Network Magazine - Issue 36
Click here to view/download PDF.IN THIS ISSUE:A year of listening, a fifty-year task of buildingA regional strategy for prosperity and connectivityBuilding an equitable future for UHWSupporting apprentices, building futuresIBM in Waterford: A regional investment that goes far beyond jobsTonn Nua: Powering Ireland’s ‘next wave’ of offshore windEastgate Engineering: operating on a global level from the regionHow Bausch + Lomb, Waterford is shaping the future of contact lensesUsing Budget 2027 to back
Regional Chambers unite to demand immediate Government commitment to deliver the N24 corridor
Waterford Chamber, along with the Chambers of Commerce representing Kilkenny, Limerick, Tipperary and Wexford have jointly called on Government to make an urgent commitment to delivering the N24 as a single strategic transport corridor linking Limerick and Waterford during the lifetime of the current Government. Together, the five Chambers represent more than 2,220 member businesses employing approximately 111,000 people across the Southern Region. A joint letter signed by the CEOs of the five chambers was
Giving the Plaza a Purpose
Waterford Chamber has welcomed Waterford City and County Council’s commitment to reinvest in the William Vincent Wallace Plaza, recognising the opportunity to transform one of the city’s most prominent waterfront spaces into a destination that drives footfall, dwell time and economic activity. Following 25 years without significant reinvestment in the site, the Chamber believes the refurbishment presents an opportunity to create one of Waterford’s finest public spaces. However, in its submission to the
Help to strengthen the case for investment in the N24
Together with Tipperary, Limerick, Kilkenny and Wexford Chambers, we are building a strong, evidence-based business case for the urgent progression of the N24 as a strategic Limerick–Waterford corridor. For businesses in Waterford and across the wider region, the N24 is much more than a road. It is a vital economic connection, linking our businesses and communities with Limerick and the Mid-West, the national motorway network, Waterford Port and Rosslare Europort. Yet the limitations of the existing route
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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:
'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,
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 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!
