CorkIndependent.com Business Feed http://www.corkindependent.com Sun, 14 Mar 2010 06:46:54 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.corkindependent.com/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.corkindependent.com CorkIndependent.com Business Feed http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7517&Itemid=88 For years, one of Ireland's strongest exports was its graduates. This strength then became a key factor in attracting major companies to Ireland and setting up operations here. Now, with many of those companies jumping ship in favour of lower wages elsewhere, questions marks have been placed over the quality of an Irish education Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7518&Itemid=88 1. Name of your business? The Marketing Crowd 2. Location? Killorglin, County Kerry Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7519&Itemid=88 A new website has been set up by Cork businesswoman, Mary O'Riordan, giving people greater access to soft furnishings. The site, perfectcurtains.com, specialises in custom made curtains, allowing shoppers to choose from a wide selection of styles online and at the same time, giving people up to 30 per cent off ordinary retail prices. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7520&Itemid=88 Back to basics While Twitter and Facebook are white-hot right now, businesses should spend most of their time and energy getting their website into shape. When it comes down to it, your website is a property online you have full access to and control of. You can use your website as the core part of your online business with places like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other online spaces tieing back into it. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7521&Itemid=88 The Entrepreneurial and Social Society (E&S) at UCC in association with the Cork City and County Enterprise Board is hosting its first ever Innov8@UCC week which finishes tomorrow (Friday). The society has already attracted such illustrious names as horse-racing supremo JP McManus, Cork hurling legend Donal Og Cusack and former Irish rugby international Frankie Sheahan who all spoke about the business of sport. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7522&Itemid=88 Fleming Construction expressed their extreme disappointment at last week's decision in the Supreme Court to reject their restructuring plan. The decision may now result in the loss of over 100 jobs at the Bandon-based construction firm. The action of the High Court overturned a positive decision of the High Court last November that set in motion plans to save the firm and give creditors a chance to recoup some of the money owed to them. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7523&Itemid=88 A diverse range of business training programmes and seminars will be held throughout this month as part of Cork Enterprise Month. The initiative is a joint collaboration of the Cork County & City Enterprise Boards (CEBs). It is aimed to promote and encourage entrepreneurship and innovation while helping micro-enterprises thrive and develop in this new economic reality. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7524&Itemid=88 The new €1.6 million research and development operation of aviation service provider, PAS Technologies, has been officially opened in Cork. It is hoped the new operation will create ten new high-value positions. PAS Technologies deal in the repair, refurbishment and remanufacture of components of gas turbine engines used in the utilities and power generation sectors. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7525&Itemid=88 Two Cork companies, Qumas Limited and the Barry Group, have been named among the winners of the Deloitte Best Managed Companies Award. In total, 20 companies were recognised at an awards gala dinner in the Burlington Hotel in Dublin, which was attended by the Taoiseach, Brian Cowen TD, on 5 March 2010. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7526&Itemid=88 www.showerdome.ie (http://www.showerdome.ie) Appearance: 4/5 User-friendliness: 4/5 Usefulness: 4/5 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7469&Itemid=88 As an adjudicator on the panel that chose the winners in a number of recent awards in Cork, there are few better positioned than Leo O'Leary, Head of Business Sales with BT, to describe the current business landscape in cork. He spoke with Peter Tobin about the judging process and why things are looking up Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7470&Itemid=88 In search of employment and enterprise growth in Cork, the Minister for Trade and Commerce, Billy Kelleher has launched ‘Cork Enterprise Month'. The initiative, organized by the four Enterprise Boards in Cork City and County, showcases the ongoing programmes of advice and information offered by the Enterprise board, to qualifying start-up and expanding small businesses in Cork City and County. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7471&Itemid=88 Anita Kirby, a lecturer at St. John's Central College of Further Education and Training in Cork and Tom Aherne, an Electro Technical Technology student from Cork have been awarded City and Guilds Medals for Excellence. Anita was honoured for her outstanding performance as a teacher of hairdressing. She was chosen from more than a thousand lecturers and trainers throughout the UK and Ireland. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7472&Itemid=88 Irish tourism is an industry in crisis, according to hoteliers, who are meeting this week in Galway for their annual conference Hoteliers are struggling to deal with decimated revenues and extremely difficult trading conditions which show no sign of being resolved. Total tourism revenues collapsed by 17 per cent to €5.2 billion in 2009, their lowest level since 2004 with the British tourist market performing disastrously. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7473&Itemid=88 Cork accounted for 10.2 per cent of the 952 Creditors meetings held nationally in 2009. The construction industry made up 24.5 per cent, with ‘business activities' at 16.3 per cent and manufacturing with 11.9 per cent. According to their last filed accounts, these companies had Creditors of a staggering €1.18billion. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7474&Itemid=88 A Cork TD has claimed that the Government is "using a sledgehammer to crack a nut" in relation to its new Retention of Data Bill. Labour's Sean Sherlock has also claimed that the Bill will lead to higher costs for businesses affected by the legislation. Deputy Sean Sherlock said: "This is an important piece of legislation and while it seeks to transpose an EC Directive for which we have an obligation. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7475&Itemid=88 With increasingly demanding standards and legislation within the food industry, it is a huge challenge for all operators to keep their staff fully up to date and compliant with food safety standards. Mary Daly & Associates have been 'keeping food safe' by providing training courses in food safety to hundreds of operators throughout Cork and Munster for many years. These are the only public certified food safety courses running in Cork, and are held at The Vienna Woods Hotel. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7476&Itemid=88 Deirdre Collins of Cork company Dee's Eat Well Be Happy will appear on Dragons Den on Thursday 4 March in an attempt to secure the backing and investment of one or more of the Dragons. Dee's has seen significant growth since its first Market Stall in 2007 with its 100 per cent natural, 100 per cent Organic, 100 per cent vegetarian and gluten-free burgers now available on the shelves of Dunnes Stores and Superquinn across the country as well as a number of speciality and health food stores in Cork, Dublin, Limerick and Waterford. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7477&Itemid=88 www.venteire.ie (http://www.venteire.ie) Appearance: 4/5 User-friendliness: 4/5 Usefulness: 4/5 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7306&Itemid=88 Wisetek Solutions, recently announced as Emerging Company of the Year at the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner, has used experience and a pioneering mentality to turn what is generally regarded as waste into a valuable commodity. Managing Director, Sean Sheehan and Business Development Manager, Tom Delahunty spoke to Peter Tobin about their business, their success and plans for the future Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7307&Itemid=88 A significant number of jobs in Cork will be saved when Linen Supply of Ireland (LSI) officially comes out of Examinership next week. The High Court has cleared the way for the company to emerge from court protection, which will save 150 jobs at the company's plant in the Frank Boland Industrial Estate on the Mallow Road. 350 jobs will be protected nationwide. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7308&Itemid=88 Cork headquartered archaeology firm, Headland Archaeology (Ireland) Ltd. has announced the recruitment of 17 new employees for an ongoing project. The project, which commenced in January, is based on the Stephenstown Industrial lands with Fingal County Council. The project involves archaeological excavation ahead of industrial development and will see the recruitment of 17 additional archaeologists. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7309&Itemid=88 A new text alert system for businesses in North Cork is to be launched this Thursday 25 February to help curb the amount of businesses targeted by criminals. The system, as part of the Fermoy and Mitchelstown Business Watch Scheme, are being launched in the Grand Hotel on Ashe Quay, Fermoy at 2pm. According to previous figures from the Fermoy gardaí, thefts from shops decreased by 15 per cent in 2009, compared to 2008 figures, with 43 incidents being recorded the Fermoy District in 2008. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7310&Itemid=88 Budding entrepreneurs are being urged to submit their outline business plans for inclusion in the Ballyhoura Dragons programme. Ballyhoura Development Ltd. is running the initiative and the closing date for submissions is Friday 26 February. The "Ballyhoura Dragons" Programme is open to entrepreneurs from all over the country who are interested in setting up a business in Ballyhoura or who have set up an enterprise with less than ten employees in the past 12 months in the region. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7311&Itemid=88 The Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) has this week announced a national awareness campaign in relation to car loans. The group has also surveyed Credit Unions to evaluate loan rates across the entire movement. Speaking as the campaign commenced, ICLU President, Mark Bailey, said: "Credit Unions have noticed a marked increase in applications for car loans since the third week in January, particularly in the market for second hand cars." Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7312&Itemid=88 Entrants are being sought for an enterprise award that has already worked wonders for one Cork business. The Pigsback.com Irish Enterprise Awards, held in Association with Checkout Magazine, aims to promote Irish brands in an increasingly challenging market. To celebrate its tenth birthday, Pigsback.com is once again offering one Irish brand the opportunity to win a free online campaign valued at over €25,000 and a featured article in Checkout. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7313&Itemid=88 A former Cork Business Person of the Year, Cormac Fitzgerald (CPA), has been appointed to the Council of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland. Mr Fitzgerald is managing partner of Kinsale accountancy firm, Fitzgerald & Partners. This is a prestigious appointment for Mr Fitzgerald who will now be assisting the President and Chief Executive of one of Ireland's most influential accountancy bodies to identify and implement strategies for the future growth and development of the Institute. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7314&Itemid=88 Retail Ireland, the Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC) group that represents the Irish retail sector has called for greater powers to be afforded arbitrators deciding on commercial leases and an "urgent response" from all stakeholders in the retail property sector. Retail Ireland Director, Torlach Denihan, said: "In view of the current economic climate, Retail Ireland calls on Government to reform legislation on retailers' leases. Arbitrators' hands are tied by the terms of leases that are unsuited to the current extraordinary situation." Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7205&Itemid=88 Receiving recognition for your business endeavours is always a boost. In the case of Richard Cooke, CEO of Lincor Solutions, it has even more impact when you previously presented the award and saw the success past winners went on to achieve. He told Peter Tobin just how it felt to win the Best SME Award from Cork Chamber Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7206&Itemid=88 Name: Avril Quinn Appointment: Commercial Manager, The Resources.ie Group Avril Quinn has been promoted to Commercial Manager with The Resources.ie Group. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7207&Itemid=88 The small Firms Association (SFA), the group that represents small businesses in Ireland, is set to bring the SFA Better Business Show to Cork to assist small firms maximise their potential and access advice. The show will visit Cork on Wednesday 24 February and take place in the Clarion Hotel for a lunch session from 1pm - 2:30pm and an evening session from 6.30pm – 8pm. Over 10,000 small businesses attended the previous Better Business Shows, and the 2010 event will build on this success. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7208&Itemid=88 The Business Travel Survey was launched this week in a joint initiative between Cork Airport and Cork Chamber. The survey will assess the demand for air services from Cork Airport to the UK, Continental Europe and the East Coast of the United States. Conor Healy, Chief Executive of the Chamber, said: "This survey assesses the business travel needs of companies throughout the region, and will help enhance the business case for new and additional direct air services from Cork Airport. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7209&Itemid=88 A Cork based call centre, Call Management, has been awarded a contract from UK Company Cho Yung, who sell weight loss tea products from China over the internet. The contract will create an additional 2,000 inbound calls per week, and will generate approximately €75,000 in revenue per annum and will see Call Management appoint two new agents to their team of 25 staff. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7210&Itemid=88 Cork Chamber has welcomed the recent announcement by the Minister for Transport that the M20 Cork to Limerick and the N25 Carrigtwohill to Midleton road schemes will both proceed to Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) stage in 2010. The Chamber also acknowledged the work done by the National Roads Authority, Cork County Council and their consultants in bringing both projects to this stage. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7211&Itemid=88 Two Cork companies have made the shortlist for the All-island Innovation Awards announced recently. The awards, a joint initiative between The Irish Times and InterTradeIreland, recognise scientific advancements, new manufacturing processes, streamlining of referral process for patients and innovative retail service in business and award one business with the title of Innovation of the Year. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7212&Itemid=88 Kinsale Distribution Company (KDC), one of Ireland's leading distributor of fair trade products, has signed a deal with the UK's leading fairtrade organisation, Traidcraft to distribute a further 70 fairtrade products to retailers in Ireland. The deal is worth more than €500,000 and comes in time for Fair Trade Fortnight 2010 which runs from 22 February to 7 March. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7213&Itemid=88 One of the leading pharmaceutical companies in the world has teamed up with a Cork company to the tune of $1m. The Minister for Trade and Commerce, Billy Kelleher TD, recently announced that ProSys Sampling Systems, based in Cork has agreed a US$1m contract to design and manufacture high containment isolators for an American company’s United States headquarters. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7214&Itemid=88 Tourism in Cork will turn the corner in 2010, according to Failte Ireland. Following a difficult season in 2009, the Irish tourism industry is relatively more optimistic about its prospects for this coming year, with almost two thirds of operators expecting that business in 2010 will be similar or better than in 2009 according to the latest Fáilte Ireland research. This message was reinforced at this year’s annual Tourism in the South West Industry Briefing held recently in the Maryborough House Hotel, Douglas, Cork. Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7131&Itemid=88 Vice- President of EMC, Bob Savage, has been with the company since the 1988 establishment of the data storage and management campus in Ovens. "When we started manufacturing we only had a staff of 32. I have watched it evolve under the EMC ethos and team innovation," said the Glounthaune man and Managing Director of the Cork campus, where 1,600 people are now employed. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7132&Itemid=88 Cork had the second-highest number of company formations in the last quarter of 2009, new statistics reveal. The figures released by ICC Formations reveal that the economic downturn may be slightly easing with the total number of new companies formed in the last quarter of 2009 increasing by six per cent nationally compared to the same period in 2008. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7133&Itemid=88 The long awaited Government National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is now well underway throughout Ireland, with the leading mobile broadband provider 3, rolling out one of the most advanced wireless technologies in the world will be complete by October 2010. This is great news for the most rural and isolated regions of the country which will see the remaining 10% of the population get the most this most badly needed service since the electrification of Ireland in the 1940’s and 50’s. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7134&Itemid=88 1. Name of your business? Hayfield Manor Hotel 2. Location? Perrott Avenue, College Road. The hotel is located just off college road, adjacent to University College Cork. We are within easy walking distance of the Bon Secours Hospital and it is a ten-minute walk to the city centre. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7135&Itemid=88 The recent Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) report for Cork Council included a special appraisal for Mahon Point Shopping Centre (SC). The report described Mahon Point (SC) as "superb and immaculate". The report also referred to the "attractive landscaping and paving which contribute highly to the overall presentation of the shopping centre as well as the high quality road surface, markings and signage". Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7136&Itemid=88 A workshop aimed at helping accommodation operators in Cork learn about a new Fáilte Ireland Bed and Breakfast Strategy will take place at The Clarion Hotel on Thursday 18 February. The national tourism development authority are now inviting members of the B&B sector to attend one of a series of workshops, which are being held nationwide to introduce a repositioning strategy for the industry. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7137&Itemid=88 K&L Deliveries, a Cork based company and member of TPN (The Pallet Network), will represent Ireland at the upcoming 2010 European Transport Company of the Year awards in Amsterdam, Holland. The awards are considered the 'Oscars' of the transport and logistics industry with companies from Belgium, Romania, Poland, the Netherlands, France, the UK, Germany, Sweden and Hungary all competing for the prestigious awards and industry recognition. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7138&Itemid=88 For the first time ever, Look The Business, The Gloss Magazine’s fashion and networking event in association with Vodafone, heads to City Hall, Cork on 31 March. Aimed at working women, Look The Business offers the ideal opportunity to entertain clients, colleagues and friends in a relaxed setting straight after work. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7139&Itemid=88 Three Cork businesses recently received Zurich LAMA Awards for their business contributions to construction, engineering and infrastructure. Hillback Developments as awarded Best Developer/Promoter, while Youghal Leisure Centre won in the category for Best Recreational Facility. Meanwhile, The ARC (Ardfield/Rathberry Community) On-Line Newsletter won the award for Best Use of External Communications. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7140&Itemid=88 Retail Ireland, the IBEC group that represents the retail sector, has urged that local authorities give retailers a 10 per cent rebate on their commercial rates bill, given the "very serious" challenges the sector is facing. Retail Ireland has written to the Chairperson of every local authority as well as to all City and County Managers to ask that this year retailers be given a 10 per cent rebate on the commercial rates bill paid in 2009 and suspend upward revaluations where necessary. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7141&Itemid=88 Timber processing firm Glennon Brothers, with bases in Fermoy and Longford, has secured a contract to deliver the first ever shipments of home-grown timber to France in a €1.5 million deal. This deal represents a first in both an Irish and UK context. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7142&Itemid=88 UCC's Tyndall institute has won an award for promoting interaction between universities and industry in the field of microchip design. The Irish team, led by Professor Peter Kennedy, Vice-President for Research, UCC and Tyndall National Institute, UCC received the Outstanding Chapter of the Year Award from the IEEE Solid-State Circuits Society, the world's largest professional association, at a conference in Chicago. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6959&Itemid=88 As 2010 really gets going, there is a renewed sense of optimism for business and economic organisations in Cork. This positive attitude has been reflected in reports coming from authorities like the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), which indicated an end to the recession, possibly towards the end of 2010. Speaking in advance of the biggest event in the Cork business calendar, the Cork Chamber Annual Dinner, Chief Executive of the Chamber, Conor Healy outlined his plans for 2010 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6960&Itemid=88 Two new training programmes are due to commence in the South and East Cork area in early February. South and East Cork Area Development (SECAD) is inviting application from individuals to participate in the SECAD Community Training Programme 2010. Topics covered will include Governance for community groups; roles and responsibilities within your group; financial management of your community group; effective communication within a community group. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6961&Itemid=88 LeisureWorld Churchfield are hoping that people of all ages will use 2010 to get out and about more. To encourage this, it has launched an initiative in conjunction with its football pitches. The Sam Allen Football Pitches on Knockfree Avenue boast a wonderful view of Cork City and both the staff and management at the centre wish to mark the occasion of the refurbishment and rebranding of the pitches for 2010. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6962&Itemid=88 Name: Margaret Walsh Appointment: Sales and Marketing Cork-based company, Neon Solutions, is delighted to announce the appointment of Margaret Walsh, who will have responsibility for Sales and Marketing. Neon designs solutions that allow businesses to interact more effectively with their customers through mobile messaging. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6963&Itemid=88 The Next Diploma in Business, Executive and Personal Coaching from the Coach Institute of Ireland will commence in February 2010. This training programme is endorsed by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) and is accredited by the Life and Business Coaching Association of Ireland (LBCAI). In addition, the programme is recognised for continuing professional development by Engineers Ireland and accredited for continuing professional development by the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6964&Itemid=88 A unique cooperation between University College Cork (UCC) and the Department of Electronic Engineering in Cork Institute of Technology (CIT) is entering its fourth year as 43 Postgraduate Diploma in Education student teachers have just completed a six week introductory course to electronics. The training programme is based on the 'Exploring Electronics' Transition Year module developed at CIT with significant backing from the industry and is aimed at de-mystifying electronics in the Second Level classroom. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6965&Itemid=88 A Cork firm is in line for a prestigious national award. Glanmire based logistics business, O'Connell Group, has been short listed for the Small Firms Association (SFA) National Small Business Award 2010. It is one of six Irish companies in the Environmental Sustainability category. "This award is testimony to all the hard work of our employees and in particular our management team," said Eddie O'Connell, Group Managing Director. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6966&Itemid=88 Professional women in Cork are being encouraged to attend an upcoming seminar on how to get the best out of networking. The seminar, being organised by Network Cork, will feature Martin Brennan, Managing Director of Proactive and one of the leading experts in the country on networking, building business relationships and making the most of them. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6967&Itemid=88 Sunway, the only travel operator in Ireland that offers a full selection of holiday options such as 'sun holidays', trips to the USA and Canada, escorted tours, weddings and honeymoons and cruises, now offers many holidays flying direct from Cork. The company is a fully licensed and bonded operator. Sunway has selected four- and five-star hotels where idyllic surroundings, highly personalised service and a welcoming atmosphere are the order of the day. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6968&Itemid=88 The beginning of a New Year is the perfect time to launch a new training course that helps participants eradicate the age-old problem of procrastination. Aodan Enright, owner of Smarter Egg Training and Consulting, based in Cork is an expert in the area of procrastinating and describes himself as a 'recovering procrastinator'. Aodan has developed a customised programme 'Overcoming Procrastination' that is designed to help us become aware of how and why we tend to put things off, and to arm us with the means to get things done. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6969&Itemid=88 Half of consumers in Cork are paying too much for their car insurance, according to new research. The figures, released by the Irish Brokers Association (IBA), indicate that nine out of ten brokers will provide the cheapest quote, but with an estimated 50 per cent of consumers in Cork going direct to insurers for their car insurance, the majority of these are likely to be paying over the odds. Findings from the study showed that significant savings could be made if consumers obtain car insurance from a broker rather than going direct. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6970&Itemid=88 Five of the 12 companies that completed the Supplier Innovation Development Programme, four of which are based in Cork, have either succeeded in achieving new product listings with Superquinn or are actively engaged in discussions to achieve listings in the near future. This marks a significant development for these companies and for their potential to develop their business further; both in Ireland and in export markets. Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6971&Itemid=88 www.Irishrail.ie (http://www.Irishrail.ie) Appearance: 4/5 User-friendliness: 5/5 Usefulness: 5/5 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6882&Itemid=88 Despite the malaise of the labour market and the well-documented economic struggles in the country, there has been some good news. Signs are emerging of a more stable jobs market with increases in recruitment across a number of sectors. Donal Flanagan, Cork Team Leader with recruitment firm, CPL, spoke to Peter Tobin about the current challenges and success stories in the world of recruitment Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6883&Itemid=88 A major investment programme and strategic alliance has been struck between a Cork company and a US corporation. Luxcel Biosciences, based in University College Cork (UCC), is a specialist producer of luminescence based gas and pH sensors. It recently announced a strategic partnership with MOCON Inc. a global leader in gas sensing technologies and package testing/shelf life instrumentation for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical and other industries. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6884&Itemid=88 Workers in Mallow are claiming that they have still not received redundancy payment from former employer, Thomas Barry Jnr, seven months later. The former employees of Barry's Menswear, which closed in June 2009, claim that Mr Barry is refusing to cooperate with their union Mandate, and also with the State in settling redundancy payments owed to the workers. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6885&Itemid=88 Name of your business? i-to-i Location? The i-to-i office is based in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford and we run TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) training courses in cities nationwide. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6886&Itemid=88 Name: Judy Hopkins Appointment: Account Manager – New Media Judy Hopkins has joined the Cork-based family firm, Hopkins Communications. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6887&Itemid=88 Cork restaurant, Nash 19, has been named as the December 'Just Ask Restaurant of the Month' award in association with Bord Bia and the Georgina Campbell Ireland Guide. 'Just Ask' is a Bord Bia campaign that aims to encourage consumers to look for information on where their food is coming from when eating out and encourages chefs to provide this information on their menus. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6888&Itemid=88 Engineers Ireland, Cork, is volunteering its services and that of its members to act as a resource for secondary school education. A meeting will be held on Thursday 28 January to discuss the challeges of teaching maths and science in the current system and how engineers can promote these subjects in schools. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6889&Itemid=88 For anyone whoever thought of starting his or her own business, the EnterpriseSTART programme could be the key to a new career. Now in its fourth year, the programme continues to attract a high level of interest from potential Entrepreneurs with approximately 80 per cent of candidates going on to develop their business concept wither on a part- of full-time basis. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6890&Itemid=88 Graduates in Cork and throughout the country looking for work are to be allowed participate in a new training programme without impacting on their social welfare entitlements, according to Fianna Fail TD and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6891&Itemid=88 Over 300 job vacancies are being posted every week on a new mobile and online platform, Txtajob.ie. This new platform provides job seekers with relevant job vacancy alerts via mobile phone. Txtajob.ie now has over 1,300 real job vacancies available to jobseekers spanning 80 different job categories covering a broad range of professional and trade positions across a wide section of industries from the engineering and medical sectors through to the hospitality and retail sectors. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6892&Itemid=88 A national report has recommended the construction of a fibre optic Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) in Mallow, Co. Cork. The report, from the National Competitiveness Council (NCC), called for MANs in Cork to be expanded and this was welcomed by e|net, the company that holds the concession to manage, maintain and operate the State's MAN broadband programme. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6893&Itemid=88 Over 60 members and guests attended the first Network Cork meeting of 2010, which took place on Wednesday 20 January at the Maryborough Hotel and Spa. The guest speaker at the event was internationally renowned speaker and author, Veronica Canning. Welcoming those in attendance, Sandra Maher, President of Network Cork said: "2009 turned out to be a dynamic year for Network Cork as we worked together through a very challenging year. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6894&Itemid=88 Cork is the second most popular location in the country for new start-up businesses. The latest Bank of Ireland (BOI) barometer shows 13,327 new businesses started trading in 2009. This represented a 9 per cent decrease on the 2008 figure but was less than anticipated. While nearly half of all start-ups were based in the Dublin area, Cork had 1,227 new businesses in 2009. The services sector saw the largest number of stat-ups. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6895&Itemid=88 www.Pedigreedogs.ie (http://www.Pedigreedogs.ie) Appearance: 4/5 User-friendliness: 4/5 Usefulness: 4/5 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6779&Itemid=88 Listening to the wildly varying musings and forecasts on both the current mire the Irish economy is in and any prospective upturn, the one thing that's clear is that every 'expert' has different opinions and these usually have some element of self-service. The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), however, as an independent body is able to deliver a analysis that is listened to keenly and is well respected. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6780&Itemid=88 Students in Cork are getting the chance to see what the business world is like up close with a government initiative. Fourteen schools in Cork are twinning with 17 locally based companies to give their students the business edge that will help them to develop their careers when they enter the workforce. Among the Cork schools taking part in the programme are Bishopstown Community School, Mayfield Community School, North Presentation Secondary School and St Vincent's Secondary School. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6781&Itemid=88 Craftspeople from ten Cork businesses in South Cork, West Cork and Cork City will be representing the county at the Showcase Expo in Dublin this month, meeting thousands of international buyers from across Europe, North America and Asia. An estimated 5,000 buyers from Ireland, Japan, the US, France, Germany and Italy will be attending Showcase over the four days, to see the work of 450 craftspeople. Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:00:00 +0100