A tale of two key cities

Marguerite Kiely

The Cork Chamber Dublin Dinner which took place recently focussed on the collaborative spirit between Cork and Dublin and highlighted the importance of the relationship between the two cities to the success of Ireland.

Held in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road and attended by Tánaiste Micheál Martin and Minister for Finance Michael McGrath, the keynote was delivered by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to 600 people from across Ireland’s business, political and diplomatic landscape.

In his keynote address, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said: “The Government and I strongly believe that more balanced regional development is good for the country as whole. Cork, as a city-region, has a population approaching six hundred thousand people which is similar to that of Galway, Limerick and Waterford combined. Cork city and county can lead the way with Government in generating economic and population growth. We will be there to ensure it succeeds through increased investment in infrastructure like rail, roads, housing, school, hospitals, universities, energy and water.”

Ronan Murray, President of Cork Chamber, noted the collaborative dynamic between Cork and Dublin and highlighted their consistent success in attracting foreign direct investment along with fostering an environment supportive of the growth of Irish private enterprises aiming for international expansion. He specifically spoke of Ireland's potential to become a leader in renewable energy.

“Sitting in this enviable position on the edge of the Atlantic, we have the potential to emerge as a renewable energy powerhouse. Our commitment to delivering on this is critical to achieving energy security and future resilience. This year alone, we have seen many steps taken to enable the growth of the sector, with the launch of MARA (the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority), the first offshore wind auctions and increased activity in the solar landscape,” said Mr Murray.

"Paving the way for energy independence will not only enhance our appeal to investors but it will also elevate the quality of life in Ireland which ultimately will create a more secure legacy for the generations to come,” he added.

Speaking at the event Frank O’Keeffe, Managing Partner EY Ireland said: “For Ireland to thrive both Cork and Dublin need to thrive individually and collectively. That happens when we make the most of our shared gifts. We are fortunate in this country to have brilliant hard-working people from an increasingly diverse range of backgrounds as well as clusters of multinational companies and entrepreneurs from across a range of critical sectors. Coupled with a history of stable government which recognises the importance of being at the heart of the international community, in so many ways we have so much to be optimistic about as we look to the future together.”