FEBRUARY 2009 € 3.50

Inside: • €24 Million for Pallas Foods

• New Era for Shannon Airport

• Shannon Secures Aviation Conference

“Pioneering NewInitiatives

50 Years On” says Dr. Vincent Cunnane

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Superb Prizeof a Weekend Break

The Hilton Dublin Kilmainham is giving away the superb prize of a weekend break for two including two nights accommodation in their conveniently located hotel, with a deluxe breakfast each morning. The Hilton Dublin Kilmainham is one of the best-kept secrets in the city, with a location which makes it perfect for those travelling to Dublin by road or rail. On the site of the old Rowntree Mackintosh chocolate factory, next to Heuston Station, the LUAS line, and the major arterial routes into the city, the Hilton Dublin Kilmainham is only minutes from the centre of town and within walking distance of major cultural and historic attractions, and Dublin’s best shopping districts. Hilton Dublin Kilmainham lends itself especially well to regional visitors driving to Dublin for business, events or shopping, with 120 bedrooms including executive suites and deluxe suites, many with balconies and wonderful views over the parks of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham and the Phoenix Park, and an all-important 500 car parking spaces. Hilton Dublin Kilmainham boasts an excellent health club, Living Well, which is fully equipped with steam room, hydrotherapy swimming pool and high-tech cardiovascular equipment. The package includes access to the fantastic leisure facilities to ensure you’re relaxed and rejuvenated after your visit. The Hilton Dublin Kilmainham’s state of the art business centre boasts nine meeting rooms and

fantastic conference facilities which can accommodate up to 200 guests, as well

as a comprehensive concierge service. Other unique business facilities include complimentary printing service, office rental, paging equipment rental, photo copying service, secretarial service, video conferencing, video messaging and video phone. Each bedroom has high-speed internet access, wireless LAN, an in-room safe, plasma TV, iron and ironing board and an electronic mini bar. The hotel also boasts a stylish bar and restaurant, perfect for a relaxing drink or delicious meal after a day of exploring all that Dublin has to offer.

Hilton Dublin Kilmainham, Inchicore Road, Kilmainham, Dublin 8Tel: +353. 1. 420 1800, www.dublinkilmainham.hilton.com

What is the name of the health club at Hilton Dublin Kilmainham?

Please, send your answers to info@businesslimerick.i by 25th February 2009

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Limerick technology lovers have a one up on the rest of Ireland with the opening of Compu b’s new 3-storey Premium Apple Reseller Store at 17, O’Connell Street. In a coup for the city, Denis O’Connell, Founder Compu b, has come up trumps and opened the very first Premium Apple Reseller Outlet in Ireland. The flagship concept developed by Apple worldwide focuses on a multi purpose solution offering retail, service and training outlets all under the one roof. The retail floor is on the high street and will cater for a range of the highest spec Apple products including iMac’s, Macbook’s, iPhone’s, iPod’s and docking stations. The Service (second) Floor will allow all Apple users have a dedicated face to face interaction with regards to upgrades, repairs and information on their existing products. It will also have a Professional desk dealing with all high end Music, Photography & Video Pro applications and enquiries. The Training (third) Floor of the Premium Apple Reseller Store will appeal most to consumers as it will be an Apple training centre in which there will be daily free seminars on the operation and usage of Apple Products.

Speaking about the Premium Reseller concept, Denis O’Connell, Founder, Compu b explained:“Apple products are both unique and aspirational and to this extent Apple worldwide believe they are best marketed within a standalone retail space. What we have developed with Compu b is a prime city centre retail location that offers not just a retail solution but a hands-on after sales service model also. The addition of our free seminars on the Apple Product Range will allow all potential customers experience the individual Apple range in advance of purchase and on the business side avail of training and refresher courses on a regular basis.” Established in 1992, Compu b is a well established center of excellence for Apple products and services and is Ireland's best known Apple dealership. Compu b has specialist expertise in the Design, Graphics, Print, CAD and educational areas. The sales staffs are fully trained Macintosh experts who provide high quality advice and service to businesses of all sizes, educational and home users. The after-sales service package includes full delivery, configuration and installation, telephone and engineer support, on-site or in-house training, while our team of experienced engineers provides a skilled and rapid on-site or workshop service for our customers. The Compu b team has many years experience providing training on leading software packages - from introductory courses through to tailored one-to-one advanced courses.

Compu b can be found at 17 O’Connell Street, Limerick (beside Brown Thomas) or by logging on to www.compub.com or contacting 1 850 668888.

Compu b Open First Premium Apple Store

Dennis O'Connell proprietor with Lizi MacCarra, James Foley, Shane Coffee and Sofia Leddin now open at 17 O'Connell St, Compu b. It is the first Premium Apple Retail Store in Ireland.

For industries under pressure due to tightening margins and yet needing to keep pace with demand, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) today asked employers and employees to consider the measure of working extra time at no pay before pay cuts or lay-offs. On paper, thirty minutes extra work a day at no extra pay represents an effective 6% pay cut but the reality is no loss of earnings, rather an increase in productivity. Ireland has become uncompetitive and is losing too many jobs. Pay cuts and job losses are not a good answer as they decrease demand and run the risk of prolonging the

current economic difficulties. Aidan Clifford, ACCA Advisory Services Manager: “As an economy, Ireland needs to be more competitive, but equally we cannot afford wholesale pay cuts or job cuts as this would reduce demand for products and services. ACCA is encouraging employers and employees to consider the option of extra time because for many people, working 30 minutes more a day, half a standard lunch break, may be more acceptable than a 6% pay cut. As the economy starts to recover, this is a measure that can be reviewed in line with an agreed timescale.”

O2’s ‘Be The Difference’ campaign is giving loyal Irish rugby fans the chance to be on the field with the Irish rugby team during the match against England at Croke Park on February 28th. ‘Be The Difference’ is all about the difference that fans’ support can make. So now thousands of lucky fans can show their support by having their names printed

onto the number on the Irish rugby players’ match jerseys during this crucial clash. To find out more about being the difference for the Irish rugby team during the upcoming Six Nations tournament, log on to www.bethedifference.ie or visit any O2 store nationwide.

Thousands to Line Out for Ireland Against England at Croke ParkIrish Rugby Fans can “Be The Difference” this Six Nations

Consider Working Longer Before Cutting Pay

32

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New Era for Shannon AirportShannon Airport is delighted to announce that 2009 has begun with a flying start with the commencement of construction of it’s new US Customs & Border Protection Pre-Clearance Facility.

Following an agreement between the Irish and US governments signed in Nov. 2008, passengers travelling to the US will undertake all necessary immigration, customs and agriculture inspections at Shannon Airport before departure for the US, thereby allowing passengers to arrive in the US as domestic passengers and fast-tracking their access through to their US destination. Previously only immigration pre-inspection was undertaken in Shannon with the remaining inspections carried out on arrival in the US.

Through this historic agreement, airlines will for the first time ever, be able to fly to domestic airports in the US, opening up the real possibility of increased connectivity to Shannon Airport and Ireland as a whole. Shannon Airport will be the first European Airport to have full US CBP Pre-clearance capability and it is expected that this unique status will open up a range of additional opportunities for the development of services between Shannon and US airports.

The Dublin Airport Authority has given Shannon airport a real vote of confidence by investing € 20 million in extending the terminal building at Shannon Airport to accommodate this new facility, the largest such investment in Shannon Airport in over ten years. The terminal extension will modernise and upgrade the existing departures terminal and improve the passenger experience with additional facilities and space. Together with their project partners, Limerick based Designers WYG Engineering (Ireland) in association with MAP Architects, Healy Kelly Turner and Townsend (Project Managers & Cost Controllers) and PJ Hegarty & Sons (Contractors), Shannon Airport expect to have the CBP facility in operation by July ‘09.

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Conor Murray, Garrowen, Peter O'Mahony, Cork Con and Kieran Essex, UL Bohs.

Munster Rugby Academy has announced the continuation its educational sponsorship deal with BDO Simpson Xavier that provides all academy players with their own individual laptops. Munster Rugby Official Business Advisors, BDO Simpson Xavier will continue to supply Academy members with computers for their own educational and game analysis use. The sponsorship arrangement will also see BDO Simpson Xavier continue as Sponsorship Partner of the Munster Rugby Academy.

At the announcement of the sponsorship Ian Sherwin, manager of the Munster Rugby Academy said ‘this continues to be a very unique sponsorship that directly benefits our academy players on and off the field. It also acknowledges the way rugby is developing with a large element of player development taking place off the pitch. Ensuring all players have access to their own laptops for game and skills analysis is a great resource to have for their educational and rugby development.’

Managing Partner of BDO Simpson Xavier Brian McGann said ‘One of the critical aspects underlying any team success in business or sports is a commitment to developing their people. We are delighted to make this contribution to the development of the future stars of Munster Rugby and in particular to be associated with the Academy who have produced so many fantastic players that have graduated to the senior team.’ The sponsorship will also result in BDO Simpson Xavier continuing to work with the Academy on a career development programme for academy members. Players will also be provided with access to ongoing career advice from dedicated consultants across a range of business disciplines. The Academy operates a three year cycle with a maximum of seven places per year available. During their three years in the Academy all players complete a Level 7 Higher Education Training Awards Council Diploma in Professional Rugby through HETAC. A number of Academy players have now gone on to win Irish caps including Tomas O’Leary, Donnacha Ryan and Keith Earls.

Munster Rugby Academy Goes Hi Tech

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LIMERICK COLLEGEof

BUSINESS STUDIESQuality Tuition

Professional Careers

LCBS CAT 2008 Pass Rate 79%Global Pass Rate LCBS Pass Rate Paper T4 37% 100%Paper T2 35% 100%

As one of Limericks leading institutes of business, we credit ourselves on

Professional financial tuition.Our student results in 2008 alone reflect

our commitment in helping each and every student achieve their highest

potential.

Courses Available – 2009

Part-Time Courses Available

(New Course) (New Course)

(New Course)

College term begins onJanuary 26th and March 23rd

email:info@lcbs.ieweb: www.lcbs.ie

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Upcoming Events:FEBRUARYMonday 16th FebruaryAnnual General Meeting @ 6pmFollowed by Facilitated Networking @ 6.45pmVenue: Clarion Hotel MARCHTuesday 3rd MarchBusiness Breakfast 8am – 10am‘Future Proof Your Business For Success’Venue: Strand HotelSponsor: Harmonics

APRILDate TBCRegional Networking Evening With Shan-non & Ennis Chambers @6.30pmVenue: Radisson SAS Hotel & Spa

CHAMBER BUSINESS SCHOOL TRAINING COURSES:(All Courses €240.00 per day; includes FÁS Funding)Venue for All Courses:Limerick Chamber Board Room, 96 O’Connell St.

Finance For Non Financial Manager 1 Day Training Course:Date: Tuesday 24th February

Performance Management 2 Day Training Course:Dates: Thursdays 12th & 19th March

Sales & Marketing 1 Day Training Course:Date: Wednesday 1st April

Getting Paid 1 Day Training Course:Date: Tuesday 7th April

Negotiation & Conflict Resolution 2 Day Training Course:Dates: Wednesdays 22nd & 29th April

People Management Skills/Essential Skills For Managers (1) 2 Day Training Course:Date: Thursdays 14th & 21st May

Customer Care1 Day Training Course:Date: Tuesday 9th June

For Bookings or further information on the above Events, please contact Maura McMa-hon 061-217604 mmcmahon@limerick-chamber.ie

Maura McMahon – Limerick Chamber and Gaye Moore – TWB, Limerick Chamber Referral Network Facilitator

Elaine Sparling – Moore Stephens Patrick McNamara Financial Planning, David Leyden – Leyden Hassett & Associates and Deirdre Downes – Webface

Adrian Carmody – Pro-cad Training, David O’Connor – Better Buy Kitchens and Dermot O’Gorman – Work Access

Yvonne Clarke – UL Conference Centre, Ken Kilmartin – Horwath Bastow Charleton Accountants

Karl Daly - Karl Daly Pensions and Investments, Mary Markham – eml Architects Ltd. & Joe Power – Action Coach

Melvyn Hanley – Solicitor, Alex O’Neill – Alex O’Neill Solicitors and Jim O’Donovan –O’Donovan Caulfield Lavin

Limerick Chamber launched the Limerick Chamber Referral Network 2009 on Friday 30th January in the Absolute Hotel at 9am. “Our aim in Limerick Chamber is to help local businesses and companies get more business” says Maria Kelly, CEO Limerick Chamber. In these tough trading times there is no better way to generate business than by meeting and networking with other like minded people. Face to face networking has proven to be the way to guarantee sales, build relationships with potential clients, build a brand and last but not least be part of a dynamic group that are facing challenging times together.”

Limerick Chamber invited all of its Members to attend this inaugural meeting, which was attended by 80 people. The Referral Network will be facilitated by Gaye Moore who is a past National President of Network Ireland and is the founder of TWB.ie, which has generated thousands of euros worth of business for its members. The Referral Network will not be for just referrals and generating business, it will also provide support and teamwork for those who join. Limerick Chamber Referral Network Inaugural Meeting Friday January 30th in the Absolute Hotel.

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Limerick Chamber Referral Network

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• Breakfast BriefingTuesday 3rd March, Strand Hotel

Harmonics are hosting a breakfast briefing in association with Limerick Chamber entitled ‘Future Proof Your Business for Success’ in the Strand Hotel on Tuesday 3rd March. Our expert panel John Fitzgerald, John Carroll and Maeve Conroy will share their insights and experiences of implementing “change/ restructuring” solutions with organisations such as O2, Tyco Sensormatic, Diageo, Jacobs Fruitfield, Keelings, Folens, UL and the Mater Hospital.

Pre DownsizingJohn Carroll former HR Director Jacob Fruitfield will speak on how he planned and effected the recently successful downsizing of Jacob Fruitfield’s manufacturing operations in Tallaght and offer a road map for those present on how to go about a successful restructuring.

Downsizing John Fitzgerald, MD Harmonics will outline how to manage an Outplacement project whether this involves voluntary and/or compulsory redundancies. He will offer his advice on the options available to HR managers and share how Harmonics have changed the way they offer outplacement to meet the needs of those being made redundant in these recessionary times.

Post DownsizingMaeve Conroy, former Head of HR at Gilbeys (a Diageo company) and People Development Manager at Diageo, will focus on the critical role of the Line Manager in delivering successful change in difficult times. Speaking from her experience, she will explore the value of equipping Line Managers to deliver difficult messages clearly, engage in career conversations with employees while often being impacted themselves; know and understand the different roles in change as well as understanding and empathising with the human impact of restructure and downsizing. She will share the insights of organisations such as Diageo who continue to invest in the skills and leadership ability of the “survivors” of a restructured organisation as a way to future proof the potential of the company to deliver after the changes have happened.

Date: Tuesday 3rd March 2009 Time: 8.00am – 10.00am, Venue: Strand HotelCOST: Members: FREE, Non-Members: €20.00Bookings to Maura McMahonE-mail: info@limerickchamber.ieTel: 061 217604

Imagine an experienced HR Manager with 10 years experience working within a progressive multinational manufacturing environment. They have gained extensive experience in implementing and managing innovative, people focussed strategies to ensure their organisation has the best talent to drive its objectives and profitability.

Now at the pinnacle of their own career, this manager has been given the task to shed 30% of its work force as part of a “change management” strategy which is vital to the future survival of the business.

Their Reaction?• CULTURE SHOCK of having to exit employees they have worked so hard to develop• PANIC of having no previous ex-perience at exiting volume numbers of employees• FEAR of a badly handled HR pro-cess leading to legal claims of unfair procedures in managing the people out of the business• UNCERTAINTY that Line Managers will not be able to lead and manage demotivated surviving staff who are the future of the business• WORRY that the reputation of the business will be impacted negatively

Currently the Irish economy is in the claws of a recession that has spun us all into a culture shock. In truth, our economy is experiencing the growing pains of transition. John Fitzgerald Managing Director of Harmonics strongly believes “It is now time to clip the umbilical cord of low value manufacturing in Ireland. We need to up-skill and align our businesses to

provide higher value and innovative services to succeed in the future.

He says “This is a time where organisations have no choice but to prune their business back to its core so they can diversify and grow the essential skillsets for the next wave of technology, products and services advancements”.

Harmonics Change Management Specialist John Carroll says downsizing is a critical decision and if done correctly is the key to securing the Organsations future. In this time of downsizing and restructuring, there are three key elements he says to be considered:

1. Organisation• Be clear on what you want to do, what roles you want to eliminate and retain.• Have a definite picture of what the business will look like after the restructuring?• Set out a consistent message to be communicated internally to people and externally to customers, suppliers, competitors and all other stakeholders?

2. PeopleMany companies focus only on the legal requirements and lose sight of their people in the process. It is vital to manage the issues and concerns of employees who are leaving the business and also those who are remaining. He warns that the people staying are the future of your business and must be given a high priority throughout the process.

3. LegislationIt’s also important to ensure people’s legal entitlements are adhered to,

particularly with regard to notice, consultation, payments

and selection for redundancy.

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John CarrollChange ManagementSpecialist, Harmonics

Maeve ConroyHead of Leadership

Development, Harmonics

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Social Entrepreneurs Ireland (SEI) recently launched its call for applications in the Limerick region for its 2009 Awards Programme. Since its establishment in 2005 Social Entrepreneurs Ireland has provided over € 2.8 million in funding to support a network of 116 aspiring social entrepreneurs, many of whom have gone on to develop innovative and highly successful programmes that are tackling serious social problems in our society.

Launching the call for applications, Sean Coughlan, Chief Executive, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland said that the current social and economic climate has created conditions that require more and more people to think and act creatively in order to address the needs and growing disparities in communities.

To date social entrepreneurs are making a

significant contribution to the economy by starting new enterprises and are filling an increasingly important role in solving social issues. They have stepped up to the mark, and are actively making a difference and igniting change and need to be encouraged and supported to do so now more than ever. The activities of last year's awardees alone have directly benefited over 17,000 people and more than 165,000 have indirectly benefited.

In the Limerick region, James Corbett set up Vizitant which brings video-enabled social networking and presence applications to seniors living alone and in retirement/nursing homes, providing an affordable and easy to use means to connect with each other.

Social Entrepreneurs Ireland offers two levels of Awards. Level 1 Awards

are suitable for applicants who are at the early stages of development of their project, typically at proof-of-concept/pilot stage. A Level 1 Award lasts for 12 months. Awardees receive € 6,000 plus a comprehensive package of support and training.

Level 2 Awards are suitable for applicants have already developed a proven model and who are looking to significantly grow the scale and impact of their project. Level 2 awards consist of an award of €80,000 over a period of 2 years plus a comprehensive package of support and training, mentoring and coaching.

Application forms and further information can be found on the Social Entrepreneurs Ireland website www.socialentrepreneurs.ie. Closing date for completed applications is March 20th 2009.

SEI Calls for Applications in Limerick Region

Limerick based renewable energy company, Wind Energy Direct (WED), has announced the appointment of the country’s foremost wind energy expert, Lawrence Staudt, to its Board of Directors. Mr Staudt is Head of the Centre for Renewable Energy at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DIT). He pioneered the installation of the world’s first commercial wind turbine on a college campus at DIT and his appointment is viewed as a major coup for the company. Announcing his appointment, Mr Staudt called on the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) to generate vital savings for Irish industry by waiving the obligation for large energy users to queue for the right to export excess electricity generated on site to the national grid. Under the current system, any energy producer that delivers more than 500kW could have to wait for up to five years before being cleared by the CER’s Group Processing Approach and allowed to export electricity. This, Mr Staudt says, impedes a golden opportunity for them to reduce their costs by up to €1 million within five years and, therefore, enhance competitiveness and protect jobs. “It is a very simple equation. If the CER waives the necessity for large energy users to go through the Group Processing Approach, they won’t have to wait up to five years to be put into a ‘Gate’. Indeed, it is already suggested in the grid connection rules that this should be the case, but it had yet to be applied. This will make it far more attractive for them to install their own on-site turbines, which will deliver a significant reduction in energy costs for them at a time when our nation’s competitiveness is being eroded year on year. The companies who will benefit from this are the country’s largest employers. “Having to wait for up to five years to get onto the next Gate for renewable energy supply is a deterrent to installing a turbine on site. Financing the installation of such projects will be much easier

when banks know that they are exempt from the process. They will have the security of knowing that in the unlikely event that the company ceases operation, the electricity can still be sold onto the National Grid. “Making auto-producers exempt from the Group Processing Approach could be a vital missing piece in the jigsaw for industry. It should have minimal impact on the ability of wind farms to connect on the grid. The likelihood is that any capacity exported to the national grid would be insignificant compared to the output of a standard wind farm. In fact by producing and consuming electricity on their own sites, large industrial users will free up grid resources.” Mr Staudt will join WED Chief Executive Dominic Costello and fellow director John Cusack on the Board of Directors. A number of other high profile appointments are due to be made over the coming weeks to the emerging renewable energy company.

Wind Energy Direct Appoints Wind Energy Expert

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Developers – residential property completed pre 1 July 2008There has been some confusion in relation to the application of the new VAT on property rules for lettings of residential property by developers. The legislation provides for different tax treatment depending on whether a building was "completed" before 1 July 2008 or on or after 1 July 2008.

The term “Completed” as it refers to the new VAT on property rules is defined in VAT legislation. A property is completed when it is ready to be used for the purposes for which the property was designed and the utility services required for those purposes are connected to the property.

Where a developer had completed construction of a residential property before 1 July 2008 but has let it for the first time after 1 July 2008 there is a full claw-back of the VAT deducted by the developer.

The Revenue Commissioners have clarified that in certain circumstances they are prepared to accept that a property may be regarded as not having been completed until it has been rented.

Developers – residential property completed post 1 July 2008Where a developer had completed construction of a residential property after 1 July 2008 and the property is rented on or after 1 July 2008 no immediate claw-back occurs. Under the new rules there is only a 5% claw-back at the end of the initial interval i.e. twelve months from the initial letting.

The Revenue clarification represents a significant cash flow advantage for the developer as under the old rules the full amount of VAT incurred on the residential property, which is let, is clawed back. In both cases, the sale is subject to VAT on the full consideration received regardless of the length of time the property has been let.

Landlords – Lettings to Connected PartiesThe new VAT on Property legislation has introduced connected party rules for lettings of property.

Since 1 July 2008 the letting of property is exempt from VAT and a landlord is not entitled to deduct VAT incurred on the acquisition or development of the property, which is subject to the letting. A landlord may, upon agreement with the tenant, opt to charge VAT @ 21.5% on the letting. A landlord who does so is entitled to deduct VAT incurred on the acquisition or development of the property. However there are restrictions as to the circumstances where a landlord may do so.

There are restrictions on the option to tax rents. The option to tax cannot apply where:1. The property is occupied for residential purposes.2. Where the letting is between connected persons except where the tenant is entitled to deduct at least 90% of the VAT chargeable on the rent.3. Where the property is occupied as distinct from let by a person who is connected with the landlord.

Under the old waiver rules, a waiver applied to all short-term lettings (period of less than

ten years) of the landlord. This is not the case with the option to tax. It may well be that a landlord may opt to tax a letting of part of a building while making an exempt letting of the rest of the building.

Where a waiver of exemption was in place pre 1 July 2008 and there was a short term letting of property between connected parties in place at 1 July 2008, the letting is deemed to be cancelled and the landlord will be liable for a claw-back of VAT.

However if the tenant is entitled to deduct at least 90% of the VAT charged on the letting, then the waiver will not be cancelled but will continue for the duration of that letting for as long as the tenant has at least 90% deductibility.

Landlords – Existing Short Term LettingsPrior to the introduction of the new VAT legislation a short term letting was defined as a letting for a period less than ten years. Since the introduction of new VAT legislation there is no distinction between leases for a period greater than or less than ten years.

Landlords with short term leases in place at 1 July 2008 should review their obligations under the new VAT on property legislation, prior to the expiry of these leases to ensure compliance with VAT legislation going forward. In some instances it may be necessary for the landlord and tenant to jointly opt to tax a letting i.e. charge VAT @ 21.5% on the rent, after the expiry of the current lease.

Specific VAT advices should be obtained in relation to all property transactions.

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New VAT On Property Rules

Do They ImpactOn Your Business?

Diarmuid Hendrick

BDO Simpson Xavier is Ireland’s leading firm in the area of advice to entrepreneurs and owner managed businesses. Diarmuid Hendrick is General Practice Partner in the firm’s Limerick offices.The office can be contacted on 061- 41 44 55.

BDO Simpson Xavier will not accept responsibility for loss or damage to any person as a result of refrain-ing from acting as a result of the information contained in this article. Professional advice should always be sought before acting on any matter referred to in this article.

The purpose of this article is to examine the impact of some aspects of the new VAT on Property legislation introduced with effect from 1July 2008. Developers and Landlords should carefully consider their obligations under the new legislation to ensure that they are compliant with the new rules, and benefit from transitional arrangements.

Staff Solutions are celebrating 10

years in business this year and MD Joan

McGowan believes that their success

lies with the personal professional

service they offer. She has assembled

a team of highly skilled and highly

trained consultants around her. “ We

work with the specific requirements

of the client, only applicants that

meet these specific needs will be

forwarded to our clients – there is no

time wasting and our client knows

this. As a company, we have grown

with our clients and we are on the

preferred supplier listing with every

major company in the region”, said

Joan. Staff Solutions cater for staff in

all sectors of the work force and would

also be known for their ‘personal

touch’ among their candidates.

“Candidates are treated as we would

want to be treated ourselves. We are

in constant contact while placement is

operating and the candidate’s welfare

is foremost at this time”.

“We are continuing to build our

strong team.

Staff Solutions now offer an on-site

service for direct recruiting. This

service enables her clients to reduce

costs on staffing fees.

“Thankfully, the recession hasn’t hit

us yet and we are busier now than

ever. Our brand has established itself

over the last 10 years and our repeat

and referred business proves to us

that we are meeting our clients needs

successfully”, concluded Joan.

Unit 2, Belfield House, Ennis Road,

Limerick

Tel: 061 329250 • Fax: 061 329252info@staffsolutions.ie

www.staffsolutions.ie

39www.businesslimerick.ie

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Temporary/Contract and Permanent Placements

Contact Aidrianne Quaid & Joan McGowan

info@staffsolutions.ie www.staffsolutions.ie

Providing the solution to all your staffing needs

3

Staff Solutions

Providing the Solution

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Aoife Gallagher & Eilis Gallagher.

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1. Cash flowCash flow monitoring is the single most important business process that should be carried out regularly. Cash flow analysis involves examining the components of your business that affect cash flow, such as accounts receivable, inventory, accounts payable, and credit terms. By performing a cash flow analysis on these separate components, you'll be able to more easily identify cash flow problems and find ways to improve your cash flow.

2. Manage Customers & SalesThe simple task of keeping records of your customers and the contact activity that takes place will pay dividends in terms of your business success. Knowing who is buying from you, how often, and having all their contact details is invaluable for sales, marketing, customer service, and financial forecasting, and will keep your business customer-focused. This is especially true in a small business, where customer relationships are everything. These records might be as simple as a spreadsheet.

3. ProductionWhile the supply of Goods and Services is governed by state regulation, the importance of guaranteeing the timely delivery of quality products and services to the customer goes beyond the imperative of regulation.

4. ComplianceThe keeping of full and accurate records of your business is imperative. Business promoters need to be fully aware of the legislation in their industry and sector and proactively manage compliance. Indeed, companies have created sustainable competitive advantage from ensuring standards over and above current regulatory standards.

5. Insight and Decision MakingMost businesses have plenty of data whether it is in the form of market intelligence, customer information, or

operational information such as cost figures, sales volumes, operational efficiencies, or other key performance metrics. And the amounts of data continue to grow as more systems are added and an increased focus on governance requires more information to be retained. In order to gain a competitive advantage in today's business environment, business managers must use this information to streamline operations, focus on your target market and find new markets, increase revenue, and develop business

relationships.

6. FundingFunding is an essential

part of every business. To be considered for a

loan or investment to fund development and growth, the business must provide complete financial statements. Given the difficulty for new businesses in obtaining credit and finance, I would advocate

that entrepreneurs build relationships at an early

stage with their bank manager and also with local

representatives of the Enterprise Boards and Enterprise Ireland.

7. Business Planning Business Planning encompasses all the goals, strategies and actions that you envisage taking to ensure your business’s survival and growth. An up-to-date, real, practical business plan is an incredibly effective way for individuals to focus on achieving the goals of the organization.

The Circle of Business Success

1.Cash Flow 2.

ManageCustomersand Sales

3.Production

4.Compliance

5.Insight and

Decision Making

6.Funding

7.BusinessPlanning

YourBusiness

The Enterprise Acceleration Centre in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland is currently accepting applications for their EnterpriseSTART programme which will run from Friday 27th February for 6 weekends.

Further information on this Start your Business program and to download an application form online @ www.eac.ie

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Limerick City’s First5 Star Hotel The Limerick Marriott Hotel is delighted to announce that it has been classified as a 5 Star Hotel by Fáilte Ireland, making it Limerick City’s first and only hotel to achieve 5 Star status. The hotel was also honoured with an Optimus Service Excellence Award by Fáilte Ireland in December 2008. Awarded to companies who are committed to delivering an excellent service, the Optimus Service Excellence Award guarantees that everyone in the organisation makes a deliberate and sustained effort in contributing towards a positive customer experience. The Limerick Marriott Hotel was assessed in five categories of service excellence before being awarded this prestigious honour. Niall Kerins, General Manager of the Limerick Marriott Hotel is delighted with the 5 Star recognition and the Optimus Service Excellence Award. “The Limerick Marriott Hotel fosters a culture of excellence in customer service. We are all very pleased that the outstanding service offered by our experienced and dedicated staff has been recognised by Fáilte Ireland. We are also delighted to have achieved the 5 Star

classification and are very grateful to all our guests for their valued custom”. Built on the site of the former Savoy Theatre and Cinema, the Limerick Marriott Hotel has already become the epitome of luxury in Limerick city, with a consistent level of dedicated service that immediately sets it apart from its competitors. The Limerick Marriott Hotel has also rekindled the warm memories people have of the old Savoy Theatre. The Savoy Sessions, which are presented in association with Bare Space Theatre Company have brought back the timeless music of The Savoy in a series of evocative sessions which have attracted a huge following since they commenced in October last year. “We are delighted with the success of the Savoy Sessions and look forward to welcoming guests to the luxurious Liszt Lounge on Valentine’s Night for a love themed Savoy Session”, stated Niall Kerins. For further details on the Limerick Marriott Hotel and the Valentine’s Savoy Session contact the Limerick Marriott Hotel on 061 448700.

Shannon Airport Authority is disappointed with the decision by Ryanair to terminate flights to 5 of its 30 destinations in summer 2009 during the final year of its five year agreement with the airport. However Ryanair will provide 25 key routes during the coming summer which will be good news for our customers in the West of Ireland.

Ryanair has availed of an extremely attractive based aircraft incentive scheme to deliver agreed targets at Shannon over a 5 year period. Shannon Airport has met all its obligations in respect of the agreement and we expect the airline will likewise honour its commitments. We do not accept that Ryanair can avoid its contractual commitment on the basis of the air travel tax introduced by the Government.

Ryanair is a valued customer at Shannon Airport. We look forward to holding discussions with Ryanair to agree ongoing traffic development well beyond the current agreement in the mutual interest of both companies and to support the development of the West of Ireland.

Ryanair Announcement at Shannon

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Exporters to Target EuropeRalf Lissek, CEO of the German-Irish Chamber of Industry and Commerce, has called on exporters to seize the opportunities at hand. Speaking during the organisation’s Annual General Meeting in Dublin yesterday Lissek pointed out that European markets and Germany in particular represent great potential for Irish exporters to generate new business.

“Most Continental European markets are not as severely affected by the economic downturn as Ireland is. With the German government launching a € 50 billion investment package strongly focused on construction and infrastructure projects, Germany is going to be of particular interest to Irish exporters and the construction industry” said Lissek. According to economic data recently released by Germany Trade and Invest, Ireland’s exports go predominantly to English speaking markets with 17.8 % of Irish exports being shipped to the USA and 16.7 % to the UK. Germany ranks fourth among the destinations for Irish exports with a share of 7.5 % (€ 8.242 billion in the first half of 2008).

“Economic developments call for a shift in focus on the part of the Irish export industry. The strong ties with the American economy have left Ireland particularly exposed to the economic downturn in the US while the weakening of Sterling has eradicated the margins of Irish companies supplying the UK market. There clearly is a case for a diversification of Irish export activities in order to stabilise the Irish export industry.”

SIMI demands Rescue Package The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) today released the official figures for the number of new vehicles registered in January ’09 (15,929) which shows they are down 66.54% on January ‘08 (47,609).

The introduction of changes to VRT and Road Tax in July 2008 and the announcement of an early budget stalled the market and there has been no recovery since. The implications of the banking industry collapse has further compounded the increasingly tough market conditions.

The stark contrast between Jan’08 and Jan ’09 figures are indicative of the altered state of our country’s economy. In 2007 the VRT and VAT generated by new vehicle registrations reached €2billion. This figure contracted to € 1.5billon in 2008 and it is estimated that, unless action is taken swiftly by the government, VRT and VAT revenue for 2009 could drop to €500million.

The January sales results come as no surprise to SIMI who predict new vehicle registrations to fall below 100,000 units this year. However, demand for used cars is encouraging and dealerships are reporting a move towards vehicle aftermarket services i.e. parts and servicing. The decrease in oil prices and interest rates has been of little assistance to the stabilisation of the volatile Motor Industry.

Our members are under immense pressure and face extraordinary challenges in ’09. Already the industry has suffered 3,000 redundancies and

substantial cuts in salaries are affecting many more, particularly those who work on commission basis.

Commenting on these figures SIMI Director General, Alan Nolan said “Poor figures for January are of little surprise given the current state of the global economy and weak consumer confidence. There is movement in the used car market and our members are diversifying their businesses and responding to demand for servicing and parts, which is a logical shift in business given the increasing numbers keeping their cars for longer.”

Commenting on this Alan Nolan said “It is crucial at this point that the government supports the industry and takes real and immediate action to boost the industry and prevent the potentially devastating consequences of continued decline.”

Vehicle registrations for 2009 (1,651) are down 80.55% on the same period last year (8,490). Heavy Vehicle (HGV) registrations are down 67.4% (267) for the year to date compared to the same period in 2008 (819). Scrappage schemes in the past have benefitted the consumer, the government and the Motor Industry. In July ’95 to Dec ’97 (incl) the government introduced a scrappage scheme that saw almost 65,000 cars scrapped and replaced with newer, safer, cleaner cars. The national car park figures of cars ten years or older stood at 213,000 during that scrappage scheme period. Today, in 2009, that figure is closer to 312,000.

The introduction of a similar scheme

again, (already introduced in Germany and France), would provide much needed tax revenue without applying additional taxes on vehicles already on the roads and would stimulate this important sector employing over 50,000. This scheme would assist motorists’ transition to cleaner, greener vehicles and allow customers take advantage of preferential tax rates. We are better able now, following the introduction of the End of Life Vehicle Regulation, to deal with the safe recovery, reuse and treatment of any vehicles scrapped.

Unlike the UK Motor Industry, our government is not being asked to boost the failing manufacturers of vehicles, but rather inject urgent movement back into the motoring market. We hope that the government has the foresight to see the advantages of facilitating the modernization of the national car park to ‘greener’ vehicles.

Banks and lending institutions must work with the Motor Industry to promote the sale of vehicles and assist consumers and indeed motor dealers by releasing funds, negotiating favorable terms and creating movement in the market once more. Consumer confidence is low and if the message being conveyed is that finance is not available, the market will struggle and buyers will be deterred from entering the market which stalls the economy between the industries and serves nobody in the long run.

Neither the banks nor the Motor Industry can afford to allow this market to stagnate and finance must flow again for those who are in the position to borrow.

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ISME Calls On Labour Court to Refuse Demand for Minimum Wage Hike

ISME, the Irish Small & Medium Enterprises Association, has called on the Labour Court to reject the requested increase in the minimum wage, outlining that any further increases in the rate will lead to thousands of job losses nationally and send a completely negative message internationally.

According to ISME Chief Executive, Mark Fielding, “It is absolutely ridiculous that there are even discussions taking place about the minimum wage, when the economy is in danger of collapsing, businesses are shutting down and hundreds of people are

being forced to join the dole queues each week. The current national minimum wage is already the second highest in Europe. Any attempts to increase the rate beyond the current level will have a detrimental impact on thousands of companies throughout the economy, who are barely staying afloat”.

Fielding levelled particular criticism at the Unions, stating, “It is the level of wage costs in Ireland, which has significantly contributed to the mess we are in at present. The Unions must enter the real world and begin to assist the cause rather than seek unjustified wage

claims at this time. Their calls to increase the minimum wage, beyond the terms of the national wage agreement are outlandish, provocative and indicative of organisations that have lost touch with reality,” he declared.

In conclusion, Fielding called on the Labour Court, for the sake of reason, common sense and the future of the economy, to refuse any application for an increase in the minimum wage and declare that the issue will not be revisited until the economy is in a better position to address this issue.

• Minimum wage madness must stop• Calls for an increase in the minimum wage, outlandish, provocative and unrealistic

Ralph Parkes was honoured with the ‘Philanthropist of the Year’ award by the Community Foundation for Ireland’s awards recently. Nominated for the award by Lynn Buffington and the committee of the Mid West Spina Bifida and Hydrocepohlus Association, Ralph follows in the footsteps of J.P. Mc Manus who received this award last year. Mr. Parkes, who plays down the immense and important role he has played in the Association by stating that this award should have gone to the committee, was delighted to accept the award and was very flattered by the announcement. “Anyone can make a difference to whatever charity they choose to get involved with. It doesn’t have to be about writing big cheques, but investing

a little time instead. For my own part, I have been able to secure funding for the charity from businesses in the region”, said Mr. Parkes.

Lynn Buffington is more outspoken regarding Ralph’s input into the association. “We would not be in our new building without the support of Ralph Parkes. His business network contacts have proved priceless to our association, time and time again. If I need any kind of business advice, I can call on Ralph and I am assured of his help. He has made a real difference to us and is a true philanthropist, hard working and not wanting any credit for his input. Everybody has different skills which can be utilised by charity organisations and

really make a difference when they lend their talents rather than large donations” said Lynn.

Mr. Parkes’ company Fine Wines host a golf classic annually with all proceeds going directly to the Association locally. The area covered by the local Association is counties Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary.

The opening of the new Mid- West Spina Bifida & Hydrocepohlus Association Centre in Eastway Business Park earlier this year has been a major step forward for this charity. The centre is purpose built and fully accessible. “Ralph Parkes invested his time and talents in securing funding from his generous business contacts which has been directly responsible for our new premises. He has been a wonderful patron for our charity”, said Lynn.

The Community Foundation’s ‘Philanthropist of the Year award’, recognises the individual who have given commitment and generosity, beyond the call of duty to charities and voluntary organisations nationally and internationally.

With this project completed, it’s on to the next chapter for Mr Parkes and the Committee, a new sports hall, adjacent to the new centre, which will facilitate wheelchair sports.

Ralph Parkes is a big Munster Rugby supporter and Honorary Vice-president of UL Bohemian RFC. He is the owner of the Fine Wines off-licence chain and a director of Parkes Properties, property development company, with his brother Michael.

Limerick Philanthropist Wins Award

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09

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BL COVER STORYVincent Cunnane'Pioneering New Initiatives 50 Years On'

BL NEWS315 New Jobs Announced

BL GALLERYOut and About with BL

BL ARTICLELimerick City’s First 5 Star Hotel

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BL NEWSLimerick PhilanthropistWins Award

BL NEWSMidwest Arts, Media & Culture Awards

BL NEWSLimerick Person of The Year

BL SPORT - Mick Galwey'Thanks be to God for Munster'

Business Limerick FOR BUSINESS LEADERS

C O N T E N T SFebruary 2009

Frank CollinsEditor

frank@businesslimerick.ie

FROM THE EDITOR

“Yes We Can…”A lot of outside forces have resulted in Ireland finding itself where it is economically today, but with the help of the limitless coverage with the doom and gloom from the news media, I believe we have talked ourselves deeper into recession. The result is people are scared to spend, afraid of what maybe around the corner. Businesses start cutting back on financial outlays of which advertising and marketing are often high on the list. The prudence of this type of cutback is more than questionable and can be detrimental to many businesses. Yes, take stock and baton down any leaking areas in your operation, but successful companies are continuing to prudently move forward with their marketing plans and some are stepping up their campaigns.

I think it is time the business community stops listening to the prophets of doom and positively talk ourselves up and out of this stagnant fear mentality. The job has to be done, so let’s get positive and try to do something to change the situation for ourselves.

After the election of Barack Obama, the world is looking at the U.S. president to lead the way out for all of us. He has pledged that he will lead the U.S. out of this recession by working together under the battle cry “Yes we can…”

We too can mirror his commitment and working together, ‘yes we can’ get ourselves out of this mess here in Ireland. Let’s put this fear behind us and talk ourselves out of depression. This is the first step and we can then work our way out of recession together!!

Business Limerick Patrons

Business Limerick Magazine is a full participating member of the Press Council of Ireland and supports

the Office of the Press Ombudsman. This scheme in addition to defending the freedom of the press,

offers readers a quick, fair and free method of dealing with complaints that they may have in relation

to articles that appear on our pages. To contact the Office of the Press Ombudsman go to:

www.pressombudsman.ie or www.presscouncil.ie.

Valentine's Day at Flowers Forever

Tel: 061 307123

Where Creativity is the Secret to our Success

Flowers Forever, Raheen Roundabout, Raheen, Limerick, Email: flowers4ever@eircom.net

Editor

Frank Collins

frank@businesslimerick.ie

Mobile: 086 245 1153

Advertising Manager

Marguerite Finnan

mags@businesslimerick.ie

Mobile: 087 245 1153

Advertising Sales

Yvonne Sheehan

yvonne@businesslimerick.ie

Mobile: 086 8072088

Business Journalists

Brian McLaughlin

brianmclaughlin@eircom.net

Accounts Manager

Mary Cassela

maryc@businesslimerick.ie

Graphic Design

Zuzana Jezikova

Creative Wave Design

Mobile: 086 1063744

Photography

Michael Cowhey

Photographic Contributors

Press 22

Kieran Clancy - PicSure

Dave Gaynor

Keith Wiseman

Contributors

Mal Keaveney

Mick Galwey

Padraig O’Connell

Published by

Business Limerick Publications Ltd.

Directors

Frank Collins

Marguerite Finnan

Business Limerick Magazine is published monthly by Business Limerick Publications Limited.© 2008 Business Limerick. All Rights Reserved. The information contained in the magazine is believed to be accurate and authorative, however it is not intended to substitute for legal, accounting, tax or other professional advice. Statements and opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Business Limerick. No responsibility can be assumed for any unsolicited materials and submission is construed as permission to publish without any further correspondence and the fee payable (if any) at our usual rates. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval sys-tem or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publishers.

Business Limerick

Pillar House,

Little Ellen Street, Limerick

Tel: (061) 46 75 18

(061) 21 47 38

Fax: (061) 46 85 60

Email: info@businesslimerick.ie

Web: www.businesslimerick.ie

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The most effective programme for fat loss and firm tissue gain ever recordedin 2 weeks under university research conditions.

All clients are supervised to obtain results at approximately half the price of a personal trainer.

www.businesslimerick.ie42

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Lydia Anglim & Laura Anglim.

Amy O' Keefe & Deirdre Killilea.

April Quinn, Carol Toomey & Annie Quinn.

Ludia Turley, Padraig Frawley & Yolanda Lowry.

Eleanor Fitzgearld, Rachel Okoko & Charlotte Hickey.

Martina Aylmer, Catherine Hickey & Niamh McMahon.

Joanne Fitzgearld, Stephanie Duffy & Louise Meade.

Aoife Gallagher & Eilis Gallagher.

Olio & Farina, bringingthe Italian culture of taste to your table.I have put together below a few healthier options for those of you looking for tasty quality food with none of the guilt!

o Fry a fillet of lemon sole in some olive oil and drizzle with O&F Extra Virgin Olive Oil infused with lemons from Sorrento.

o Fry 1 chopped onion with 2 cloves of chopped garlic and add our O&F 100% Italian peeled tomatoes with a handful of torn basil leaves to make a delicious and low fat pasta sauce.

o Use one of our unique and delicious vegetable pates such as O&F Artichoke Pate or O&F Asparagus Pate to dress an open sandwich or use as a dip with chopped carrots, celery or cauliflower.

Don’t forget St. Valenines Day on Saturday 14th February. Of course no one does romance better than the Italians!! Drop into the shop to see our new range of chocolates and (my favourite!) fondant chocolate cake. Your loved one will be very impressed with our exclusive gifts dressed with red hearts and ribbon to make it a day to remember!

Contact: Tel.: 061 319133

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Shannon Development, the Shannon Region Tourism Authority, launched its new 2009 domestic tourism marketing campaign for Limerick and the Shannon Region at Holiday World travel show in the RDS Dublin. Holiday World, which attracts an estimated 100,000 potential holidaymakers, was the launch pad for a range of tourism promotions which will benefit Limerick city and county during the coming year. “New short breaks promotions, a suite of new brochure material, radio marketing campaigns, new internet promotions and more emphasis on consumer targeting, are just some of the key components of Shannon Development’s 2009 domestic tourism marketing campaign,” said Mr. Pat Daly, Tourism Marketing Manager, Shannon Development. “The domestic tourism market generates in excess of €125 million in annual revenue for the Shannon Region and we intend to build on this to ensure that 2009 will be an even better year,” said Mr. Daly. Tourism market intelligence continues to highlight the importance of the short break market and this is an area that Shannon Development has been particularly focused. The Company dedicated short breaks website www.shortbreaksireland.ie is being used to sell a range of new special offer consumer short breaks, among them a Shannon Region Spa promotion which will run for the month of February and includes Spas and Hotels from Limerick. “The Dublin Holiday World show was an important vehicle for promoting home holiday to a key Dublin market. Dublin tourists tend to take longer holiday trips, and working in partnership with the Shannon Region Tourism Trade at our specially designed holiday stand

at the RDS, we promoteed the range of superb attractions, accommodation and special offers available in Limerick this year,” said Mr. Daly. “Short break enquiries account for over 50% of all online holiday break searches and are the most sought after holiday breaks. With this in mind short break offers will be a key element of our 2009 campaign. With more and more holidays being booked online it is important that we use every opportunity to entice as many visitors as we can, and this is why we have enhanced our tourism website and we will undertake a number of targeted e-marketing campaigns in the coming year,” he said. Shannon Development has produced a suite of new Shannon Region tourism brochures to use in promoting niche market holiday opportunities; among them a new Limerick city tourism brochure, a new tourism brochure for Limerick County; a new Shannon Region short breaks brochure, new activities and adventure brochures on surfing and canoeing, a new gardening brochure for the Shannon Region, and a new discount booklet offering discounts to over 70 of the Region’s top visitor attractions. “During 2009 we will be running a more integrated domestic campaign which will include a media campaign, with radio advertising across all major radio stations being a central feature. For example we have just completed a Northern Ireland tourism drive across 4 Northern radio stations with almost one million listeners and a full week of advance promotions, prize giveaways from the Shannon Region and interview opportunities for the trade. We have already undertaken our first advertising campaign for 2009 on national newspapers, magazine and TV and we will continue to look for other opportunities to promote Limerick during the year,” Mr. Daly concluded.

New Tourism Marketing Strategy for Limerick

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focussed specifically on supporting the development and growth of technology-driven enterprises. Linked in most cases to third level institutions, a skilled graduate base is available to potential clients as well as the research expertise and capability of the colleges.

“Each of these locations provides an environment which is a blend of the natural amenities of the local area, leading edge telecommunications facilities and next generation business facilities. In these environments, new and innovative knowledge-led businesses flourish alongside established national and international enterprise. It’s also about people – about building real communities, where people are happy to work, prosper and enjoy life.”

From Stranorlar, Dr. Cunnane obtained a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry from University College Galway in 1981 and then took up the position of Works Chemist with Irlandus Teo in Gweedore, Co. Donegal, a company involved in the manufacture of printed circuit boards. He returned to academic life in 1983 and took a PhD degree in University College Cork in the area of Electrochemistry graduating in 1987. The following number of years were spent at the University of Southampton, working in a number of different capacities before taking up a lecturing position at the University of Limerick in 1990.

Aged 48 he is married to Helena and has three sons, Eoghan, Connor and Ciaran. His father Kieran, a retired engineer and his mother Patsy live in Stranorlar.

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1959: Shannon Development (SFADCo) established by Irish Government 1960: World’s first Industrial Free Zone (Shannon Free Zone) established next to Shannon International Airport. 1961: Shannon Development commences the development of Ireland’s first new town – Shannon. 1963: First mediaeval Castle banquets staged at 15th century Bunratty Castle.

1964: First international development co-operation assignments undertaken by Shannon Development in less developed countries. 1969: The company pioneers the Rent-an-Irish Cottage Scheme. 1972: Shannon Development assists in the foundation of the University of Limerick. 1978: The first national pilot programme for the development of small and medium sized enterprises is undertaken. 1980: Innovation Centre for indigenous high technology firms opened in Limerick, one of Europe’s first business innovation centres.

1980/’90: Shannon Development initiatives a range of programmes to foster the development and growth of indigenous enterprises. 1984: Ireland’s first technology park - The National Technology Park is established beside the University of Limerick. 1986: Shannon Development establishes a tourism subsidiary company, Shannon Heritage Ltd, to manage its range of 8 visitor attractions and 4 evening entertainments 1986: Limerick Food Centre opened by Shannon Development. 1991: Kilrush Marina, a 120 berth state of the art marina created opens in County Clare. 1999: Launch of Kerry Technology Park in Tralee. 2001: Opening of Limerick Navigation System and Marina, a major tourism and urban regeneration project.

2002: Opening of €150 million Doonbeg Golf Resort, which was initiated and supported by Shannon Development. 2003: Launch of Shannon Broadband and opening of Birr Technology Centre. 2004: Completion of Limerick MAN (Broadband Network) project. 2005: Opening of Information Age Park in Ennis, Co Clare. 2008: Completion of Broadband connectivity project in 8 Shannon Region towns. 2008: Shannon Development completes work on Ireland’s first E-Town. 2008: Approval received from An Bord Pleanála for a major Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility at Shannon Development’s Kerry Deepwater Zone.

Keeping an eye on Business

By Brian McEnery

The recent High Court ruling in relation to a company called Birchport has caused much worry in banking circles. In a market where property values are falling month on month, banks are already nervous of examinership. The new judgment only adds to the worry.

Birchport is the company behind the Ocean Bar, the bar and restaurant on Dublin’s docklands. The company went into examinership last month after falling into major cashflow difficulties.

As part of the scheme, its bank took a 30 per cent cut on a loan secured against the company’s assets. The debt was written down by the High Court on foot of a reduced valuation on the property in question.

As a consequence, post examinership, the company will now make repayments on the amount of the written down debt and not the loan balance prior to the examinership.

It appears the lender may have consented to the write down of debt, but nonetheless, the court confirmed the scheme of arrangement. This has major implications for all the main Irish lenders, who could be forced to write down the value of the loan books.

For most business people, this might seem a cause for joy. In reality, however, it is likely to result in a hostile approach being taken by banks to the whole examinership process. Banks were never all that well disposed to examinerships, as they feel much of the original legislation is prejudicial to their interests, particularly surrounding the area of guarantees.

Nonetheless, historically, banks tended not to be overly discouraging of examinerships. This is likely to change as a result of this ruling. The effect of this u-turn is that it may become more difficult for companies to receive support for the examinership from their bank or lender. In many instances, if the bank is not supportive, then the company will not have a reasonable prospect of survival, and hence the High Court may not be able to appoint an examiner.

While it may be possible for the court to appoint an interim examiner, it is likely that the bank (as a notice party) may object to the appointment of an examiner and withdraw its support. In situations where, for instance, there is invoice discounting and the bank pulls the facility, it is unlikely that a company could demonstrate its ability to pay its debts as they fall due during the 70-day examinership period.

This is because the bank owns the debts and, without a continuation of the invoice discounting facility, the company would, most likely, run out of cash quickly. Where the cashflow projections for the period of examination are negative, the court will not confirm the appointment of an examiner.

Examinerships may still be workable where there is more than one bank providing funds to a company. This would particularly be the case where the provider of working capital facilities is different to the funder of property. If the bank providing working capital is supportive of the examinership, then this should suffice to demonstrate the financial support of the banker to the working account.

There is much more to be played out in the courts in this area in the coming months. For instance, it will be interesting to see if the court will sanction the write-down of debt (on foot of a lower valuation) where the bank does not agree to its write-down. With the level of examinerships rising to 67 in 2008 from 25 in 2007 we will see plenty of use of this turnaround legislation in the coming year, and many of the issues arising out of the Birchport case will be clarified.

Brian McEnery is corporate recovery partner at Horwath Bastow Charleton (Limerick).He is deputy president of ACCA Ireland

Banks Nervous in Wake of Birchport Ruling on Examinership

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2009 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year®

The 2009 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year® programme has been launched and we are looking to showcase the entrepreneurial spirit of this region by identifying high quality nominations that could make it through to the finals. The Entrepreneur Of The Year programme, now in its 12th year, is about fostering and facilitating entrepreneurial spirit here in Ireland and around the world - and in the current economic climate that pioneering entrepreneurial spirit is needed more than ever. Appropriately, the theme of the 2009 Entrepreneur Of The Year programme is “Navigators of Success” - challenging this year’s finalists to act as beacons of successful business for others to follow.

Entries for the 2009 Entrepreneur Of The Year can be made in any one of three categories: Emerging, Industry and International Services. An award will be presented for each category, and an overall winner will be announced at an awards ceremony this October.

A nominee must be an owner-manager who is primarily responsible for the recent performance of a company that is at least two years old. Founders of public companies are eligible provided the founder is still active in top management. And anyone can nominate an entrepreneur, including the entrepreneur himself or herself, employees or company advisors. So if you qualify or if you know anyone who would qualify, please put their name forward.

Closing date for nominations is Friday, 13th March. Official entry forms are available on www.eoy.ie or by contacting Luke Giblin of Ernst & Young on 01 221 2538

Harmonics are launching their very popular Career Directions programme this month for private individuals. These workshops are targeted for people who have been made redundant recently or fear their job may be at risk. Harmonics have delivered over

60 Career Directions workshops in the past year for companies making large numbers of people redundant. We have decided to launch our Career Directions workshops to help the professional person who is stuck and needs just that - Career Direction says John Fitzgerald. We have been delivering one to one Career Health Check programmes for the past few years with great success but the demand has exceeded supply from private individuals. Professional people are becoming unemployed for the first time ever and its unchartered territory. They need to stand back and use this time to take a helicopter view of their career and life direction. A recent Gallup survey found that 82% of the working population are either not engaged by their work or in the wrong job altogether! If people losing their jobs take action now, identify a new career direction and the best market for their skills they will save themselves a lot of time, money and stress. People are running around like headless chickens chasing jobs in a declining

sector without stepping back to think. “How can I market my skills in a different way? The idea of a “job” is a twentieth century invention suited to the industrial age. We need to have a self employed mindset and seek out opportunities in today’s knowledge economy.

Harmonics have posted dates on their website www.harmonics.ie/careerdirectionsworkshops for these open workshops. The first Career Directions workshop will launch on March 6th in the Harmonics Career Centre in Plassey. The plan is to run one open workshop a month but demand is outstripping supply and more dates may be added shortly continued John.The One Day Workshop will focus on helping each individual identify their unique selling proposition. People are coming on the workshop to identify should they set up a business, should they change career or to clarify training and development they need to take to make themselves more marketable. Harmonics will also be offering additional one to one career coaching sessions to support the programme if people need further professional career support. Our goal is to create an alumni for programme participants which will become a networking and support group for those facing unemployment and feeling isolated.

Harmonics Limerick, Mary Rosse Centre, Holland Road, National Technology Park, Limerick, Ireland.Tel: +353 (0)61 336136 www.harmonics.ie

There is no doubt that the economic environment is more challenging than we have seen for many years. While it is certainly a tougher market place there are still many companies recruiting throughout the country. Rather than standing still we now need to look ahead and identify possible growth areas for future employment opportunities.

Over the last twelve months I have seen growth in industry sectors such as Medical Device, Pharmaceutical & Information Communication Technology (ICT). More and more companies are focussed on reducing costs and stream lining their businesses. This has created demand for individuals with skills in process improvement, quality, lean manufacturing, six sigma, cost reduction and project management.

We are also seeing continued investment from a number of global corporations such as the €50 million investment by Zimmer, the €25 million investment by Cook Medical and the 315 new jobs created with Micro semi as Ireland is attracting higher value roles. These investments have already created numerous opportunities and will continue to create jobs in areas such as R&D, Science & Engineering.

Companies in these sectors are finding it difficult to source staff for specific roles and we are seeing skills shortages in areas such as Quality, Process Improvements and R&D. We need to bridge the gap for individuals coming out of the sectors that are the worst affected by this downturn and focus on retraining and broadening their skill sets to reflect the changing needs of the market place.

For further information on Recruitment & Search please contact Melissa Foley on 061 336136 or melissa@harmonics.ie

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John Fitzgerald MD and Founder of

Harmonics

Melissa Foley Recruitment and Search

Specialist Harmonics

John Fitzgerald, Managing Director, Pat Henessey, Co-Founder, Harmonics with Melissa Foley, Recruitment Search Consultant, Gillian Driver, Career Coach and Fanchea Moloney, Coaching Co-Ordinator at Harmonics.

• Career Directions Workshops Series

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Communications Minister Eamon Ryan announced the National Broadband Scheme, the Government scheme to deliver broadband services throughout the country. Following the conclusion of a competitive tendering process, the Minister has entered into a contract for the delivery of this scheme with ‘3’ (a Hutchinson Whampoa company). Ireland currently has over 1.2 million subscribers to broadband. The National Broadband Scheme will provide the remaining 10% of our population, or approximately 33% of the area of the country, with broadband services (see attached map). Ireland will have 100% coverage by September 2010; half of the area under the scheme will be covered by the end of this year.

Investment of € 223 million from a combination of Exchequer funds, EU co-financing and ‘3’ will create 170 direct jobs. Hundreds more will be protected and created as the availability of broadband increases the investment and enterprise in the targeted areas. This announcement is a boost for the rural economy. Now businesses throughout the country can have ready access to the national and international markets. Employment will be created and sustained. Quality of life will improve for rural residents and communities will be strengthened. This contract represents real value for public money. I congratulate ‘3’ on winning this contract and look forward to them meeting the challenging, but achievable coverage targets.”

National Broadband Scheme

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Gallaghers Seafood Restaurant is situated in the picturesque village of Bunratty for over 12 years. Gallaghers Restaurant established itself as the most renowned seafood Restau-rant in the Midwest serving only the freshest produce including the finest of fish lobster and mussels to name but a few .

J.P Clarke’s country pub (which is built on to Gallaghers) is a rustic style pub opening its doors in November of 2008 offering our customer a modern setting yet retaining a traditional air to its atmosphere and warm welcome.

Just to make life a little eas-ier and If time is limited for you why not make life a little easier and avail of our new preordering service where you ring to reserve and order for lunch. On arrival, lunch is

served. Just sit back, enjoy good food, great company and of course the ambience of J.P Clarke's.

We have introduced our Loyalty Build Scheme where we get the opportunity to reward our customers, for both Gallaghers & J. P Clarke’s, for their loyalty and to show our appreciation for their support. It allows our customers to earn points that are re-deemable for vouchers in both properties which will be sent out at regular intervals. Contact us for any further information you require.

For Reservations and Queries for any cel-ebration, party etc, contact us:Tel: 061 363363Email: info@gallaghersofbunratty.com

Gallaghers & J.P ClarkesBunratty Village Bunratty

Quarter of Consumers SeeCashless Society in The FutureA major survey looking into the future of Ireland’s personal wealth has found that one in four (26%) think we will have a cashless society in the future, with almost half of those (48%) believing we will be cashless within the next 5 years. A cashless society is one in which cash is not used, instead consumers use debit/credit cards or electronic fund transfers for all transactions.

These facts arise from the fourth and final part this year of the pioneering Financial Futures series of studies by Halifax that looks into the changing landscape of personal banking in Ireland (see editors notes).

Unsurprising, those who believe we will be a cashless society in the future are aged between 25-44 (35%), while those who would be dissatisfied to rely solely on electronic transactions (46%) are mostly over 45 years old.

Cash is Still KingOf those surveyed, cash is the most popular method of payment, with a 75:25 monthly usage ratio of cash against card. Cash is mainly used for the following payments: Utility Bills – 45%, Phone Bills – 49%, Grocery Shopping – 68%, Clothes – 71%, Music – 52%, Petrol – 58%.

Commenting on these results, Antoinette Dunne, Head of Halifax, said: “What these results show is that while cash is still the most popular method of payment, this is likely to change significantly in the future. As debit and laser cards become more popular, we are beginning to see a shift among the younger sectors of society towards electronic payments. At Halifax, we have found that our visa debit card users make almost 60% more purchases with their card than by withdrawing cash from an ATM and given these results, we are likely to see that percentage increase.”

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New Mediation ServiceMediation is a relatively new service in Ireland. It is an informal method of dispute resolution in which a neutral third party “The Mediator” attempts to assist parties in finding resolution to their problem through the mediation process. Mediation differs from most other adversarial resolution processes by virtue of its simplicity, its informality, flexibility and economy.

In the mediation procedure, the Mediator acts as a facilitator to help the parties reach a mutually satisfactory resolution to their dispute. Any settlement terms reached can be signed and recorded in an enforceable contract. Again, mediation is an efficient and cost effective way of achieving a fair outcome while preserving, and at times even enhancing the relationship, business and personal of the parties in question.

The European Commission’s proposed new directive on mediation on civil and commercial disputes will create greater awareness of the benefits and advantages of mediation. Businesses want less expensive and faster ways of resolving disputes, mediation offers that opportunity.

An essential ingredient of the mediation process is that the Mediator will keep confidential all information arising out of or in connection with the mediation including the fact that the mediation is to take place or has taken place unless compelled by law or on public policy grounds. Mediation has provided an alternative to litigation in that it enables the parties to resolve their own differences without the high costs associated with litigation. The mediation process gives the parties themselves ability to resolve their own disputes, reduce Court case loads and the overall legal costs associated thereto. Since the options for agreement are put forward by the parties themselves, this gives rise to a more workable and implementable decision.

Confidentiality is central to the mediation process. The confidentiality aspect is imperative in order that the parties may trust the process. By virtue of the confidentiality and without prejudice aspect of the mediation process, the parties may communicate fully, openly and without fear of compromising any case pending before a Court or tribunal etc.

When a mediator is approached, he or she will send out a mediation agreement to the

relevant parties for completion. In addition to completing the agreement itself, the parties will be invited to submit brief details of the issues to be mediated. On the day of the mediation, the mediator will satisfy himself/herself that the parties to the mediation understand the characteristics of the process and the role of the mediator and the parties to it. In particular, the mediator must be satisfied that the parties understand and expressly agree the terms and conditions of the mediation agreement including the provisions relating to obligations of confidentiality on the mediator and on the parties. The mediator will then ensure that all parties have adequate opportunity to be involved in the process and this begins with each of the parties being allowed to explain and detail their story. Once the issues have been finally identified, the respective interests and objectives of the parties will be clarified. A mediation then seeks to identify wide and varying options, the possible effects of which will be discussed and analysed. The mediator would aim to take all appropriate measures to ensure that any agreement being reached is reached through the knowing and informed consent and that all parties understand the terms of the agreement with a view to achieving a mutually agreed resolution.

There is nothing to be lost from mediating a dispute and everything to gain. If the mediation is successfully concluded the benefits are immense and obvious. If the parties fail to reach agreement, nothing said or done in the process can be introduced in Court and at the very least, the mediation process narrows the issues and assists the client and their legal advisors in moving forward. The successful mediation in the recent high profile Pat Kenny case speaks for itself.

Aideen Pendred, a Shannon based solicitor, is an Accredited Mediator having been accredited by Mediation Forum Ireland. Aideen has recently acquired the exclusive rights

for Clare for the Clare Mediation brand and website. See her- website for further information on mediation at www.claremediation.ie or e-mail us at info@claremediation.ie or phone Aideen at 061-364556.

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Work Access Offer a Professional Service FreeWork Access Ltd was set up in 2001 and we have worked with many employers in the Limerick Region. We believe that during these tough times, our service will become even more useful to employers in the region. After all, we are a free service set up to support employers with their recruitment needs. We offer the employers advice and support on the grants that are available and we can help to promote them as an Equal Opportunities company. Research has shown that staff moral as well as turnover improves when companies take on people with disabilities. During these times, people have to think outside the box to stay afloat and so it is a company like ours that will help them do this.

We have a list of committed and eager people who are prepared to work hard to help your company grow while at the same time develop their own skills. We will have reference checked every client and observed them in a Work Experience situation. We are aware of where their strengths and weaknesses lie and we will not put someone into your company unless we feel they match your requirements. We are on hand to provide any extra training needed and close-by should anything change in the future.

The biggest benefit of our service is that we will offer you a professional service free. We will endeavour to work with you on finding the right person for the job and we will assist you with any training or support needs.

Our team of Job Coaches have experience of working with different types of companies with different types of needs.

Contact DetailsWork Access Ltd.,First Floor, Pillar House,Little Ellen St. Limerick.email: info@workaccess.orgweb: www.workaccess.orgTel No. 061 493095Fax.No. 061 409345

Recycling Figures in LimerickActivity at recycling facilities across Limerick has more than doubled in the past four years, according to new figures from Limerick County Council.

Material collected at the Bottle Banks and Recycling Centres has increased from 3500 tonnes in 2004 to over 7000 tonnes in 2008.

Mr. Gerry Behan, Director of Services for the Environment Section, welcomed the considerable effort being made by the public, which he said had contributed to the success story.

He commented, “Over the past number of years, Limerick County Council has been improving recycling by promoting use of the new recycling centres, the network of bottle banks throughout the County and, of course, through the kerbside recycling collection which each waste collector has to provide. Indeed, the volume of domestic dry recyclables has doubled in the past 4 years. The national average for the collection of municipal dry recyclables is 36% - the equivalent figure for County Limerick is 50%.”Mr. Behan expressed confidence that recycling activity would experience further growth in 2009 despite changes being implemented across the County regarding recycling centre opening hours and charges.

“In view of the current economic downturn, we regret that we now have to make some adjustments to our recycling arrangements beginning in January 2009,” he added.

Paper and plastic facilities were originally introduced on a trial basis at a limited number of County Limerick’s 48 Bring Banks to encourage recycling. This trial is

being discontinued due to the introduction of a second bin for all households, rising maintenance costs and the opening of three new recycling centres which accept paper, plastics and many other materials. There is also a much higher level of unauthorised dumping at the sites which accept paper and plastics. All Bring Banks will remain available for the disposal of glass, aluminium cans and food tins.

Meanwhile, opening hours at two of the County Council’s four recycling centres are being reduced:• The centre at Kilmallock will be open on Tuesday & Saturday from 10a.m. – 5p.m.

• The centre at Newcastle West will be open Wednesday and Saturday from 10am to 5 pm.

Behan added “We felt that it was vital to keep Saturday opening times for the public as about 50% of the total visits take place on Saturdays”. Elsewhere, the landfill site at Gortadroma is and will remain open to the public Monday to Friday from 8a.m - 3.30p.m, while Mungret Recycling Centre will continue to remain open Tuesday to Saturday from 10a.m. - 5p.m.

Mr. Behan noted that the current economic downturn and the subsequent pressures placed on public finances have deemed it necessary to also introduce a fee increase at recycling centres. New charges: Car: €5 (from €4), Car/Van & Trailer: €12 (from €10).

“Limerick County Council is committed to promoting and encouraging recycling activity throughout the County. The Council will continue to work with the people of County Limerick in that regard,” concluded Mr. Behan.

Statement from The Mayor of LimerickStatement from The Mayor of Limerick on The Resumption of The Shannon To Heathrow Service:

"I warmly welcome the news that Aer Lingus is to reinstate the Shannon to London Heathrow service. This link is imperative from a business and tourism

point of view and a lot of damage has been done to the region since it was removed in what can only be described as a silly mistake by Aer Lingus. I'm glad that the company has now rectified this and the people of Limerick and the Mid-West can look forward to this strategic link being restored from March 2009."

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Studies have shown that there are three vital elements needed to produce real results. Educogym has created a system that teaches you to focus and nourish. Combined these tools create a synergetic force to empower you to a complete transformation.

Studies have shown that greater focus during exercise produces greater results. The highly trained and certified Educogym staff teaches you how to focus your mind on the task at hand which allows you to achieve far greater results than other training programs.

Time Machine - To combat the misconception of modern day exercise, and to take full advantage of your work out time, Educogym developed a new form of exercise machine that literally outdates anything before it.From the age of 30, we loose a half a pound of muscle each year, including loss of muscle from deteriorating organs. The Educogym System focuses on reversing this muscle loss. With as little as 12 days of exercise on the Educogym Time Machine you can replace up to 6 years of lost muscle. Now you can experience true rejuvenation and anti-aging!

Scientifically advanced, only 20 minutes. If you have read the science behind the Educogym you will understand the importance of maintaining or increasing muscle. Educogym has developed a new machine and a programme that involves only a 20 minute work out.

A feel-good experience. There are many reasons why it is so easy to make Educogym system part of your lifestyle. Firstly it takes less than 20 minutes a few times a week; therefore it is much easier to stay focused and avoid boredom. Secondly, armed with the training in focus and concentration you can experience a mental workout that keeps your mind clear throughout. Thirdly, the intense nature of the exercise produces endorphins in the brain giving you that feel good factor. This all leads to a workout which both enjoyable and leaves you feeling invigorated, ready to take on the world!

No starvation diets, just good nutrition at Educogym. By eating a natural diet we can halt premature aging and achieve better health while increasing lean muscle and permanently eliminating body fat. The core understanding of the programme is that most people are eating an unnatural diet which upsets the balance of the hormones in our bodies.

The modern day supply is designed for producing mass amounts of food, economically. While there may be many benefits to this approach, these foods may lack in nutrient density. This can be due to the processing, soil depletion, cooking etc. In order to improve our level of health and allow our body the best opportunity of vitality, these nutrients should be replaced. This is where Educogym comes in.

For more information contact Educogym at 061 326892. www.Educogym.com

When the Going Gets Tough…

The deal will see Pallas Foods supply over 100 Topaz deli outlets nationwide with fresh produce such as breads, salads, meats, pastries, sandwich fillings, smoothies etc etc. Announcing the deal Topaz Retail Director Frank Gleeson said; “We are delighted that Pallas Foods, a family owned and managed company has come on board as our fresh food supplier. This is great news for our customers who are set to benefit from a wider range of higher quality food products at more competitive prices. Our customers are our number one priority and the benefits of this new deal will be evident to them in the enhanced food offering available at our deli outlets all over the country.” Gleeson said from the minute they began talking to Pallas they liked what they saw. “It’s a company very much after our own heart with qualities such as reliability, hard work, innovation and commitment to customer care at the heart of everything they do.” Tadhg Geary, Commercial Director with Pallas Foods said the company was delighted to be part of the “Topaz revolution”. “This is a substantial deal from our perspective. Topaz, like ourselves, is a vibrant, energetic company with a hugely dedicated staff and we see huge potential for future growth in this deal. We are really looking forward to sharing our expertise with Topaz and excited about exploring a range of options. Topaz really liked the fact that we have a proven ability to respond promptly to changes in consumption trends while at the same time never compromising on quality.” Frank Gleeson also noted that the new deal would enable Topaz to reduce costs and the company’s carbon footprint. “First of all Pallas Foods has a policy of supporting local producers all over the country. Secondly because Pallas will be a single supplier of fresh, chilled and frozen products to Topaz there will be less trucks on the road delivering to our sites. This is not just good news for our bottom line but also for the environment.

€24 Million Deal for Pallas Foods

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Cautious optimism for 2009 was expressed at the Annual General Meeting of Limerick Civic Trust when the Director recommended a programme of thirty activities to the meeting. The project plan for the year was presented under five categories. Restoration-6 projects, Encironment-6 projects, Civics-12 projects and publications-6 projects.

The Director said that the big initiatives during 2009 would be to complete refurbishment of the Richard Russell Memorial fountain in the Peoples’ Park and new monuments at the Pery Gate entrance into the park and a second one along the strands commemorating the Hannah Parr emigrant ship tragedy of 1868. The publication projects were new and very different from the norm and would add an extra dimension to the highly successful history research department.

The twelve civic projects were planned to involve the youth of our city and various community enhancements. During the year the people of Limerick will be

invited to assist the Trust with ideas and suggestions for the timelines monument at the Peoples’ Park and for the time capsule.

The big project in the pending tray is No. 4 Patrick Street the home of Limerick’s first operatic diva Catherine Hayes. The Director explained that the state of the economy and the Bord Pleánala decision on the Opera Centre development would be the determining factors on whether this project would commence during 2009 or not.

The Director said that Limerick Civic Trust’s 25th year celebrated during 2008 was an unprecedented active one which could never be repeated. He felt that the proposed plan represented a very balanced and achievable programme of activities which will give the membership and the public further reasons to continue with their very valued support for our organisation. It will be an active and productive year in difficult times.

By Denis Leonard

The Limerick Civic Trust Notebook

Announcing details of the extensive training and events programme, which includes workshops and seminars for both start up and established businesses, Limerick City Enterprise Board reinforced its mission statement which is to facilitate the creation of sustainable jobs and the development of an Enterprise culture in Limerick City. According to Limerick City Enterprise Board CEO Eamon Ryan “established small businesses are finding it extremely difficult to survive with banks implementing stricter criteria on lending and overdrafts. With this in mind we have developed an extensive training programme for businesses that are up and running for at least 2 years and have a number of courses specifically targeted to them including”:

Financial Management WorkshopsInnovation and Marketing Business Idea Generation/

Development Marketing Management

Development Programme

And to further encourage established businesses to enrol in the training courses, Limerick City Enterprise Board are offering € 150 worth of vouchers to established businesses registering for these programmes. “This is a new initiative for the board which will reinforce the message to established businesses that Limerick City

Enterprise Board is here to help. All our courses are heavily subsidised and the course facilitators are the best in their area of expertise, and these vouchers will encourage small established businesses to enrol in the training and events programmes”, continued Mr Ryan. In 2008 Limerick City Enterprise Board provided financial assistance of €297,150 to a total of 26 projects. This assistance will lead to, and assist in, the creation of 44 additional full time jobs in the city and enterprises assisted by Limerick City Enterprise Board now employ 967 persons in Limerick City. Limerick City Enterprise Board also offer Mentoring and One to One Consultancy to all small businesses in Limerick City in a specific area of the business. A Mentor can be chosen from the Expert Panel to work with them over a series of 5 sessions, usually onsite in the business. Mentors are available to examine the specific issues of concern and together with the business owner come up with an action plan to achieve the desired result to enable the business to develop and grow. For further details and to receive a copy of the Spring/Summer 2009 training and events programme contact Limerick City Enterprise Board on 061 312611. All courses and events can be booked online on www.limceb.ie.

Money, Courses and ResourcesLimerick City Enterprise Board launched their Spring/Summer 2009 Training and Events Programme in City Hallrecently.

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Power Media Expand to Limerick

Power Media International whose HQ is in Cork and has offices in both Dublin and London, has recently expanded into Limerick. This is an agency with a clear message for businesses in Limerick: NOW is the time to promote. These are the words of the Limerick office’s newly appointed Account Manager, Clodagh O’Leary. Ms. O’Leary holds professional qualifications in PR and is highly experienced in the areas of creative design and event management from her time with a Dublin-based Marketing & Communications agency.

A Limerick native, Ms O’Leary has returned to her hometown after five years in Dublin and is ready to take on the challenge of bringing PR to Limerick in a manner which no-one has done before. “There are a huge number of businesses in Limerick who will benefit from our expertise as well as the experience and the wealth of contacts that an International agency brings”, said Ms. O’Leary. ‘Power Media International actually had the opportunity to expand into Limerick a number of years ago, during the economic boom. However our MD, Victoria Shorten, felt that there would be a more appropriate time to open the Limerick operation and this is most certainly it. There is no better time for businesses to take advantage of the most cost-effective tool available to them in promoting their business and that is PR’, she said.

Take some positive action to ensure that your business doesn’t become another casualty of the economic downturn. Contact the Limerick branch of Power Media International on 061-404303 or email clodagh@powermedia.ie.

www.businesslimerick.ie

Clodagh O’LearyAccount Manager, Power Media

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BL | CIVIC TRUST

By Denis Leonard

Announcing details of the extensive training and events programme, which includes workshops and seminars for both start up and established businesses, Limerick City Enterprise Board reinforced its mission statement which is to facilitate the creation of sustainable jobs and the development of an Enterprise culture in Limerick City. According to Limerick City Enterprise Board CEO Eamon Ryan “established small businesses are finding it extremely difficult to survive with banks implementing stricter criteria on lending and overdrafts. With this in mind we have developed an extensive training programme for businesses that are up and running for at least 2 years and have a number of courses specifically targeted to them including”:

Financial Management WorkshopsInnovation and Marketing Business Idea Generation/

Development Marketing Management

Development Programme

And to further encourage established businesses to enrol in the training courses, Limerick City Enterprise Board are offering € 150 worth of vouchers to established businesses registering for these programmes. “This is a new initiative for the board which will reinforce the message to established businesses that Limerick City

Enterprise Board is here to help. All our courses are heavily subsidised and the course facilitators are the best in their area of expertise, and these vouchers will encourage small established businesses to enrol in the training and events programmes”, continued Mr Ryan. In 2008 Limerick City Enterprise Board provided financial assistance of €297,150 to a total of 26 projects. This assistance will lead to, and assist in, the creation of 44 additional full time jobs in the city and enterprises assisted by Limerick City Enterprise Board now employ 967 persons in Limerick City. Limerick City Enterprise Board also offer Mentoring and One to One Consultancy to all small businesses in Limerick City in a specific area of the business. A Mentor can be chosen from the Expert Panel to work with them over a series of 5 sessions, usually onsite in the business. Mentors are available to examine the specific issues of concern and together with the business owner come up with an action plan to achieve the desired result to enable the business to develop and grow. For further details and to receive a copy of the Spring/Summer 2009 training and events programme contact Limerick City Enterprise Board on 061 312611. All courses and events can be booked online on www.limceb.ie.

Money, Courses and ResourcesLimerick City Enterprise Board launched their Spring/Summer 2009 Training and Events Programme in City Hallrecently.

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Power Media Expand to Limerick

Power Media International whose HQ is in Cork and has offices in both Dublin and London, has recently expanded into Limerick. This is an agency with a clear message for businesses in Limerick: NOW is the time to promote. These are the words of the Limerick office’s newly appointed Account Manager, Clodagh O’Leary. Ms. O’Leary holds professional qualifications in PR and is highly experienced in the areas of creative design and event management from her time with a Dublin-based Marketing & Communications agency.

A Limerick native, Ms O’Leary has returned to her hometown after five years in Dublin and is ready to take on the challenge of bringing PR to Limerick in a manner which no-one has done before. “There are a huge number of businesses in Limerick who will benefit from our expertise as well as the experience and the wealth of contacts that an International agency brings”, said Ms. O’Leary. ‘Power Media International actually had the opportunity to expand into Limerick a number of years ago, during the economic boom. However our MD, Victoria Shorten, felt that there would be a more appropriate time to open the Limerick operation and this is most certainly it. There is no better time for businesses to take advantage of the most cost-effective tool available to them in promoting their business and that is PR’, she said.

Take some positive action to ensure that your business doesn’t become another casualty of the economic downturn. Contact the Limerick branch of Power Media International on 061-404303 or email clodagh@powermedia.ie.

www.businesslimerick.ie

Clodagh O’LearyAccount Manager, Power Media

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Top health and wellness gurus such as nutrition consultant Paula Mee from the RTE ‘Health Squad’ programme, and Therese Ryan featured stress management expert on the RTE Health Show ‘How Long Will You Live’ , are among the experts being enlisted to help visitors to the Shannon Region

beat the winter blues this February. The initiative is part of a new ‘Spa & Wellness Experience’ being launched in the Shannon Region by a range of hotels and Spas in association with Shannon Development the regional tourism authority. The Spa and Wellness Experience will

take place in the Shannon Region for the entire month of February 2009. Thirteen Hotel Spas and Spa Resorts from counties Clare, Tipperary, Offaly and Limerick are offering exceptional pamper packages and health and wellness workshops during the month. Spa Experience and Wellness Packages including accommodation at top hotels and complimentary spa treatments starting from € 125 per person sharing are available throughout February. All of the packages on offer will include: a free Signature Spa Treatment with each booking; an arrival gift; and a departure gift of a voucher for a free signature treatment at any of the participating spa locations. Full details on all of the Spa packages and workshops are available on the Shannon Development short breaks website www.shortbreaksireland.ie. Spa breaks can be booked direct on this website, and Vouchers for pamper breaks are available from individual hotels and spas.

February ‘Health and Wellness Month’in the Shannon Region

www.businesslimerick.ie12

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Let poppadomsbring the magic to your

Valentines Evening!Poppadom branches:

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9www.businesslimerick.ie

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Paul Schütz has been appointed as the airline’s new Chief Executive with effect from January 1st 2009.

According to the newly appointed Chief Executive Aer Arann faces two major challenges in the New Year.

“The first is the state of the economy and the impact this is having on aviation and this is a major issue for the air transport industry globally. The second is a national issue and it’s the deliberate attempt that is being made to monopolise the Irish market and restrict the growth of air services from the regions. As a country we learned years ago that airline monopolies don’t serve the consumer and that competition is necessary. Now in Aer Arann we find ourselves as the standard bearer for genuine competition and air access for all. I believe we have the structure, the fleet and the route network to perform strongly in the year ahead and I am determined that Aer Arann will meet the challenges of the market and deliver a real alternative for the Irish airline passenger. We will continue to be flexible and innovative in our approach and we will continue to offer quality and cost effective services that link regional centres directly with urban centres and larger hub airports” said Paul Schütz, “and by performing to our strengths we will stimulate travel, assist business and aid job creation”.

That is our goal and it attainable because both the business and leisure traveller want two things that we offer, direct access and a competitive alternative”, Paul Schütz concluded.

Radio 4FM Ready To Go! New radio station 4FM, is expected to be on air in the next few weeks, broadcasting to Limerick, Clare, Cork and Dublin. It will be launched as Ireland’s new multi-city, easy listening radio station and is owned by a consortium which includes Fox Radio, The Irish Times, Thomas Crosbie Holdings and Vienna Investments. Their easy listening programmes are aimed at the 40+ age level, a market presently held by national broadcaster, Radio 1.

315 New Jobs AnnouncedEnnis based Microsemi Corporation has announced the creation of 315 new jobs over the next year and a half. The County Clare integrated circuit manufacturer plan new roles in the areas of manufacturing, sales and technical support.

New Hotel in Dooradoyle Plans have been submitted to Limerick County Council for the construction of a new 50 room hotel at the Unicorn bar and restaurant. Limerick family hotelier, Bryan Greene says he expects to invest between €5 and €6million in the development and will create 35 new jobs. The Greene family name is synonymous with the hospitality industry in the region with the Greenhills Hotel, Greene’s Bistro, William St. and The Unicorn.

Harrington Secures Sponsorship DealPadraig Harrington has secured the most lucrative individual sponsorship deal by an Irish Sportsman. He has agreed a sponsorship deal with international consulting company FTI and it is estimated to be worth € 12 Million over the next three years.

The End of the ‘Word’Religious magazine ‘The Word’ has ceased production by the Divine Word Missionaries. Thirty years ago, this household name publication was read by over 250,000 people nationally. This marks another milestone in Ireland’s religious history as it reflects the fall in

demand to the decrease in practising Catholics today.

Newspaper Group CloseThe provincial newspapers under the banner the ‘Voice’ has closed its two remaining offices; the ‘Kilkenny Voice’ and Tallaght Voice’. A Limerick Voice was originally scheduled to launch last February but didn’t materialise. At it’s height, The Voice provincial newspapers consisted of 10 newspapers employing approx 12 employees in each location.

County Commercial Rate Unchanged Limerick County Council has not increased the commercial rate for the second consecutive year. County Manager, Ned Gleeson stated that the 2009 commercial rate would remain at the 2007 level ensuring that County Limerick remained a prime and attractive area for business.

Welcome Offer For Employers National online recruitment company, Recruitireland.com is offering Limerick employers free recruitment advertising on it’s site because of the scale of job losses announced in the Limerick area. Regional employers should contact 1890- 450750 or email limerickjobs@recruitireland.com to avail of this generous offer.

Jurys Inn Limerick Helps Local Charity Jurys Inn Limerick has really lived up to the season of goodwill to all men this week by donating all of its blankets to their local Society of St. Vincent De Paul.GM Pat Reddan commented: “We have recently switched from traditional blankets to duvets so we had a huge surplus of high quality bedding. We knew St. Vincent De Paul was based locally and thought it would be a great idea to donate the blankets to such a worthy cause.” The Society of St. Vincent De Paul offers help to all aspects of the community including the homeless, the sick and the underprivileged.

Paul Shütz, CEO of Aer Arann

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2 x nights BB and

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Top Hotelieris Welcomed

Darragh Brady General Manager of the Clarion Hotel

Clarion Hotels Limerick are delighted to announce the appointment of Darragh Brady as General Manager of the Clarion Hotel and the Clarion Hotel Suites Limerick. Darragh joins the team at the Clarion from Hotel Partners, where he held the position of Group Operations Director. For five years prior to this Darragh was General Manager with the Fitzwilliam Hotel Group in Dublin and before this, held senior management positions with Jurys, Great Southern and Hastings hotels.

When asked about his new appointment Darragh responded “I am privileged to take up the position of General Manager in two world class hotels. The 160 bedroom Clarion Hotel Limerick, Ireland’s Tallest Hotel, has long set the standard for 4* hotels in the Mid-West. You will notice the difference from the moment you check out our idyllic location, 17 floors tall on the famous river Shannon right in the heart of Limerick City.

I hope to continue both hotels along the path to excellence while concentrating on value and innovation for all our guests. We will focus on being recognized for our exceptional levels of quality and customer service across all areas of the business”

7www.businesslimerick.ie

Specsavers is located at:

Cruises Street, Limerick. Tel: 061 312 811 Crescent Shopping Centre, Dooradoyle, Limerick. Tel: 061 302 120

Your professional eyecare service

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Two local Limerick opticians - Specsavers at 13a Cruises Street and in the Crescent Shopping Centre have just been awarded Top Team at the 2008 Specsavers’ Awards for Excellence. The Specsavers’ Awards for Excellence are designed to recognise and celebrate the achievements of Specsavers staff and stores.

The awards were presented at a gala dinner in Birmingham recently, attended by almost 2,500.

Specsavers Limerick store director Anne Power says: ‘We were delighted to be awarded the Top Team at the Specsavers’ Awards for Excellence. We pride ourselves on offering a combination of excellent customer service, value-for-money and precision testing.’

This year Specsavers in Cruises Street celebrated its 15th birthday while the Crescent Shopping Centre store opened its doors for the ninth year.

Specsavers Limerick store director Sinead Clohessy comments: ‘This award is the icing on the cake for the two stores that have evolved with their community to provide a first class service to all its customers. To attend the awards gala dinner in Birmingham

was a privilege, especially since we accepted the coveted award from Irish comedian Dara O’Brien.’

Both Specsavers stores in Limerick were awarded the joint honour for a combined effort of prolonged support to customers and their continued training and development of staff. Specsavers at Cruises Street and Crescent Shopping Centre reviews what specs wearers want and monitors new trends on a continuous basis so that it develops the most fashionable product range for the Limerick market.

With designer brands including collections from Red or Dead, fcuk®, Monsoon, Roxy, Jasper Conran and Specsavers’ own designer brand Osiris in-store, there is something for everyone.

When it comes to choosing the perfect frames for your face, store directors Anne Power, Sinead Clohessy, Paul Smyth and staff are trained frame stylists and can advise you on the perfect pair of glasses for you.

Anne, Sinead, Paul and the team at Specsavers would like to thank the support of the Limerick people in helping them attain this award.

Limerick Specsavers Wins Prestigious Award

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www.businesslimerick.ie

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IRISH RECRUITMENT CONSULTANTSDeloitte & Touche House, Charlotte’s Quay, Limerick

061/313744, admin@irishrecruitment.iewww.irishrecruitment.ie

Jacinta O'Connor, Meelick with Patsy O'Connor, Ashbrook, attending the Art Exhibition, Ashbourne Ave, SCR.

Cllr Maria Bynres, Joe Greaney, Geraldine Dennehy, David Coyne, Micheal Delohery, Mary McCormac, Artists at the Launch of the Art Exhibition in Ashbourne Ave, SCR.

Ciao Irlanda ! a presentation of Wines, Champagne's and Food from five Italian regions show-cased at an event held in the Strand Hotel. Pictured here are Joe Lawlor, Louise Fitzgibbon,Joe Crowley, Friendship Wines and Kieran O'Regan, AIB.

At the Italian evening held at the Strand Hotel, Limerick are Gaia Bucciarelli, Joe Crowley, Friendship Wines, Minister for Defence, Willie O'Dea.

At the Italian evening held at the Strand Hotel, Limerick are Cora Mulvahill ,Maura McMahon, Limerick Chamber and Joe Crowley, Friendship Wines.

Ann Byrnes, Cari, been presented with Wyeth Charity Presentation by Liam O'Carroll and Joe Gleeson, Wyeth, at the Dunraven Arms, Adare recently.

35www.businesslimerick.ie

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Echo Marketing is a young and vibrant Marketing and Public Relations Company based in the heart of Limerick City. Constantly searching for new and creative ways to help address their clients' business needs, they offer a flexible, focused and personal service. A variety of clients benefit from their expertise and extensive contacts, ensuring the clients message is expertly adapted to their target markets.

Aileen Galvin established Echo Marketing in 2005 and believes that the company’s success to date is down to a mix of retaining face to face interaction with clients and having a strong office based team ensuring that customers feel confident and assured of the service provided.Based in Limerick City, Echo Marketing’s

business stretches further afield with many regional and national clients experiencing the Echo Marketing difference.

Clients' issues are approached from all perspectives, reaching beyond traditional advertising tactics to create integrated, innovative solutions for marketing challenges. Echo Marketing strives to achieve complete understanding of a client’s product/services, goals, demographics, marketing and media strategies and provides recommendations that encompass all marketing disciplines including research, branding, positioning, advertising, public relations and event planning.

“We have an excellent reputation with our contacts and have built trust and confidence over time. Whether with media, dignitaries, business information or events, Echo Marketing has an unrivalled profile with an extensive set of contacts to ensure our clients goals are achieved,” said Aileen Galvin.

Aileen studied a B.A. degree in European Studies at the University of Limerick and continued to complete a post graduate diploma in Business.

Following her time in UL, Aileen commenced working with the Lynch Hotel Group, Ennis where she promoted the Group and was responsible for the development, implementation and expansion of Ireland’s first chip loyalty card.

In 2001, Aileen took on the role of Marketing Manager in University Concert Hall, Limerick. During this time, she worked on very high profile projects including the Wagner Ring, Coulter and Company and 25 years celebration of Alone It Stands.

Aileen left University Concert Hall and established Echo Marketing in 2005.

ECHO MARKETING5 The Mews, Hartstonge Street,

Limerickt: 061 409353

e: info@echomarketing.iewww.echomarketing.ie

8

Steady Demand for Chartered Accountants

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A survey which was carried out in November 2008 by the Cork and Mid West Society of Chartered Accountants in conjunction with Premier, Ireland’s leading financial recruitment agency indicates that 58.9% of Chartered Accountants working and living in Munster predict that there will be no redundancies in their company in the short term. The survey, which received just over 500 responses, asked Chartered Accountants in Munster about their remuneration package details, benefits, industry type, career influencers and their view on the current economic climate.The survey reveals that the average total remuneration packages:- for Chartered Accountants in industry - €84,930- for Chartered Accountants in public practice - €67,150The highest packages were obtained in Clare (€80,722) with Waterford (€76,868) showing the lowest. The average total remuneration package for Chartered Accountants is now €89,476 up from €80,651 in 2005.

New Town PlanNenagh’s ‘new town’ development plan has been given the thumbs up by An Bord Planala despite the concerns of the Board’s Planning Inspector, who advised refusal over the questionable capacity of the sewerage to carry the additional load. The value of the investment is estimated to be between €40 and €50 million and planning permission for the development was granted to Limerick builder, Thomas Coffey.

Avvio AnnounceClient AcquisitionLimerick-based international technology company, Avvio, is delighted to announce a further client acquisition in the Asia Pacific region. Avvio's launch of two luxury property websites in Thailand follows a strengthening demand for the company's services within the Irish, UK and European markets. The Enterprise Ireland-backed firm currently supports over 700 hotels throughout Ireland, the UK, Europe the Asia Pacific region, processing over 225,000transactions per year, valued at in excess of EUR60m annually.

Ireland May Host World Cup

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) has formally applied to the International Rugby Board to host the Rugby World Cup in 2015 or 2019. The IRFU application is among ten unions who have also applied to host The World Cup in 2015 or 2019. A decision will be made by the IRB on July 28th 2009 as to the successful unions to host the World Cups.

€24 Million Deal For PallasPallas Foods has announced the agreement of a three year contract with Topaz. The Newcastle West based Pallas Foods, which will supply 100 Topaz deli outlets, stated the contract is worth € 24 Million to the company. Topaz is the new brand formed from the former Shell and Statoil service stations. Topaz has now 400 sites nationally.

RTE Tops Viewers ListThe top ten most viewed programmes in 2008 watched in Ireland on any T.V channel were screened by RTE, and all home produced. The Late Late Toy Show topped the list with 1,199,00 viewers, Nine 0’ Clock News on the 11th of January ’08 with 748,000 viewers was second and Prime Time – Traveller was the third most watched with 773,000. Number four was Kilnaskully – The Emergency with 757,000, Fair City was number five with 715,000 and Buyer Beware was six with 714,000. The All Ireland hurling final at seven had 709,000 viewers the All Ireland football was eight with 703,000. The Rose of Tralee at number nine had 696,000 and the Eurovision Song Contest completed the list at number 10 with 691,000. Incidentally, Munster V All Blacks broadcast from Thomond Park is listed at number eleven with an audience of 689,000 viewers.

Shannon Secures ConferenceA major aviation conference is to be held in Shannon in April with over 250 delegates and representatives of over 15 low cost airlines attending. This is a great opportunity to showcase what the region has to offer and opens up the possibility of attracting new routes from Shannon. The re-introduction of the Aer Lingus Shannon/ Heathrow route is seen as the deciding factor in securing the conference for the region.

New Club House at Thomond ParkShannon Rugby Club have applied to Limerick City Council for planning permission to construct a new multi-functional club house on their existing site, in Thomond Park.

NewAppointment

Limerick Race Company wish to announce the appointment of Mr Russell Ferris as Manager. Russell took up his position on 19th of January 2009.Russell has many years experience in the Racing Industry, having been Stud Manager at Scarvagh House Stud, Co. Down and worked in Training Establishments both in South Africa and the U.S.

Russell Ferris

Manager of Limerick Race Company

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attending a breakfast for local businesses hosted by AIB at the Marriott Hotel, Limerick City recently.

Fergus Ryan (Aviva Investors), Kieran O'Regan (Head of Business banking), Conor Maguire (Senior Manager AIB) & Sean Carroll (Financial Planning manager) attending a breakfast for local businesses hosted by AIB at the Marriott Hotel, Limerick City recently.

Michael Murphy (AIB), Matt Gaule (Bermingham) & William Gaule (Bermingham) attending a breakfast for local businesses hosted by AIB at the Marriott Hotel, Limerick City recently.

Michael Sharkey (AIB), Jason Bateman & Joe O'Meara (Holmes O'Malley Sexton) attending a breakfast for local businesses hosted by AIB at the Marriott Hotel, Limerick City recently.

Martin Moroney (Shannon airport Director), Joe Lieberman, Mininster Willie O'Dea & Senator John McCain at Shannon Airport.

Eoghan Quigg X Factor finalist pictured with some of the Limerick Marriott Hotel staff during his recent stay at the 5 star premises from the left are Prabhjot Kaur, Niall Kerins, General Manager, Clodagh Payne, Aisha Hussien and Robert Hadfield.

Jim O'Farrell, Branch Chairman, Sean Kelly. Former President GAA, Kieran O'Donnell , TD, Denis McCarthy, Fine Gael City Council Canidate for the fourthcoming City Council Elections, John Shorten,

The award winner for Surgery Lisa Owens from Limerick, student from the College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences at NUI Galway City pictured here with (left) NUI Galway’s Professor Ivan Keogh - Head of ENT Department, and (right) the Dean of NUI Galway’s College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, Professor B.G. Loftus.

For industries under pressure due to tightening margins and yet needing to keep pace with demand, ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) today asked employers and employees to consider the measure of working extra time at no pay before pay cuts or lay-offs. On paper, thirty minutes extra work a day at no extra pay represents an effective 6% pay cut but the reality is no loss of earnings, rather an increase in productivity. Ireland has become uncompetitive and is losing too many jobs. Pay cuts and job losses are not a good answer as they decrease demand and run the risk of prolonging the

current economic difficulties. Aidan Clifford, ACCA Advisory Services Manager: “As an economy, Ireland needs to be more competitive, but equally we cannot afford wholesale pay cuts or job cuts as this would reduce demand for products and services. ACCA is encouraging employers and employees to consider the option of extra time because for many people, working 30 minutes more a day, half a standard lunch break, may be more acceptable than a 6% pay cut. As the economy starts to recover, this is a measure that can be reviewed in line with an agreed timescale.”

O2’s ‘Be The Difference’ campaign is giving loyal Irish rugby fans the chance to be on the field with the Irish rugby team during the match against England at Croke Park on February 28th. ‘Be The Difference’ is all about the difference that fans’ support can make. So now thousands of lucky fans can show their support by having their names printed

onto the number on the Irish rugby players’ match jerseys during this crucial clash. To find out more about being the difference for the Irish rugby team during the upcoming Six Nations tournament, log on to www.bethedifference.ie or visit any O2 store nationwide.

Thousands to Line Out for Ireland Against England at Croke ParkIrish Rugby Fans can “Be The Difference” this Six Nations

Consider Working Longer Before Cutting Pay

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Conor Murray, Garrowen, Peter O'Mahony, Cork Con and Kieran Essex, UL Bohs.

Munster Rugby Academy has announced the continuation its educational sponsorship deal with BDO Simpson Xavier that provides all academy players with their own individual laptops. Munster Rugby Official Business Advisors, BDO Simpson Xavier will continue to supply Academy members with computers for their own educational and game analysis use. The sponsorship arrangement will also see BDO Simpson Xavier continue as Sponsorship Partner of the Munster Rugby Academy.

At the announcement of the sponsorship Ian Sherwin, manager of the Munster Rugby Academy said ‘this continues to be a very unique sponsorship that directly benefits our academy players on and off the field. It also acknowledges the way rugby is developing with a large element of player development taking place off the pitch. Ensuring all players have access to their own laptops for game and skills analysis is a great resource to have for their educational and rugby development.’

Managing Partner of BDO Simpson Xavier Brian McGann said ‘One of the critical aspects underlying any team success in business or sports is a commitment to developing their people. We are delighted to make this contribution to the development of the future stars of Munster Rugby and in particular to be associated with the Academy who have produced so many fantastic players that have graduated to the senior team.’ The sponsorship will also result in BDO Simpson Xavier continuing to work with the Academy on a career development programme for academy members. Players will also be provided with access to ongoing career advice from dedicated consultants across a range of business disciplines. The Academy operates a three year cycle with a maximum of seven places per year available. During their three years in the Academy all players complete a Level 7 Higher Education Training Awards Council Diploma in Professional Rugby through HETAC. A number of Academy players have now gone on to win Irish caps including Tomas O’Leary, Donnacha Ryan and Keith Earls.

Munster Rugby Academy Goes Hi Tech

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LIMERICK COLLEGEof

BUSINESS STUDIESQuality Tuition

Professional Careers

LCBS CAT 2008 Pass Rate 79%Global Pass Rate LCBS Pass Rate Paper T4 37% 100%Paper T2 35% 100%

As one of Limericks leading institutes of business, we credit ourselves on

Professional financial tuition.Our student results in 2008 alone reflect

our commitment in helping each and every student achieve their highest

potential.

Courses Available – 2009

Part-Time Courses Available

(New Course) (New Course)

(New Course)

College term begins onJanuary 26th and March 23rd

email:info@lcbs.ieweb: www.lcbs.ie

With Shannon Development marking the 50th anniversary of its founding this year, the Chief Executive of the semi-State agency is confident for the future of the Shannon Region declaring “we will get through the hard times by ensuring that the physical and intellectual resources of the region are brought to bear in the difficulties that we are currently facing. This situation has been caused by factors outside Ireland and not helped by factors in Ireland, but what is clear is there will be an end to this. We just don’t know where that end part is at the moment. Shannon Development has to be ready for that upturn and the region has to be ready for that upturn. It’s a combination of doing the things we have been doing and looking at new projects. Nobody is going to thank me for burying my head in the sand. We need to be out there finding new projects, delivering new concepts and working with our partners”.

Donegal native Dr. Vincent Cunnane is now just over seven months heading up the agency and in an exclusive interview with Business Limerick he said: “Shannon Development was a pilot that was never adopted as national policy and it still is. The National Spatial Strategy and National Development Plan talk a lot about regional development, but the mechanism to deliver regional balanced development has not been enforced.

“Shannon Development still is as highly relevant as it was 50 years ago and has and does deliver significant benefits for the region. I believe it is a good model for other parts of the country. They could benefit from a regularly focused body even today and more so with the climate we are in.

“Shannon Development would continue to pioneer initiatives and deliver strategies to

ensure that the Shannon region is equipped to meet the future needs of investors, visitors and people”.

A founding member of the Irish Research Scientist Association, he served on the first National Research Support Fund Board from 1995 to 1998 and is on the Board of the National Technology Park, Limerick.

With the setting up of a task force by the Government in the wake of the Dell job losses in Limerick he revealed that Shannon Development hopes to play a leading role in the task force.

“Its important that the task force quickly identifies the key issues involved and can come up with plausible mechanisms to deal with these issues. There is reason for hope for this region because of the distinct advantages it possesses in terms

4 Keeping an eye on Business

“Pioneering New Initiatives 50 Years On” – said Dr. Vincent Cunnane

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A Business Development Programmefor Owner/Managers

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Limerick City Enterprise Board is pleased to announce an innovative 10 -month programme designed by MDA Consult to support owner managers in established enterprises to take stock of their business in the face of current economic challenges and to initiate change within a well-planned agenda.

The programme will be tailored to suit the specific needs of the participants to include:• Business skills to stabilise the enterprise e.g. financial management, sales management and marketing, a clear strategy for the longer term, employment procedures, an ability to adapt quickly to external change • Revitalise the owner manager’s leadership and communication skills• Focus on key areas to grow the business, e.g. work to innovation targets, implement a ‘lean’ agenda, continuous improvement, project management, extending the business outside Ireland, building a winning team, etc.• Implement a targeted marketing plan by re-energising sales, develop superior

customer care, branding, and internet marketing to source suppliers and customers

We will provide innovative teambuilding & communication mechanisms so that participants can support one another to find solutions together to common business problems. Limerick City Enterprise Board are delighted to be working with MDA Consult for this programme. The firm provides workshop training, coaching and consultancy services to corporate, state and SME clients nationwide with a portfolio in Business & Finance, Human Resources, Operations, & Management Development. There is a sustained commitment to innovation, quality management, independent certification, continuous improvement and evaluation. www.mdaconsult.ie

For Owner Managers of Small Business in Limerick trading for over 3 years.Programme Schedule• Workshop Launch late February 2009• Evening workshops March - December

• Confidential mentoring by experienced practising managers throughout• Completion Early December

Cost with 70% subsidy, the cost per individual is €750. 15 places are available. There is option of FETAC certification

For other information on the above or any of our programmes please contact the Limerick City Enterprise Board at 061-312611 or b.moloney@limceb.ie www.limceb.ie

City and County Enterprise Boards are funded by the Irish Government and part-funded by the European Union under the National Development Plan 2000 - 2006

Re-Energise Your Business in Challenging TimesFor: Owner Managers of Small Business in Limerick trading for over 3 years. Programme Schedule

Cost with 70% subsidy, the cost per individual is €750.15 places are available. There is option of FETAC certification.

For other information on the above or any of our programmes please contact the Limerick City Enterprise Board at 061-312611 or b.moloney@limceb.ie www.limceb.ie

A Business Development Programme for Owner/managers

Re-Energise Your Business in Challenging Times

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Ga l l e r y

Sally Anne Hartigan, event organizer Cystic Fibrosis Christmas Fashion Soiree, T J Walsh, Brenda Moloney and Dr Michael J Mahony, Consultant Paediatrician, presenting the proceeds from the evening held at Limerick Golf Club to Noel Earlie, Chairman of the J P McManus Pro-Am 2010.

Nick Munier, maitre d' from Hells Kitchen and artist , Alan Burns, head chef Patrica Roberts, No1 Pery Square, Una Heaton, artist and Jim O'Farrell, artist last Thursday at the opening of an art exhibition titled Arts and Tarts at the Georgian House, No1 Pery Square, Limerick.

Bond Girls - Natalie Katilius, Baron Samedi - Myles Breen, and Suzanne O'Brien from Glamour the Agency and Grainne Vaughan - Joli at the Casino night at Fitzpatrick's Casino, Glentworth Street recently.

Ann Lyons, Managing Director of Craft Innovations, joined 2000 volunteers for the November 2008 Building Blitz. The volunteers built 253 homes in one week for the residents of Cape Town’s largest township, Khayelitsha. Ann Lyons and Niall Mellon, founder of the Niall Mellon Township Trust.

Gathered at the County Hall, Dooradoyle, Limerick to sign the main contract for the upgrade and further development of the Great Southern Trail were from left: John Pentony, Director of Jons Civil Engineering Co Ltd; Josephine Cotter-Coughlan, Director of Services, Limerick County Council; Ned Gleeson, Manager of Limerick County Council; Anthony Coleman, Administrative Officer, Limerick County Council; Brian Finnegan, Commercial Manager, Jons Engineering Co Ltd; and Bernadette Pentony, Director of Jons Engineering Co Ltd.

Minister Peter Power, Eoghan Prendergast, Shannon Development, Minister Hanafin, Minister Willie O’Dea, George O’Sullivan, Shannon Development, Yvonne Bogdanovic, Limerick MABS, pictured on a minister's visit to the MABS office in Shannon Development’s Tait Business Centre recently.

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Successful Year for

Ireland's LARGEST used office furniture specialist!

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SIMI demands Rescue Package The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) today released the official figures for the number of new vehicles registered in January ’09 (15,929) which shows they are down 66.54% on January ‘08 (47,609).

The introduction of changes to VRT and Road Tax in July 2008 and the announcement of an early budget stalled the market and there has been no recovery since. The implications of the banking industry collapse has further compounded the increasingly tough market conditions.

The stark contrast between Jan’08 and Jan ’09 figures are indicative of the altered state of our country’s economy. In 2007 the VRT and VAT generated by new vehicle registrations reached €2billion. This figure contracted to € 1.5billon in 2008 and it is estimated that, unless action is taken swiftly by the government, VRT and VAT revenue for 2009 could drop to €500million.

The January sales results come as no surprise to SIMI who predict new vehicle registrations to fall below 100,000 units this year. However, demand for used cars is encouraging and dealerships are reporting a move towards vehicle aftermarket services i.e. parts and servicing. The decrease in oil prices and interest rates has been of little assistance to the stabilisation of the volatile Motor Industry.

Our members are under immense pressure and face extraordinary challenges in ’09. Already the industry has suffered 3,000 redundancies and

substantial cuts in salaries are affecting many more, particularly those who work on commission basis.

Commenting on these figures SIMI Director General, Alan Nolan said “Poor figures for January are of little surprise given the current state of the global economy and weak consumer confidence. There is movement in the used car market and our members are diversifying their businesses and responding to demand for servicing and parts, which is a logical shift in business given the increasing numbers keeping their cars for longer.”

Commenting on this Alan Nolan said “It is crucial at this point that the government supports the industry and takes real and immediate action to boost the industry and prevent the potentially devastating consequences of continued decline.”

Vehicle registrations for 2009 (1,651) are down 80.55% on the same period last year (8,490). Heavy Vehicle (HGV) registrations are down 67.4% (267) for the year to date compared to the same period in 2008 (819). Scrappage schemes in the past have benefitted the consumer, the government and the Motor Industry. In July ’95 to Dec ’97 (incl) the government introduced a scrappage scheme that saw almost 65,000 cars scrapped and replaced with newer, safer, cleaner cars. The national car park figures of cars ten years or older stood at 213,000 during that scrappage scheme period. Today, in 2009, that figure is closer to 312,000.

The introduction of a similar scheme

again, (already introduced in Germany and France), would provide much needed tax revenue without applying additional taxes on vehicles already on the roads and would stimulate this important sector employing over 50,000. This scheme would assist motorists’ transition to cleaner, greener vehicles and allow customers take advantage of preferential tax rates. We are better able now, following the introduction of the End of Life Vehicle Regulation, to deal with the safe recovery, reuse and treatment of any vehicles scrapped.

Unlike the UK Motor Industry, our government is not being asked to boost the failing manufacturers of vehicles, but rather inject urgent movement back into the motoring market. We hope that the government has the foresight to see the advantages of facilitating the modernization of the national car park to ‘greener’ vehicles.

Banks and lending institutions must work with the Motor Industry to promote the sale of vehicles and assist consumers and indeed motor dealers by releasing funds, negotiating favorable terms and creating movement in the market once more. Consumer confidence is low and if the message being conveyed is that finance is not available, the market will struggle and buyers will be deterred from entering the market which stalls the economy between the industries and serves nobody in the long run.

Neither the banks nor the Motor Industry can afford to allow this market to stagnate and finance must flow again for those who are in the position to borrow.

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Lorraine Shaw, PRO, CIPD, Barry Hill, CIPD, Ambrose Downey, IBEC, Maria Gilsenan, Melior Management and Brian Cooney, MD, Open Jobs, Limerick at the CIPD Meeting in the Clarion Suites Hotel, Ennis Road.

Professor Bill Strickland,UL Professor Marie Parker-Jenkins and John O'Reilly, Department of Education and Health Sciences at UL at ‘Strategic Innovations in Education’ Conference, which took place at UL.

Owen South, Photographer, John Hogan, Journalist and Adrian Bulter, Photographer, celebrating their wins at the Midwest Arts, Culture and Media Awards.

Keith Wiseman, Limerick Independent Photographer, been presented with Best Sports Photo at the Midwest Arts, Culture and Media Awards by Martin O'Briain and Minister of Art and Culture, Martin Cullen at the Radisson Hotel.

Donncha Hughes, Enterprise Acceleration Manager, Gary Carroll, Episensor, Emer Carey, MOP, Frank Walsh, Enterprise Equity and Richard Grey, MOP at the Enterprise Acceleration Centre in LIT for Support For Start-Ups Pays Dividends For Ireland.

At the launch of the Avonmore Milk Munster Junior & Munster Youths Cup for 2009 were Daragh Hannon (Castletroy College), Kieran OConnor (Glanbia Sponsorship Manager), Jerry Flannery, Jim Riordan (Honorary Treasurer Munster branch), Martin Wallace & Marcus Horan.

Peter Clifford, Services to Business Fas, Jane Howlett, Alzheimers Society of Ireland, Gerry Berkery, Eglinton Personal, Ambrose Downey, IBEC, (fr) Fanchea Moloney, Harmonics, Pat Cunneen, Lighthouse Consultants, Gillian Driver, Harmonics, attending the CIPD Meeting at the Clarion Suites, Ennis Road.

At the launch of the Avonmore Milk Munster Junior & Munster Youths Cup for 2009 were Marcus Horan, Greg Ashe (Munster Schools representative), Federico Pucciariello, Kieran O'Connor (Glanbia Sponsorship manager) & Jerry Flannery.

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Developers – residential property completed pre 1 July 2008There has been some confusion in relation to the application of the new VAT on property rules for lettings of residential property by developers. The legislation provides for different tax treatment depending on whether a building was "completed" before 1 July 2008 or on or after 1 July 2008.

The term “Completed” as it refers to the new VAT on property rules is defined in VAT legislation. A property is completed when it is ready to be used for the purposes for which the property was designed and the utility services required for those purposes are connected to the property.

Where a developer had completed construction of a residential property before 1 July 2008 but has let it for the first time after 1 July 2008 there is a full claw-back of the VAT deducted by the developer.

The Revenue Commissioners have clarified that in certain circumstances they are prepared to accept that a property may be regarded as not having been completed until it has been rented.

Developers – residential property completed post 1 July 2008Where a developer had completed construction of a residential property after 1 July 2008 and the property is rented on or after 1 July 2008 no immediate claw-back occurs. Under the new rules there is only a 5% claw-back at the end of the initial interval i.e. twelve months from the initial letting.

The Revenue clarification represents a significant cash flow advantage for the developer as under the old rules the full amount of VAT incurred on the residential property, which is let, is clawed back. In both cases, the sale is subject to VAT on the full consideration received regardless of the length of time the property has been let.

Landlords – Lettings to Connected PartiesThe new VAT on Property legislation has introduced connected party rules for lettings of property.

Since 1 July 2008 the letting of property is exempt from VAT and a landlord is not entitled to deduct VAT incurred on the acquisition or development of the property, which is subject to the letting. A landlord may, upon agreement with the tenant, opt to charge VAT @ 21.5% on the letting. A landlord who does so is entitled to deduct VAT incurred on the acquisition or development of the property. However there are restrictions as to the circumstances where a landlord may do so.

There are restrictions on the option to tax rents. The option to tax cannot apply where:1. The property is occupied for residential purposes.2. Where the letting is between connected persons except where the tenant is entitled to deduct at least 90% of the VAT chargeable on the rent.3. Where the property is occupied as distinct from let by a person who is connected with the landlord.

Under the old waiver rules, a waiver applied to all short-term lettings (period of less than

ten years) of the landlord. This is not the case with the option to tax. It may well be that a landlord may opt to tax a letting of part of a building while making an exempt letting of the rest of the building.

Where a waiver of exemption was in place pre 1 July 2008 and there was a short term letting of property between connected parties in place at 1 July 2008, the letting is deemed to be cancelled and the landlord will be liable for a claw-back of VAT.

However if the tenant is entitled to deduct at least 90% of the VAT charged on the letting, then the waiver will not be cancelled but will continue for the duration of that letting for as long as the tenant has at least 90% deductibility.

Landlords – Existing Short Term LettingsPrior to the introduction of the new VAT legislation a short term letting was defined as a letting for a period less than ten years. Since the introduction of new VAT legislation there is no distinction between leases for a period greater than or less than ten years.

Landlords with short term leases in place at 1 July 2008 should review their obligations under the new VAT on property legislation, prior to the expiry of these leases to ensure compliance with VAT legislation going forward. In some instances it may be necessary for the landlord and tenant to jointly opt to tax a letting i.e. charge VAT @ 21.5% on the rent, after the expiry of the current lease.

Specific VAT advices should be obtained in relation to all property transactions.

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New VAT On Property Rules

Do They ImpactOn Your Business?

Diarmuid Hendrick

BDO Simpson Xavier is Ireland’s leading firm in the area of advice to entrepreneurs and owner managed businesses. Diarmuid Hendrick is General Practice Partner in the firm’s Limerick offices.The office can be contacted on 061- 41 44 55.

BDO Simpson Xavier will not accept responsibility for loss or damage to any person as a result of refrain-ing from acting as a result of the information contained in this article. Professional advice should always be sought before acting on any matter referred to in this article.

The purpose of this article is to examine the impact of some aspects of the new VAT on Property legislation introduced with effect from 1July 2008. Developers and Landlords should carefully consider their obligations under the new legislation to ensure that they are compliant with the new rules, and benefit from transitional arrangements.

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February 2009

Valentine's Day at Flowers Forever

Tel: 061 307123

Where Creativity is the Secret to our Success

Flowers Forever, Raheen Roundabout, Raheen, Limerick, Email: flowers4ever@eircom.net

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Maeve Binchy Lends Supports ArthritisIreland Helpline

Arthritis Ireland has launched a national helpline for people with arthritis, manned by people who are living positively with the condition. The new helpline (Lo-Call 1890 252 846) is supported by the much loved Irish author Maeve Binchy and is the first of its kind in Ireland, providing vital emotional and practical support and information to people affected by arthritis. The helpline supports people who have just been diagnosed or have been living with arthritis for some time, their family members and friends who want to know how to support a loved one, and finally

health professionals. Because every member of the helpline team has experience of living with arthritis themselves, callers can be sure they will speak to someone who understands what it’s like to have arthritis and the issues that they face in their daily lives. Arthritis Ireland is encouraging people with arthritis, their families and carers to contact the helpline between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday on Lo-Call 1890 252 846 for the price of a local call. People can call the helpline for all sorts of advice including how to manage pain, information about specific conditions, types of medication and treatments available, identifying what exercise or diet may be appropriate and how to manage living with arthritis on an emotional level. Often the emotional impact of arthritis is underestimated and people with arthritis can feel isolated as a result. Welcoming the launch of the helpline, Maeve Binchy said “People are often inclined to dismiss arthritis, which is very unfair as it can often result in a greatly reduced quality of life for the person affected. The Arthritis Ireland National Helpline is indeed a great step forward for people with arthritis as it can help them to take control of their condition and get their life back.” Arthritis affects 1 in 6 people in Ireland – 714,000 people nationwide. There are over 100 different types of arthritis and these can affect people of all ages from babies and toddlers right through to those in their adult years. 60% of people with arthritis are aged under 65 years old.

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Midwest Arts, Media & Culture Awards

Minister Martin Cullen, Minister Peter Power and Nicky Woulfe, Woulfe Event Management.

Nicky Woulfe, Woulfe Event Management and Minister Peter Power with his wife Lorraine.

Mairtin O Briain, Elaine Geraghty, CEO Newstalk and Minister Martin Cullen.

Mairtin O Briain, Cathriona Tierney, Limerick NOW and Minister Martin Cullen.

Nicky Woulfe, Mairtin O Briain, Bertha McCullagh, Minister Martin Cullen, Minister Peter Power, Eileen Whelan and John Downing.

Mairtin O Briain, Chairman MAMCA, Virginia Teehan, Hunt Museum and Minister Martin Cullen.

Fergal and Phil Deegan Marge Curtin and Eugene PhelanIta and Tom McGuire, RTE, Cathy Halloran, RTE, John Downing, judging pannel MAMCA, Eileen Whelan, RTE MC MAMCA Awards, Larry Donnelly.

Keeping an eye on Business

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of infrastructure, people, education, connectivity and a lower cost base than other competing regions”.

He suggested that 50 years on “Shannon Development must keep leading forward with that innovative spirit of 50 years ago restructuring the company to make sure we can deliver on a number of strategic projects for the region”.

On the question of tourism he said tourism it was a big industry in the region and new tourism projects need to be developed to attract people into the region whether it should be by one flagship project or a number of smaller ones.

Turning to property he pointed out that Shannon Development had a number of buildings for high end manufacturing and the internationally traded services. “We are delivering key projects whether it’s e-towns, broadband or the Shannon Estuary L&G project in North Kerry. These are the type of projects that will deliver key outcomes for the region”.

The Chief Executive sees a huge opportunity around energy and the huge natural resource that is the Shannon Estuary and the surrounding lands. “It represents the best in Ireland or Europe for all forms of renewable energy – demonstrator projects such as tidal energy, biofuels and wave energy. We are working with the key partners in the region particularly the University of Limerick to explore these concepts”.

Looking back to the birth of Shannon Development then known as The Shannon Free Airport Development Company (SFADCo) he declared: “in the 1940s the Irish industrial landscape was very insular with for example protectionist tariffs for domestic industry in place. During the 1950s however, Government thinking had changed and Ireland began to look outwards with economic expansion with foreign investment being encouraged. The question of Ireland’s admission to the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank was being mooted.

“In 1957 Sean Lemass was Minister for Industry and Commerce (later Taoiseach in 1959) who actively pursued a shift in Government policy from agricultural subsidies and tariffs protection towards free trade, expansion of exports and incentive for inward investment. This was the background

in which SFADCo emerged. Lemass made a submission to Government that Brendan O’Regan, the Controller of Sales and Catering at Shannon Airport should be given an enhanced role to develop traffic, tourism and airfreight at Shannon. The activity would be financed out of Sales and Catering revenue. Dr. O’Regan became a visionary and innovator”.

In 1961 Paul Quigley was appointed as SFADCo’s first General Manager. He adopted an integrated approach to developing tourism, industry, Shannon Town and other developments. It should be pointed out that before Paul Quigley’s appointment the new agency was headed up by J.C. (Jack) Lynch.

“This was a challenging task at a time when airplanes no longer needed to stop to refuel at Shannon. In response to this Shannon Development set about coming up with a whole range of innovative ways of giving industrialists reasons to locate in the area and tourists reasons to holiday here. Among the first of these initiatives was the establishment in 1960 of the World’s first Duty Free Zone known today as the Shannon Free Zone which now employs 7,000 people and is the largest multi-sector business park outside of Dublin, generating annual sales of over €3.5 billion. Over 100 companies have chosen to invest at the Shannon Free Zone which is also home to the largest cluster of North American manufacturing and international service companies in Ireland. Today the company owns and manages a diverse range of 57 Technology Parks,

Industrial Estates and Business Parks throughout the Shannon Region”. He added that on the tourism front the company came up with a novel idea of offering mediaeval banquets to US visitors as an incentive to come to the Shannon Region. The scheme was initially undertaken on a pilot basis and the World’s first mediaeval banquet was held at Bunratty Castle in Co. Clare in 1963 followed a year later with the opening of Bunratty Folk Park as a visitor attraction. In its first year of operation the Bunratty Mediaeval Banquet recorded 4,500 visitors. To-date over 4.5 million visitors have enjoyed the unique mediaeval banqueting experience. In 1986, the company established a wholly-owned subsidiary Shannon Heritage Ltd. to manage its growing tourism portfolio of visitor attractions”.

Shannon Development has a presence in every corner of the Shannon Region which comprises Counties Clare, North Kerry, Limerick, South Offaly and North Tipperary.

Outlining the company’s products Dr. Cunnane said “a unique product is the Shannon Development Knowledge Network which provides an impressive environment for business. This network comprises five World-class business and technology parks at the National Technology Park in Limerick, Kerry Technology Park in Tralee, Tipperary Technology Park in Thurles, Birr Technology Centre in Co. Offaly and Information Age Park Ennis. The Knowledge Network is

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Last week, Denis Leonard, ‘supremo’ of Limerick Civic trust was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate at the University of Limerick. Denis established the first civic trust on this island, in Limerick in 1983. The trust appointed Denis as its first chairman in 1983-84 and full time Director in 1985. This year, as the trust celebrates it’s 26th Anniversary, it has now undertaken 155 projects to date, and the value of this work has been estimated at over €17million.

One of the largest projects undertaken by the trust and one closest to Denis’s heart was the Bishop’s Palace Restoration. Now the

head quarters of the Civic Trust, this fine example of Neo-Palladian architecture was the subject of a demolition order due to be knocked to widen the road. Denis is keen to point out that the trust paid £1,000 pounds for the ruin and people said they were robbed! The building is now fully restored and very important landmark in the city.

Another massive undertaking by the trust was the restoration project of No.2 Georgian House, Pery Square, which saw this beautiful building fully transformed to its former glory and now in use for recitals, art exhibitions, meetings and corporate events. The total cost was €1.5million and the Georgian House was saved as part of Limerick’s history and now a much loved visitor centre which has also been approved as a venue for civil weddings.

Denis Leonard has been the ‘constant’ working force within the trust responsible for these remarkable developments and has richly deserved this great honour from the University of Limerick.

Professor Don Barry conferred the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters on Denis Leonard at a special ceremony in U.L. Three other honorary doctorates were awarded at this ceremony, industrialist Cynthia Carroll conferred Doctor of Economic Science; Sean Donlon conferred Doctor of Laws; and Daniel Tierney conferred Doctor of Economics.

Denis’s affection for his native city continues to fuel his passion to restore and maintain Limerick heritage buildings and projects, leading by example upholding the Limerick Trust Motto ‘the improvement of our environment through positive action’.

UL Honour Civic Trust Director

Multi-Million Euro Investment in Limerick Serviced Offices Multi-million euro investment in new Limerick serviced offices can achieve significant savings for small and start-up enterprises. Office Ireland’s Castletroy facility provides low cost, flexible leasing arrangements in state-of-the-art environment Limerick company Office Ireland Ltd is set to raise the bar for affordable and flexible office space in the region in New Year with the opening of a multi-million euro state-of-the-art Serviced Office facility in Castletroy. The 30 unit serviced office will offer the very best in terms of technology, comfort, lease flexibility and, critically, price for new and established businesses. Located in the heart of the new Castletroy Park Commercial Campus, Office Ireland will provide businesses with the opportunity to locate in a prestigious address with easy access and excellent parking facilities. Announcing the January opening of the new serviced offices, Office Ireland Managing Director Damian Murphy, from Clonmacken, Limerick, who is joined on the board of Office Ireland by fellow Limerick man Matthew Cuddy, said that the facility is ideally suited for start-ups, smaller enterprises and persons working remotely from their head-office. “These quality serviced offices are ideal for professionals who want to upgrade their office and reduce their overheads. The office market is crying out for quality offices with flexibility on both space required and letting duration. Our new facility and professional business model is designed with flexibility at its core,” he said.

“From a cost perspective, our serviced offices will be considerably more effective, generating basic savings of up to 46% on the traditional stand-alone office for a sole

operator business and up to 77% for sole-operator with secretary. In the current economic downturn, this is a perfect antidote for businesses wanting to cut their costs. Thanks to this, we will essentially be helping companies to sustain up to 50 jobs here. “Aside from not incurring start-up costs, business locating here will also benefit from having professional receptionists, fully furnished and air-conditioned offices with high speed un-contended broadband, the latest in IT technology and VOIP phone systems. One fee covers your rent, rates, service charges, insurance, maintenance, utilities and office cleaning. “We offer a turn-key solution and can have companies set up in 24 hours. Businesses get a turn-key solution with a single monthly fee that covers their CAT6 cabling & broadband internet, furniture, rent, rates, services charges, maintenance, utilities and cleaning. Optional private underground car parking with name-plated spaces are also available. “Our flexible office solutions ensure that businesses can react quickly to market changes as, having chosen the suite that fits their needs best, they can reduce or increase the space required to meet their changing business circumstances. This type of flexibility is crucial as businesses expand or, indeed, contract.” Office Ireland is immediately adjacent to the Castletroy Park Hotel and a choice of other good restaurants. Clients of the new offices have access to optional private underground parking with both lift and stairs access directly to the office suites. The company’s website www.officeireland.ie carries full details of what promises to be a professional and much sought after business facility.

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“a kind a different”

Contact us at Flowers ForeverRaheen Roundabout,

Raheen, LimerickTel/Fax: 061 307123

Email : flowers4ever@eircom.net

Contact us at Flowers ForeverRaheen Roundabout,

Show your love this Valentine's Day with Flowers Forever- the Midwest's finest florist. The design team at Flowers Forever have been hand-picked for their friendly approach and extraordinary creative flair so that your flowers are truly memorable. The proprietors Rachel and David Hannon personally guarantees premierservice and consistently high standards of design. Rachel says, "this Valentine's Day we just want our flowers to be themost impressive so just let us delightand enthrall you with our floral designsand unparalleled service". This year Rachel says, "our new rose varieties have not only expanded the colour palette but have also enhanced features such as bloom size, shape, stem length and fragrance, our new red roses range from shades of bright raspberry to majestic scarlet to velvety-dark red or orange-kissed hues - pinks now include traditional pinks, hot pinks, peaches, apricots, and corals." According to Rachel there's a trend in Valentine flowers this year towards mixed fresh arrangements, lilies, irises, and a host of other fresh favourites and though roses are still the favourite flower of love, customers are becoming much more tuned into other romantic flower options. Depending on just how much 'wow' you want to send for whatever occasion or season trust Flowers Forever to professionally arrange and personally deliver not only roses but a wide variety of flowers like orchids, irises and lilies to delight that very special someone or to mark those special occasions in your life where your sentiments need to be conveyed in a particular way. If you want quality flowers with unique, artistic and stunning colour/ design, or, if you are looking for truly something fantastic with clever messaging sentiments in 2009 then Flowers Forever is the place of excellence where you will find all of these things.

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The second annual Mid West Arts, Media and Culture Awards took place last Saturday the 24th of January at the Radisson SAS Hotel Limerick and were a great success. Over 240 guests attended the Awards night which was hosted by Eileen Whelan of RTE News. The representatives included RTE, TV3, Newstalk and TG4 as well as attendees from all the regional publications and radio stations. The Arts and Culture fraternity was also very well represented on the night.

Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism, Martin Cullen TD, the special guest on the night, commenting in response to criticism of Arts cutbacks said that “We are in difficult times, there is no doubt about that, and all areas have to look to achieving the best value they can. The growth in actual spend has been very significant, and if we have to cut back a little bit, it will still be back to what was record years in 2006. I think people can get better value for money now in terms of spend than what they did at the height of the boom.”

On the National front, TV3 won two awards on the night with Rebecca O’ Neill receiving an award for her reporting on the Shane Geoghegan tragedy and an award for Best Feature Piece for their programme

‘Stories from Home’ on Gabriel Byrne. RTE Radio 1 picked up three awards on the night, RTE Lyric FM received an Award for their ArtsZone programme and Newstalk were the recipient of the award for Best National Radio Station.

The Mid West Awards, of which there were 28, were won by various Arts, Media and Cultural bodies including six awards for the Limerick Leader including Best Newspaper, Limerick Live 95 FM and Clare Fm both picked up awards, the Clare station taking the Award for Best Radio Station.

In the Mid West Arts Awards section, the winners included Fishamble Theatre Company who picked up two awards for Best Play- Pride of Parnell St. and Best Actor- Female – Mary Murray, the Hunt Museum which won Best Visual Arts Exhibition for ‘Past Gazing Future Glazing’, Teaspach Theatre company for Best Amateur Arts Performance- Pied Piper and Best Director- Naomi O’ Kelly.

In the two special categories, ‘The Richard Harris Lifetime Achievement Award’ and the Judges Special Award, the winners were Denis Leonard of Limerick Civic Trust and Joe Buckley of Limerick Printmakers respectively.

The Judging Panel included Director of MAMCA Mairtin O’Briain, Assistant Government Press Secretary John Downing, Editor of the Connaught Tribune news group Dave O’ Connell, Outreach education officer for the Arts Bertha McCullagh, PR consultant and former RTE broadcaster Ciana Campbell and Pat O’ Sullivan, a local businessman and patron of the Arts.

Chairman Mairtin O Briain said he was “delighted that Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism, Martin Cullen TD took the time to attend the event, an event which is continuing to grow in stature within the region.”

It is hoped that the Committee will build on the success of this years awards and move the Mid West Arts, Media and Culture Awards on to bigger and better things while continuing to recognise, encourage and foster the Arts, Media and Culture of the Mid West.

Business Limerick Magazine has scooped a major award at the hugely successful Midwest Arts, Media & Culture Awards (MAMCA) for the second year running.

The ‘Best Magazine in the Midwest’ was awarded to the Limerick owned magazine at a glittering ceremony held at the Radisson Hotel recently.

On receipt of the award Frank Collins, CEO Business Limerick said, “We are delighted to be acknowledged with this prestigious award for the second consecutive year. It is a tribute to all our working team who have given so much of themselves in creating a publication that has become the regions main outlet for business leaders and their enterprises in the Midwest. Thanks to our contributors, designers and staff who have made the magazine what it is! Thanks to the judging panel for their praise and recognition.

“Well done to Nicky Woulfe, Mairtin O’Briain and all the organising committee for another fabulous entertaining evening. It is wonderful to see the immense support for the MAMCA awards and it

has quickly developed its own popularity in Limerick’s social calendar by recognising and encouraging Arts, Media and Culture in the Midwest.”

Awards Event Major Success

Gong for Business Limerick

Minister Peter Power, Minister Martin Cullen and Pat O'Sullivan, judging pannel MAMCA.

Mary Cassela, Frank Collins, Zuzana Jezikova, Marguerite Finnan and Yvonne Sheahan.

Work Area Recovery Centre The First of its Kind in The West of Ireland What would you do if you arrived at your office in the morning and couldn’t gain access to your building because during the night it was destroyed by a fire, or these days, it’s more likely to be closed due to a flood or maybe a power outage? There are numerous types of catastrophes which could quickly and unexpectedly close down any company and if the success of the business was dependent on continuous hourly/daily customer support then the business could be seriously at risk. In the event of a disaster that denies access to a building it normally follows that the business will also be disrupted especially if they are dependent on an alternate workplace from which their staff can function and where they can also have timely access to “backed-up” secure, reliable critical business data.

In today’s aggressive competitive business world any responsible, reputable and progressive enterprise must ensure they have an on-demand quick-response disaster recovery plan to protect their customer’s interests and the survival of their business. By enlisting the tailored services of a proven “business recovery solutions” centre an organization can minimize the risks related to a potential business disaster and also allow the management team to sleep at night. A company such as Work Area Recovery Solutions Limited (WARS) can help companies to minimize their business risks by providing an offsite recovery centre to protect their customers/clients and the ongoing success of their business.

In many industries and in many countries there is already a move towards consumer and investor protection through the introduction of legal, regulatory and corporate governance which addresses the need for business continuity. Those companies with business plans which incorporate an appropriate disaster recovery strategy will be most likely to fulfill good business practices and standards thus enabling them to maximize the retention and attraction of new customers/clients.

It’s a fact today that most companies are

both knowledge-centric and transaction-based and have a high expectation of good Business Continuity Plans in order to achieve a Minimum Essential Service (MES) within a defined period - their Maximum Tolerable Outage (MTO). Key business requirements such as customer support, regulatory/legal compliance, employee obligations, revenue protection and the need to be effectively prepared for business disaster, is leading companies to seek out ways and means to minimize risks related to the loss of a workplace.

WARS Limited offers a proven solution to all enterprises by providing a pre-prepared workplace location which can accommodate an expedient transparent continuation of their business following an interruption to their building or its services. WARS Limited, the first of its kind in the West of Ireland, offers three such recovery solutions locations for enterprises in the West of Ireland … the Information Age Business Park in Ennis (a mile from the N18); a second location at the Limerick City South Business Park in Roxboro (on the N21/N7 roundabout); and a third at the Westpark Business Campus in Shannon.

The WARS business recovery locations include fully operational workstations, complete functional work facilities, back-up generator and UPS power supply and resilient telecommunications networks, an on-demand preconfigured data centre, up-to-date on-desk computer systems and preprogrammed telephone sets with access to boardrooms and meeting facilities. Should a disaster recovery be needed, the WARS facility can offer its clients a fully operational call centre within 1-24 hours which mirrors all of the telecoms, data and physical requirements of their normal business. They only need to call and instruct the WARS team to activate the agreed business environment and redirect their employees to the prearranged location where business can continue as normal.

For further information please contact WARS Limited at 061-477888, www.wars.ie enquiries@wars.ie

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MolexRestructure PlanMolex Shannon, with a workforce of 400 workers, has cut it’s staff by over 100 people. The cost restructure plan intends to reduce wages for the remaining staff by 5% with amendments to their pension and benefit schemes. This plan is part of a combined global effort to reduce costs at each of its six plants worldwide.

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NewAppointment

Maria O’Gorman SkellyDirector of Sales & Marketing

The riverside 4 star, 184 bedroom Limerick Strand Hotel is delighted to welcome Maria O’Gorman Skelly to the position of Director of Sales & Marketing. With 19 years in the hospitality industry, Maria brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Originally from Charleville, Co. Cork, Maria began her career in the hospitality industry in 1989 with the Fitzpatrick Hotel Group as Sales Manager in the then Fitzpatrick Shannon Shamrock hotel before progressing to Regional Sales Manager for the Group. Following this Maria moved to The Clarion Hotels, Limerick and was swiftly promoted to Regional Sales Manager where she remained for five years before moving to The Limerick Strand Hotel as Director of Sales & Marketing.

The first of what is hoped to become a quarterly event, an appreciation of fine wines and cultures from Europe evening, took place in the Strand Hotel recently. Friendship Wines proprietor, Joe Crowley together with Louise Fitzgibbon hosted this most enjoyable evening which highlighted fine Italian wines, quality produce such as pesto, cheese, olive oil, etc.

Ten Italian vineyards were represented at the event and there was a most informative presentation on wine tasting and the Italian culture.

“This was a very successful event and I hope it is just the first of many such evenings where we can attract European producers to come to Limerick and market their wine and produce here. We can also market Limerick and the region to our visitors and they can take with them the warm welcome they received, and every thing positive from our region.

“I would like to thank Limerick City Enterprise Board, Meet Limerick Shannon, the Strand Hotel, SignLynx, O’Brien Communications Group for their valuable support in making

this event such a success. Thanks to Limerick lady Louise Fitzgibbon now living in Milan, for her organisation on the Italian side, said Joe Crowley.

Ciao Irlanda ! A Meeting of European Cultures

Ciao Irlanda ! a presentation of Wines, Champagne's and Food from five Italian regions showcased at an event held in the Strand Hotel by Friendship Wines, Limerick pictured with Joe Crowley, Friendship Wines and Minister for Defence, Willie O'Dea are the representives from Italy.

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Special Olympics Ireland has launched its 2009 fundraising campaign. The campaign, which runs from 5th January to 1st May 2009, is asking the people of Ireland to donate or engage themselves in any fundraising event to support Special Olympics in their own community.

The campaign, supported by Eircom, aims to raise €5 million in 2009 to support the existing Special Olympics programme and also to fund the recruitment process of new athletes in every county in Ireland.

A dedicated Special Olympics Ireland fundraising campaign office has been set up to support and coordinate the campaign in County Limerick. The office is located in The Academy of Performing Arts, Mungret College, Mungret.

For further information of activities in County Limerick or to get involved please contact Gaye Moore by phoning 061 210676 or by emailing limerick@specialolympics.ie . Eircom, premier sponsor of Special Olympics Ireland, has

given the campaign a boost by providing valuable IT and telephone services for each county coordinator.

Information about all aspects of the campaign at All Ireland and local level can be found on www.specialolympics.ie which is powered by eircom net. The website carries the complete offline experience to the online medium, where you can download the fundraising pack, Granny of the Year nomination forms, donate online, register events and share fundraising ideas.

Over 25,000 fundraising campaign packs have been distributed throughout the country. Fundraising projects, large and small are already planned and taking place including the search for Granny of the Year and All Ireland Collection Day which is scheduled to take place on 24th April 2009.

A special hotline has also been established to take calls and emails from the public about the campaign on LoCall

1850 555 222 or email fundraising@specialolympics.ie.

You can also request information about the campaign by texting “change” followed by your name to 51444.

The theme of Special Olympics Ireland is changing lives. By supporting the 2009 Olympics Ireland fundraising campaign you will help us to fulfill our promise of changing the lives of even more people with an intellectual disability in County Limerick, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendships with their families, other Special Olympics athlete and the community

For more information please contact:

Gaye Moore – Special Olympics Fundraising Limerick OfficeAcademy of Performing Arts, Mungret College, Mungret,Tel 061 210676.

Fundraising Campaign for Special Olympics 2009

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Quarter of Consumers SeeCashless Society in The FutureA major survey looking into the future of Ireland’s personal wealth has found that one in four (26%) think we will have a cashless society in the future, with almost half of those (48%) believing we will be cashless within the next 5 years. A cashless society is one in which cash is not used, instead consumers use debit/credit cards or electronic fund transfers for all transactions.

These facts arise from the fourth and final part this year of the pioneering Financial Futures series of studies by Halifax that looks into the changing landscape of personal banking in Ireland (see editors notes).

Unsurprising, those who believe we will be a cashless society in the future are aged between 25-44 (35%), while those who would be dissatisfied to rely solely on electronic transactions (46%) are mostly over 45 years old.

Cash is Still KingOf those surveyed, cash is the most popular method of payment, with a 75:25 monthly usage ratio of cash against card. Cash is mainly used for the following payments: Utility Bills – 45%, Phone Bills – 49%, Grocery Shopping – 68%, Clothes – 71%, Music – 52%, Petrol – 58%.

Commenting on these results, Antoinette Dunne, Head of Halifax, said: “What these results show is that while cash is still the most popular method of payment, this is likely to change significantly in the future. As debit and laser cards become more popular, we are beginning to see a shift among the younger sectors of society towards electronic payments. At Halifax, we have found that our visa debit card users make almost 60% more purchases with their card than by withdrawing cash from an ATM and given these results, we are likely to see that percentage increase.”

www.businesslimerick.ie14

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New Mediation ServiceMediation is a relatively new service in Ireland. It is an informal method of dispute resolution in which a neutral third party “The Mediator” attempts to assist parties in finding resolution to their problem through the mediation process. Mediation differs from most other adversarial resolution processes by virtue of its simplicity, its informality, flexibility and economy.

In the mediation procedure, the Mediator acts as a facilitator to help the parties reach a mutually satisfactory resolution to their dispute. Any settlement terms reached can be signed and recorded in an enforceable contract. Again, mediation is an efficient and cost effective way of achieving a fair outcome while preserving, and at times even enhancing the relationship, business and personal of the parties in question.

The European Commission’s proposed new directive on mediation on civil and commercial disputes will create greater awareness of the benefits and advantages of mediation. Businesses want less expensive and faster ways of resolving disputes, mediation offers that opportunity.

An essential ingredient of the mediation process is that the Mediator will keep confidential all information arising out of or in connection with the mediation including the fact that the mediation is to take place or has taken place unless compelled by law or on public policy grounds. Mediation has provided an alternative to litigation in that it enables the parties to resolve their own differences without the high costs associated with litigation. The mediation process gives the parties themselves ability to resolve their own disputes, reduce Court case loads and the overall legal costs associated thereto. Since the options for agreement are put forward by the parties themselves, this gives rise to a more workable and implementable decision.

Confidentiality is central to the mediation process. The confidentiality aspect is imperative in order that the parties may trust the process. By virtue of the confidentiality and without prejudice aspect of the mediation process, the parties may communicate fully, openly and without fear of compromising any case pending before a Court or tribunal etc.

When a mediator is approached, he or she will send out a mediation agreement to the

relevant parties for completion. In addition to completing the agreement itself, the parties will be invited to submit brief details of the issues to be mediated. On the day of the mediation, the mediator will satisfy himself/herself that the parties to the mediation understand the characteristics of the process and the role of the mediator and the parties to it. In particular, the mediator must be satisfied that the parties understand and expressly agree the terms and conditions of the mediation agreement including the provisions relating to obligations of confidentiality on the mediator and on the parties. The mediator will then ensure that all parties have adequate opportunity to be involved in the process and this begins with each of the parties being allowed to explain and detail their story. Once the issues have been finally identified, the respective interests and objectives of the parties will be clarified. A mediation then seeks to identify wide and varying options, the possible effects of which will be discussed and analysed. The mediator would aim to take all appropriate measures to ensure that any agreement being reached is reached through the knowing and informed consent and that all parties understand the terms of the agreement with a view to achieving a mutually agreed resolution.

There is nothing to be lost from mediating a dispute and everything to gain. If the mediation is successfully concluded the benefits are immense and obvious. If the parties fail to reach agreement, nothing said or done in the process can be introduced in Court and at the very least, the mediation process narrows the issues and assists the client and their legal advisors in moving forward. The successful mediation in the recent high profile Pat Kenny case speaks for itself.

Aideen Pendred, a Shannon based solicitor, is an Accredited Mediator having been accredited by Mediation Forum Ireland. Aideen has recently acquired the exclusive rights

for Clare for the Clare Mediation brand and website. See her- website for further information on mediation at www.claremediation.ie or e-mail us at info@claremediation.ie or phone Aideen at 061-364556.

14 www.businesslimerick.ie

he Beauty Parlour opened in October and has quickly established itself in the same league as many long established beauty businesses in Limer-ick. Emma Jane Tier is an experienced beautician and decided to go it alone and offer her established client base a very personal service.

Located in Woodview Shopping Centre, The Beauty Parlour provides head to toe treatments for the ultimate indulgence and an oasis for those of us trying to escape the winter blues. The decor is classic old style with sophisticated modern touches that make each visit an experience to anticipate.

The product range is Decleor and all products are aromatherapy and plant based which inspires beauty and gives a greater sense of well- being.

On a recent visit and stressed to the ‘nines’, I opted for the Hot Stone Massage and was led to a warm candlelit room where soft music set the tone for my treatment. Emma’s experience is very evident and very soon the stresses and strains of every day living were soothed away. The basalt stones are renowned for their therapeutic properties and placed in key energy points, release any tension from the body, and one experience’s a greater sense of well- being. Afterwards sipping a herbal tea, I was gently transported back to reality and ready to take on whatever the day would bring.

Emma specialises in three different types of tan: Bronze Express, Intensive Spray Tan and Decleor Cream Tan,so you can look sun kissed all year round. For complete indulgence and to renew tired and aching feet, why not try a Zen Spa Pedicure. This luxurious foot ritual will leave you completely refreshed and

uplifted. Sit back (in the pedicure massage chair) and finish this treatment off with a polish of your choice. ‘Jessica’ is the range used for all nail and foot treatments. Specialised waxing is also available along with a variety of nourishing facials to revive tired and dry skin. Emma and her team offer the specialised treatment Apilus. This is computer controlled permanent hair removal.

With ten years experience under her belt, Emma prides herself on her loyal client following and also looks forward to meeting new clients. With Valentines Day just around the corner, why not treat a loved one to some indulgent ’Me’ time and show them how much you care. Gift vouchers are available and appointments and walk in’s are welcome. For bookings contact Emma or one of her team on 061 458467.

The Beauty Parlour opens late Monday and Tuesday until 7.p.m. and Wednesday, Thursday and Friday until 8.p.m.Free Car Parking.

37

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Emma Jane Tier, The Beauty Parlour, Proprietor

2 x nights BB and

dinner on an evening

of choice at the

Pembroke Restaurant

from

€109pps

Room Only Rates

from€89

Also, receive a €30 Voucher

to spend at Escape Salon and Spa

with every room booked at

the Imperial, Sunday -Thursday.

with escape salon & spa

www.flynnhotels.com • Tel: 021 4274040

Multi-Million Euro Investment in Limerick Serviced Offices Multi-million euro investment in new Limerick serviced offices can achieve significant savings for small and start-up enterprises. Office Ireland’s Castletroy facility provides low cost, flexible leasing arrangements in state-of-the-art environment Limerick company Office Ireland Ltd is set to raise the bar for affordable and flexible office space in the region in New Year with the opening of a multi-million euro state-of-the-art Serviced Office facility in Castletroy. The 30 unit serviced office will offer the very best in terms of technology, comfort, lease flexibility and, critically, price for new and established businesses. Located in the heart of the new Castletroy Park Commercial Campus, Office Ireland will provide businesses with the opportunity to locate in a prestigious address with easy access and excellent parking facilities. Announcing the January opening of the new serviced offices, Office Ireland Managing Director Damian Murphy, from Clonmacken, Limerick, who is joined on the board of Office Ireland by fellow Limerick man Matthew Cuddy, said that the facility is ideally suited for start-ups, smaller enterprises and persons working remotely from their head-office. “These quality serviced offices are ideal for professionals who want to upgrade their office and reduce their overheads. The office market is crying out for quality offices with flexibility on both space required and letting duration. Our new facility and professional business model is designed with flexibility at its core,” he said.

“From a cost perspective, our serviced offices will be considerably more effective, generating basic savings of up to 46% on the traditional stand-alone office for a sole

operator business and up to 77% for sole-operator with secretary. In the current economic downturn, this is a perfect antidote for businesses wanting to cut their costs. Thanks to this, we will essentially be helping companies to sustain up to 50 jobs here. “Aside from not incurring start-up costs, business locating here will also benefit from having professional receptionists, fully furnished and air-conditioned offices with high speed un-contended broadband, the latest in IT technology and VOIP phone systems. One fee covers your rent, rates, service charges, insurance, maintenance, utilities and office cleaning. “We offer a turn-key solution and can have companies set up in 24 hours. Businesses get a turn-key solution with a single monthly fee that covers their CAT6 cabling & broadband internet, furniture, rent, rates, services charges, maintenance, utilities and cleaning. Optional private underground car parking with name-plated spaces are also available. “Our flexible office solutions ensure that businesses can react quickly to market changes as, having chosen the suite that fits their needs best, they can reduce or increase the space required to meet their changing business circumstances. This type of flexibility is crucial as businesses expand or, indeed, contract.” Office Ireland is immediately adjacent to the Castletroy Park Hotel and a choice of other good restaurants. Clients of the new offices have access to optional private underground parking with both lift and stairs access directly to the office suites. The company’s website www.officeireland.ie carries full details of what promises to be a professional and much sought after business facility.

10 www.businesslimerick.ie

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Ray Cummins Picture Framing15 Catherine Street Limerick

Contact Ray on t: 061 415573 m: 087 9674482

Our Framing Centre is a locally

owned business that has been

servicing Limerick and the

Mid West for over 20 years.

Our talented and experienced staff

will expertly frame your artwork

and do it with the lowest custom

framing prices guaranteed.

We specialise in Oil Paintings,

Water Colours, Prints,

Posters, Tapestries

and Certificates

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Carlton Hotel Group to Re-open Castletroy Park The Irish-owned Carlton Hotel Group has concluded a deal with Mike Daly of Fordmount, on behalf of the owners of the Castletroy Park Hotel in Limerick, to re-open the hotel under the Carlton brand. The Carlton Group, which currently operates seven luxury four-star hotels around Ireland, has entered into a long-term lease agreement with Fordmount and will operate the hotel under the name ‘Carlton Castletroy Park Hotel’. A total of 120 full and part-time staff will be employed at the hotel.

Michael Kearney, Chairman of the Carlton Hotel Group says the hotel chain is please to be in a position to re-open the hotel under the Carlton brand, “We are very much looking forward to adding the Castletroy Park Hotel to our portfolio of hotels. With its elegant rooms, convenient location and proximity to the University of Limerick, it is truly one of the finest four-star properties in the country.”

“We are particularly aware of the distress

caused by the closure of the hotel to those who had booked weddings and events and would like to assure all customers that we will be in contact as soon as possible to confirm booking details. We are looking forward to welcoming them to the hotel and will do our very best to make their special events as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.” He added.

The Carlton Group will open the hotel in the next ten days and the selection of staff will begin immediately. All deposits taken for events booked and held in the hotel as well as all Leisure Club memberships will be honoured by the hotel chain.

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Coughlan, T.D., has also welcomed today's announcement by the Carlton Group. Speaking ahead of the first meeting of the Mid West Region Task Force on Tuesday, the Tánaiste said: "The Castletroy Park Hotel is not only an important landmark and facility in Limerick, it is also a substantial employer

in the Castletroy area. I welcome the fact that today's announcement by the Carlton Group will secure employment for some 120 people in Limerick."

Welcoming the announcement today local TD and Minister for Defence Willie O’Dea TD said: “I am extremely pleased that The Carlton Hotel Group has secured the future of the Castletroy Park Hotel which will save 120 jobs. It is a well-established and popular hotel that has served the community and city for many years with great honour. I wish Michael Kearney and his colleagues at The Carlton Hotel Group continued success and I pay tribute to their commitment to Limerick city and its workforce. I know Michael is determined to make the Castletroy Park Hotel even greater and I sincerely wish him and his staff well.”

The Carlton Hotel Group was established in 2004 and has seven four star properties in Wexford, Galway, Mayo, Kildare, Donegal, Cork and Dublin. For more information, visit www.carlton.ie.