Dublin Chamber Of Commerce Annual Report 2006

Annual Report 2006

Infrastructure | Competitiveness | Knowledge

Vodafone Ireland: Innovation for Business The speed of business has increased dramatically and Irish companies must learn to adapt. Decisions that once took days are now made in minutes, while meetings, once meticulously planned, now happen in a flash with little notice. To help Irish companies come to grips with the new pace of business, Vodafone Ireland has consistently delivered tools that allow even the most dynamic and efficient companies to operate at their peak. As Ireland's largest mobile operator and the first company to launch 3G mobile services, Vodafone has delivered tools like BlackBerry®, Vodafone Business Email and Windows Mobile, helping countless companies to stay connected and changing the way Irish businesses communicate. At the start of 2007, Vodafone Ireland unleashed one of the most innovative products to hit Ireland -- the new Vodafone 3G Broadband Modem. This revolutionary device is the first truly mobile broadband modem available to Irish businesses, making it possible for companies of all sizes to access the Internet, e-mail, back office files and business applications at broadband speeds. Available for use with laptops and desktops, PCs and Macs, the device delivers connection speeds up to four times faster than traditional 3G technology, with speeds due to increase in early 2007. Whether it's the Vodafone 3G Broadband Modem, BlackBerry from Vodafone, traditional mobile voice services, or any other option, it should be remembered innovation is at the heart of Vodafone Ireland's products and services for business. Vodafone tools demonstrate ways in which seamless mobility can become business efficiency, which is why so many customers have turned to Ireland's largest mobile operator.

The Vodafone 3G Broadband Modem’s unique features include: 'plug and play'* set up USB connectivity Compatibility with laptops and desktops, PCs and Macs Great value data tariffs Access to Ireland's most extensive 3G broadband network

*Installation CD supplied for MAC users

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

1

Contents President’s Address

Page 2

Chief Executive’s Address

Page 4

Council Listing

Page 6

Pictorial Review

Page 7

Knowledge Economy Committee Report

Page 8

Competitiveness Committee Report

Page 9

Transport and Infrastructure Committee Report

Page 10

Communications Committee Report

Page 11

Business Development Committee Report

Page 12

International Committee Report

Page 13

Accounts

Page 14

Staff Listing

Page 16

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

2 President’s Address Eugene McCague It has been my honour to represent the members of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce over the past twelve months as we led the debate on the issues that affect Dublin business. Through the excellent work carried out in our committees, the Chamber has continued to strengthen its voice – locally, regionally and nationally – ensuring that the concerns and interests of our members influence the decisions of tomorrow. Dublin’s successes over the past decades have been built by driven business leaders. While these traits are still entrenched in our culture, tomorrow’s growth and continued success will be based on a ‘knowledge economy’ which will necessitate the integration of technology developments into the way we live and work as well as the creation of an environment for lifelong learning. To push forward these goals I asked Martin Murphy, Managing Director HP Ireland, to chair a new committee at the Chamber to focus on the ‘Knowledge Economy’. This committee along with our ‘Infrastructure’ and ‘Competitive Dublin’ committees formulated our strategic policies which Dublin will need for today and tomorrow.

similar lines to the successful Transport 21 multiannual capital programme. Government must take charge and provide the investment to meet future population needs in the city. Our influence on such strategies and initiatives will make our vision of Dublin in 2020 a reality. We believe Dublin and the Greater Dublin Area must be a world class region – a safe, clean and visually attractive place that attracts highly skilled labour and encourages and promotes research, enterprise and an entrepreneurial culture. The Chamber’s members are critical to the realisation of this vision. I would like to express sincere thanks to the members of our committees for their important contributions and commitment in 2006. The Chamber has also played a key role in presenting Dublin to business around the world. Through international trade missions we brought representatives from Dublin to India, Belfast, and Hong Kong, while we also played host to a number of receptions receiving delegations from San Jose, Georgia, and China among others.

In our meetings with Ministers and key officials, we made clear our priority recommendations for the future, calling for increased usage of ICT technologies, greater levels of R&D, lower commercial rates and business charges, improved road and rail infrastructure, and better tourism and port infrastructure within the Greater Dublin Area. Action must be taken across this broad range of policy areas. The Chamber is committed to working with all involved – Government, business and Higher Education Institutes – to transform Dublin and make it competitive into the future.

As President, it was a privilege (as well as personally enjoyable) to welcome on behalf of the Dublin Chamber the numerous distinguished guests who addressed our meetings in 2006. The success of our immensely popular AGM, Annual, and Sporting Dinners was a testament to the quality of speakers which the Chamber attracts. From these feature events to our Dinner In Camera and Business Breakfast series, Chamber members have had the opportunity to listen to engaging speeches and gain insight into the international business environment. It is through the generosity of sponsors and supporters that such events are made possible.

In our NDP 2007-2013 submission, we called on Government to prepare an Environment 21, Health 21, Housing 21 and Education 21, along

The Port Tunnel, which opened in December, was first announced by the Taoiseach at a meeting of the Chamber ten years ago. As

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

3

decisions are made for the next decade, the Chamber will continue to make sure that the voice of Dublin business is heard and our policies are implemented. We are able to ensure this through the active participation and backing of all our members. Thank you for this continued support.

1

I would like to express a heartfelt thanks to the members of the Executive Committee and Council for the tremendous amount of time, effort and assistance that they gave to the Chamber and me as President through out the year. I would like to wish the Chamber and its members continued success in the coming years.

2

Eugene McCague President

3 1

Eugene McCague (right), Chamber President, met with the Attorney General, Rory Brady.

2

The 2006 Annual Dinner with guest speakers David O’Reilly (left), Chairman & Chief Executive of Chevron Corporation, and Brian Cowen TD (right), Minister for Finance, greeted by Eugene McCague (centre), Chamber President.

3

Michael Smurfit (right), Chairman of Smurfit Kappa Group, and Eugene McCague, Chamber President.

4

John Howard MP (left), Australian Prime Minister, with Chamber President Eugene McCague prior to a jointly hosted business lunch by the Chamber and IBEC.

5

Chamber’s AGM Dinner (l-r): Rt Hon Peter Hain, MP; Eugene McCague, Chamber President; and An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD.

4

5

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

4 Chief Executive’s Address Gina Quin Last year was an excellent year for the Chamber thanks to the continued support of our members and the hard work of all our staff. Over the past five years we have seen consistent growth in services to our members (+9%) and in our membership numbers (+5%) and an increasing respect for and attention to the voice of the Dublin Chamber in making a difference to doing business in the Greater Dublin Area. Once again our unrivalled events brought thousands of guests to be informed by leading political figures (Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD, Rt Hon Peter Hain MP, Minister Brian Cowen TD and Minister Michael McDowell TD), to be inspired by eminent world business leaders (David O’Reilly, Hugh Friel, Dr. Michael Smurfit, Denis O’Brien, John Herlihy and Jean-Philippe Courtois) and to be entertained by prominent personalities (Gordon Ramsay and Peter Alliss). The Chamber has also developed itself as a model for business, from technology developments to highlighting the importance of corporate social responsibility. Over the course of 2006, we have been working on a new IT system that will help improve our services to members and our ability to capture their views on important current issues. We expect to launch this system in 2007. We have also focussed on the importance of involvement in Dublin’s communities through the Irish Times Living Dublin Awards, which recognises the significant contribution made by individuals and organisations to the communities within which we live and work. This year the Chamber sought to improve and strengthen North-South business links. We formalised these efforts by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The signing took place at an historic first joint meeting of the Councils of both Chambers, followed by a reception with guest of honour President Mary McAleese. We continued the successful Network + Getwork series which

was started in 2005 with the support of InterTradeIreland. Network + Getwork has successfully encouraged and assisted companies in Ireland and Northern Ireland in developing cross border business. We made sure that in 2006 our members’ voice was heard on key decision makers on the issues that mattered. The Chamber’s key policy focus for 2006 was infrastructure, the knowledge economy and competitiveness. We continued to monitor progress under Transport 21 and to campaign for the Dublin Transport Authority as a key delivery mechanism for this capital programme. In our Budget 2007 submission, we argued that the central challenge facing the Greater Dublin Area is its infrastructure deficit and called on the Government to re-direct funds from the failed public service decentralisation programme to a ¤1bn capital allocation towards completing the primary roads programme and strategic nonnational roads. Realisation of Dublin’s potential to develop as a knowledge city, where life long learning is the norm, drove our recommendations in this policy area. We called on Government to implement PC penetration schemes, and the introduction of tax and capital incentives to accelerate PC ownership as a critical delivery mechanism in the learning process. The transformation of Dublin into a leading ‘knowledge city’ will require engagement, co-operation and active participation from all relevant actors – Government departments, agencies, Higher Education Institutes and business – and the Chamber is leading this dialogue for Dublin. Thus throughout 2006 we maintained a firm eye on business costs, in particular local authority charges, in order to maintain the competitiveness and attractiveness of the GDA. Our policy progress on these issues will ensure that Dublin becomes a competitive world-class city. Dublin competes with the cities of the world for investment and not with other cities

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

5

and regions on this island. It is critical that Dublin’s skill base and infrastructure compares favourably with other cities. We have maintained this year a firm eye on business costs, local authority charges and on the implementation of Transport21, in order to maintain the competitiveness and attractiveness of the Greater Dublin Area.

1

The Chamber’s 2020 vision (www.dublinchamber.ie) remains our guiding strategy for achieving a Dublin which is agile to global demands and achieves harmonious growth. Our progress toward accomplishing this vision will take the continued active participation of all our members for which we are very grateful. I would like to thank sincerely all the sponsors and supporters of our policy development and events, committee chairs and members, and all the other individuals who played a vital role in making the past year a success. In particular I would like to thank the members of the Executive Committee and Council for their considerable time and effort in making the Dublin Chamber the success that it is. We are a membershipbased organisation, and it is only through the active support and involvement of both sponsors and members that our successes can be achieved.

2

3

I look forward to your valued contribution in 2007. Gina Quin Chief Executive 1

Gina Quin (left), Chamber Chief Executive, and Eugene McCague (centre), Chamber President, welcome Michael McDowell TD, Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, before a Chamber Dinner In Camera.

2

Dublin Chamber discussed Transport 21 with Martin Cullen TD, Minister for Transport. (l-r) Ronan King, Chamber Vice President; Gina Quin, Chamber Chief Executive; Minister Martin Cullen TD; Margaret Sweeney, Chair of Chamber’s Transport Committee; and Eugene McCague, Chamber President.

3

Country Manager for Microsoft Ireland, Joe Macri (left), with Gina Quin, Chamber Chief Executive, and Eugene McCague, Chamber President.

4

Gina Quin, Chamber Chief Executive, took part in the 2006 Liffey Swim.

5

Getting tips from golfing great Peter Alliss before the 2006 Sporting Dinner. (l-r) Peter Alliss; Gina Quin, Chamber Chief Executive; Eugene McCague, Chamber President; and Leslie Morrison, CEO of Invest Northern Ireland.

4

5

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

Council listing

6

Mr. Eugene McCague (President) Mr. Ronan King (Vice President) Ms. Margaret Sweeney (Deputy Vice President) Ms. Áine Maria Mizzoni (Immediate Past President) Mr. Patrick Coveney (Honorary Treasurer)

Chairman, Arthur Cox Director of Business Development, Howard Eurocape CEO, An Post/Fortis Banking Venture Managing Director, Grafton Recruitment Chief Financial Officer, Greencore

10 9 7 6 6

of of of of of

10 10 10 10 10

Mr. Peter Brennan Mr. Clive Brownlee Ms. Grainne Byrne Mr. David Carson Ms. Maeve Donovan Mr. Des Fahey Mr. Niall Feely Mr. Niall Geoghegan Mr. Jack Golden Ms. Jacqueline Hall Cllr. Vincent Jackson Mr. John Kelly Mr. Mark Kelly Mr. Declan Lawler Mr. Aidan O'Hogan Mr. Pat Maher Mr. Tom McAleese Ms. Sharen McCabe Ms. Denise Moroney Mr. Cathal Muckian Mr. Martin Murphy Prof. Brian Norton Mr. Frank O'Connell Prof. Joyce O' Connor Mr. David O'Halloran Mr. Tiarnan O'Mahoney Mr. Dalton Philips Mr. David Pierce Mr. Maurice Pratt Mr. Liam Quirke Ms. Imelda Reynolds Dr. Michael Somers Mr. Peter Stapleton Mr. John Tierney Mr. P. J. Timmins Mr. Peter Webster

Managing Director, EPS Consulting 8 of 10 Chairman, Dublin Convention Bureau 9 of 10 Managing Director, gbc Public Relations Ltd 8 of 10 Partner, Deloitte 7 of 10 Managing Director, The Irish Times 2 of 10 Chief Executive, Dublin Business Innovation Centre 9 of 10 Business Markets Director, Eircom plc 9 of 10 Chief Executive, Jurys Doyle Hotel Group 2 of 10 Human Resource Director, CRH plc 7 of 10 Managing Director, Political Communications Limited 7 of 10 Lord Mayor of Dublin 3 of 5 Head of Consumer Strategy, AIB Group 6 of 10 President, JCI Dublin 6 of 8 Area Director – Dublin, AIB Group 7 of 10 Managing Director, CB Hamilton Osborne King 6 of 10 Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland 7 of 10 Managing Director, Barclays Bank Ireland Plc 7 of 10 Managing Director, McCabe Pharmacy 3 of 6 Chief Executive, Brand Dynamics 5 of 10 Director of Business Banking, Bank Of Ireland 6 of 10 Managing Director, Hewlett-Packard Ireland Ltd 6 of 10 President, Dublin Institute of Technology 8 of 10 Director Retail, Dublin Airport Authority 7 of 10 President, National College of Ireland 2 of 10 Group Marketing Director, Coyle Hamilton Willis 7 of 10 Chief Executive, ISTC – International Securities 7 of 10 Chief Executive, Brown Thomas 2 of 10 Head of Inward Investment, Ulster Bank 7 of 10 Managing Director, Cantrell & Cochrane Group Limited 6 of 10 Managing Partner, Matheson Ormsby Prentice 3 of 10 Managing Partner, Beauchamps Solicitors 9 of 10 Chief Executive, National Treasury Management Agency 6 of 10 Managing Director, Lisney 7 of 10 City Manager, Dublin City Council 2 of 5 Chief Executive, Clery & Co. 10 of 10 Chairman, Image Now 7 of 10

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

7 2006 Pictorial Review

1

2

3 1

The 2006 David Manley Award winners received ‘the gift of time’ worth ¤80,000 from a selection of top Irish companies. The David Manley Award was established by a group of his friends in the Dublin Chamber of Commerce to honour his contribution to, encouragement and mentoring of SMEs. (clockwise from left) David Pierce, Chairman, David Manley Award Committee; Sean Coughlan, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland; Dermot Egan, Chairman of judging panel; and Rowena Neville, Business2Arts.

2

An Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern TD, addressing members at the 2006 AGM Dinner

3

At the Chamber’s Christmas Lunch 2006 guest speaker Gordon Ramsay (centre), Chamber President Eugene McCague (right), and Cathal Muckian, Bank of Ireland’s Director of Business Banking, brought gifts to the dinner which were donated to the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul and ISPCC.

4

Dermot Ahern TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs; David Marsden, Director, HKTDC; Brian Norton, President, Dublin Institute of Technology; and Aengus McClean, Vice President, AOL Technologies Ireland.

4

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

8 Committee Report: Knowledge Economy Martin Murphy, Managing Director, HP Ireland The creation of the ‘Knowledge Economy’ committee in 2006 was an important addition to the policy scope of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce. Helping to drive forward the Chamber’s vision that by 2020, Dublin shall be a ‘knowledge city’ driven by creativity, imagination and innovation, the committee focused upon the key areas where improvements could be made to raise the productivity and efficiency levels of all organisations. Drawing from the wealth of knowledge and understanding of the members of the committee, which included representatives from the city’s third level institutes, and major IT and telecommunications companies, our 2006 work programme focused upon: Encouraging PC penetration and the adoption of broadband technologies in the home and by business;

Microsoft International’s President, Jean-Philippe Courtois, briefed members of the Chamber on knowledge economy and the launch of the National Productivity Centre. (l-r) Margaret Sweeney, CEO An Post/Fortis, Banking Venture; Jean-Philippe Courtois; Cllr. Vincent Jackson, Lord Mayor of Dublin; and Joe Macri, Country Manager, Microsoft Ireland.

Encouraging and supporting a knowledge based entrepreneurial culture within SME’s Strengthening the link between Government sectors, industry and the region’s educational providers; Encouraging the development of R&D centres of excellence; Promoting life-long learning for all citizens; and Creating an environment where IP is nurtured, protected and exploited in all sectors.

We believe that Government must be the linchpin in the transformation of Dublin into a knowledge city. We warmly welcomed the publication of the Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation 2006-2013 this year and support its goal that "Ireland, by 2013, will be internationally renowned for the excellence of its research, and will be to the forefront in generating and using new knowledge for economic and social progress, within an innovation driven culture". However, we believe that the success of this ambitious Strategy will lie in its timely delivery and full implementation, and have communicated this to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Throughout 2006, the Chamber held a series of business breakfasts, dinners and briefings for all members focusing on technology. Guest speakers from companies where ICT is at the heart of their operations - Google, Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, MyHome.ie – continuously reaffirmed the important role ICT shall play in the transformation of Dublin into a knowledge city. A key area of policy in 2006 was the strengthening of Dublin Chamber’s link with the city’sHigher Education Institutes. These institutes shall play a central role in developing Dublin as a learning society that promotes life long learning. Over the coming years, we shall continue to encourage all actors to make the necessary investments to develop a vibrant and successful 4th level of education and to provide SMEs and owner-managers with relevant training and resources ‘on the ground’ to develop their businesses. The transformation of Dublin into a leading ‘knowledge city’ shall require a cohesive vision and strategic approach to be taken and shared by all Government departments, agencies, Higher Education Institutes and industry. Realisation of this vision shall require engagement, co-operation and active participation from all involved, the Dublin Chamber of Commerce included. Thus I would to thank each committee member for their valuable input and time throughout the year. Your efforts have ensured that the Chamber’s contribution is substantial and of a high quality. Martin Murphy Chairperson

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

9 Committee Report: Competitive Dublin PJ Timmins, CEO, Clery & Co. Capital city-regions are internationally recognised drivers of economic development. They are the homes of most jobs, businesses, Higher Education Institutes and seats of Government, all central to achieving innovation, entrepreneurship and business growth and employment for the whole country. The Greater Dublin Area region plays this important role within the Irish economy, and throughout 2006, the committee focused on maintaining the competitiveness and attractiveness of the GDA as a location in which to live and do business. Our work programme focused on two key areas – business costs, in particular Local Authority charges, and the infrastructure deficit in our tourism industry. During 2006, the committee continued to strengthen collaboration and cooperation with our essential business partners - Dublin City Council. Local Authority charges place great pressure on the cost base of companies. Accordingly, during our quarterly meetings with Dublin City Council, we encouraged them to continue to take steps to increase their accountability and the efficiency of their operations. Given the results of the Census 2006, showing strong population growth in the GDA, we are calling on Central Government to augment the level of financial assistance given to rapidly expanding urban Local Authorities. Increased use of services and higher standards are placing huge pressure on the revenue of Local Authorities. In response to this we recommended that a ‘Greater Dublin Area Authority’ be established to Minister Cowen during our 2006 Annual Dinner. This ‘Greater Dublin Area Authority’ would focus on issues currently spanning across numerous Local Authorities, ensuring an integrated vision for our city. This Authority would build upon the proposed Dublin Transportation Authority and be under the leadership of a directly elected Mayor. A popularly elected Mayor would allow citizens of the Dublin region give input into the policies and vision that drive their region, thereby enhancing accountability. During a meeting with Minister O’Donoghue to discuss our paper Tourism ABC: Promoting Dublin as a location for Arts, Business and Culture, we reiterated the need for swift completion of the National Conference Centre and the importance of having a ‘cultural ambassador’ for the city. We successful lobbied for the creation of a taxation climate to support the overseas conference business, with Budget 2007 allowing for deductibility of accommodation expenses on a

ring-fenced basis. Overall we continued to pursue our goal of regenerating the city’s tourism "product" to attract higher value-added customers to the city. Another key area focused upon during 2006 was the Dublin Port and Bay Area. We have called on the Taoiseach to bring together all stakeholders and ensure that a robust long-term development master-plan, encompassing the retail and tourism heart of the city and future transportation needs of goods in the GDA region, is created. Maintaining the competitiveness of Dublin city and the GDA requires Government, state agencies, businesses and citizens to work together. For its part, Dublin Chamber continues to engage with all actors, and the excellent work carried out by the members of the ‘Competitive Dublin’ committee and ‘Tourism’ committee who gave so generously of their time and effort throughout 2006 enables the Chamber to contribute in a comprehensive and ‘value-added’ manner. To each committee member, your contributions have been invaluable throughout 2006 and I thank you for all your effort and dedication.

PJ Timmins Chairperson

Dublin Chamber presented John O’Donoghue TD, Minister of Arts, Sport and Tourism, with a key policy paper, entitled ‘Tourism ABC: Promoting Dublin as a location for Arts, Business and Culture’. (l-r) Gina Quin, Chamber Chief Executive; P.J. Timmins, Chair of the Chamber’s ‘Competitive Dublin’ Committee; Minister John O’Donoghue TD; Eugene McCague, Chamber President; and Niall Geoghegan, CEO JurysDoyle Hotel.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

10 Committee Report: Infrastructure Margaret Sweeney, Chief Executive, An Post/Fortis Banking Venture In 2006, the ‘Infrastructure’ committee focused on the delivery of all projects outlined in Transport 21, on time and interlinked. During a transport briefing on the first anniversary of T21, we articulated to the Chief Executives of the agencies present Dublin Bus, Irish Rail, the National Roads Authority and the Railway Procurement Agency – that slow physical progress of projects and significant cost overruns must not occur. With the population of the GDA continuing to grow rapidly, and projected to increase by 34.4% by 2021, we highlighted that infrastructure must be developed ahead of demand, and projects must be set at a scale that anticipates the possibility of growth being higher than forecast.

Discussing Transport 21 with the four Chief Executives of the agencies in charge of the plan’s implementation. (l-r) Dick Fearn, Iarnrod Eireann; Joe Meagher, Dublin Bus; Eugene McCague, Chamber President; Frank Allen, RPA; and Fred Barry, NRA.

Accounting for roughly half of all national output and two in every five jobs in the country, we believe that it is important for the needs of the GDA to be prioritised. That was the message of our NDP submission, in which we supported balanced regional development but highlighted that as the only city in Ireland with the critical mass necessary to be recognised as a major European city, Dublin must be given its due balance of investment resources to help it fulfil its role as driver of regional and national growth and employment. We also pressed the Government to prepare other longterm multi-annual capital programmes, including an Environment 21, Health 21, Housing 21 and Education 21, to indicate how Dublin’s population increase will be accommodated in the future. Steady progress was made during the year on a number of infrastructural projects, including:

Public consultation on three additional Luas extensions; Selection of route for Metro North; Commencement of an alignment study for the Underground Rail Interconnector between Connolly and Heuston Station; Increases in Dublin Bus fleet; The appointment of the preferred bidders for the construction of the National Conference Centre; The opening of the Port Tunnel on December 20th; and Commencement of the upgrade of the M50. Each of these projects are a welcome addition to the infrastructure jigsaw. Their timely completion shall contribute greatly to improving Dublin’s transport deficit and freeing up the city centre for shoppers, workers and tourists. During meetings with Minister Cullen, and through our participation in the Public Transport Partnership Forum, we have continually reiterated the need for immediate progress to be made on the formation of the DTA. We believe that the critical success factor for the delivery of Transport 21 shall be the establishment of the Dublin Transport Authority. The current myriad of State Agencies and organisations responsible for transport and transport planning must work in a co-ordinated manner. We have continued to strengthen our links with Dublin City Council and have articulated members concerns to them regarding traffic management in the city and the need to ensure plans, such as the HGV plan, are effective and successful in their objectives. I would like to thank every member for their tireless work and contribution throughout 2006 in relation to the transport and infrastructure policy development of the Chamber. Margaret Sweeney Chairperson

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

11 Committee Report: Communications Imelda Reynolds, Managing Partner, Beauchamps Solicitors Building upon the re-branding carried out in 2005, the ‘Communications’ committee continued to strengthen recognition, amongst members and the Dublin business community, of the brand identity of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce. A key strategy was the integration of our media channels to ensure consistency in our messages. Connectivity between our magazine Business Ireland, newsletter Dublin Business, ezine Dublin Business Live and website www.dublinchamber.ie, created synergy for our readership. It helped to re-enforce our policy messages and increased coverage of networking in the Chamber. Dublin Chamber’s profile in print media rose considerably over 2006. Since 2004, our coverage in both national and local print increased by 50%, highlighting the prominent voice the Chamber has across the wide spectrum of issues affecting business and citizens in Dublin city and the Greater Dublin Area. To strengthen and ensure a coherent and harmonised voice, all Chamber communications were aligned around three key messages - competitiveness, knowledge and infrastructure. The production of a ‘template for media communications’ by the committee in 2006 further assists in consolidating the method and style of Chamber communication when engaging with the media. This harmonisation shall continue to deliver the Chamber’s policy messages effectively into the future.

information system, which shall be launched in 2007. A considerable degree of internal preparation work has been carried out to ensure that the new system facilitates an improved interaction between the Chamber and all members. The existing website shall be restructured to enable simplicity of interaction between the Chamber and members, especially in relation to financial transactions. The addition of a new web front end will allow member to access their accounts, book places at events and renew their membership online. This investment shall increase the effectiveness of Chamber interaction with members and increase efficiency through online electronic payments. Driven by the Chambers vision, ‘Imagine Dublin 2020: Our vision for the future of the city’, the communications committee has worked tirelessly throughout 2006 to ensure Dublin Chamber’s voice is heard clearly. Continuously improving the communication of our key policy issues and initiatives will allow us to do more to enhance the business environment and quality of life for all in Dublin. I would like to express a special thanks to each one of the committee members for their commitment and dedication to driving the media agenda of the Chamber over the past twelve months. Imelda Reynolds Chairperson

From a member’s perspective, the committee has been involved in the creation of a new management

The Chamber’s quarterly publication is distributed to all members and looks at a wide range of issues that matter to business.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

12 Committee Report: Business Development David Carson, Partner, Deloitte The focus of the Business Development Committee has been to continue to examine the business and commercial elements of current and future services. On an overall basis, it was agreed that Dublin Chamber should engage in activities which help create the financial resources to improve our services to members and to continue to raise the profile of Dublin Chamber. The Committee felt that those Chambers with commercial resources have raised their profile considerably. Since 2002 the Dublin Chamber has seen great improvements and changes that have resulted in an increase in total income of 17% and an increase of 9% in commercial revenue. Membership subscription income has increased by 26% with an increase of 19% in new member recruitment. 3 objectives were set for the year. 1. The Committee should review the existing sources of revenue which can be generated other than from members subscriptions in order to alleviate the reliance on member subscriptions. 2. The Committee should review the commercial services offered by Chambers Ireland and UK Chambers to see whether we should engage in such services. 3. The Committee should convert a number of business category members into the corporate category. The committee focused on the following major areas: Sponsorship New Business Cross-border Initiatives Initiatives with other agencies/organisations Training International Membership Upgrades

Successful business plans have been completed in some areas. The area of sponsorship has been analysed and a concise plan has been drawn up in terms of targeting and planning to maximise return. A cost - benefit analysis was completed in the area of training and a decision was made to concentrate resources into training collaborations and Dublin Chamber information briefing sessions. Other major areas for consideration under the remit of this Committee are ongoing and working groups have been assigned to analyse the potential of these concepts. The Business Development Committee wishes to thank the following sponsors who have kindly supported the Dublin Chamber over the last year - Ulster Bank, AOL Technologies Ireland, Bank of Ireland Business Banking, COLT Telecom, Arthur Cox, Grafton Recruitment, Blueprint Appointments, BT, AIB, O'Callaghan Hotels, TypeTech, DTZ Sherry FitzGerald, A & L Goodbody, Invest NI, Department of Foreign Affairs, ACC Bank, The Irish Times, The Irish Museum of Modern Art, PwC, Temple Bar Hotel, Microsoft and Lisney. I wish to extend my sincere thanks to all those involved in the Business Development Committee for their contribution and support in 2006. David Carson Chairperson

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

13 Committee Report: International Pat Maher, Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland The Dublin Chamber of Commerce has a vibrant and exciting international programme providing members with unique opportunities to expand and develop their business. Working with International Chambers of Commerce, embassies and other business organisations worldwide, we offer members valuable opportunities to access a global network, of which the Chamber is an integral part. 2006 proved to be a year packed full of international activities through, inward & outward missions, the InterTradeIreland Network & Getwork Programme and the Ireland Hong Kong Business Forum. Highlights of 2006 included a high-level council & member delegation visit to Belfast in May, this was the first Chamber delegation to visit Belfast and participants had a very in depth briefing on opportunities for southern companies in the North. This visit to Belfast was followed later in the year by a joint council meeting of both the Dublin and Northern Ireland Chamber’s. Our Hong Kong Business Mission in November, involved a programme of information and networking events. These missions offered participants an effective and efficient way of identifying new international business opportunities and acquiring knowledge and connections critical to success.

The ‘International’ committee would like to thank our sponsors in 2006: Ulster Bank, Irish Independent News & Media, and InterTradeIreland as well as the procurement departments from Dublin City Council, Accenture and the Health Service Executive. I would personally like to thank the members of the committee who volunteered their time and energy during 2006. Pat Maher Chairperson

Mark Sweeney, Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) President, Eugene McCague, Dublin Chamber President, Mike Maloney, COO of BT, and Frank Hewitt, CEO NICCI, met with President Mary McAleese after the historic signing between the Dublin Chamber and NICCI of a Memorandum of Understanding.

The International Programme also encompassed a number of Dublin based events, which focused on providing interested members with relevant information on chosen markets worldwide. These ranged from seminars and conferences to business luncheons and breakfast briefing sessions. In 2006 we held events highlighting opportunities in the Hong Kong, Guangzhou, San Jose, Atlanta, Malaysia, Malta and Yorkshire. One of the major highlights of the year was a lunch event in honour of the visiting Prime Minister of Australia, John Howard. The Network & Getwork Programme continued with huge interest from members; in 2006 suppliers & service providers were given the opportunity to meet with buyers from Belfast City Council, Dublin City Council, Accenture, FG Wilson, Regional Supplies Service and the Health Service Executive.

Clive Brownlee (left), Chair Ireland Hong Kong Business Forum, at the 2006 Chinese New Year Lunch.

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

14 Accounts Consolidated Income and Expenditure Account Year Ended 31 October 2006 2006 ¤

2005 ¤

1,141,832 256,168 2,158 413,253 1,813,411

1,060,944 217,961 3,581 333,877 1,616,363

993,049 113,943 182,771 106,054 110,088 1,505,905

900,384 100,896 201,400 105,709 104,994 57,067 1,470,450

Net surplus Interest income Interest expense

307,506 475 (13,517)

145,913 1,470 (2,188)

Net surplus on ordinary activities before taxation Corporation tax on interest income

294,464 (95)

145,195 (462)

Net surplus on ordinary activities after taxation

294,369

144,733

Accumulated surplus Surplus in the year At beginning of year

294,369 282,542

144,733 137,809

At end of year

576,911

282,542

Income Subscriptions Export documentation Secretarial services, projects and sponsorship Membership services (net of direct costs)

Expenditure Staff costs (net of allocation to membership services) Promotion and international representation Financial and administration expenses Establishment costs Depreciation Relocation Costs

The surplus on a historical cost basis would be greater for the year to 31 October 2006 by ¤37,514 (2005 ¤37,514) due solely to the charge for depreciation on the revalued amount included in land and buildings. The company has no recognised gains or losses other that the result for the year as set out above. On behalf of Council Eugene McCague, President Ronan King, Vice-President

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

15

Consolidated Balance Sheet As at 31 October 2006 2006 ¤

2005 ¤

426,018 324,003 684,416 1,434,437

530,083 267,901 340,088 1,138,072

Current liabilities Creditors

814,680

828,290

Net current assets

619,757

309,782

2,785,773

2,796,997

3,405,530

3,106,779

1,875,742 576,911 2,452,653 580,213 372,664

1,875,742 282,542 2,158,284 547,163 401,332

3,405,530

3,106,779

Current assets Debtors Bank and cash

- carnet deposits - other

Fixed assets

Represented by: Capital reserve Accumulated surplus Subscriptions received in advance Long term liabilities

On behalf of Council Eugene McCague, President Ronan King, Vice-President

Company Balance Sheet As at 31 October 2006 2006 ¤

2005 ¤

426,018 324,003 684,416 1,434,437

530,083 267,901 340,088 1,138,072

Current liabilities Creditors

814,680

828,290

Net current assets

619,757

309,782

2,785,773

2,796,997

3,405,530

3,106,779

1,875,742 576,911 2,452,653 580,213 372,664

1,875,742 282,542 2,158,284 547,163 401,332

3,405,530

3,106,779

Current assets Debtors Bank and cash

- carnet deposits - other

Fixed assets

Represented by: Capital reserve Accumulated surplus Subscriptions received in advance Long term liabilities

On behalf of Council Eugene McCague, President Ronan King, Vice-President

Dublin Chamber of Commerce Annual Report 2006

16 Staff Listing 1 Gina Quin, Chief Executive

1

2 Deirdre Power

PA To Chief Executive

3 Ruth Spain

Receptionist/ Administration

4 Richard Brown

Export Services Manager

5 Maire Walsh

International Services Executive

6

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

Sorcha Flynn International Trade Manager

7 Lisa Hughes

International Trade Assistant

8 Michelle Doody

Finance Manager

9 Joanne Brophy

Finance Assistant

10 Aebhric McGibney

Director of Policy & Communications

11 Patrick King

Policy & Communications Executive

12 Catherine McCabe

Policy & Communications Officer

13 Kay Gibbons

Credit Controller

14 Jean Hoey

Director of Business Development

15 Annie FitzGibbon

Membership Development Manager

16 Aideen Ryan

Membership Development Executive

17 Ciara Duncun

Events Manager

18 Daniella McCahill

Events and Training Executive

19 Bernadette Carton Housekeeper

connecting influencing Dublin Chamber of Commerce 7 Clare Street, Dublin 2, Ireland T +353 (0)1 644 7200 F +353 (0)1 676 6043 W www.dublinchamber.ie E [email protected]

Infrastructure | Competitiveness | Knowledge