Dear Chamber Member,

I hope you, your family and colleagues are keeping safe and well. The easing of restrictions is a welcome boost for us all. It offers a great sense of hope for the year ahead, especially for those who have faced great uncertainty in the past 22 months, and will provide the confidence that’s needed for our economy to thrive.

There are still uncertainties with COVID19 and it is vital, should the situation deteriorate at any point, that Government is ready to react with supports for the sectors that have been most vulnerable throughout the pandemic. In this context it is positive to see a commitment by Government to continue to do what is necessary to support the recovery of society and economy with the decision to continue and extend the provision of a number of key supports, particularly the EWSS, as many are still counting the cost of the pandemic.

Many people have missed out on the benefits of working in an office environment over the course of the past 22 months, and although remote working will be a positive legacy of the pandemic, a phased return to the workplace will allow employers and employees to find a new balance. Those in business have shown major resilience under significant pressure in the most challenging of times and it gives even more reason to be optimistic as we look ahead to brighter days.

The Cork Company of the Year Awards 2022 remain open for for applications until February 7th, and I would urge you to consider entering, and seizing the moment to celebrate the advancements your business has made. The detail on the categories, Emerging, SME, Large & International is available on our website. www.corkchamber.ie. 

The Chamber team is here to support you in growing your business through the many supports and services that we offer. We look forward to continued collaboration and parrtnership as togeher, we work to enhance Cork's reputation as the best place to live and work. I welcome you to contact me directly on 087-9471858 or by e-mail HERE to discuss any issues affecting your business. We are here to represent you.

Warm regards,

Conor Healy

CEO