Positivity filled the air with some 40 businesses attending the official launch of Castlecomer Business Association at Ballycomey on Friday evening.
The enthusiasm of executive members Willie Forde (chairman ), Ger Ferris (secretary ) and Helena Hennessy-Ruane (treasurer ) is beginning to spark a new era for economic progress in the north Kilkenny town.
Keynote speaker Alison McGrath outlined the role of Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce, the value of networking, and the importance of linking the Chamber to Castlecomer.
“The Chamber acts to promote the long term local economic development. This is achieved by a number of mechanisms including lobbying, promotion, and networking. You network to get work,” she said.
Shay Bollard gave a powerpoint presentation of the key objectives of the business association:
• To save and create employment in Castlecomer.
• Help businesses prosper.
• Work together as a community and a business community.
• Show Kilkenny and the wider business community and politicians that Castlecomer is open for business and is looking to attract new small and medium sized businesses to the area.
Market Research Unit won the recent completion for transition year students at Castlecomer Community School and they availed of the opportunity to share the benefits of their study.
The members of the impressive group were Sinead Brennan, Nora Daly, Dean Coogan and Aimee Wilson.
Vice-chairman of Kilkenny County Council Cllr Tom Maher was delighted to see the businesses coming together.
“Tonight you have made a great start, I have no doubt that the excellent facilities including the magnificent Discovery Park will increase the footfall and ensure prosperity in the challenging times that lie ahead,” he said.
Labour TD Ann Phelan was also complimentary of what for her was ‘a very positive initiative’.
“It’s encouraging to see the business community hit the ground running. The adverse drop-off in tourists coupled with diminishing government coffers means we have to be creative with a lot less resources.
“Local festivals are hugely important and one of our major strengths, ease of assess will increase footfall. I wish you every success and will be available to support every way I can,” concluded Deputy Phelan. Also in attendance were local councillors Maurice Shortall and John Brennan.
