Chamber Welcomes Capital Development Plan for Cork Airport
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, warmly welcomes the launch of a €200 million Capital Development Plan for Cork Airport. Rob Horgan, Cork Chamber President said, “This significant investment recognises the vital role Cork Airport plays as a key enabler of economic growth, regional connectivity and international access. As a gateway to the south of Ireland, the airport is a critical asset for attracting and retaining investment, supporting tourism and enhancing the region’s overall
On Track for a more Connected Cork
Cork Chamber supports Light Rail and Commuter Rail Expansion Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, is delighted to welcome the publication of the emerging preferred route for the light rail network in Cork. This landmark project will play a pivotal role in transforming Cork's transport infrastructure, creating a well-connected, efficient and sustainable network that aligns with Cork’s ambitious climate goals. The emerging preferred route includes 17km of light rail from Mahon Point in
From Summit to Solutions: UK and Ireland Advance Shared Agenda in Cork
The British Embassy in Ireland, in partnership with Cork Chamber of Commerce, hosted a special networking reception at the River Lee Hotel to celebrate the enduring relationship between the United Kingdom and Ireland, and to take stock of progress following the recent inaugural Ireland-UK Summit. The event brought together leaders from across business, politics, academia, culture and sport, demonstrating the strength and diversity of the bilateral relationship and a shared commitment to deeper
Business community predicts challenges to growing international trade this year
41% of businesses predict challenges to growing their level of international trade this year, a survey of Cork Chamber members has found. The Economic Trends survey, sponsored by PTSB, measured business sentiment and economic outlook among Cork Chamber members at the close of the first quarter of 2025, prior to the announcement of US tariffs. This edition of the survey also took a closer look at international trade and the sentiment of Cork businesses who trade on the global market.Concerns regarding
Cork Chamber welcomes progress on vital M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy Road Project
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed today’s approval by Cabinet of the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy road project. The M28 is a key project of strategic importance for the Cork region, and Cork Chamber welcomes the commitment by Government to progress the construction phase of the project without delay following today’s approval. CEO of Cork Chamber, Conor Healy, welcomed the Cabinet approval today: “The M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy route is a vital infrastructure project for Cork City and
Cork Chamber Expresses Concern Over US Tariffs and Calls for Focussed Diplomatic Response
Enhancing our Competitiveness is Key to Economic Stability Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has expressed concern over the US administration's announcement of a 20% tariff on all EU imports from EU, recognising the potential impact on key regional sectors and emphasising the importance of a measured and strategic response. “This announcement by the US President is very significant for our national and regional economy and our focus must now be on assessing the impact, supporting businesses,
Ambition needed for Cork to become a renewable energy hub, says Cork Chamber President
President of Cork Chamber, Rob Horgan, has called on the new Government to take ambitious action to progress Cork’s development as a renewable energy hub. Speaking at the ‘Nordic Talks - Powering the Future’ event, hosted by Cork Chamber in cooperation with Ireland’s Nordic embassies, Mr Horgan said that supporting the energy revolution in the years ahead will be transformative for the Irish economy and the country’s climate future. ‘Nordic Talks – Powering the Future’ was held in Cork today, with
Sustainable Savings: New Online Tool Connects Businesses with Green Funding
-A free, easy-to-use tool helping businesses access funding to reduce energy costs- Businesses across Ireland and Europe can now take advantage of a powerful new tool designed to help cut energy costs and enhance sustainability. The REEValue.eu platform, developed as part of the EU co-funded LIFE REEValue project, has now launched, aimed at businesses of all sizes and industries, with a particular focus on SMEs with high energy consumption in the food and beverage manufacturing, transport and logistics
Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Takes Top Honour at Cork Company of the Year Awards
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has named Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine as the Overall Winner of the Cork Company of the Year Awards 2025, recognising its exceptional impact on the Cork business landscape and its significant contributions to global healthcare. The four category winners of the Cork Company of the Year awards were announced at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner, at City Hall:Ground Wellbeing – Emerging category winnerNational Beauty Distribution – SME category
The Business of Belonging: Creating a Region of Opportunity for All
Cork stands at a unique juncture, poised to lead Ireland into a future that balances economic growth, sustainability and cultural vibrancy. This was the central message delivered at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner 2025, where Chamber President Rob Horgan set out a vision for an ambitious and dynamic future for the region. This flagship event, proudly sponsored by AIB, brought together over 1,000 distinguished guests including representatives from the business and political communities. It featured a
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GE HealthCare's €132m investment a 'resounding endorsement' of Cork as a prime investment destinatio
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, today welcomed the announcement of €132 million investment by GE HealthCare. Commenting on the news Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber said, “This is a resounding endorsement of Cork and Ireland as a world-class location for global businesses to invest, grow and thrive. This expansion underscores the confidence that foreign direct investment (FDI) companies have in our region, thanks to our highly skilled workforce and access to global markets. “GE HealthCare
Chambers spearhead all Island connectivity and economic growth
Following on from the highly successful mission to Belfast in May 2024, Cork, Dublin and Northern Ireland Chambers have come together once again, to foster deeper cooperation and connectivity across the island of Ireland. This most recent gathering brought together delegations made up of business leaders and stakeholders from the three regions for the series of meetings and events in Dublin. Travelling with Cork Chamber were representatives from Cork Chamber Board, along with participants from Port of
Cork Chamber Unveils Strategic Plan 2025–2028 to Propel Regional Growth
Cork Chamber has today launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2028, outlining a roadmap to drive economic, social and sustainable development in the Cork region. Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, represents 1,200 businesses, employing 130,000 people across the city and county. The strategic plan, which had significant input from members, the board, external stakeholders and Cork Chamber team, sets out an ambitious vision with a renewed determination to advance the region on behalf of its members.
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Funding constraints top barrier to improving energy efficiency in business, finds Cork Chamber surve
Funding constraints are the top barrier to improving energy efficiency in business, according to the findings of Cork Chamber’s Q4 2024 Economic Trends survey. Sponsored by PTSB, the survey measured business sentiment in Q4 2024, as well as the outlook for businesses as 2025 begins. Cork Chamber members were also asked about their experience of improving energy efficiency in their businesses and the challenges they face in doing so. Energy Efficiency a Growing Priority despite Funding Constraints This
Cork Chamber Honours Jim Barry with Outstanding Contribution to Business Award 2024
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has announced Jim Barry, Managing Director of Barry Group, as the recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Business Award 2024. Presented at Cork Chamber’s Dublin Dinner, the award celebrates Jim’s profound impact on Irish business and recognises his significant achievements in developing Barry Group into a powerhouse in the Irish wholesale distribution market. Under Mr Barry’s leadership, Barry Group has transformed from a local family-run operation into
Cork is uniquely positioned as a model city for urban evolution
The Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner, held this evening at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road in association with EY, showcased the vital collaboration between Cork and Dublin and its significance to the prosperity of Ireland as a whole. The event was attended by over 600 leaders from Ireland’s business, political, and diplomatic sectors. The keynote address was delivered by the former Tánaiste, Simon Coveney TD, who is stepping away from politics after 25 years of public service. Drawing on his experience as
Supporting Infrastructure Critical to Facilitate Docklands Development
The decision yesterday by An Bord Pleanála to refuse planning permission for Goulding Chemicals to develop port facilities at Marino Point in Cork Harbour, facilitating the relocation of the firm’s facilities from the South Docklands in Cork City to the lower harbour, represents a setback to the regeneration of the Docklands. Supporting and enabling infrastructure, such as the critical R624 Cobh Road, must be prioritised and delivered to facilitate the Port of Cork’s move to the lower harbour, opening up
New Research Identifies Cork’s Potential as ‘Leading International Financial Services Destination'
-New research from Cork Chamber Skillnet, one of 70 Skillnet Business Networks nationwide, has identified the potential for Cork to become a leading European destination for International Financial Services (IFS)-The Skillful Futures: Strengthening Cork’s Role as a Leading IFS Destination report was officially launched at the Cork Financial Services Forum’s annual Financial Services Summit. The event, co-hosted by Cork Chamber, was attended by over 230 financial services sector leaders, government
Election 2024 - Business Priorities to Shape Cork’s Future
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today launched its General Election 2024 manifesto, outlining the key priorities for businesses and the wider economy across Cork City and County as the election approaches. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, “Through our continuous engagement with members across Cork City and County, Cork Chamber has a unique understanding of the key priorities and concerns for businesses and individuals in Ireland’s fastest-growing city region, Cork. The next
Accelerating Sustainability in Irish Business
-Cork Chamber Spotlights Energy Efficiency as Key to Sustainable Business Growth- Cork Chamber hosted the first national REEValue event today, focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency in business. The event forms part of the REEValue project, an EU-funded initiative that aims to accelerate sustainability across sectors through collaboration, innovation and practical solutions. Among the attendees were international project partners from Malta, as well as local business leaders, government
Progress on Events Centre welcome, but undue delays must be avoided, say Cork Business Associations
In a joint statement, Cork Chamber, the Cork Business Association (CBA), the Cork branch of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), the Vintners Federation (VFI) in Cork, and the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) have expressed disappointment at the news that the Cork Events Centre is set to be hit by further delays, but welcome the commitment to delivery by Government. Following today’s decision by Government, the Cork Events Centre – a critical infrastructure project for Cork City and County – is
Progress in offshore renewable energy welcomed by the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum
The Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF) has welcomed recent progress towards the development of the offshore renewable energy industry, both in Cork and across Ireland. The approval of both the Planning and Development Bill and the South Coast Designated Maritime Area Plan for Offshore Renewable Energy (DMAP) by the Dáil last week marked significant steps forward for the offshore renewables industry, and continued cooperation between industry, policymakers and developers is critical to ensure
Planning and Development Bill a Step Forward in Planning Reform
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed the passing of the Planning and Development Bill by the Dáil yesterday evening. This long-awaited bill will consolidate planning legislation into one bill, and has the potential to provide transformational reform to Ireland’s planning system, helping to progress vital infrastructure projects around the country and here in Cork Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, commented: “We welcome the passing of the Planning and Development Bill by the
New York and European capital cities the most sought-after routes for future connectivity for Cork’s
New York, alongside key European cities, is top of the wish list of businesses in Cork for future connectivity, according to the results of the Cork Business Travel Survey 2024. The survey, conducted by Cork Chamber in cooperation with Cork Airport, provides key insights into the priorities of business travellers and airport users in Cork, as well as their most wanted destinations for future connectivity. Cork Airport plays a key role in the economy of Ireland’s southern region, contributing over €1
Welcome supports for infrastructure in Budget 2025, but more ambition needed for urban areas
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, welcomes the publication of Budget 2025 today, with much-needed funding announced for critical housing and enabling infrastructure. However, concerns remain around the cost of doing business, as well as investment in urban areas around the country. A welcome boost to infrastructure and housing delivery Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, “Infrastructure is a critical priority for our members, and indeed for businesses across Ireland; we cannot
Cork Chamber’s business awards open for entries
The Cork Company of the Year Awards 2025 are open for entries. The Cork Chamber awards are widely regarded as a coveted platform through which ambitious businesses can gain much-deserved recognition for their advances, innovation and growth. The four distinct award categories allow for all variety of businesses to enter so that the true diversity of the Cork business community can be celebrated.Rob Horgan, President of Cork Chamber, said, "Cork is a key contributor to Ireland’s economy and society, and
National Planning Framework falls short on Cork’s growth needs
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has called on Government to be more ambitious for Cork’s development in the Chamber’s submission to the public consultation on the first revision of the National Planning Framework (NPF). Cork Chamber President, Rob Horgan, commented, “While this draft revision of the National Planning Framework sets out welcome targets for regional development in the years ahead to 2040, far greater ambition is needed for the Cork region. Cork is a thriving second-city
New cooperation agreement between Department of Transport and European Investment Bank welcomed
Cork Chamber and the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF) welcome today’s announcement of an advisory partnership between the Department of Transport and the European Investment Bank to support the development of port infrastructure for offshore renewable energy. Catherine Sheridan, Chair of CORIF, commented, “Building Ireland’s capacity for offshore renewable energy presents the economic opportunity of a generation, and will also play a critical role in achieving our 2030 climate and energy
WorkAbility Cork Paving the Way for Inclusive Employment in Cork
SECAD Partnership and Cork Chamber are today launching an exciting new partnership to support a more inclusive and diverse workforce. WorkAbility Cork: Inclusive Pathways to Employment Programme is an ambitious five-year initiative, running from 2024 to 2028, designed to enhance employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities in Cork. The WorkAbility Cork Programme is designed with three core objectives: Enhancing Employment Prospects: Improving the employment opportunities of individuals with
Multi-annual funding is needed to provide certainty for higher education, says Cork Chamber
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, supports the call from Sean O’Driscoll, the Chair of UCC’s Governing Authority, for the introduction of structured, multi-annual funding for the higher education sector. Current uncertainties around funding prevent third level institutions from developing and delivering the long-term strategies needed to maintain and enhance Ireland’s competitiveness into the future. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, commented, “Cork Chamber has raised the issues regarding the
Cork Chamber outlines business priorities for Budget 2025 in meeting with Minister for Finance
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, met with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers as part of the Minster’s visit to Cork today. Chamber representatives from across the Cork region and key sectors joined in the meeting to discuss the current business landscape in Cork with the Minister, as well as key priorities for Budget 2025. President of Cork Chamber Rob Horgan said, “We very much welcome the opportunity to meet with Minister for Finance Jack Chambers in Cork today. With Budget 2025 fast
Cork Chamber expresses concern at delays to critical transport projects
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has expressed concern at comments made by Transport Infrastructure Ireland chief executive Peter Walsh, who has warned that key transport infrastructure projects, including the M20 Cork to Limerick and M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy motorways, could face significant delays because of issues around funding allocation. Conor Healy, Cork Chamber CEO, said, “It is concerning to hear that some of the most critical infrastructure projects planned for the Cork region are
Cork Chamber welcomes announcement of plans for 217 new apartments in the city's docklands
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed today’s publication of plans for 217 new cost-rental apartments in the south docks, an important step forward in the rejuvenation of Cork’s docklands. The development, ‘The Railyard Apartments,’ is a partnership between the JCD Group and Cork City Council and will include a mix of studios, one- to three-bed units, and between 40 and 50 units designed specifically for older people and those with a disability. Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy,
Strategic Rail Review Marks Milestone for Enhanced Connectivity
-Greater ambition and clarity on timelines required for Cork- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today welcomed the publication of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review Final Report. Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy, said, “The publication of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review Final Report is a significant milestone in our journey to be a more connected and sustainable island. Connectivity is the cornerstone of a successful country and is key to the future economy of Cork as it continues
Urban Evolution Deals are needed to drive sustainable urban development, says Cork Chamber
- Chamber pre-Budget submission emphasises Urban Evolution Deals, bespoke funding agreements between the Government and Local Authorities to revitalise urban centres - Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today launched its 2025 pre-Budget submission calling on Government to reinvigorate Ireland’s urban centres through the creation of Urban Evolution Deals to drive sustainable urban development. Delivering vibrant, safe urban centres is essential for Ireland’s economic and social
Cork Business Organisations express disappointment at delay to Events Centre funding decision
In a joint statement, Cork Chamber of Commerce, the Cork Business Association (CBA), the Cork branch of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), the Vintners Federation (VFI) in Cork, and the Restaurant Association of Ireland (RAI) have expressed disappointment that Government is to further delay a decision on funding for the Cork Events Centre. Despite significant funding commitments made by the private sector, the Government continues to delay the decision around vital state funding for the Events Centre,
Cork Chamber welcomes Motorola Solutions’ new investment in Cork City
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has welcomed Motorola Solutions’ announcement that it is to open a new Research & Development Centre in Cork, creating 200 jobs. The R&D Centre’s 200 highly skilled jobs will be focused on software design for the firm’s comprehensive land mobile radio (LMR) portfolio, supporting both public safety and commercial initiatives. Director of Public Affairs at Cork Chamber, Cathal McSweeney, welcomed today’s announcement: “Motorola Solutions’ decision to base its new
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Businesses believe Cork will not achieve Project Ireland 2040 targets due to lack of Funding, Cork C
-SMEs need further support measures in Budget 2025- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has published its latest Economic Trends survey, proudly sponsored by PTSB. The survey, capturing insights from Cork Chamber members for Q2 2024 and their outlook for Q3 2024, also reflects their sentiments and priorities ahead of Budget 2025.Key Findings from the Q2 2024: Housing stimulus is the top business priority for Budget 2025. 82% of respondents call for increased Government investment in Cork to
Cork Chamber welcomes progress on delivery of Cork to Limerick N/M20
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, welcomes the announcement that the Cork to Limerick N/M20 is to be upgraded to a full motorway, improving travel times between the two cities by an estimated 30 minutes. The announcement represents a significant milestone in the development of multimodal connectivity between the two largest and growing cities in Ireland’s southern region. Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy said “The confirmation that the N20 connecting Cork and Limerick will be upgraded to a full
Cork Chamber launches the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has this week launched the Cork Offshore Renewable Industry Forum (CORIF), a new forum for the renewable energy industry to drive the development of Cork’s offshore renewables sector. CORIF will bring together representatives of the offshore renewables industry to identify key policy and infrastructure enablers that will ensure Cork benefits fully from the development of offshore renewables. Capturing the full value of renewables will support the achievement
.From Pixels to Progress.
-Cork Chamber launches the Cork Digital Marketing Awards 2024- The Cork Digital Marketing Awards are back for 2024, set to honour the most innovative and impactful digital marketing achievements in the Cork region. Organised by Cork Chamber, the awards aim to recognise and celebrate the outstanding teams, projects, and businesses that have harnessed the power of digital media to drive success. Designed to be inclusive, these awards welcome a wide range of entrants from small businesses to large
Urban Evolution: New Chamber President Focuses on Welcoming and Vibrant Urban Spaces
-Cork Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New President Rob Horgan at 2024 AGM- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, has today announced Rob Horgan, entrepreneur and owner of Velo Coffee, as its new President, marking another milestone in the Chamber's history. At the 205th Annual General Meeting held at the Imperial Hotel Cork, Mr Horgan outlined his vision and commitment to furthering Cork's economic and social prosperity. Mr Horgan articulated a forward-thinking vision for Cork, emphasising a
Cork Chamber Welcomes Progress Announcement for Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme
Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, is delighted to welcome Minister Eamon Ryan’s announcement today of the commencement of the next phase in transforming the Cork Area Commuter Rail network. This phase will deliver eight new commuter rail stations across the Cobh, Midleton and Mallow lines, a new fleet maintenance depot and the electrification of the network. This will play a pivotal role in transforming Cork's transport infrastructure, creating a well-connected, efficient, and sustainable
Higher-Speed Rail & Restoration of Internal Flights would Transform All-Island Connectivity
-An All-Island Collaboration Promises Economic Growth-[Belfast, May 24th] In a landmark mission, a delegation of business leaders and politicians from across the island came together to discuss key areas for an all-island approach to economic development. Led by the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, Cork Chamber, and Dublin Chamber, this series of events marks the first collaborative initiative of its kind, focusing on enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth.Connecting People and
Driving energy transition: Cork Chamber launches REEValue to support the decarbonisation of business
-Adopting energy efficiency measures or investing in renewable energy can help Irish businesses to lower their energy bill by 10%- Cork Chamber, the voice of business in Cork, announced today a new service that delivers advice to businesses aiming to become more energy efficient and invest in renewable energy sources. This free service, which is open to members and non-members nationwide, is being delivered through a wider European Commission funded project, called REEValue and focuses on the food,
Cork Chamber welcomes amendments to Tax Debt Warehousing scheme
Cork Chamber the voice of business in Cork has today welcomed the amendments to the Tax Debt Warehousing scheme announced by Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath T.D. Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber said, “the announcement of the changes to the Tax Debt Warehousing scheme will offer some relief to the affected businesses. It has been a very challenging time for business. There are many and mounting pressures, and we have seen the cost of doing business rising across our membership." "The reduction of
