Dear Chamber Member,
November 8th marks the 201st anniversary since the founding of Cork Chamber. On that date last year we celebrated the 200 year milestone and enjoyed the company of colleagues past and present - and what a privilege it was to be together.
On that night we launched our book, which chronicles the 200 year history of the Chamber in the context of our city and region, the good times and the many challenges. Little did we know that one of the great challenges of our time lay just ahead, but despite this, our determination to make Cork a great place to live and work has remained steadfast.
Earlier this year we set out a clear vision for Cork as we launched the Sustainable Cork Programme, which allows us to anchor our progress in the pillars of 5 global SDGs. The response from our membership and the wider community has been immense and it is clear that there is common goal to deliver resilient and sustainable growth for our city region. We will remain focused on the themes that emerged from our research which include:
- Better public and sustainable transport infrastructure.
- A quickened roll-out of the National Broadband Plan.
- More people living in the heart of our city and towns.
- Flexible working.
- Enhancement and protection of ecology, from the planting of trees to wildflower verges.
- Renewable energy.
- Real equality for people of any gender, race or background.
- Childcare.
- Competitiveness and talent attraction.
- Focus on our international reputation and our approach to international markets.
While the Chamber is actively engaged on immediate issues relating to Covid supports and responses to our current restrictions, we, in parallel remain relentlessly focused on pursuing the vision for Cork as set out our members and community.
There is no shortage of vision or formal plans for Cork. Now our focus must now be on delivery and Government, local and national must also remain fixed on creating a visible legacy.
As we navigate our current environment and plan for our future, I encourage you to remain active and involved with the Chamber. Our agenda is shaped by you our members.
Warm Regards,
Paula Cogan
President of Cork Chamber
