Paddy Matthews was elected President and Holly Dance Vice President. Michael Farrell remains as treasurer and Paddy Malone becomes PRO.
In his closing speech as President Paddy Malone thanked the staff and members of the Chamber for their support.
He outlined a heavy schedule of activity during the year which included lobbying on Vat Rates and Narrow Water
He made reference to the large number of organisations the Chamber engaged with including, Louth County Council, Dundalk Town Council, BIDS, DKIT, Enterprise Ireland and IDA.
We held a number of conferences, business briefings, budget breakfast, Golf Day and the annual business awards. Next year the DKIT will be offering support to the winners of the various categories. This year we facilitated an accountancy internship with DKIT
He also pointed out that we had good working relationships with neighbouring Chambers in Newry, Warrenpoint, Kilkeel as well as Drogheda.
The Chamber has for many years actively supported the Narrow Water Bridge project.
Our community involvement includes organising the St. Patrick’s Day parade, Night of Lights as well as our involvement in the Tidy Towns competition.
Michael Farrell outlined the Chamber’s financial position which has now recovered. Membership in the last 12 months has increased despite the downturn in business.
Paddy Matthews as incoming President thanked Paddy Malone for his commitment and dedication over the years. He indicated that would intend to continue with the initiatives already underway and was in the process of drawing up a strategic plan for the next 3 years and beyond. He invited members to discuss this or any other matters with him and invited those businesses that are not members of the Chamber to join.
He said that Holly’s acceptance of the post of VP was a positive development for the whole area as it indicated the commitment that Foreign Direct Industries have to the local economy.
Jimmy Cummiskey pointed out that Dundalk has obtained significant FDI investment in the past 24 months
