New Cork Chamber research highlights the growing impact of childcare challenges on workforce participation, talent retention, and business growth across the region. 

68% of businesses surveyed believe Ireland’s childcare system is not fit for purpose, while 57% report a moderate or significant impact on their workforce due to childcare challenges. With 36% of employers seeing staff leave or decline roles because of childcare pressures, Cork Chamber’s new report highlights the need for practical, long-term solutions. 

Cork Chamber has announced the launch of the inaugural Cork Chamber Padel Cup, a new tournament celebrating the world’s fastest-growing sport. The tournament, open to players of all skill levels, is supported by HEINEKEN Ireland.

Aoibheann O’Sullivan, Corporate Affairs Director, HEINEKEN Ireland said, “We’re proud to support the launch of the Padel Cup, an exciting new event that reflects the energy, inclusivity and social connection at the heart of padel. As a business with deep roots in Cork and a long-standing commitment to bringing people together through sport and shared experiences, HEINEKEN Ireland is delighted to partner with Cork Chamber on an initiative that celebrates both community and connection.

Cork Chamber is delighted to support the upcoming Asia Matters Business Summit Cork 19 June. Under the theme of Asia Ireland Financial Services and Investment Partnership, this significant Cork Summit will promote the unique strengths of Ireland's Financial Services Sector in which Cork plays a key role.

Cork Chamber members are invited to join for networking and knowledge sharing on business opportunities.

Are you developing a green investment project and looking for expert support? The Green Assist call offers SMEs tailored advisory support to help strengthen their projects and make them more investment-ready.

With €3 million available, selected SMEs will work with experts to improve project maturity, financial structuring and environmental impact.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take your green investment project to the next stage. For more information, contact Monica Valdes at monica@corkchamber.ie

• Digital for Growth connects Irish businesses with trusted Irish innovators to solve operational challenges and drive growth with Guaranteed Irish

Have your training designed specifically for your company’s needs. Up to 25% funding available, with programmes delivered in-person or online for maximum flexibility. If you’re interested in funded bespoke training for your organisation or if you have training scheduled, explore our bespoke training options and please get in touch to see if we can support.

Wed 10th June | 10am–11am | Online

What if vulnerability wasn’t a weakness in leadership, but a practical skill. This session introduces The Vulnerability Toolkit, a practical, psychology-informed approach to leadership that helps managers and leaders build trust, encourage open communication, and create conditions for both wellbeing and high performance.

Develop the strategic judgment to govern AI responsibly in your organisation. This intensive one-day programme builds board and executive understanding of EU AI Act obligations, data privacy intersections, and vendor risks. Contact garrett@corkchamber.ie or call 086 7777737 for further details.

Hear directly from those shaping Ireland's climate and energy policy and what the carbon budgeting framework means for Cork businesses.

Speakers will include Dr. Meabh Gallagher, Secretariat Senior Manager, Climate Change Advisory Council Secretariat, Fergal Desmond, Head of Onshore Wind & Solar, ESB Generation and Trading, Jake O’Connell, Commercial Director, SE Systems. Moderated by Dr Alicia Mateos-Cárdenas, REEValue & Sustainability Lead, Cork Chamber. 

Join us to hear how HEINEKEN Ireland is celebrating 170 years of brewing in Cork while continuing to evolve through innovation, strong consumer brands and changing customer preferences. 

Sharon will discuss how the business is responding to and leading the moderation movement, while sustaining a strong future for the brewery, its people and its portfolio of iconic brands.

Cork Chamber is delighted to partner with the Employment & Recruitment Federation as they return to host their in-person Cork Conference.

Speakers will include James Osborne, Chairman, The Recruitment Network, Danielle Kiernan, National Enterprise Account Manager, Indeed, Leah Moriarty, Solicitor, RDJ LLP and Johnny Campbell, Founder, Social Talent, Jennifer Doyle, Commercial Director, ContractingPLUS.

Cork City Council's new greening pilot scheme for St Patrick's Street marks a welcome development in enhancing public space in Cork, with additional green spaces and seating, removal of street clutter and improved mobility for people and public transport.

Vibrant and welcoming city centre spaces play an important role in enhancing Cork's competitiveness and Cork Chamber will continue to engage with Cork City Council and other stakeholders as the pilot scheme progresses.

If you have any feedback that can inform the Chamber's submissions to the following public consultations, please contact Aoife, amoriarty@corkchamber.ie:

• Horizons 30^th Annual Golf Classic 2026 – Thursday 4 and Friday 5 June
• A Brief History of Song: Cork PianoFest 2026 at Triskel – Friday 05 June
• Learn How To Stand Up And Successfully Speak In Public: All You Need To Know In One Day with The Public Speaking Course – Saturday 06 June
• Rise of the Superagency – MASTERCLASS with ERF – Thursday June 18
• The Swift Show at Ballymaloe Grainstore – Friday 26 June
• Through Irish Eyes at The Everyman – Wednesday 01 – Saturday 04 July
• The Act of Existing by Croí Glan at Dance Cork Firkin Crane – Friday 03 and Saturday 04 July

• CUH Charity require a Community & Campaigns Executive 
• Health & Safety Advisor required by SE Systems

• Holton Homes & Properties - Free Home Valuation
• Enjoy 20% off at Magpie Gems for Cork Chamber members
• GreenAer offering a special €200 discount for members of the Cork Chamber
• Cuffe & Company Insurance - Free, no obligation risk review and report for your business
• 10% Off Ballymaloe Grainstore – A Versatile Event Venue in East Cork

Cork Chamber provides a highly targeted audience to promote a corporate message, showcase your brand and build meaningful relationships.

Browse our new Advertising Rate Card and get in touch to discuss the right placements, channels and opportunities for your business in the months ahead.

With the 7^th of June 2026 deadline for transposing the EU Pay Transparency Directive fast approaching, many Organisations are seeking clarity on what the changes will mean in practice and when Ireland’s implementing legislation will be published. At the time of writing, there has been no formal confirmation from the Irish Government regarding the timing or status of the domestic legislation required to give effect to the Directive. While informal commentary from the Department of Children, Disability and Equality has suggested implementation may occur on a phased basis, no definitive timeline has yet been issued.