Chambers Ireland announced the shortlist for the Chamber Awards 2021 last week. The shortlist demonstrates the strong level of activity that was maintained by Chambers around the country despite the difficulties presented by the ongoing pandemic.
Cross-Chamber collaboration is evident from the list of nominations. Two infrastructure projects, both recognised in the Most Successful Policy Campaign category, were the result of cooperation between Chambers.
Drogheda Chamber and Dundalk Chamber have been shortlisted for their work on the M1 Corridor project.
Dundalk Chamber was also short listed in the Category Best Virtual Event for their – Cross Border Tourism Conference “Learn from the Best” which was moved online in April 2020 and was attended by over 200 delegates from all over Ireland.
Dundalk Chamber Skillnet was also shortlisted in the category “Most Innovative Project” for the “Working from Home Series”. Dundalk Chamber Skillnet Manager Aidan Callan stated “we’re delighted that the programme has been acknowledged with a nomination. Funded through Skillnet Ireland the ‘Working from Home Series’ represented an investment of €35,000. Developed within two weeks of the first lockdown the programme ran from April to June incorporating 48 free training courses covering 3 strategic themes of Business Survival, Business Recovery and Return to Work safely. Designed to be short, sharp, and actionable over 800 trainees from 400 local companies attended. The impact of the training was demonstrated in a follow up survey with 95% of trainees confirming they had implemented the skills learned and 92% advising the training was supportive. We are committed to supporting local business through this difficult period and continue to provide an innovative range of training interventions”.
President of Dundalk Chamber Sean Farrell said “Dundalk Chamber was delighted to be shortlisted in 3 categories. These projects display the ongoing commitment of the Chamber to provide high quality events, training, and projects to the business community of Dundalk and its environs.”
Sean Farrell
Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life and Pensions at Zurich, the main sponsor of the awards, said: “Zurich is delighted to continue its role as title sponsor of the Chamber Awards. Given that the Covid-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to every aspect of our economy, it is more important than ever to acknowledge the excellence of the Chamber network and their members as they continue to support local economic development.”
“We are proud to be associated with these awards and to support the important work Chambers undertake in fostering a vibrant business community of all sizes and sectors across Ireland.”
Ian Talbot, Chief Executive of Chambers Ireland, said: “Chambers in our network have responded with incredible resilience to the challenges put in front of them over the past year. During an unprecedented time, they have been both innovative and collaborative in finding solutions and have ensured their members continue to have an ally who works on their behalf.”
“Helping to create sustainable communities has also been a key focus of our network. Chambers understand that creating places which are both attractive and enduring helps to improve quality of life and stimulate economic activity. This is not only of benefit to business, but a benefit to all.”
The winners of the Chamber Awards will be announced over an eight-day period from June 17-25. Awards will be presented for excellence in seven individual categories with one Chamber also taking home the award for Chamber of the Year 2021.
