Those boys in green

With the European Championships now well underway, and with Ireland looking to redeem themselves in tonight’s group match against Spain, Peter Horgan looks at how some of the business community are supporting the Boys in Green.

While there may not have been chants of ‘Olé, Olé, Olé’ on Sunday night, or Monday morning, following the disappointing return of Ireland to the European stage this week, some businesses are still making an effort for Trapattoni's charges.

“It’s important for us to show community spirit,” says Hugh Sheehy, Marketing Manager of Cavanaghs car dealership in Charleville.

Cavanaghs held a Family Fun Day last Saturday morning, to coincide with the European Championships getting underway.

“We thought it was a good time to give back to the community, there wasn’t any commercial reason behind the idea. It synced up well with the start of the Championships and was great for the kids to come and enjoy themselves.”

The fun day, which was run by Ford and Cavanaghs, was aimed at kids between the ages of four and 12 with bouncy castles, a children’s activity castle and face painting on the day. The family event also featured former Irish international and current Limerick City striker, Dominic Foley.

“We’re fully decked out in Tricolours and bunting here,” comments Hugh, noting that the general business vibe of displaying the green, white and gold is muted.

“It’s certainly not as much as I thought it would be. There are a few businesses but in general I think the colours have been overtaken and dominated by the brands supporting the team. The drinks and TV brands seem to be more prevalent than the colours of the country.”

Hugh also doesn't hold out much hope for the corporate community jumping on the bandwagon in the coming days.

“If anyone was going to do any sort of decorating then they would have done it by now. I would be very surprised if they started putting up flags and colours now.”

Meanwhile Cork Chamber of Commerce has insisted that it may take a little time for enthusiasm to build within the corporate world for the Irish team. While many licensed premises in the city have stepped up to the plate, many other businesses have been slow to unfurl the flag.

“The experience of these events, whether it’s the Euros, Cork GAA or the rugby, is that it takes a while for support to really build up in the business community,” says Conor Healy, CEO of the Cork Chamber of Commerce.

“It certainly is a positive thing though and I imagine the that a lot of the support will come as wins progress for Ireland.”

Conor was keen to stress however that employees should be mindful of their commitments to their work during the competition.

“It’s very important that workers are mindful of their roles that must be fulfilled, especially in the times we are in. Costs and productivity is a huge concern to businesses at the moment and while employers will be flexible it is important to know the limits.”

If you or your business is getting in the Euro 2012 spirit, send in a snapshot of your office in action to phorgan@corkindependent.com.