The key objective of the Chamber is to support the economic and social development of Castlebar and now more than ever we need to ensure that we are doing all within our power to achieve this objective.   Every sector of business is experiencing serious challenges and is struggling for survival. However, the tide will turn and businesses will survive and we in the Chamber want to ensure that we support all our members in getting through these difficult times.

Town Centre Redevelopment:

The Town Centre Redevelopment , when complete , will  complement the already revitalised area on Hopkins Road to ensure that Castlebar cements is place as the premier shopping destination in the West of Ireland.  We will be working closely with Town Council to ensure that Town Centre Redevelopment work commences as soon as possible and that there is ongoing consultation to ensure that the disruption to business while the work is underway is kept to a minimum. I welcome the extension of the work on to Castle St/Ellison St and compliment the Town Council on securing additional which has boosted the budget for this work to €2.3m 

Destination Castlebar

The aim of this project is to market Castlebar’s unique attractions under a single brand and boost business for the local economy. The tagline  “Castlebar Everyone’s Invited “  was developed last year

 
I am appealing to the business community of Castlebar especially those involved in retail, leisure , accommodation and hospitality to give this project their support as without the financial support of a sizable fund, this project will not reach its potential.  In particular, I am appealing to the multiples to get involved and provide their support – meeting them and selling the benefits of this project will be a key area of focus for committee in coming weeks.

 
In my view the Towns that will come through these difficult times are those where all vested interest in the community work together for the good of the community. Destination Castlebar is the ideal vehicle for us to market our unique strengths and I encourage all like minded businesses and organisations to join up and play their part in supporting this project.

 
Enterprise Development :

Maintaining and generating employment is a serious challenge in these recessionary times. The Enterprise Group have been lobbying key business influencers such as Western Development Commission and Enterprise Ireland  to ensure that Castlebar remains on the map for location of jobs.

 
However, the reality is that we will have to rely on small indigenous businesses to create much needed jobs.  The Chamber continues to support these businesses by organising seminars, networking events and other initiatives to support them to grow and develop.

 
We will continue to focus on bigger issues such as broadband services and road infrastructure .

 
Membership Services :

 
The employment of Stephanie Colombani  in Office was a key milestone for us last year and she has been  responsible for expanding our range of services to members  including :

 
·        The  hosting of an Employment Law & Health & Safety Seminar last  September to inform our members of their legal and statutory responsibilities in these important areas.

 
·        The launch of Chamber Gift Voucher scheme last December to promote local shopping and enhance members business.

 
·        The organisation of  a  Christmas Festive Day on December 8th to launch the Christmas Shopping Season.

 
·        The organisation of a Speed Networking event in TF Royal in February to bring like minded businesspeople together to promote their products /services and develop strategic alliances.

 
·         The publication of a Weekly Ezine with information of interest to members.

 
·         The  running of a Table Quiz at Christmas and Fawlty Towers show last summer ,which raised much needed funds.

 
Chamber Mayo

During the year , I had reason to work closely with the Presidents of other Chambers in the County on a number of issues. I believe that there is merit on a more structured approach by the Chambers in Mayo to issues of mutual concern i.e  rates, infrastructure , access etc. While we all have our local issues to deal with , it is important that we also work together on issues that affect  the County as a whole.
 

Finally, I would like to thank all  members for your continued support of the Chamber. I believe that it is now more important than ever that we work together to promote our Town as a place in which to shop, work and live. There are many challenges facing us but by working together we can meet these challenges and ensure that Castlebar continues to grow and prosper in the years ahead.

 
Peter Glynn

 
President

 
February 2010