Dr Sinead Kane inspires new Regional Leaders
Over 50 business professionals graduated from Waterford Chamber’s Regional Leaders Programme at an inspiring lunch event in Faithlegg. Having worked with mentors and coaches over the past six months, the graduates now join an elite alumni of over 500 leaders who have completed the programme to date, a very powerful network of people who are driving forward business development in our region. Opening proceeding, Kevin Doolin, President of Waterford Chamber said: “The very basis for this programme is to
Skillnet business networks 'Scaling Your Business' event showcases power of talent development
Waterford Chamber Skillnet, County Wexford Chamber Skillnet, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet and County Tipperary Chamber Skillnet joined forces to deliver an impactful conference dedicated to supporting the competitiveness of businesses based in the South East. Over 150 attendees representing more than 100 businesses from across the region gathered at the Newpark Hotel Kilkenny, on April 9th, for the sold-out ‘Scaling Your Business: Strategies, Systems and Solutions’ event. The unique conference provided an
Exploring potential opportunities in new markets
Following the recent announcement of U.S. tariffs, we’re exploring potential opportunities in new markets – and we'd like to share one such opportunity with you. At the invitation of the South Westphalian Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Waterford Chamber, together with Waterford City & County Council and the Waterford Local Enterprise Office, is supporting a return trade delegation to Märkischer Kreis – a highly industrialised and innovation-driven region in central Germany. South Westphalia, often
Taste Waterford – GIY News Updates
GIY Expands Veg Box Pick-Up Locations and Launches New Seasonal Brunch Menu! GIY is excited to announce two delicious updates for spring 2025 — making it easier to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce, whether at home or at the table. New Veg Box Pick-Up Locations GIY customers are now able to pick up their weekly Veg Boxes at two new convenient locations: Cass & Co, Dungarvan – a hub of local food, great coffee, and community spirit. Jon Toy’s butcher stall at Mountain View Market, Kilkenny – a vibrant
Chambers Ireland call for measured response to US tariffs
Speaking after the announcement of US tariffs, Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland and Secretary General of ICC Ireland, has called for a focus on competitiveness and strategic trade engagement to mitigate any adverse economic impact. “While the tariffs present immediate challenges, it is essential that Ireland and the EU respond with calm and resolve,” said Talbot. “To navigate these challenges effectively we should prioritise strategies that (a) enhance our competitiveness and (b) strengthen our
Lives saved as Waterford’s cardiac care moves to seven-day service
A new chapter in cardiac care for the South East has begun, with three patients receiving life-saving treatment during the first weekend of extended cardiac coverage at University Hospital Waterford (UHW). This vital expansion marks the transition from a five-day cardiac service to full seven-day coverage, operating from 8am to 8pm daily, including Bank Holidays. It’s a move hailed as a significant healthcare milestone for the region. Behind this achievement is the relentless advocacy of healthcare
SETU launches multi-company automation scholarship retaining regional talent in the southeast
SETU launches multi-company automation scholarship retaining regional talent in the southeast South East Technological University (SETU), in collaboration with the Engineering the South East Cluster (ESE) and its automation sub-group, is proud to announce the launch of an innovative multi-company automation scholarship designed to retain top engineering talent within the region. A recent Higher Education Authority (HEA) report revealed that 62% of engineering students from the southeast region leave
SETU hosts inspiring Women in Technology event
SETU hosts inspiring Women in Technology event South East Technological University (SETU) proudly hosted the fifth annual Women in Technology event at the SETU Arena in Waterford recently. Designed to empower young women, the event aimed to break down barriers in the tech industry, showcase career opportunities, and highlight relevant courses at SETU. Over 1,100 female students from Cork, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Wexford, and Waterford attended, gaining inspiration from keynote speakers and industry
SETU hosts South East Sustainability Cluster
SETU hosts South East Sustainability Cluster The South East Sustainability Cluster is an innovative network led by GreentechHQ which provides a valuable platform for organisations to engage with sustainability experts, exchange ideas, and develop solutions to create a greener future for businesses and communities in the South East. Connecting enterprise, entrepreneurs and academics, the first event of the year was hosted at South East Technological University (SETU) on Thursday 6 February 2025
Beat 102 103 celebrates gaining another 14,000 weekly listeners in latest JNLR
Beat 102 103 celebrates gaining another 14,000 weekly listeners in latest JNLR South East youth regional radio station Beat 102 103 is celebrating gaining another 14,000 weekly listeners in latest JNLR/Ipsos survey which reveals that Irish radio is enjoying its highest audience ever. The report, covering the period January to December 2024 shows that radio is enjoying record levels of listenership with 3.9 million people now listening to radio every week. Beat 102 103's weekly reach now stands at
Waterford Chamber to host South East Jobs and Skills Fair 2025
Waterford Chamber are hosting the South East Jobs and Skills Fair on Saturday, February 22nd in the Granville Hotel Waterford from 9am to 3pm. The event is free to attend and will feature pop-up stands with employers from across the region who currently have live roles and are actively recruiting full, part-time and seasonal roles. According to Gerald Hurley, CEO Waterford Chamber, “From our ongoing engagement with our members and the wider business community, we understand that recruitment is
Offshore wind a game changer for the South East
As Ireland works towards achieving its ambitious climate goals, the South East is emerging as a key player in the country’s offshore wind energy sector. This was clearly evident at the Strategic Off-Shore wind meeting held in the Port of Waterford and organised by Waterford Chamber, with the support of Energia and Vårgrønn. According to Kevin Doolin, President of Waterford Chamber: "2025 has the potential to be a pivotal year for offshore wind in Ireland, particularly for the South East. We stand at the
Beat 102 103 wins second national award for Digital Media & You Roadshow
Youth regional radio station Beat 102 103 was been awarded once again for their ‘Digital Media & You’ Media Literacy Roadshow. Media Literacy Ireland held their national awards ceremony on Thursday 21st November 2024 in Virgin Media Television Studios in Ballymount, Co. Dublin. The awards programme is to recognise the work that is being undertaken to help citizens, especially within communities, develop the media literacy skills that will empower them to make the best use of media. Beat 102 103 were
Transformational change focus at Toys4Engineers
Waterford Chamber joined forces with Engineering the South East and South East Technological University (SETU) to deliver the national Toys4Engineers Conference and Expo at the SETU Arena in Waterford. Featuring ambitious start-ups and leading multinationals, the national event was geared towards those interested in engineering, technology, pharmaceuticals, biomedical science, agri-food, manufacturing, construction, and renewable energy industries. Talks for transformation Throughout the day, the
Taking the Pulse of the region's tech sector
RIKON Research Centre, in partnership with regional economic agencies, Local Authorities, and SETU, was commissioned to document key data relating to the Southeast tech firms’ operations in Waterford and the Southeast. The premise of the Tech Pulse survey was to serve as a deep-dive document into the sector and will be used to inform policymakers, investors and start-ups about the region’s tech landscape, within the context of the wider economic landscape. With contributions from 71 tech companies
SETU launches new course for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities
South East Technological University (SETU) officially launched its new Certificate in Personal Development programme for people with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) with a celebration of the first cohort of students. This new programme, introduced by the Department of Nursing and Health Care, is the first Level 6 course in the south east specifically designed to address the educational needs of individuals with ID. It provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into the experiences and needs
Response to Dail comments on Waterford Airport runway extension business case
In response to comments by Junior Transport Minister James Lawless that likened the Waterford Airport business case to buying a 'pig in a poke', Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley has emailed the Minister:RE: Response to Dáil Comments on Waterford Airport Runway Extension Business Case Dear Minister Lawless, I am writing in response to your comments yesterday in the Dáil regarding the funding and business case for Waterford Airport’s runway extension. While I appreciate your willingness to consider
New beginnings for future business leaders - Regional Leaders Programme
Over 50 future leaders began their journey on the Waterford Chamber Regional Leaders Programme this week at an inspiring opening session facilitated by former programme participant Dermot Keyes of Green Acre Marketing. The participants were joined by a number of the programme mentors and coaches and together they enjoyed an entertaining panel discussion featuring past participants Claire Mooney, ReduceCosts.ie; Catherine Keighrey, MTU lecturer; Stephen Cummins, Unum and Valerie Farrell, Nolan, Farrell &
SETU to offer new innovative pharmacy programme
South East Technological University (SETU) welcomes its approval to offer a new Masters of Pharmacy (MPharm) programme, aiming to address the skills demands of the healthcare sector and contribute to the vibrant pharma industry of the region. The announcement by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Patrick O'Donovan TD at an event at the University of Limerick (UL) today aligns with SETU’s strategic plan and builds on SETU’s established expertise in pharmaceutical science and biosciences,
South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development
South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development, citing Regional Economic Growth and Job Creation potential The South East Chambers of Commerce – representing Waterford Chamber, Wexford Chamber, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, Kilkenny Chamber and Carlow Chamber – have issued a united call to An Taoiseach, An Tánaiste, and Minister O’Gorman for immediate government action on the Waterford Airport expansion project. In a letter addressed to these government leaders, the
Beat 102 103’s innovative radio training programme ‘My Beat Diary’ wraps for 2024
The programme saw ten outstanding young people from the South East region share their story and what it’s like to live a day in their life. The regional radio station recruited ten participants from across the counties of the South East to take part in this ‘fly on the wall’ type weekly short feature that ran over ten weeks from July to September. All ten people took part in two days of intensive training at the Broadcast Centre in Waterford City where they learned about idea generation, voice
SETU partners with the Waterford International Film Festival
The Waterford International Film Festival and South East Technological University (SETU) are delighted to announce that they will be entering into a partnership for this year’s festival, taking place this November. Representing a significant collaboration between two pillars of creativity and innovation in the south east region, the partnership was officially marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU). Stephen Byrne, Director of the Waterford International Film Festival, said, “I am
WLR Crowned Ireland’s IMRO Local Station of the Year for 2024
WLR, the leading local radio station for Waterford City & County, has been officially crowned as Ireland’s IMRO Local Station of the Year for 2024. The prestigious accolade was announced during an unforgettable awards ceremony held in Kilkenny on Friday night, celebrating the very best of Irish radio. The award marks a major triumph for WLR, solidifying its position as Waterford’s and now Ireland’s best local station. The station has long been known for its dedication to quality, creativity, and
Beat 102 103 is Outstanding Achievement Winner at IMRO National Radio Awards 2024
Beat 102 103 has been awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award at the annual IMRO National Radio Awards 2024. Dubbed the Oscars of Irish radio, the annual IMRO Awards event was held at the Lyrath Hotel in Kilkenny on Friday night (Oct 4th) with a capacity crowd descending on the Marble City. Youth regional radio station Beat 102 103 was awarded the prestigious accolade of Outstanding Achievement at the national awards ceremony for their Digital Media Literacy initiative. ‘Digital Media & You’ – is a
Walton Institute’s Kevin Doolin takes over as President of Waterford Chamber
Kevin Doolin, Executive Director of Walton Institute at SETU, was elected President of Waterford Chamber at the 237th AGM, which took place today (Monday, September 30th) in the Granville Hotel. Mr Doolin has been involved with Waterford Chamber for a number of years and is an active voice in terms of lobbying, particularly around equitable funding for South East Technological University (SETU) and creating a vibrant city centre. Addressing Waterford Chamber members, Mr Doolin said: “It is a great
Partnership between SETU and Coláiste na Rinne to strengthen Irish language education
South East Technological University (SETU) and Coláiste na Rinne have formed a new partnership to strengthen and enhance Irish language education, culture, and heritage in the south east region. The partnership was formally established on Friday, 27 September at Coláiste na Rinne, in Gaeltacht na nDéise, County Waterford through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). It seeks to support regional development, with a particular emphasis on the development of the Gaeltacht. Speaking at the
Network Ireland Waterford Branch celebrates double victory
Network Ireland Waterford Branch is celebrating a momentous achievement as two of its members claimed top honours at the prestigious Network Ireland National Businesswoman of the Year Awards held at Lyrath Estate. Mailo Power, founder of Monkey Reusable Products Ltd., was named Businesswoman of the Year - Networker of the Year, recognising her outstanding ability to foster connections and create valuable opportunities for others. Meanwhile, Christine Murphy, the creative force behind Urban Aran, secured
Chamber Diaspora Dinner sells Waterford to Dublin
‘Waterford is open for business and looking for investors’ was the resounding message delivered loud and clear at Waterford Chamber’s Dublin Diaspora Dinner, sponsored by EY, Waterford Local Enterprise Office and Waterford Chamber Skillnet, at The Dunmore, Rathmines, with over 90 business influencers with connections to Waterford in attendance. Opening proceedings, Niall Harrington, Waterford Chamber President showed his passion for his home city, the opportunities for development and the need for
SETU and GreenTech HQ sign MoU promoting regional sustainable development
South East Technological University (SETU) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with GreenTech HQ, Ireland’s first Sustainability Innovation Hub, supporting both organisations' commitment to sustainability, innovation, business, and community engagement. The MoU was signed by SETU President, Professor Veronica Campbell and Ed Murphy, GreenTech HQ CEO and Founder, at SETU’s Cork Road Campus on Tuesday, 24 September. The MoU will focus on advancing joint sustainability objectives through shared
Waterford Chamber welcomes Veterinary School confirmation
Waterford Chamber has welcomed An Taoiseach Simon Harris's announcement that a new Veterinary School is to be formed at South East Technological University (SETU). According to Gerald Hurley, CEO of Waterford Chamber, "Establishing a pipeline of highly skilled veterinary practitioners for the South East region is essential, given the the dominance of the Agri Food Industry in the South East. We are extremely proud to have been part of the extensive lobbying of Government for this, along with SETU
SETU chosen to deliver new veterinary medicine programme
South East Technological University (SETU) is proud to be selected to deliver a new veterinary medicine programme, marking a significant milestone for both the University and the future of veterinary education in the region. In 2022, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) initiated plans to expand capacity in health-related programmes, including veterinary medicine. Following a thorough independent assessment, SETU’s proposal for veterinary medicine was successfully endorsed. Minister for Further and
Aisco Security Ltd. launches in Ireland with new security guarding services in Waterford
September 12, 2024 – Waterford, Ireland – Aisco Security Ltd., a rising name in the security industry, has officially launched its operations in Ireland with the introduction of its comprehensive security guarding services in Waterford. Since its inception in 2022, the company has been dedicated to providing top-notch security solutions, and this expansion marks a significant milestone in its growth strategy. Aisco Security Ltd., founded just two years ago, has quickly made a name for itself with a
ICF backs Chamber’s Regional Leaders Programme
The International Coaching Federation, Ireland Chapter (ICF Ireland) has partnered with Waterford Chamber and Waterford Chamber Skillnet on the new Regional Leaders Programme, which commences this coming October. Having the endorsement of such a high-profile organisation shows just how impactful the Regional Leaders Programme has been over the past seven years, according to Gerald Hurley, CEO Waterford Chamber. “ICF Ireland is the leading organisation in the country in terms of coaching. To date we have
SETU and Teagasc Kildalton College host Oireachtas members briefing
South East Technological University (SETU) welcomed Oireachtas members from across the region to Teagasc Kildalton College on Wednesday, 28 August, for a briefing on the significant progress of the University’s proposed veterinary medicine and pharmacy programmes. During the visit, SETU provided an update on the development of its strategic objectives, highlighting the University’s preparedness to launch these new programmes. Attendees included Minister Malcolm Noonan, TD, Minister Mary Butler, TD,
Offshore wind energy a 'transformative opportunity' for Waterford and the South-East
Multi-billion offshore investments could boost Waterford's economy and jobs market “The advent of offshore wind energy in Ireland provides a potentially transformative opportunity which must be harnessed for Waterford and the entire south-east region”, the President of Waterford Chamber of Commerce, Niall Harrington told delegates at a special conference held by the Chamber in the Houses of the Oireachtas in Dublin. "Waterford’s proximity to Ireland’s designated maritime areas for wind energy
Waterford’s Harvest Festival returns for 15th year
The annual Waterford Harvest Festival returns for its 15th year. The calendar staple, celebrating great food and the people who produce it takes place throughout Waterford City from September 6th to September 8th. This year, the festival welcomes new directors Mark Dunne and Martin Nolan of MPI Artists. The duo have over 50 years combined festival experience and are looking forward to delivering a mouth-watering line up of events in 2024. Waterford native Mark Dunne has been an integral part of
Federation of Rajasthan Trade and Industry (FORTI) Business Trade delegation visit to Waterford
Waterford Chamber of Commerce was delighted to support Tipperary County Council and the Ireland India Business Association (IIBA) during the visit to Waterford by the Federation of Rajasthan Trade and Industry (FORTI) Business Trade delegation on June 25th. The visiting delegates were warmly welcomed to Waterford by Councillor Jason Murphy, Mayor of the City and County, and Waterford Chamber President Niall Harrington in the Garden Room of City Hall. They received several presentations highlighting the
Waterford business community turn out for Chamber Business After Hours at Port of Waterford
The Waterford business community was out in force on Thursday, June 20th to attend the Chamber business after-hours event at the Port of Waterford in Belview. Guests were welcomed by the Chairman of the Port John Treacey and treated to a tour of the activity port side and enjoyed some insights into the latest success at the Port and upcoming business developments from the Port CEO David Sinnott. Speaking at the event David said, “The history of Waterford City and the history of the Port are closely
IDA boss backs Waterford at Chamber Summer Gala
The Waterford business community gathered in glorious sunshine at the Haven Hotel for Waterford Chamber’s President’s Summer Gala, sponsored by AIB and featuring guest speaker Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland. Following a lovely drinks reception on the lawn, sponsored by Liberty Blue Estate Agents, Niall Harrington, President of Waterford Chamber, welcomed the large crowd, thanking the sponsors for their longstanding support of the region’s largest business representative organisation. Speaking about
South East BIC rebrands as Propelor BIC, Expands Regional Reach
Since its inception in 1995, South East BIC has been dedicated to supporting the startup ecosystem in the region. Our committment to clients, driven by the core values of partnership, honesty, integrity and independence, has been at the heart of the company's mission. This week marks a significant milestone in the nearly 30-year history of South East BIC. The organization has undergone a transformative rebranding and we are excited to introduce its new name and identity: Propelor BIC. Propelor
Waterford Chamber shortlisted for two national awards
Waterford Chamber has been shortlisted for two Chambers Ireland Awards and the category winners will be announced at a gala event on June 6th . The awards will be presented for excellence in eight individual categories with one Chamber also taking home the award for Chamber of the Year 2024, the title which was held by Waterford Chamber in 2021. According to Waterford Chamber CEO Gerald Hurley, “This is testament to the hard-work and commitment of the team and I am delighted to see our work recognised
Skillnets spearhead talent development initiative for businesses
In a powerful partnership Waterford Chamber Skillnet, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, and County Tipperary Chamber Skillnet have successfully collaborated to bring about a pivotal event focused on talent development in the Southeast, for the European Year of Skills 2024. This initiative is a testament to Skillnet Ireland’s ongoing commitment to enhance the skills landscape. The conference, held on Tuesday, April 30th, united industry leaders, educators, and professionals committed to fostering talent development
Brave leaders graduate from Waterford Chamber programme
Over 50 business professionals graduated from Waterford Chamber’s Regional Leaders Programme at an inspiring lunch in Faithlegg. Having worked with mentors over the past six months, the graduates now join an elite alumni of over 500 leaders who have completed the programme to date, a very powerful network of people who are driving forward business development in our region. Opening proceeding, Eadaoin Carrick, Vice-President of Waterford Chamber spoke about her own time on the programme and how she will
Waterford selected to host World Rally Championship
Rallying clubs, motor enthusiasts and the business community across the South East are celebrating today, as MotorSport Ireland President Mr. Aiden Harper announced the World Rally Championships is set to be hosted in the region for one of the three years, with Limerick and Kerry hosting the other two years. This will be the largest event ever to be staged in the region, with the base camp being specially erected in Waterford, attracting thousands of visitors to Waterford and surrounding counties, as well
Architect and developer Niall Harrington takes over as President of Waterford Chamber
Niall Harrington, well-known architect with Fewer Harrington and property developer with WhiteBox Developments, was elected President of Waterford Chamber at the 236th AGM, which took place today (Monday, September 25th) in the Granville Hotel. Mr Harrington has been involved with Waterford Chamber for a number of years, chairing the Economic Development Group and being an active voice on lobbying agendas such as housing, planning and urban development. Addressing Waterford Chamber members, Mr
