford, on Thursday, 12 March, aims to grow young women’s understanding of technology and demonstrate the career paths open to them in computing. Building on the success of last
Winter Promotional Express Menu at The Reg
Pair any of these delicious lunch dishes with a soft drink of choice for just €12. The perfect midweek treat! Available for a limited time only between 12:30-4PM Monday to Friday.Just call in or visit https://bookings.tablepath.com/cwg4n1/the-reg-reservations
Experience World-Class Opera: Blackwater Valley Opera Festival 2026 tickets now available
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (BVOF) will return to Waterford and East Cork from 26 May to 1 June 2026 for a week of exceptional opera and classical music in some of the region’s most striking historic settings. Ireland’s summer opera festival will present over 24 events , with more than 100 performers across 13 historic homes and venues in Lismore, Youghal, Dungarvan, and Castlemartyr. With stunning new venues, international and national talent,and a carefully curated programme, the 2026 season
SETU highlights strong year of research and enterprise impact through TU RISE programme
SETU highlights strong year of research and enterprise impact through TU RISE programme South East Technological University (SETU) is marking a year of significant progress in research, innovation and enterprise engagement, reflecting the University’s commitment to strengthening regional development and supporting industry across the south east. In 2025, SETU expanded its collaborative research activity, enhanced support for researchers, and opened new opportunities for communities and companies to work
Viking Hotel Waterford celebrates new 4 Star classification following major investment
Viking Hotel Waterford is proud to announce that it has been officially awarded 4 Star classification by Failte Ireland, a major milestone in the hotel’s ongoing development and a recognition of the team’s commitment to outstanding hospitality. The hotel is managed by PREM Hospitality, one of Ireland’s leading hotel management companies, whose support and expertise have been central to this success. The accreditation follows significant investment from the hotel’s owners, the Kelly family, who have
Excitement builds ahead of South East Science Festival 2025
The South East Science Festival is back from November 8 to 16 and this year’s extensive programme of free and ticketed events across Waterford city and county, the Suir Valley and Carlow includes even more fascinating daytime and evening events in colleges, libraries, theatres and pubs. All the events across all three counties are engaging, all fun and all showcase how relevant all things science are in our everyday lives. Novel events this year include the science of wine tasting and pairing, coastal
‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ calls on southeast businesses to help share the ‘Magic of Panto’
This December, the SETU Arena will come alive with the sparkle, laughter, and festive magic of Jack and the Beanstalk, the South East’s premier pantomime. As the region gears up for a star-studded season featuring Danny O’Carroll, Richie Hayes, Sharon Clancy, Evan O’Hanlon, and 45 talented local young performers, organisers are inviting businesses across the Southeast to help ensure that school children from across Waterford can experience the wonder of the panto through the ‘Magic of Panto’ corporate
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival relaunches Friends Membership
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival will launch a newly structured Friends Membership programme this Autumn that reflects the generosity of those who sustain Ireland’s summer opera festival and its educational work. From this year, a significant portion of contributions made by Friends of the Festival will be dedicated to supporting local events, schools, and young artists – ensuring the festival’s artistic and educational activity continues to thrive across the Blackwater Valley.A philanthropic commitment
Waterford City and County Council approves major investment proposal for Waterford Airport
Waterford City and County Council at a Special Council Meeting held today, Monday 20th October 2025, has approved a landmark investment proposal that will secure the future of Waterford Airport and deliver a transformative €30 million redevelopment project - fully funded through private investment. The proposal, which was brought forward by the Bolster Group and is being advanced through a new company, Waterford Airport Ltd (WAL), will deliver the full Airport Development works set out in the existing
SETU awarded accreditation by PSI for new Master of Pharmacy
South East Technological University (SETU) has announced the official accreditation of its new five-year Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) programme by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI). This announcement is a significant milestone for the University and supports the future of pharmacy education in Ireland. Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, welcomed the news, saying, “Accreditation of our MPharm programme represents a major step for SETU in expanding healthcare education and training in
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
SETU unveils ambitious Global Strategy aiming to expand international reach
South East Technological University (SETU) has published an ambitious new Global Engagement Strategic Plan, Global Minds, Global and Local Impact 2024–2028. The plan sets out a bold vision to strengthen SETU’s position as a university of scale and influence on the world stage while delivering tangible benefits for Ireland’s South East. It was unveiled at SETU’s Ambassadorial Reception at Walton Institute recently, in the presence of ambassadors and dignitaries from Belgium, Canada, Switzerland, China,
Network Ireland Waterford celebrates double win at National Awards
The Network Ireland National Conference and Businesswoman of the Year Awards took place last weekend at the stunning Great Southern Hotel in Killarney, drawing professional women from across the country to celebrate excellence in leadership, entrepreneurship, creativity, and innovation. The Network Ireland Waterford branch members attended in force, and were absolutely bursting with pride after bringing home two national awards! Suzanne Parker, Highly Commended winner of the Network Ireland Established
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
Celebrating Excellence: Network Ireland Waterford's Best in Business Go National
The countdown is on for the prestigious Network Ireland Businesswoman of the Year Awards, which will be held at the iconic Great Southern Hotel in Killarney on Friday, 26th September. This national final is a major highlight of Ireland's business calendar, celebrating the incredible talent, ambition, and leadership of professional women across the country. For the second consecutive year, the Network Ireland Waterford Branch is proudly sending eight exceptional finalists to represent the vibrant business
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
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
Double honours for local business leader Sinead O’Neill at Network Ireland Waterford Branch Awards
Sinead, founder of Sinead O’Neill Consulting, has won Businesswoman of the Year – Networker of the Year 2025 at the Network Ireland Waterford Branch Businesswoman of the Year Awards, which were held at Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort on May 23rd last. In addition to this accolade, Sinead also received the Judges Highly Commended Award in the Solo Businesswoman of the Year category, recognising her outstanding impact as a sole trader and leader in the local, regional and national business communities
Unitec opens new Clonmel headquarters and announces 30 new jobs in IT sector
Unitec, a leading provider of IT support services in Ireland, officially opened its new headquarters in Clonmel today with a grand opening ceremony attended by local dignitaries, business leaders, and invited guests. The event marked a significant milestone in Unitec’s journey as the company continues to expand its footprint and invest in the future of digital infrastructure and customer support solutions. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Ian Power, Managing Director, and Aiden Ryan, Technical
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:
Double opera debut and dazzling performances mark landmark year for Blackwater Valley Opera Festival
Blackwater Valley Opera Festival wrapped up its most ambitious festival to date, attracting more than 5,000 people to a packed seven-day programme of opera, concerts, and recitals. With both ticketed and free events staged across Waterford and East Cork, the festival showcased some of Ireland and Europe’s finest classical performers and introduced new audiences to the power of live opera in remarkable settings. Local school children were the first to get a glimpse of what lay in store for lucky
Free orbital bus service showcases 5,000 years of Lingaun Valley history in Ireland’s Ancient East
Car-free visitors to the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East now have an opportunity to explore a sacred, unspoilt valley that straddles three counties, and experience 5,000 years of history, on a 50km loop, all at their own pace. The Lingaun Loop bus service pilot begins this Saturday, May 31, offering visitors to the Southeast an opportunity to link in with the orbital minibus service from existing bus or train routes in Kilkenny, Waterford and Tipperary. The free mini-bus service allows visitors to
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
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
Taste Waterford – GIY News Updates
GIY Expands Veg Box Pick-Up Locations and Launches New Seasonal Brunch Menu! GIY is excited to announce two delicious updates for spring 2025 — making it easier to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce, whether at home or at the table. New Veg Box Pick-Up Locations GIY customers are now able to pick up their weekly Veg Boxes at two new convenient locations: Cass & Co, Dungarvan – a hub of local food, great coffee, and community spirit. Jon Toy’s butcher stall at Mountain View Market, Kilkenny – a vibrant
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
Lives saved as Waterford’s cardiac care moves to seven-day service
A new chapter in cardiac care for the South East has begun, with three patients receiving life-saving treatment during the first weekend of extended cardiac coverage at University Hospital Waterford (UHW). This vital expansion marks the transition from a five-day cardiac service to full seven-day coverage, operating from 8am to 8pm daily, including Bank Holidays. It’s a move hailed as a significant healthcare milestone for the region. Behind this achievement is the relentless advocacy of healthcare
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
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
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
SETU chosen to deliver new veterinary medicine programme
South East Technological University (SETU) is proud to be selected to deliver a new veterinary medicine programme, marking a significant milestone for both the University and the future of veterinary education in the region. In 2022, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) initiated plans to expand capacity in health-related programmes, including veterinary medicine. Following a thorough independent assessment, SETU’s proposal for veterinary medicine was successfully endorsed. Minister for Further and
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
