The new public realm at Ebrington will be officially opened on February 14th and to mark this historic occasion, an evening of events is being organised to celebrate our new public space.

The opening will feature something for everyone with music, a light & projection show, artwork, street performers and much more. Acts will include the Codetta Choir, Bronagh Gallagher & Band, Inishowen Gospel Choir, Future Chaser and The Wonder Villains. In keeping with the Valentine's theme, there will also be a special ‘chapel of love' for any romantics out there and a costume photo booth.

"These are very difficult times for retailers. The Chamber is working closely with retailers in Derry to protect and expand the retail sector in the city. This month the Chamber is organising and hosting a workshop that will support retailers and statutory bodies to brand the city as a retail destination; that will bring in retail experts to advise on in-store layout, design and retail atmospherics; and will help retailers to grasp the opportunities of online retailing. While retailers face tough times, when they work together, with the Chamber and with statutory bodies, we can do much to help retailers survive and then to thrive.

"The Chamber also believes it is absolutely essential that statutory bodies and businesses work together to improve the city's environment to attract more shoppers and visitors to the city centre. Our retail, leisure and tourism offering are all closely connected. We have to make the city centre attractive for all three types of visitor.

"Central to achieving that is having the right strategy, the right investment and the right retailers to meet contemporary consumer demand. The Chamber supports Ilex and Derry City Council in their efforts to put together the best strategy possible and to attract the investment that will expand Derry as a retailing and tourism destination.

"Derry has marvellous opportunities ahead. City of Culture has the potential to transform Derry's fortunes not just for one year, but permanently. We must ensure that we build on this opportunity to protect Derry as the major retailing and tourism destination of the North West."

Sinead McLaughlin

Chief Executive, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce

One of Derry's last surviving clothing manufacturers has been awarded a contract to supply uniforms to the North's Ambulance Service.

Simon Hunter, Managing Director of Hunter Apparel Solutions Ltd, says the firm has secured a three year - with further twelve month option - ambulance service contract.

"We are delighted to have won this NI regional contract which helps us consolidate our market leading position in web based fully managed service contracts in this sector", he says.

Bryan Snoddy, Asst Director of Operations, of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, says staff are pleased with their new uniforms.

"The main change in our uniform issue has been the bespoke gore jacket, which was developed between Hunter Apparel and the NIAS Uniform Committee.

"Staff are very happy with this item as it is very functional and portrays a professional image of the Ambulance Service. NIAS look forward to continuing working with Hunters in their new role as the sole supplier in the new contract."

Hunter Apparel Solutions now supplies uniforms to tens of thousands of emergency service workers in the UK and Ireland.

Meanwhile Simon Hunter, the company's MD has also been recognised as Family Director of the Year at the recent IoD (Institute of Directors) Director of the Year Awards.

The award is in recognition of Simon's leading role in the Company's diversification strategy and then remodelling the business to allow it to survive and prosper in the recession against a backdrop of competitor business failing.

Simon, who is the third generation of the Hunter family to take on the Managing Director role, is currently working with Invest NI after the company was recognised as one of 20 companies which the economic development agency believes has the right strategy for delivering high growth.

The company, which has diversified in recent times to become the country's leading uniform supplier, plans to increase it's workforce by 10% this year to assist with the delivery of export.

Many modern business leaders are proud to call themselves volunteers, as more and more companies in Northern Ireland develop a CSR culture - but wouldn't it be even more satisfying for a volunteer to know that their time could potentially make a difference to the region's economic output?

Young Enterprise Northern Ireland provides many such opportunities. The UK's leading business and enterprise education charity has an ethos of ‘Learning by Doing', to promote a culture of enterprise from an early age, and all of them complement existing education programmes by offering specific curriculum links. Its offering is designed to ensure that young people acquire the skills they will need to become enterprising, creative and commercially aware.

Some Chamber of Commerce members will already be aware of its volunteer programme - almost 1,000 business leaders deliver its innovative business and enterprise education programme in Northern Ireland schools.

What it means to be a Young Enterprise volunteer...

Jeff Gallagher, Development Manager for Young Enterprise's North West region is currently undertaking a recruitment drive for new volunteers in the area. He commented: ‘Whether delivering a programme, or acting as a business mentor, you can make a real difference to the lives of young people in your area, for the long-term benefit of the Northern Ireland economy.

‘With a wide range of inspiring programmes, you can choose how much time you wish to commit to being a Young Enterprise volunteer.

‘We are currently recruiting volunteers who can share their experience of business and the world of work. New recruits will receive full training and support to fully equip them to work alongside teaching staff, and ensure that their experience is enjoyable and fulfilling.

‘Never has enterprise education been more relevant. In today's economic climate, it is imperative that young people take ownership of their future careers.

‘Business support is essential to the work of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland. As a not-for-profit organisation, it depends on various forms of support: financial, in-kind and through the provision of business volunteers. Many local and national businesses recognise the importance of investing in Young Enterprise to prepare young people for their future.

‘At a time when many organisations are reducing staff development budgets, supporting Young Enterprise can help many companies boost morale by encouraging their personnel to become business volunteers, and develop their professional skills base, for example, communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.

‘A relationship with Young Enterprise can provide many mutual benefits, including a practical solution to their corporate social responsibilities and generating many positive PR opportunities'.
Paul Erskine of Ulster Bank is currently acting as a volunteer for the QuickStart Programme at Cathedral Youth Club. He commented: ‘Of all the options available for volunteering, this seems to the most rewarding in terms of helping today's youth develop new skills, and also to understand some aspect of business.

‘The main benefit has been seeing the sense of achievement with the projects initiated and taken forward by the young people. It's particularly pleasing to see how they have worked as a team and how their confidence has grown. Volunteering with Young Enterprise Northern Ireland clearly demonstrates Ulster Bank's commitment to supporting our communities'.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering opportunities, please visit http://young-enterprise.org.uk/northern_ireland/get_involved/Volunteer
or contact jeff.gallagher@yeni.co.uk

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce would like to invite the global award initiative "Living labs Global Award 2012" amongst the local community of businesses and entrepreneurs. This presents an invaluable opportunity for local companies to have international projection and become part of the international community that forms the leaders on service innovation in cities.

Living labs Global is a non-profit association based in Copenhagen and Barcelona, promoting service innovation in cities through the use of new technologies, available new delivery processes and new approaches to innovation. We are working together with 50 global cities and 500 providers of innovative solutions to cities. Our activities are focused around the online Showcase Portal, Matchmaking Summits on Service Innovation in which we bring together cities and innovators, our annual Living Labs Global Award (in collaboration with 20 international cities worldwide) and publications.

The Living Labs Global Award 2012 brings together 20 global cities in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas which jointly call for solutions for their most pressing challenges to which companies and research centres with ready solutions are responding. The award was launched two months ago and over a 5 month process including 2 rounds of evaluation, the winners will be selected (one for each city) who, rather than receiving prize money, will receive an invitation to pilot their solutions in the correspondent cities. This process will culminate in the Award Ceremony and Summit in Rio on May 2/3 2012 where the 20 representatives of the Cities participating will announce the winning solutions.

Until February 17 2012, companies can present their solutions to meet any of the 20 challenges that cover areas such as Affordable Housing, Tourism, Prevention of Obesity, Transport & Mobility, Access to the Knowledge Society and Inclusive Governance.

If you are interested in encouraging local companies take part in the Living Labs Global Award, there are different ways in which this can be done:

• Putting an announcement on your website or newsletter about the award.

• Distribute an invitation amongst your local network,

• Publishing the press release amongst your members as well other organizations you think may help us promote the award.

For all the above, we can provide you with a template invitation, press release and logos.
In return we offer to put your logo on our website (www.llga.org) as a way to acknowledge your invaluable contribution to our initiative.

"The bomb attacks on Derry demonstrate the contempt that the dissidents have for each and every citizen of this city. The dissidents have chosen to exclude themselves from the political process and because of this they have no voice and certainly no mandate - yet they have chosen to hold our people to ransom. The bombs are an economic attack on the people of the city: the perpetrators' desired outcome is to destroy the economy and our children's future. More businesses are put at risk of closure every time there are bomb attacks of this kind - and such economic damage cannot possibly contribute towards the creation of a united Ireland.

"The action by the dissidents is a clear attempt to reduce the chances of unemployed people in this city obtaining the jobs that they need to have a better quality of life - including young people in economically distressed areas, such as Creggan, the Bogside, Brandywell, Shantallow and Galliagh.

"Our society wants to move on, we are engaged in an agreed democratic process and this is light years away from our troubled past. The people of Derry have shown tremendous resilience and outstanding leadership. The city is committed to working together to build a brighter future.

"We will be redoubling our efforts and we remain focused on developing business opportunities, promoting the creative and digital economy, building a robust cultural infrastructure and bringing jobs to the city. Those that continue to perpetuate such reckless behaviour upon the community in Derry have no regard for this city or its people. Those who bomb Ireland lose their right to claim any love for our wonderful island."

Derry~Londonderry's participation in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race provides an unrivalled opportunity to raise the international profile of the city in 2012. Your have the opportunity to use our city's increased international visibility to boost your business's export profile.

Clipper has an exceptional international profile reaching 550 million people in 175 countries with a PR value of $265 million. The race involves 10 City Sponsored boats racing 40,000 miles over 330 days of sailing with stopovers in 14 ports. On each stopover there is a week of opportunity to host trade missions, business meetings, contacts between politicians/dignitaries and position and sell the sponsor cities. See www.clipperroundtheworld.com and www.derrycity.gov.uk/Clipper for information on the race and the ports.

In conjunction with Invest NI and other partners, Derry City Council is proposing a focus on supporting trading opportunities around the forthcoming North American market stopovers. These include;

• San Francisco - 10th to 12th April
• New York - 3rd to 5th June
• Halifax, Nova Scotia - 12th to 15th June

If you have existing or new trading opportunities you want to explore further in these markets, we are keen to talk to you. A package of support can be provided by Derry City Council in conjunction with by Invest NI including;

• Market research and in-market contacts
• Support to prepare your company for market access
• Possible financial support
• Networking and one to one meeting opportunities
• Clipper related hospitality or corporate entertainment opportunities.

If any of the above cities or areas of support are of interest to you, please contact Matt Peachey - Investment & Enterprise Officer, by email, or on 028 7136 5151 directly and we can arrange a time to discuss the opportunity in more detail

Derry companies had tremendous success with the Creative Industries Innovation Fund over the Summer with well over a dozen projects being funded with up to £10k (each) in grant funding.

The great news is that CIIF is back and open for applications again between now and Thursday, Feb 23rd.

Once again applications are welcomed from businesses and individuals for innovative new projects and you can apply for up to £10k. There are a few differences though. Firstly, any creative industries project is eligible (not just digital), although around 40% of the total fund is earmarked for digital content projects. Secondly, existing staff salaries are eligible. Decisions will be made by May and projects must be completed by the end of March 2013.

So who should (probably) apply?

• Anyone with an innovative creative industries project (especially digital)
• People who were awarded CIIF grants over the Summer (provided you can demonstrate that you've delivered "tangible outcomes and achievements to date" - see the guidance notes p.7)
• Anyone applying to the Culture Tech Fund
• Sectoral bodies working in the creative industries
• Anyone interested in doing something as part of the City of Culture celebrations

If you'd like to find out whether your project is a good fit for CIIF - or how to make it one - then here's what to do (in this order):

1. Download the application form and guidance notes from http://www.artscouncil-ni.org/award/innovation.html
2. Book yourself into the workshop which takes place in Magazine Studios on January 31st. To register your interest in the workshops, call or email Beverley Coomber on 02890 385271 or bcoomber@artscouncil-ni.org
3. Drop Mark Nagurski an email and he will be happy to help

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce would like to wish all our members a Merry Christmas & a Happy New year!

Digital Derry will be hosting a workshop with the BBC Big Screen team in Derry on Tuesday, December 13th from 10am-1pm at Magazine Studios. This is ahead of DCAL's planned call for proposals for new games and interactive content for the screens in Derry and Belfast, delivered in partnership with Digital Derry and Digital Circle.

http://digitalderry.org/events/bbc-want-games-developers-for-big-screen/

They are already 20+ registered but it would be great if you can circulate this to anyone who might be interested in attending.

Transactions will Significantly Expand the Company's Addressable Market and Provide Customers with the Only Capture Enabled BPM Platform.

IRVINE, CA, December 6, 2011 - Kofax plc (LSE: KFX), a leading provider of capture driven business process automation solutions, today announced that it has acquired Singularity Limited, a leading provider of business process management (BPM) software and case management solutions.

Commenting on the acquisition, Reynolds C. Bish, Chief Executive Officer of Kofax, said: "We've become a leader in the capture market by managing information into customers' enterprise applications and repositories. The acquisition of Singularity will now allow our customers to manage that information as it flows through their organisations, expanding our reach beyond capture into the BPM market and providing a uniquely differentiated product with strong competitive advantages in both markets. We're excited to deliver more capabilities to our customers and welcome the Singularity management team and its employees, customers and partners to Kofax."

The acquisition should allow Kofax to realize numerous strategic benefits, including:

• The Company will significantly increase its addressable market. Kofax's core capture market is expected to grow from $2.2 billion in 2010 to $2.9 billion in 2013(1) at a 10% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). The BPM market is forecasted to grow from $2.2 billion in 2010 to $3.1 billion in 2013 at a 12% CAGR(2). This increase in addressable market, coupled with Kofax's existing direct and indirect sales channels and global reach, will significantly expand and accelerate Kofax's revenue growth opportunities.
• Kofax will be the first company to offer a capture enabled BPM platform, which will provide uniquely differentiated software product and solution offerings in both the capture and BPM markets. This will allow the Company to maintain its leadership position in the capture market, establish a leadership position in the BPM market and create sustainable competitive advantage.
• Customers will benefit from the capture enabled BPM platform by being able to automate both the capture processes needed to enter content into enterprise applications and repositories as well as the downstream knowledge worker processes needed to effectively utilize that information. This will allow them to invest in a single platform for automating all of their critical business processes and thereby enjoy a lower total cost of ownership and faster return on investment.
• The combined Kofax and Singularity products will be fully deployable "on premise" or via private clouds under a traditional perpetual license model and via a public cloud under a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) subscription model. This will allow the Company to better serve a broader array of customer buying preferences and over time create more predictable revenue streams.

Singularity has been recognized as a "Visionary" in Gartner's "Magic Quadrant" and as a "Leader" in Forrester's "Wave" for Dynamic Case Management. Its flagship product - TotalAgility^TM - provides BPM software for automating the knowledge worker processes needed to effectively utilize information in enterprise applications and repositories, thereby improving business performance and agility. It includes the design, simulation, workflow control, business rule and integration capabilities needed to implement more efficient, flexible and better executed business processes, and the dynamic case management capabilities required to manage the fluid mix of correspondence, structured data, unstructured content, resources and processes that arise during interactions between a corporation or government agency and its constituents. This would include, for example, the ability to offer new customer on-boarding, order entry, "quote-to-cash", customer service or incident tracking and other dynamic case management solutions. TotalAgility is deployable "on premise" or via private clouds under a traditional perpetual license model. LiveAgility^TM is a version of TotalAgility deployable via a public cloud under a SaaS subscription model.

Padraig Canavan, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Singularity, said: "We're excited to now be part of Kofax, a proven leader in the capture market and natural fit for Singularity. Kofax's direct sales force, large channel of value added resellers and global reach will significantly expand our access to the market. I'm very happy to continue as the Senior Vice President of BPM Software Sales at Kofax and along with the Singularity team remain fully committed to our future success."

Further commenting on the acquisition, Reynolds C. Bish said: "This transaction has been structured with a significant portion of the total consideration in the form of an earn out in order to maintain our strong cash position - which was $92.5 million at September 30, 2011 - and minimize integration and execution risk. We expect it to add approximately $8.0 million of revenue and be slightly dilutive on an Adjusted EBITA(3) basis during our fiscal year ending June 30, 2012 but accretive in subsequent periods."

Kofax has acquired all of Singularity's stock for total consideration of up to $48.1 million in cash, net of cash held by the company on closing. Of this amount, $30.3 million was paid on closing of the transaction and $3.3 million will be paid one year from closing subject to certain indemnification terms and conditions. Additional payments totalling up to $14.5 million may be made one and two years following closing subject to the achievement of specific annual software license revenue growth rates and certain management employment conditions.

Singularity was a privately held company headquartered in Derry, Northern Ireland with approximately 215 employees principally in Derry and Belfast, Northern Ireland, Hyderabad, India and London, England. Audited financial statements for its fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 reflected revenues of $16.1 million, an Adjusted EBITA of $1.0 million and gross assets of $18.2 million with no material debt. Padraig Canavan, age 50, was its most important employee and majority shareholder. He is now an employee of Kofax, functioning as its Senior Vice President of BPM Software Sales.

Mr. Bish and Mr. Arnold will discuss the acquisition and conduct a question and answer session via teleconference at 7:30 am GMT December 6, 2011.

       Live Call           Replay             Access Code
U.K. 0800 694 0257 0800 953 1533  29628426#
International +44 (0) 1452 555 566 +44 (0) 1452 55 00 00 29628426#
U.S. 1-866-966-9439 1-866-247-4222 29628426#

The telephonic replay will be available by 1:00 pm GMT December 6. In addition, an audio replay and call transcript will be available on the investor relations section of the company's website.

As part of the partnership with Children in Crossfire,as The Chamber of Commerce's nominated charity, The Chamber would are inviting local businesses to help Children in Crossfire make a positive difference to the lives of young children who are suffering from severe acute malnutrition at St Luke's Hospital in Wolisso, Ethiopia.

The therapeutic feeding centre at St Luke's treats young children like one-year old Feyiftu who was severely malnourished and gravely ill when her mother brought her to St Luke's. The doctors feared for her life. However, shortly after her arrival at St Luke's, Feyiftu's condition improved when she was given high-nutrition food and excellent care by the fully-trained nurses. Thanks to the facilities provided by Children in Crossfire, Feyiftu was given the treatment she needed and started to gain weight within a matter of days.

To support the initative Chamber members have been sent a fundraising pack for Children in Crossfire's Advent Campaign "Be Festive and Fight Hunger". The pack gives lots of ideas on how your staff can create a fundraising idea. With Festive dress down days, cake sale, or Christmas Quiz, or buy buying one of the virtual gifts or donating in lieu of Christmas Cards.

It doesn't take a lot to make a difference: £10 is enough to buy a full one month course of a high nutrition food supplement for one child attending the feeding centre.

The Chamber President, Board and staff would like to wish their members a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. In lieu of Christmas cards they have made a donation to Children in Crossfire.

firmus energy has unveiled its new out of home campaign using Northern Ireland Media's first illuminated T-sides to create extra stand out and impact during the dark winter weeks ahead.

The firmus energy T-sides are illuminated using LEDs strategically embedded into the main creative to highlight the core campaign message. The unique T-Sides can be seen across Belfast's Metro bus fleet in November and early December, encouraging gas users to "switch to 10% cheaper gas".

T-sides are an extremely eye catching format that deliver high coverage and frequency in the greater Belfast area. This new opportunity will ensure that firmus energy stands out from its competitors in the marketplace and captures the attention of its target audience.

The firmus energy LED T-sides are supported by full bus domination, utilising all bus advertising formats and additional Supersides to further engage audiences on the move across Greater Belfast.
Michael Scott, firmus energy, Acting General Manager believes this new technology will help the company to communicate more effectively with potential customers this winter.
This is a really exciting advertising medium and just as firmus energy prides itself on being innovative and leading the way in the energy market, so we are always looking at interesting and effective ways of communicating with customers and potential customers. I believe that these illuminated advertising panels will make the common sense message of switching to 10 % cheaper gas with firmus energy shines through to consumers during the cold, dark winter months

Commenting on the new LED T-Sides, Martin Heatley, General Manager of CBS Outdoor Northern Ireland said
It's great to have a local advertiser utilising this media first opportunity in Northern Ireland, especially an advertiser such as firmus energy who has continued to invest in effectively reaching their desired target audience through a range of out of home advertising formats.

To all Members

There are now 3 special Christmas categories on the What's on Website - Christmas Events, Christmas Shopping and Christmas Parties... Make sure to add your events, activities, offers onto this site. If you have not already just simply register as a user and upload your activity free of charge. It just takes 5 minutes and your event is automatically uploaded...

Over the last number of weeks this website has seen more and more traffic with over 3000 unique visitors a week, be sure not to miss out on the opportunity to promote !!!

As always we welcome any feedback comments you might have on this website.. www.whatsonderrylondonderry.com

Dear Member

Due to circumstances beyond our control the Business Lunch scheduled with Arlene Foster, in the City Hotel on Thursday 17th November at 12.30 pm has had to be cancelled.

We would like to apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused. Credit Notes will be emailed ASAP to anyone that has booked and any refunds will be credited to your account.

"Our members will be very unhappy with the decision on the A5. We had hoped and expected that this would lead to the direct and indirect creation of hundreds of jobs and be a major boost to the local economy, both now during the recession and in the longer-term. Improving the transport links in the North West is absolutely essential for us to improve the local economy, to protect and create jobs and to enable our businesses to survive and expand.

"It is absolutely essential now that funds earmarked by the Northern Ireland Executive for the A5 upgrade are reallocated to improving the A6 to Belfast. With a much better link to Belfast we can improve our road connectivity to both Belfast and Dublin. The existing road is probably the worst transport artery in Western Europe between a capital city and its second city - it is a disgrace. The Chamber will ask all local MLAs to support a call for the improvement of the A6 at the worst logjam points - in the Castledawson and Dungiven areas - to begin immediately."

Sinead McLaughlin - Chamber CEO

Grainne Kelly, chief executive and founder of Bubblebum, was awarded the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Award at the Chamber's annual dinner on Friday. The award is made by the Chamber
in partnership with BT.

Bubblebum became the world's first inflatable car booster seat in 2009. It is now available for sale in 21 countries, in several continents. It is ideal to travel with, and can fit into a handbag, shoulder bag, schoolbag, or car glove compartment. Bubblebum meets car safety regulations in all jurisdictions in which it is sold, including Europe and the United States.

Sinead McLaughlin, chief executive of the Chamber, said: "This year's worthy winner developed a simple solution to a weighty problem that has tortured many families for many years. When I first saw this product I thought perfect: now why have we waited so long to solve this cumbersome problem?

"Grainne, identified a product gap. Determination to develop a product to meet the market need introduced Grainne to the world of innovation, where the conversations were about product development, health and safety and regulation. Having established the need Grainne had an overwhelming desire to bring a successful product to market. She overcame many obstacles in her own down to earth practical way - what she didn't know, she found out, when she didn't understand, she asked for help, but most importantly of all she stuck with the vision.

"The result is a young Derry business, that is successful, dynamic and going places. It is an example of the enterprise that the Chamber hopes will sprout across our city to make it a better place to live and a better place to do business in."

The award to Grainne Kelly is merely the latest in a sequence to her and her product:
Belfast Telegraph Business Woman of the Year Award 2010-11
Ulster Bank Business Achiever Awards 2011
Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist 2011

Mother & Baby Travel Item 2010-11
Practical Parenting Travel Item 2010-11

Derry should embrace the spirit of entrepreneurialism, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce President Padraig Canavan said in his speech to this year's Chamber dinner. The annual dinner is the premier social event in the North West's business calendar.

"The City of Culture year is a truly fantastic opportunity and one we should seize," said Canavan. "To make the most of it we need to be more entrepreneurial, and start being so now. Derry - and Northern Ireland - has a very low level of entrepreneurial activity.

"To change this we must all start stepping outside our comfort zone - live a little on the edge, stretch a little further in an effort to reach our goals, perhaps try something completely different to add a little spice to our economic life.

"That's what we need in Derry - as many of us as possible trying out new things in response to this wonderful new and increasingly urgent opportunity. So my simple request is ‘dare to be different'. Abandon the dogma of the past. See Derry in a different light, indeed be a different light in Derry. And take pride in making this future happen.

"For each of us personally it means standing out, taking a chance. Think of Derry as a place of opportunity and make that opportunity a reality. But most of all I ask government and the civil service to think differently about Derry. Be creative in how you can help the city become what we all want it to be - a healthy economic contributor."

The keynote speaker at the Chamber dinner was First Minister Peter Robinson. "We are very privileged to be addressed by Mr Robinson and we sincerely thank him for attending," said Padraig Canavan.

The Chamber dinner was sponsored by Ulster Bank. Nial Douglas, the Head of Ulster Bank's North West Business Centre, says: "Ulster Bank is delighted to work in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce to support such a prestigious event, which highlights and underscores the City's role as an important economic hub. There is much to be proud of and positive about in the City, from the opening of the Peace Bridge to the plans for the City of Culture celebrations, and Ulster Bank is committed to supporting businesses to help them maximise the potential that these and other opportunities offer."

The City of Culture Company 2013 would like to invite members of the Chamber to get involved with the City of Culture and view the several tendering opportunities available at the moment.

Please view all City of Culture Opportunities HERE

Londonderry Chamber of Commerce today held a very successful meeting with Dr Stephen Farry, the Minister for Employment and Learning.

Chamber President Padraig Canavan said:


"Londonderry Chamber of Commerce stressed to Dr Farry the importance of skills if the North West's economy is to improve. It is essential that we expand and strengthen our skills base, both in terms of high value skills and basic skills. We have far too few people with the top end skills needed in the modern economy - and very sadly far too many people without the basic literacy, numeracy and IT skills that are also needed. As business leaders, we recognise the difficulties that minister Farry has in terms of funding, but we believe it is absolutely essential for the North West's economy that the money is made available for the substantial expansion of the Magee campus and that this expansion is based on the science, technology, engineering, maths and creative industries skills required in the modern economy. We also emphasised that independent studies had found the likely value to the North West of an expanded Magee would be about an additional £240m of economic activity per year. No other government action can generate equivalent value to our local economy.

"I am certain that Dr Farry understood and recognised the points we expressed. I trust that he also realises that the Chamber will continue to press these points to him and his colleagues until we achieve our objective of dramatically improving the skills base in the North West."



The meeting took place at the Chamber's offices in Derry between 12 noon and 2pm today, Wednesday 11 October, at the request of the Chamber. It is one of a series of meetings the Chamber is holding with Executive ministers. It was attended by Senior Chamber Directors and Chamber Members.

PROPOSED FINANCIAL REPORTING CHANGES COULD IMPACT 90% OF COMPANIES IN THE PROVINCE ACCORDING TO THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTANTS (CIMA)

The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) annual Continual Professional Development event was hosted by Seagate at Springtown recently. The event focused on the proposed changes to Financial Reporting Standards (FRS) that would impact financial reporting for the Province's medium sized enterprises and which will come into effect from 1 January 2014. The proposed changes could impact over 90% of companies operating in the Province.

Pictured from left, Brian Burns, Vice-President, Seagate Springtown; Frank Nolan, Deputy Chair, Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) Northern Ireland and Professor Robert Kirk, Associate Professor of Accounting and Finance, at the University of Ulster.

An urgent letter has been sent jointly by the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and U4D to all ministers in the Northern Ireland Executive, urging them to amend the Programme for Government.

The draft Programme for Government omits all mention of the Derry-Londonderry ‘One Plan'. There are no proposed initiatives to alleviate the acute economic and social disparity that damages the North West.

Padraig Canavan, President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and Chair of U4D, said: "The draft Programme for Government fails the North West. Many people in Derry-Londonderry had high hopes that the city's One Plan would be accommodated in its entirety in the Programme for Government - at the very least as a recognised aspiration.

"Instead, the draft version does not even mention the One Plan - unlike the very many other government strategies that are listed.

"Nor is there any recognition of the priorities of the North West. Those priorities are the substantial expansion of Magee and improvement to the transport infrastructure, particularly the road and rail links between Derry-Londonderry and Belfast.

"I have written on behalf of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and U4D to all Executive ministers - and copied this to our local MLAs - urging them to amend the Programme for Government. As the draft version stands, the report offers little if any hope for the economic and social conditions of the North West."

There are just over three weeks to go until the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce Dinner on the 21st October, sponsored this year by Ulster Bank.

Earlier this week Foyle MLA Colum Eastwood met with Sinead McLaughlin from the Chamber and Nial Douglas, Head of Ulster Bank's North West Business Centre, to find out how the plans for the event are progressing.

While the Chamber Dinner is widely regarded as the premier business occasion in the region, it also brings together a wide range of guests, including political representatives and leaders from the public and voluntary sectors.

Derry-Londonderry's efforts to kickstart the region's digital economy are beginning to bear fruit with the announcement that over 20 new digital businesses have been established in the city in the last 12 months.

The Digital Derry project, which launched in September last year in an effort to support the creative digital content sector, this week announced that the city had seen a major boost in the number of new digital companies over the last 12 months in areas such as music technology, web applications and what's been dubbed "culture tech". As a result the organisation have set an aggressive target to support the creation of 100 new businesses by 2015.

The city's Digital Champion, Mark Nagurski said: "Our city has had a long history of creativity and world-class cultural output. The digital creative industries have the potential to help us transform that heritage into a vibrant new industry for the city, driven by a unique blend of technology and culture that sets Derry apart. Importantly, there's a growing entrepreneurial spirit that will help us achieve our goal of supporting one hundred new digital businesses in the city by 2015."

Padraig Canavan, President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and founder of Derry-based software company Singularity added: "The Chamber of Commerce have put the digital economy at the top of our agenda and for good reason. Not only does the city benefit from world-class digital infrastructure, a university with huge growth potential and supportive public sector but the UK City of Culture designation and recently published regeneration plan provide us with a once in a generation opportunity to make a real impact. Most importantly, the Digital Derry project is being driven by the private sector and it's that willingness of the public and private sectors to work together that is putting Derry's digital industries on the national stage."

Speaking after a meeting with local stakeholders at the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce this week, Culture Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín said: ""I'm extremely pleased that Derry is embracing the innovation and entrepreneurial potential of arts and culture. The digital economy, and in particular the area of cultural technology, has enormous potential for both Derry and the wider economy in the North of Ireland."
To further celebrate the potential of the sector, Digital Derry will play host to a high-profile delegation of investors, entrepreneurs and support agencies at a public showcase event on October 20th. Further information is available at www.digitalderry.org

Around 30 locally based companies attended a seminar in Derry City Council offices to meet with other like-minded businesses to consider practical and effective strategies to help small and medium sized business owners and managers develop effective action plans to drive growth forward.

Companies attended the event had the opportunity of completing an online Competitiveness Health-check in advance which was the focus of the morning workshop exploring different growth strategies.

The event was conducted by Dr. Adrian Gundy of the Centre for Competitiveness as part of its local initiatives in the North West in conjunction with Derry City Council and Londonderry Chamber of Commerce.

Participants also heard from Jennifer McKeever, Airporter Ltd who shared experience and benefits accruing from their newly accredited Gold Star for Customer Service Excellence which is part of the Centres accreditation portfolio and contributing to the continued growth of this important transport sector business connecting people and planes.

In his welcome address to the group, the Mayor Alderman Maurice Devenney said the seminar was a great opportunity for businesses to learn new business strategy opportunities.

"We hope that seminars like this will continue to encourage to work together in these commercially difficult times to support a return to economic growth and prosperity," he said.

Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, CE, Sinead McLaughlin, welcomed the opportunity to participate in such a positive programme. Individual businesses must concentrate all efforts on building positive growth strategies. It has been proven that in times of economic strife many companies emerge stronger and move into recovery with greater focus and a healthier understanding of their business strengths. Today's event will help support our local businesses and members to put in place growth strategies and mechanisms that will strengthen their business model going forward.

Established by the Private Sector, the Centre for Competitiveness (CforC) is an independent, not-for-profit, membership organisation, dedicated to assisting organisations across the island of Ireland build best in class performance.

With an active membership base and governing board drawn from the Northern Irish's private, public and voluntary sectors, the Centre has established and continues to develop linkages with industry, academia and government agencies as well as National and International partnerships.

Speaking at the event the CforC North West representative, Willie Donaghy commented that the attendance and participation in the workshop signified the determination and resilience of the local businesses to look at growth options despite the economic downturn. "Seeking market opportunity is always on the agenda - exploiting this and overcoming the barriers is what differentiates those businesses who have created competitive advantage. CforC supports private and public sector bodies to achieve and sustain through innovation and best practice."

Further information on the Centres activities and services can be accessed at compete@cforc.org or contact Willie Donaghy through C-TRIC offices at Altnagelvin Hospital Campus.

The man dubbed the "World`s Greatest Salesperson" by global tycoon Alan Sugar has addressed business leaders in Derry.

Apprentice star and Cookstown man, "Jedi" Jim Eastwood, delivered a lecture on his five point strategy for success - "Believe in yourself, Be inspired, Be Inspirational" - to members of the city`s Chamber of Commerce at the Beech Hill Hotel on Friday.

Chamber CEO Sinead McLaughlin, said the address was "lively and engaging". "He shared at length his experiences as An Apprentice, indicating at the outset that he was just "an ordinary person, who had an extraordinary experience". Over 90 Chamber members were in attendance and they were left in no doubt that Jim had the gift of the gab combined with oddles of charm and warmth which made him the salesman extraordinaire that was recognised and valued by Lord Sugar", she added.

Chamber President Padraig Canavan said that the greatest standout of the 2011 Apprentice was Jim Eastwood`s "honest performance".

The 32 year-old Apprentice runner-up earned his `Jedi` nickname for his powers of manipulation but the sales and marketing manager missed out on Lord Sugar`s investment in the hit show. He was however named the "World`s Greatest Salesperson".

Ulster Bank has recently confirmed a sponsorship deal for The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner. This year's dinner will take place on the 21st October in the Everglades Hotel and is 54th Annual Dinner.

The dinner is one of the Chamber's main events of the year, and is well recognised at a national and regional level, as the premier business occasion in the North West. It attracts a wide range of guests representing the business, political, educational, and social life of the region.

Nial Douglas, Head of Ulster Bank 's North West Business Centre, said, "Ulster Bank is clear in its commitment to the North West and we are delighted to be sponsoring the Chamber Annual Dinner - one of the real highlights of the business calendar.

"Ulster Bank is committed to establishing long term relationships with business customers. In addition, we want to help support and develop new and start up businesses to stimulate the local economy and inject life into our local communities. Supporting local business in the North West is important to Ulster Bank - we look forward to developing further our relationship with the local business community and the Chamber

Padraig Canavan, Chamber President, welcomed the support from Ulster Bank.

"Without support such as this we could not continue to provide a much needed service to our members. Ulster Bank is clear in their commitment to this region and in supporting the 54th Annual Dinner are to the fore in supporting business development in the North West."

For further information, please contact Christina McCallion of Londonderry Chamber of Commerce on 02871 262379

The purpose of the meeting was to hear directly the issues facing business in Londonderry and the border areas and the Minister met with representatives from the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, the Londonderry Port and Harbour, Ilex, Rural Generation and Culture Company 2013.

Speaking after the meeting, the Minister said: "The economy is the Executive's top priority and, as a border region, Londonderry faces some unique economic issues. I came here today to discuss the current economic challenges, the impact they are having on businesses in border areas, and to discuss how the Executive can respond."

He continued: "It is also important that our focus remains Northern Ireland wide. There are more than 60,000 businesses outside of Belfast continuing to make a positive contribution to our economy. I want to make sure that we, as an Executive, do what we can to support them.

"The current turmoil in the global financial markets is being driven mainly by sovereign debt concerns and weak growth forecasts and is creating a difficult environment for business. I have had meetings with both our local business leaders and local banks to discuss how we build confidence and promote growth in these challenging times. Today's meeting carried forward that process and I am very encouraged by what I have heard. There is resilience in our local economy and both business leaders and banks tell me that many companies have project plans and ideas that are ready for implementation. Together we need to ensure that they have the confidence they need to take the next step and move forward.

"The Executive will do everything that it can to help. Our own strategy is nearing completion and for my part I will press the Treasury on the Corporation Tax issue and to make sure we continue to have a competitive banking sector able and willing to offer businesses the finance they need."

The Minister concluded his visit with a walk across the Peace Bridge.

Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Finance and Personnel Communications Office on Tel: 028 9016 3388 or 028 9016 3389. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.

Padraig Canavan, President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, said:

"The Chamber remains very concerned at the failure of the Department for Regional Development to proceed with the upgrade of the Derry-Londonderry rail line to Coleraine, as promised by the last regional development minister, Conor Murphy. We note Conor Murphy's comments that he sees no reason why the upgrade cannot go ahead in the same timeframe - the current Budget period - as he had outlined when minister.

"It is essential that we all understand what has gone wrong here and to get the upgrade 'back on track'. We therefore call on the Assembly's Regional Development Committee to investigate the matter and establish why the funds for this investment have apparently disappeared and where they have gone to. We hope the outcome of such an investigation will lead to the investment being reinstated in the Department's Budget. The Chamber intends to write to the Regional Development Committee chair, Mr Jimmy Spratt MLA, to request that such an investigation takes place.

"The Chamber wishes to express its appreciation of the manner in which the Telegraph has continued to pursue this story, which is of enormous importance to the population of the North West."

Sinead McLaughlin, chief executive of Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, says:

"It is with sadness that the Chamber has learnt of the death of Larry Hasson, the oldest member of the Chamber. The Hasson family has a long association with the Chamber and Larry through his contribution to the retail sector in the city has been a stalwart contributor to our city centre for many years.

"Larry has only recently stopped 'going to work' - so for many of us this will be testament to the recipe for a long life! He was a very hard worker and he passed those vital traits on to his family. In earlier years he was active and involved in all that was happening in the city and sought to participate in many facets of our city-wide development.

"He had many aspects to his character. He was obviously a successful business man and he was also an outstanding singer and performer, but his greatest legacy was that of a committed family man. I often watched Luke or Declan helping their father out of the car at the Diamond - to bring him into the store to spend the day in the place that he loved. It was a very respectful and loving act and I am sure it contributed greatly to the quality of Larry's life. He will be sorely missed by his loving sons, daughter and extended Hasson family - and also by the wider business community."

The Waterside Half Marathon Organising Team, with race partner BT, are keen to find out more about the runners, walkers, relay teams, and all those participating in the 30th anniversary celebrations at this year's event.

So if you have a story to tell, about why you've decided to take part, or if you're simply trying to raise money for a charity close to your heart, BT wants to hear from you.

Peter Morris, BT consumer director in Northern Ireland, said, "BT is delighted to support the 30th anniversary celebration of this great sporting initiative. We've a long association with the Northwest in terms of communications infrastructure, local offices, customers, and more recently as principal partner of Derry~Londonderry UK City of Culture 2013."

"Everyone has different reasons for entering the Half Marathon, and we really want to get people sharing their stories and inspirations. We'd like all those taking part to get online and write their marathon memoirs to help encourage others to take up the challenge." he added.

Tell us why you are competing, and be in with a chance to win a donation to a charity of your choice. Describe your reasons in approximately 50 words and send your story to us on halfmarathon@derrycity.gov.uk along with a profile or fundraising picture.

The Waterside Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 11th September catering for all levels of runners, joggers, wheelchair users and keep fit enthusiasts, everyone is welcome. An information and registration stand will be in the Foyleside Shopping Centre from 11am - 5pm on Friday 12th and Saturday 27th August for anyone wanting to sign up for this year's event.

Walkers can avail themselves of the new ten mile challenge walk whilst those not quite ready for the full 13.1 mile challenge can participate through the 3 person team relay running format. The Family Fun Run is reduced slightly to 2K this year. For more information click on www.derrycity.gov.uk/halfmarathon  

The Half Marathon welcomes on board two new official charities for 2011, well known local groups - Foyle Search and Rescue and Children in Crossfire. The Waterside Half Marathon is organised by Derry City Council with support from sponsors Seagate and partners BT.

Padraig Canavan, President of Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, said:

"The announcement by Global Pharmaceuticals that it has chosen Tralee in County Kerry over Derry-Londonderry for the location of an investment project that brings with it 300 jobs is very disappointing news for the North West.

"Global Pharmaceuticals has said that the decision was made, primarily, because the Corporation Tax rate in the Irish Republic is significantly lower than in Northern Ireland. This is a significant handicap for Northern Ireland, and the border counties in particular. It is incredibly difficult for us to compete for inward investment with the Republic. We need to be competitive with the Republic on Corporation Tax.

"But there are other factors which also need to be addressed to encourage greater inward investment. These are our skills base and our accessibility through our transport infrastructure.

"Despite having a high proportion of bright young people, Northern Ireland does not generate or retain sufficient numbers of graduates - especially in the most relevant core skills - because it exports them. That is why the Chamber has been so vocal in calling for the substantial expansion of the University of Ulster's Magee campus, with more students and more courses in the science, technology, engineering, maths and creative industries subjects. It is essential for the economic welfare of Northern Ireland and specifically the North West that Magee expands and does so quickly. This is why the expansion of the Magee campus is at the heart of the city's regeneration plan - the ONE Plan.

"It is also essential that all schools and colleges in the region provide the basic and advanced skills needed for the modern economy.

"We must not overlook the weak state of the transport infrastructure. The A6 link with Belfast has long been unfit for purpose and its upgrade remains the single most urgent and important transport project for the region. The need for the upgrade of the Derry-Londonderry to Coleraine train line is also necessary and has rightly been the focus of much recent commentary.

"To improve the attractiveness of the North West region to inward investors, all these factors need to be addressed, and urgently. If they are, the region will become economically successful. This will generate tax revenues that benefit the Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Treasury. These investments are intended to be self-financing and to reduce the subsidy paid to the North West, which will serve everyone's long term interests.

"The Chamber of Commerce will continue to make this case to government ministers over the coming months, as key investment decisions are being made by the Executive. We would encourage all interested parties to do likewise."

"The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce congratulates the Telegraph in campaigning for the retention and upgrade of the vital rail link between Derry-Londonderry and Belfast. It is essential that we have a modern rail line that is fit for purpose. The section of track between Derry and Coleraine is a key piece of local infrastructure which has not been properly maintained or exploited for many years. It is recognised as one of the most beautiful stretches of railway anywhere in the world - and it should be promoted as such by Translink and the tourism promotion agencies. For this part of the line to be replaced for many journeys by a bus journey is absurd and should in particular not be happening during the City of Culture year.

"The Coleraine to Derry rail line is important for our tourism; it is important for employers, enabling staff to commute to work; and it is a key link between Northern Ireland's two major cities. We support the actions of the Into the West lobby group, Derry City Council and the Telegraph in protecting this local infrastructure."

‘Delay in rail upgrade should be referred to Executive'

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce is very disturbed that improvements to the Derry-Belfast rail line are reportedly being delayed. In the run-up to the Assembly elections the Chamber congratulated ministers for acting positively in response to Chamber lobbying, including the apparent agreement for the "Coleraine-Derry rail line improvements to go-ahead in current Budget period" (Chamber press release, 4 March). This followed a statement issued on 4 March by the then regional development minister Conor Murphy indicating that an extra £107m allocated by the Executive to his department would enable various transport schemes to go ahead.

Conor Murphy also said in early March, when announcing the procurement of new rolling stock: "Over the next budget period, as well as funding these new trains, my department will also fund associated projects such as a new train maintenance facility at Adelaide, Belfast, and platform extensions as well as the start of the Derry to Coleraine track relay."
In April 2010, the then minister specified: "A major relay of the track between Coleraine and Derry, with estimated costs in the region of £75m, will start in 2012 and be completed in 2013."

The Chamber seeks the continued commitment of politicians of all political parties to this position. The rail link is an essential part of the regional infrastructure, as a means for employees to commute into the city and as what should be a key part of the tourism offering of the region as one of the world's most beautiful stretches of rail line.

"Promises were made before the last Assembly election, which we want to see fulfilled," says Padraig Canavan, Chamber President. "It was our understanding that there was agreement that the rail line between Derry-Londonderry and Coleraine would be upgraded in the current Budget period. On this basis, we call on our local ministers and political parties to refer this matter to the Executive for review. It is time for ministers to demonstrate collective responsibility for such decisions.

"Rail and road links are essential parts of the local infrastructure that enable our economy to function. Studies have repeatedly shown that the most important factors influencing investment decisions are the quality and speed of road and rail links, along with the quality and size of the local university and airport. Yet the North West has road and rail links with Belfast that are of disgracefully poor quality and our other key infrastructure also needs to be expanded as a priority.

"The Chamber hopes that DRD and minister Danny Kennedy will clarify the funding position on both the upgrade to the rail line to Coleraine and also regarding the desperately needed road improvements to the A6 at Dungiven and Castledawson."

Police in G District are advising business people to be wary of unsolicited phone calls asking them to advertise in magazines they are not familiar with.

The advice follows a report that a person in Magherafelt was asked to buy an advert in 'a police magazine'.
Crime Prevention Officer Gillian Dixon said: "This scam has been used by fraudsters throughout the UK, and the 'police magazine' angle is used as a ploy to gain a degree of credibility.

"Genuine magazines, including those that cater for the interests of police officers, will not hesitate to tell you who they are and where they can be contacted.
"Our advice is that you should never disclose financial details or make commitments to pay by credit card to cold callers. Reputable organisations will give you the chance to think about your response. Do not let anyone pressurise you into making a commitment. Take your time in coming to a decision. After all, it's your money, so think carefully about whether or not you want the advertising exposure that is offered."

Anyone who has been approached in a similar fashion, or who needs advice on any aspect of crime prevention, can contact your local crime prevention officer on 0845 600 8000.

It is with great regret that City of Derry Airport will no longer be able to offer the daily flight between City of Derry Airport and Dublin .  The current operation, provided by Aer Arann, which finishes today has received financial support for the past few years from the Irish Government under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) grant. These grants are provided to airlines to operate routes that are uneconomical to operate under usual circumstances. Given the economic circumstances in the Irish Republic , however, the number of PSOs awarded has been reduced and regrettably the loss of this route is a direct result of the cuts.

City of Derry Airport have been in discussion with a number of other airlines about operating the route but without the support of a PSO it has not been possible to replace at this time. We continue to engage with a number of airlines about providing the service as we recognise the importance to the local and regional community.   

This weekend's Peace Bridge opening is the start of a "dazzling" future for Derry~Londonderry, the Chair of City of Culture 2013 declared today. Former mayor Martin Bradley asserted that national and international goodwill towards the city was now "tangible".

"Everyone wants to support us," he said. "In these challenging economic times, our changing fortunes, and determination to succeed, serve as a beacon of hope across the world.
"Derry~Londonderry is a city on the verge of greatness. The massive changes that have taken place here over the past twenty years have seen it evolve from a damaged, war-bound town into a pulsating, 21st century cultural capital.

"The city's key physical assets, the River Foyle and our 17th century Walls, which were closed off to business and visitors for so much of the Troubles, have been freed to resume their rightful place in the sun. "And now the city-centre is now opening up in a stunningly elegant fashion, thanks to the magnificent new Peace Bridge and the sublime restoration of Ebrington."

It's a year since Derry~Londonderry was designated the first UK City of Culture, and in the past few weeks the momentum has increased rapidly. In late spring, the body charged with delivering the City of Culture project - Culture Company 2013 - was constituted. And it immediately began recruiting a team, which includes specialists in events-programming, the media, community arts and education.

Culture Company chief executive Shona McCarthy said they hoped to convince the huge Derry~Londonderry diaspora, and the rest of the world, to come to the city to join in its "purposeful inquiry and joyous celebration". She commented: "To that end, we are already putting together a programme for the city that will include: a keynote Sons and Daughters opening concert, featuring a host of the city's international stars and many friends besides; the Turner Prize; the Children's Music Promise which will give every child, in this most musical of cities, the chance to learn an instrument; and a ground-breaking closing pageant, the Return of Colmcille the Peacemaker, centred around our most famous son.

"We are also endeavouring to bring a series of other landmark events to the city, including the All-Ireland Fleadh, a specially-commissioned Field Day play, Radio One's Big Weekend, and the Stirling Prize - plus a multitude of other top-class events from the worlds of drama, music, art and literature. And to kick it all off, in June 2012, we will be staging the Opening Ceremony of the Cultural Olympiad.
"But for our year truly to succeed, it is vital that there is full engagement with the real stake-holders, the citizens of the city. We are planning an open call process to consider ideas and proposals, and we intend to place a huge emphasis also on community and educational programming.

"The whole city is the venue for 2013, and every part of its canvas can be filled with colour and activity. It is up to all of us to make it happen and our collective effort will be key to a lasting legacy."

The Director of the Belfast Festival at Queen's is to take up a new post as one of the lead drivers of Derry~Londonderry's City of Culture year.

Graeme Farrow, the winner of the 2010 Allianz Arts & Business ‘NI Arts Individual of the Year' award, has been appointed Executive Programmer for Partnerships with Culture Company 2013.
He will assume his new position in September and have special responsibility for delivering the core events of the 2013 programme.

A graduate of Leeds University, Mr Farrow has lived in Northern Ireland since 1994. He joined the Belfast Festival at Queen's in 1999 and has since served as Programme Manager, Deputy Director, and Director.

During his five-year tenure as Director, the festival's box office sales doubled. He brought artists and events such as Ennio Morricone, Black Watch, David Lynch, The History Boys, Valery Gergiev and Buena Vista Social Club to Belfast. And this year's highlights already include internationally-renowned performers such as Carlos Acosta, Kiri Te Kanawa and Elvis Costello.

Mr Farrow currently has overall responsibility for the Culture and Arts portfolio at Queen's University, including the Festival and Queen's Film Theatre.

Mr Farrow said: ‘Derry~Londonderry richly deserves its status as a City of Culture. It has an incredible cultural heritage and is a beautiful canvas for all forms of art. 2013 provides a unique opportunity to celebrate and examine this, both within the city as a community and with visitors from all over the world.

‘I can't wait to play my part and, in particular, to work with Shona McCarthy and the rest of the team to deliver what is a compelling vision.'

Mr Farrow is the fourth person to join the senior management team of Culture Company 2013, the body charged with delivering Derry~Londonderry's City of Culture year. He joins the new Chief Executive Shona McCarthy; Martin Melarkey, Executive Programmer for Community and Educational Programmes; and Communications and Marketing Director Garbhan Downey; all of whom were appointed recently.

Shona McCarthy welcomed Mr Farrow's appointment: ‘Graeme's experience as a programmer on a national and international level, across every major art form, will be key to the success of our project.

‘We have a real chance to establish this city - which is already world-renowned as a city of saints, scholars and peace-makers - as an international centre of artistic excellence. And it is a legacy we hope will endure for generations to come.'

PEACE BRIDGE OPENING FESTIVAL
JUNE 25 & 26 2011

A number of activities will commence on friday the 25th June to celebrate the opening of the Peace bridge, with the final unveiling beginning on Saturday 26th June. Please view a full list of activities for the event HERE

A chorus of 600 voices from across all schools in the Derry City Council area will lead the opening celebration and ceremony, performing a new piece of music by Ian Wilson. Our young people are the perfect ambassadors to mark this historic moment for our city. They represent family, neighbourhood and community. They represent energy, talent and vitality while also representing the hopes and dreams of our city into the future. Supported by an orchestra and choir, this chorus will fan out from edge to edge across the Peace Bridge in a rainbow of colour as they make the bridge their own and invite civic leaders and citizens to take the first steps across our new bridge.

Airporter announce Major Win at Northern Irelands' Business in the Community Awards.

Airporter win "Education Partner Award" at the Business in the Community Gala Event.

On Thursday 9 June, Business in the Community held its sixth annual Gala Awards Dinner at The Waterfront Hall in Belfast.

The event marks the opportunity to celebrate and recognise individuals and businesses that have made a significant and personal contribution to their local community.

Sponsored by ESBIE Electric Ireland and in association with Ulster Business Magazine, the annual awards highlight the best examples of the positive impact businesses are having in the environment, amongst their employees and in the local communities in which they operate.


Over 80 companies entered the competition with over 450 people in attendance at the awards ceremony. Competing along with Airporter to win the Educational Partner award was - BT; Deloitte; Fujitsu and Ulster Bank.

Click here to view a short video of the ceremony - BITC AWARDS - Airporter can be seen collecting their awards around 1min 55 sec.

About Business In The Community Awards:
Business in the Community's Awards for Excellence identify and celebrate companies having a positive impact on the community, environment, market place and work place.

Business in the Community stands for responsible business.

Business in the Community is a membership organisation for successful companies committed to responsible business, encouraging them to be a force for good in society.

The organisation has a core membership of 800+ companies throughout the UK, including 80% of the FTSE 100. Almost 240 of these companies are members in Northern Ireland.

For more information on Business in the Community, visit their website at - www.bitcni.org.uk - or call (028) 9046 0606

Culture Company 2013, the body tasked with delivering Derry~Londonderry's City of Culture year, has made two appointments to its management team. Martin Melarkey, the Director of the Nerve Centre, has been appointed Senior Cultural Programmer for Communities and Education. The writer and broadcaster, Garbhan Downey, is the new Director of Communications and Marketing. Both men are natives of the city and will take up their new posts in the coming weeks. They join new Chief Executive Shona McCarthy, the former Director of the British Council in Northern Ireland, who took up office recently.

Martin Melarkey, Director of the award-winning Nerve Centre, has been appointed Senior Cultural Programmer for Derry~Londonderry's City of Culture year. He will take up his position in July.
Mr Melarkey will have special responsibility for delivering educational and community-based programmes, including the Unlocking Creativity programme, the Creative Classroom and the City as a Creative Campus. A second Senior Programmer, for Partnerships, and who will commission core events for the 2013 programme, is to join the CoC management team later in the summer.

A founder member of the North West Musicians' Collective in 1988 which evolved into the Nerve Centre, Mr Melarkey is also a successful film and multimedia producer. His projects include the King's Wake, which won Best Animated Film at the Celtic Film Festival in 2001, and the Virtual Museum of Colm Cille.
He has a special interest in promoting creativity in education. Since 2003, he has served as CCEA's Chief Examiner of Moving Image Arts GCE, which is currently being taught in over 80 schools in Northern Ireland and England. And he has also been involved in establishing Creative Learning Centres in Derry~Londonderry and Belfast.

Mr Melarkey said: "This city is already playing a leading role in pioneering new creative approaches to education that put culture and artistic practice into the driving seat of learning. 2013 presents us with the opportunity to do this on an international stage.
"I am excited about working alongside all those in the city who would like to see the birth of a new culture of learning that connects the classroom, the community and the home."
The Chief Executive of Culture Company 2013, Shona McCarthy, has welcomed Mr Melarkey's appointment: "Martin's extensive experience in delivering innovative community and educational programmes, both in Derry~Londonderry and further afield, will be invaluable to the City of Culture project.
"We have a real chance to establish this city - which is already world-renowned as a city of saints, scholars and peace-makers - as an international centre of artistic excellence. And it is a legacy we hope will endure for generations to come."

The writer and broadcaster Garbhan Downey has been appointed Director of Communications and Marketing for Culture Company 2013, the organisation tasked with delivering Derry~Londonderry's City of Culture year. He will take up the position in mid-June.
Mr Downey is a former BBC news producer and editor of the Derry News. A seasoned commentator on the arts, he edited Verbal: the Northern Ireland Literary Review and is a columnist with Culture Northern Ireland. He has also published six novels and is co-author of two anthologies: City of Music -Derry's Music Heritage; and Creggan-More than a History.

Mr Downey said he was very much looking forward to the challenge of his new role: "2013 gives us a unique opportunity to showcase the huge cultural wealth of our city on a national and international stage. I am delighted to be playing my part in it."

Culture Company chief executive Shona McCarthy welcomed the addition of Mr Downey to the management team: "Garbhan has spent his career working as both a media professional and artist in the city, and will bring valuable experience in both disciplines to the City of Culture project.
"We have a real chance to establish Derry~Londonderry - which is already world-renowned as a city of saints, scholars and peace-makers - as an international centre of artistic excellence. And it is a legacy we hope will endure for generations to come."

Join the City of Culture Group on Linked In. Search for 'UK City of Culture 2013 Derry-Londonderry, Corporate Engagement' to be kept up to date with all that is happening.

The search for the next green business idea is underway

Do you have a green business idea?

Are you aged between 18 and 30? Would you like to win a top prize worth £10,000 to bring your idea to market?

Then this competition is for you. We are looking for a great idea with a green or sustainable concept, product, process or philosophy. The opportunities are endless from low carbon, eco friendly, renewable technology, smart power, clean manufacturing to environment management.

This is a great way to get your idea off the ground and get the support and publicity you need to create your new business.

Submit your application on-line before: 12 noon on 24th June 2011

For full details and to apply log on to:

www.derrycity.gov.uk/enterprisingderry/greencreativity

For further information contact

The Enterprising Derry team at Derry City Council

T: 028 7136 5151  ext 6916

E: enterprisingderry@derrycity.gov.uk

The Derry ~Londonderry Business Awards showcased all that is good about doing business in the region. Many of the finalists were able to demonstrate best practice within their particular sector and the judging panel in many cases found it hard to differentiate the winner. The Overall Winner of the 2011 Business of the Year was Diamond Corrugated. This was a popular choice and the 280 guests demonstrated their approval by giving Paul Diamond a warm applause as he collected this year's Award.

Paul Diamond, the Managing Director, spoke with great affection for his skilled workforce who have successfully competed in the global market place and this has been against the decline in general manufacturing. Diamond Corrugated employs over 50 local people and have grown to become Ireland's most successful and dynamic independent supplier of corrugated packaging. Diamond Corrugated have demonstrated a consistent track record in promoting commitment to corporate responsibility of the city. They are renowned throughout the Irish market for their innovation. The Company committed to Derry was outstanding and they are now embarking on the most interesting stage of their history to date with a £5m expansion which will lead to further growth for our business by a projected 50% in sales which in turn will lead to an additional 25 jobs over the next three years.

The Annual Business Awards are a popular event and City Centre Initiative and Londonderry Chamber of Commerce received over 8000 votes collected in the public vote categories. The tension was palpable at the presentation of the awards, the broad spectrum of businesses who entered the awards was indicative of the far reaching impact these awards have come to have on the businesses within the city.

The Principal Sponsor of the evening was Bank of Ireland. The winners for the Derry Business Awards 2011 are:

Jim Roddy, City Centre Manager said "There was an unbelievable response to this year's awards. We are proud to host an event which rewards business excellence in Derry. All the finalists represent all that is unique about the business that goes on in our city. There is a multitude of great work which is carried out in the city centre every day, this work contributes to the end goal of having a living, breathing, vibrant city centre which is accessible to everyone. I must also extend a special thank you to all our sponsors and guests who came on the night for making this event such a huge success"

Sinead McLaughlin, Chief Executive said "congratulations to all the winners, it is great to see businesses get due recognition for all their hard work. The evening demonstrates that we have a lot of talent in the City and region. These awards give an opportunity for all of us involved in the business community to reward and celebrate the outstanding achievements of local business men and women - and their employees - during the last year."

Frank Smyth , Regional Business Manager, Bank of Ireland Business Banking said: "On behalf of Bank of Ireland, we are delighted to be working in partnership with the City Centre Initiative and Londonderry Chamber of Commerce on the Derry~Londonderry Business Awards as we are committed to playing a part in Derry's growth and to the success of our City.

Bank of Ireland, City Centre Initiative and the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce would like to take this opportunity thank all those who participated and supported this years event.

Police in Foyle have issued a timely reminder to local businesses about the need for increased awareness in light of the recent bomb attack at a bank in the city centre.

Area Commander Chief Inspector Jon Burrows said: "Regrettably, I think this type of attack is something we could well see more of therefore it is imperative that businesses remain vigilant.

"If something looks out of place, or even just raises concern, contact your local police immediately. Never touch or attempt to move any suspicious looking objects. It is simply good business practice to regularly check your premises for anything untoward. This will help ensure that you protect your staff, customers and business all year round."

Sinead McLaughlin, Chief Executive of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, said: "I would strongly encourage local businesses to make use of the advice and expertise the PSNI can provide in this area. It is important that we in the business community support each other and the police to keep our city safe."

Jim Roddy, City Centre Manager, added: "A strong and prosperous local economy is part of what will drive this city forward and improve social and economic conditions for those who live and work in Derry. We must all play our part to ensure that the city remains a safe place for traders and customers."

Chief Inspector Jon Burrows concluded: "Even well established businesses can benefit from further advice and support. Regularly review security measures and check premises thoroughly both during and after trading - an extra few minutes could make the difference. Make sure all staff members are familiar with evacuation plans and regularly trained in relation to all safety procedures. By working together we are better able to keep staff and customers safe and protect local trade."

Further specialist advice is available from our Crime Prevention Officer, Mandy McCrea, who can be contacted on 0845 600 8000.

Business in the Community's ProHelp campaign are holding a Briefing Lunch on 08 June at our brand new BEAM Centre for Social Economy, Maydown (beside the Invista Complex).

ProHelp is a programme facilitated by Business in the Community that brokers the professional and business skills of Northern Ireland companies to assist the social and economic regeneration of communities.

To find out how your business can help, and learn about the business and community benefits of involvement, please join us for lunch on:

Date: Wednesday 8 June
Time: 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Location: BEAM Centre for Social Economy, Maydown (beside Invista Complex)

• The NI social economy sector accounts for approximately 8% of economic activity in Northern Ireland
• It employs over 30,000 people - that's about the same size as the tourism or construction industries
• It's a growing sector and one that produces both economic and social benefits
• It needs your help

Please reply to state whether or not you would like to attend on (028) 71 861550 or email maria.harvey@bitcni.org.uk. Responses must be received no later than Friday 3 June.

Whats the challenge?
Remain alcohol free for 1 full week whilst still attending any functions, events or nights out you would normally have planned if you were taking a drink

When?
Tuesday 31st May 2011 until Tuesday 7th June

Why?
As part of Triax Drug and Alcohol Awareness week, we would like to see how many people will take part and how they find socialising/relaxing without alcohol. Let us know your feedback throughout the week on Facebook, email or by telephone.
Everyone taking part is asked to make a small donation (say £10) to House in the Wells or Foyle Valley House who support those living chronic alcohol addictions.

How do I sign up?
Facebook: ‘Like' the Derry Alcohol Challenge group on Facebook
Email: drinkthink@bbhealthforum.org
Phone: Drink Think on 02871363925
In person: Richmond Centre on Friday 27th June 2011
Gasyard Centre from Thursday 26th - Tuesday 31st
Dove House from Thursday 26th - Tuesday 31st
Destined from Thursday 26th - Tuesday 31st

Airporter are holding a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support on Wednesday 25th May at the Airporter office in Quayside between 10am and 12noon. We have been fund raising all throughout May in memory of the founder of Airporter, Brian Smyth. Any support would be greatly appreciated.

Portcullis House in Westminster was the prestigious venue for the Derry's third business networking event staged in London by London~Derry Connections Ltd, the local group created to improve the economy of the city of Derry and the North West of Ireland, by building on the business and historic connection between the cities of Derry and London, a connection that dates back 400 years.

40 people - mostly from the Irish business diaspora in London - attended the event held in the Attlee Suite of Portcullis House, thanks to the good offices of Mark Durkan MP.

Ex-pats from elsewhere in the North West, including, Limavady, Coleraine, Tyrone and Donegal also accepted invitations to the event which was introduced by Joe Doherty.

The gathering heard a presentation on ‘Destination Derry and the North West' from Karen Houlahan, Business Development Manager of the Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau (DVCB), followed by a warm address from Mark Durkan himself, who spoke about the context of Derry in its relationship with the city of London in the past, present and in its exciting future, built around improving political and community relations and dedicated to creating more business and jobs for the North West.

Mark Durkan closed the successful evening by giving participants a guided tour of Westminster.

People in the North West are encouraged to have London friends and relations added to the invitation list for future Receptions. Just contact Colm Cavanagh at: 07779.267289.

---------------

Photo: Centre: Louise Cook, Invest NI; Mark Durkan MP; Joe Doherty, London~Derry Connections Ltd; and Karen Henderson, Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau; with participants at the Business Reception Participants at Westminster.

This years business awards run by Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and City Centre Initiative , in partnership with Bank of Ireland have had an amazing response, the finalists for the Derry Business Awards 2011 have been selected and they are:

Award Finalists

Business of the Year
Diamond Corrugated Cases
Learning Pool
The Bentley

Entrepreneur of the Year
360 Productions - John Farren
Small Town America - Andrew Ferris
Browns Restaurant - Ian Orr

Innovation Award
Seed Ups
Airporter
Learning Pool

Best Tourism Initiative
Foyle Language School
Jazz Festival
City Hotel Halloween Ball

Tourism Services Award
DVCB
Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin
Foyleside

Best Medium/ Large Business
First Source
Omega
Seagate

Outstanding Professional Service Award
Principle First
Moore Stephen's Bradley Mc Daid
Open and Direct Commercial

Public Sector Award
Ilex Peace Bridge
Altnagelvin C-tric Centre
DSD Public Realm

Customer Service Excellence, Multiple Retailer (Public Vote)
Halfords
Sainsbury's
Tesco

Commitment to Derry Award (Public Vote)
Damien McAteer - City Centre Regeneration
Martin Mullan - work with Young Enterprise
Gavin Killeen - Workforce Development Forum


Customer Service Excellence, Independent Retailer (Public Vote)
Houston's Shoes
Lunns
Austin's

Best Evening Economy (Public Vote)
Belfry
Fitzroy's
Quay West

Sinead McLaughlin, CE of the Chamber, said "I am delighted at the quality of the businesses that have come forward. There are a number of new and innovative companies that have made it into the final this year which proves that even in these difficult trading conditions our local companies are being creative and successfully competing in not just local but global markets".

Jim Roddy, city centre manager said "We are delighted with the progress of the awards and I think that the broad range of businesses and individuals who have entered show cases all that is successful and unique about our city. We are now looking forward to having a great night at the city hotel"

Stephen Connolly, Director, Bank of Ireland Business Banking said: "On behalf of Bank of Ireland, we are delighted to be working in partnership with the City Centre Initiative and Chamber of Commerce on the Derry City Business Awards as we are committed to playing a part in Derry's growth and to the success of our City. These awards give an opportunity for all of us involved in the business community to reward and celebrate the outstanding achievements of local business men and women - and their employees - during the last year."

We would like to congratulate all those businesses who have been selected as finalists. We wish them every success on the night of the awards.

Tickets are now on sale for the gala awards night which will take place on Friday 3rd June 2011 in the City Hotel. Tickets cost £50.00 and this is a black tie event, with Pure Fresh providing the entertainment.

To book places contact christina@londonderrychamber.co.uk or via our events section or email claire@cciderry.com

Top lifestyle and fashion magazine in the NorthWest 'COVERwest' Magazine has recently published a piece on the Chamber's recent successful event, 'The President's Annual Lunch'.  The event was Chamber President's inaugural lunch as incoming president. It gave members a chance to hear his aims and objectives for his upcoming term as president.

View the article in high resolution HERE

Airporter is delighted to have made it onto Business in the Community's shortlist for its 2011 Regional Recognition Awards for corporate responsibility.

Sponsored by ESBIE Electric Ireland, Airproter has been shortlisted in the Community Education Partner category.

The winner will be announced at the Celebrating the Power of Responsible Business Gala Awards Dinner at Belfast Waterfront Hall on 9 June.

"We are over the moon to have been shortlisted with such corporate big-hitters like BT, Ulsterbank, Fujitsu and Deloitte in our category," says Jennifer McKeever from Airporter, "We has been involved in many educational projects over the years and it's a great boost to the whole team to be recognized in such a prestigious award."

"Yet again we have had a great response to these awards and from a wider range of companies than ever, suggesting that we are indeed deepening the culture of corporate responsibility in Northern Ireland, which is part of our aim," explains Paul Rooney, Chair, Business in the Community, Northern Ireland.

Susan Kinane, Managing Director of Award sponsors, ESBIE Electric Ireland commented: "We want to see business grow and networks strengthen. Looking at other organisations that are going above and beyond getting the job done is inspirational and motivating. We are very keen to support this work and delighted to sponsor these awards."

Five Northern Ireland winners of Business in the Community's UK Big Tick Awards will also be recognised at the gala event in Belfast this June.

For more information on Business in the Community, visit our website www.bitcni.org.uk or call (028) 9046 0606.

Full Shortlist

NI Responsible Company of the Year:
Allstate NI; Asda NI; Care Circle; firmus energy; Musgrave Retail Partners NI; Translink

Environmental Improvement:
Allstate NI; B/E Aerospace; Dale Farm; McLaughlin & Harvey; Moy Park

Climate Change
B/E Aerospace; Greiner Packaging; McLaughlin & Harvey; South Eastern Regional College (SERC)

Employer of Choice:
Allstate NI; Asidua Limited; BT; FG Wilson; firmus energy; NI Housing Executive

Workplace Health & Wellbeing:
BT; Chesapeake Belfast Ltd; Coca-Cola HBC NI; Department of Health, Social Services & Public Safety; firmus energy; Translink

Local Community Impact:
Allstate NI; Asda NI; Boots UK Ltd; Deloitte; Graham Construction/Derry Local Strategy Partnership; Musgrave Retail Partners NI

Education Partner:
Airporter; BT; Deloitte; Fujitsu; Ulster Bank Limited

Most Responsible Small Business:
Aurion Learning; Core Systems; Odyssey Trust Company Ltd; Orchard Acre Farm; Parker Green

Community Leader - nominations received
from:
AV Browne; Castlereagh Borough Council; Citi; Paperjam

When it comes to doing business in the current climate, the adage that 'people buy people before they buy what they're selling' has never been truer. With so much choice when it comes to products, services and providers, making a buying decision based solely on logic has gone out of the window; the ability to look at the tangible differences between two things and choose the one that best fits our needs isn't possible when they all do.

Instead decisions are made on a more emotional level, taking into account how we feel about the options on offer, how they fit with our personal values and beliefs, whether we buy into the person behind the offering and not just the deliverables. For business leaders today, that means becoming 'a face' in their organisation, rather than just a job title - engaging with people on a personal level as well as a business one.

For people to buy people they need to understand what they get when they buy into you, which is where your personal brand comes to the fore. Just as a company's brand with its mission statement, logo and strapline will give clues as to what its product or service can deliver, your personal brand does the same thing - regardless of who you are and whether you're sat in the boardroom or the postroom.

"In today's world of business, it's the people who are promoting a clear USP who are standing out from the crowd and getting ahead."

By communicating the mix of your values, beliefs, reputation, behaviour, skills and image that come together to make you you, your audiences know what you bring to the table that no-one else does. And in today's world of business, it's the people who are promoting a clear USP who are standing out from the crowd and getting ahead.

So if people buy people, have you taken the time to define what your personal brand has to offer? (Although it's seldom admitted, it's not unusual for people to be unsure about who they really are and to end up being who they think others want them to be; considering what it is that makes you tick and how you stand out from the crowd can be a great tool for boosting confidence.)

 For those who have defined their personal brand, the next question is, "Are you communicating that to your audiences in everything you say and do?"

Congratulations if you are, but there's one thing you mustn't forget...When it comes to the question of who is buying your personal brand, the answer is, "Not everyone" - and that's exactly as it should be. Because a key part of understanding that people buy people is to be confident enough with who you are to accept that not everyone is going to buy you. Believing otherwise is a surefire way to lose your marbles.

 I once received anonymous feedback from someone who said: "Jennifer has a strong brand, like double espresso, but sometimes I want tea."

My first reaction was horror. "Oh my goodness, I've annoyed someone by being too OTT. I should tone it down in future and keep my mouth shut and my opinions to myself."

And then I remembered the 3 Golden Rules of Personal Branding - something to consider when you're working on your brand:

1. Be Authentic. If I tried to sell tea just because I knew someone was a tea drinker somewhere down the road I'd slip back into my authentic role: a coffee seller. As soon as that was revealed, they wouldn't trust my brand and the buy-in would stop

2. Be Clear. My personal brand is double espresso - I have a strong style that lets you know I love and believe passionately in what I do. Adding tea to the mix would add confusion, and confused people don't buy

3. Be Consistent. If I gave people double espresso one day and tea the next, people would start to question what I was selling. If they can't trust what they're getting, they're not going to buy.

So the result is the same: lose sight of the rules and you lose the buy-in of your audience. The great thing is though, there'll be someone out there whose personal brand is all about tea and if they're promoting that clearly, consistently and authentically, the tea drinkers will soon find them.

So if you could be more successful in your role by getting people to buy into you (and who wouldn't?) take time to evaluate your personal brand - either on your own or with professional help - and you could just find your perfect USP

....extract sourced from www.trainingzone.co.uk 

As you may be aware there have been significant changes at the City of Derry Airport over the past eighteen months. Derry City Council has removed itself from the day to day operations of the airport by setting up a limited company to run the facility and more recently they have appointed Parsons Brinckerhoff (a Balfour Beatty company) to provide strategic and commercial expertise to the airport going forward.

The overall aim of these very positive steps is to develop the facility into a successful regional airport with routes that meet the needs of business and leisure travellers from the North West of Ireland. It also aims to deliver this whilst reducing the subvention required from the Council thereby reducing the cost to the rate-payer.

It is encouraging to see some early benefits of these new structures with improved services on London Stansted and the addition of new summer sun destinations. Perhaps most encouraging of all is that the airport has attracted Flybe to start operations at the airport with the addition of a new Manchester service beginning on the 19th of May 2011. Operators like Flybe will be essential to the development of improved business links to the UK and this is hopefully a first step in this process.

Derry City Council and this Chamber firmly believe that the airport is a key economic driver for the city and the region, and the development of key business routes is essential. Flybe will be a key partner in delivering these type of routes.

Flybe have put the new Manchester route on from May until September initially and future development will be based on the success or failure of this route. We would urge all members to support this new service to Manchester whenever possible to help secure the service beyond September and to encourage Flybe to add further routes in the future.

Please view the Brochure for these flights HERE

Derry-based IT programme and project management specialists Alaris Consulting Limited have been selected by Fairtrade International to act as client-side representatives in the management and delivery of their global Client Relationship Management System and Information Management System. The award was made following a Europe-wide competition to find the company with the all-round capabilities, competence and skill set considered essential to represent the client and ensure success in delivery of this complex and demanding programme. Alaris was selected due to their experience in representing clients' interests in the delivery of technically challenging programmes and projects and their ability to translate the technical demands of such programmes into terms understandable by clients whose specialisms and main business are focussed in areas other than IT.

Delivery of such IT programmes has allowed companies like Fairtrade to realise benefits and make significant savings through analysis of their outputs and rationalisation of their supply chains.

In order to deliver this programme, Alaris Consulting Limited staff will be based at the Fairtrade International offices in Bonn, Germany, thereby ensuring that Fairtrade can reap the full benefits of on-site specialists.

Alaris Consulting Limited has been highly successful in both the direct delivery of complex programmes and projects and, in recent years, has represented many clients in the delivery of complex enhancements and installations of IT systems and processes.

Chamber would like to congratulate Alaris Consulting on their acheivement and wishes them the best of luck in the future.

I wanted to make you aware of a short-notice' Raise Your Game: Management & Leadership Lessons from Sport Conference taking place in Derry on Friday 20th May 2011. The brochure, with speaker, event and booking information, is attached. The world-class line up of speakers includes:

• Sir Steve Redgrave, 5-time Olympic Gold Medallist
• Frank McParland, Director, Liverpool FC Academy
• Dr Lisa Bradley, 2-time World Judo Masters Champion
• Stephen Ferris, Ulster, Ireland & Lions Player
• Bryan Dunlop, International Speaker & Conference Host
• John Scott, CEO, Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2014 (Derry only)

. The events details are as follows:

• Friday 20th May 2011, 8.00am - 11.30am, The Foyle Theatre, NWRC, 78-80 Strand Road, Derry~Londonderry, BT48 7AL (Includes Light Breakfast)

Space at both events is strictly limited to 100. Tickets are priced at £65+vat (or a group package of 7 tickets for £350+vat). To book your place online simply visit https://www.podiem.com/onlineeventregistrationstep1.aspx . If you wish to enquire about a group package (taking advantage of the discount to bring customers or staff) email info@podiem.com explaining your ticket requirements.

Please view the brochure for the conference HERE

U4D  University 2020 Document

To view U4D's document for the University 2020 please download it HERE

New Londonderry Chamber of Commerce President Padraig Canavan made his inaugural address to members at the President's Lunch by stressing both what Derry-Londonderry could achieve and what the Chamber could deliver to its members. Padraig Canavan said the role of the Chamber was to support its three policy priorities - Digital Derry, City of Culture and higher education expansion - while providing top quality member services.

The President said:

"Like Tony Blair I believe our priorities to be Education, Education and, wait for it, Education. Those who know me have come to appreciate my quiet determination to see this city become a University City. I want you to see what I can see - a city already renowned for its erudition, being equally renowned for its town and gown, for its innovation, for its knowledge, for the gravitational pull that strangely infects all its inhabitants. It's a passion I was born into, it's one that was spurred by my 11+ failure, and it's one that I know a great many here share.

"I can think of no better way to enable this wonderful place to become economically self sufficient - to complement the maiden city's natural beauties with architectural ones, to give it the pride and ambition of youth so necessary for our collective futures - than that granted by a thriving 21st century cradle of research, teaching and community that is a sizeable, successful university.

"Those who know my business are aware of my digital credentials. This Chamber, my Chamber, is unequivocally determined to educate the world to the startling fact that Derry~Londonderry is the best place in Ireland to establish, grow and run a digital business. The first rule of marketing is ‘Declare Victory' and I hereby declare ‘DigitalDerry is Open for Business'."

Canavan added that the Chamber must lobby to ensure that the Northern Ireland Executive and other public bodies deliver what is needed to boost the economy and to allow the private sector to create more jobs. He told Chamber members:

"We need to be brighter so that the powers that be will listen to us. When we get the chance we'll educate them about you and your needs. So it's important that you tell us your needs. Like needing better roads, airports and cheaper technology. Like a bigger university. Like delivery of the Ilex plan. Like lower corporation tax. Like a responsive local government that works. Like a peaceful future."

Derry city centre is like most town and city centres across Ireland and the UK: it has suffered badly from the recession. Independent retailers, in particular, find it tough. In every street there is evidence of business closures and many of our members say they have never known such difficult times.

Yet there are reasons to be positive and optimistic. Recent survey findings confirm the importance of town and city centres, with 66% of retail spending in the UK taking place there. That is probably true in Derry, with the Foyleside and Richmond centres continuing to draw large numbers of shoppers. It is further evidence that we need to invest even more resources in improving the physical and social infrastructure of our city centre.

In fact, Derry has advantages over other cities and towns against which we compete. Our retail centre is also an important tourism destination because of our history and architecture. It is a gift that other towns and cities might envy.

If we are to fully realise our retail and tourism potential during City of Culture 2013 we must take a strategic approach to the development of both sectors, which are so closely aligned and interdependent. The preparation work has been done: now is the time to get down to implementation and delivery. Alliances across the private, public and community sectors, motivated by optimism and determination, can ensure that the retail and tourism experience is not merely good, but is exceptional.

Substantial investment in our public realm has taken place, and more investment is scheduled. Last week, DSD announced additional support for city centre businesses through the rolling-out of an improvement scheme. These initiatives will lead to a more positive, vibrant and prosperous city.

As the leading business organisation in the region, we recognise the important role we play in supporting our members and the region. We want property owners to meet their responsibilities to maintain and improve their premises. Retailers must be innovative and creative in meeting shoppers' needs and property owners should find ways to ensure that vacant properties do not become eyesores that damage the look and feel of our city centre.

The high cost of city centre rates; limited city centre car parking capacity; the onset of on-street car parking; and poor public transport are all challenges that must be addressed by those determined to protect and improve our city as a retailing destination. We must succeed, because the prize is too great to permit failure.

You are personally invited to
Lunch with us...

17th June 2011

Your support will help save lives

We've organised a simple lunch to raise
money for NI Chest Heart and Stroke

NI Chest Heart & Stroke wants people all over Northern Ireland and even further afield to host a lunch for friends, charge a modest entrance fee, and donate the proceeds to our work.

The Hearty Lunch is on Friday June 17, so why not start planning your own event now? The Hearty Lunch is being supported by Kingsmill, Northern Ireland's favourite loaf.

To find out more information or to register please visit:
http://www.nichs.org.uk/links/

Please see a list of six questions for your local politicians that you can call upon to ask how their policies will address the issues facing our economy:

1. What action would your party take  to provide the confidence that will encourage indigenous and foreign companies to invest in Northern Ireland?

2. What action would your party take to enable businesses to deliver the econominc growth that will provide jobs and the tax revenue needed to support delivery of public services to our citizens?

3. What action would your party take to raise the finance needed to increase investment in our infrastructure?

4.What policies would your party implement to ensure that the skills and knowledge of the labour force align with the needs of business now and in the future?

5. How would your party increase the efficiency of the public sector in its delivery of public services and address the disparity between pay levels in the public and private sector?

6. If you had a magic wand, what one policy would your party implement immediately to aid the growth of the private sector?

2 (cost free!) WAYS TO GIVE UNEMPLOYED PEOPLE A START

1) The Graduate Acceleration Programme:
An unemployed graduate can work in your company for 6 months.(20 graduates already do this in the North West. They get Benefit + £15 per week).
For info contact: Louise McLaughlin, Business in the Community, Maydown: louise.mclaughlin@bitcni.org.uk
(Tel: 7186.1550).

2) STEPS TO WORK
up to 3-month work experience. (1,000s of people in the North West do this while staying on benefit). And if you want to keep an eligible employee, they can stay for a further 6 months period subsidised by Government).
For info contact Bridgeen O'Hagan or Karen Doyle, Employer Contact Managers, Dept for Employment, Asylum Rd.
karen.doyle2@nissa.gsi.gov.uk
bridgeen.ohagan1@nissa.gsi.gov.uk
(Tel: 7127.6931).

The Department for Employment and Learning, in conjunction with Strabane District Council are proposing to hold a Jobs Fair and Advice Forum on Friday 27th May 2011 in the Alley Arts & Conference Centre in Strabane. At the moment we are contacting some of our main employers to see if they will be recruiting at that time and to see if they would be interested in attending. We have nothing confirmed as yet but if we get enough interest we will go ahead with it.

The event will be funded by DEL and Strabane District Council. I would be grateful if you could let me know as soon as you can if you would be recruiting around that time and if you would be interested in taking a stand at the Jobs Fair in Strabane.

Patricia Cooke
Employer Contact Managers - Employment Service Officer
Department for Employment and Learning
Tel: 028 71 276931

info:

Title: Employment, Training and Advice Forum
Date: 27th May 2011
Venue: Alley Arts & Conference Centre, 1A Railway Street, Strabane, BT82 8EF
Time: 10am - 2pm

Any employer actively recruiting and interested in attending this event please contact Bridgeen O'Hagan or Karen Doyle on 028 71 273930 / 028 71 276949.

All stands are Free and lunch will be provided.

If you could please take a small moment of your time to view and complete a form forwarded to us by University of Ulster regarding chamber member's training needs and interests, it would be greatly appreiciated.

Download the form HERE

We would encourage you to please forward the completed form to the listed email address detailed at the end of the form ASAP.

Singularity founder and chief executive leads Chamber forward

Padraig Canavan, the founder and chief executive of Derry-based international business Singularity, has been elected the new President of Londonderry Chamber of Commerce.

As the driving force behind Singularity, Padraig has shown that it is possible to establish and operate a major international company from Derry. Singularity has operations in London, New York, Singapore, Hyderabad and Belfast, but its headquarters remain in Derry. The company was established in 1994 and is a world leader in business process management software - which enables organisations to achieve major improvements in their operating efficiency. Under Padraig's leadership, Singularity has an annualised average growth rate of 30% and now employs 250 people worldwide, including 80 in Derry-Londonderry - making it one of the city's larger employers.

As well as leading one of the world's leading IT software providers, Padraig is strongly committed to making Derry-Londonderry a better place from which to do business, through which there are higher levels of employment and greater wealth for the benefit of the whole population. Accordingly, he is also the chair of the University for Derry group, which is calling for the substantial expansion of the Magee campus in Derry. He has been vice-president of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce for two years, during the period in which Jim Sammon has been President.

Retiring President Jim Sammon said: "The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce is very fortunate to have a new President of the calibre of Padraig Canavan. He heads a major international business, which is headquartered in Derry. When politicians and civil servants listen to Padraig, they know he has expertise and knowledge that must be listened to. That is a real strength that all of business in the North West can benefit from. Padraig has shown inspirational leadership of the University for Derry group and in just two years has made the group and the cause of Magee expansion a force that has to be reckoned with. I am excited by the skills and experience that Padraig brings to the role of President."

Padraig Canavan said: "I have an agenda that I bring to the role of President and which is shared by the whole Chamber. A strong Chamber of Commerce is key to supporting a strong local economy. Sadly, at present, our local economy is not strong - but our Chamber is. We can help rebuild the local economy by supporting businesses to grow and to assist them in their trading activities. Our number one priority is, and will remain, member services - helping member firms with networking, advising them of business opportunities and supporting them in raising their entrepreneurial and trading skills.

"My other priorities are equally obvious. Derry-Londonderry needs a substantially expanded university presence in order to strengthen and broaden the skill base, help local employers to recruit the skills we need, to attract inward investment and to benefit from the spending of students and staff. The Chamber supports this objective and wants to work closely with U4D and the University of Ulster to make it happen.
"The City of Culture is now less than two years away. Businesses in the North West have a unique opportunity and not just those in the hospitality sector. The Chamber will play an active role in helping the City of Culture to be a great year and support businesses to prepare for it. And the other Chamber priority going forward remains turning our city into ‘Digital Derry'. The opportunities for creative businesses that harness ideas with the latest technologies are exciting and substantial. The Chamber will be in the forefront of making it happen."

About Londonderry Chamber of Commerce:
Londonderry Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1885 and has over 400 members. It is the largest and most authoritative business voice in the city and region. Sinead McLaughlin, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce chief executive, can be contacted on 028 71 262379 or 07725946225 to arrange interviews with Padraig Canavan.

About Singularity:

Singularity increases the performance and agility of business processes by rapid implementation of its industry-leading Business Process Management (BPM) products. As the leading Business Process Agility specialist it serves clients in over 30 countries from offices in Derry, Belfast, London, New York, Singapore and India. For further press information about Singularity, contact Dermot McCauley at Singularity: dermot.mccauley@singularitylive.com, or telephone: 028 71 267767 ; or visit www.singularity.co.uk.

The Department for Regional Development deserves warm praise for its demonstration of commitment to the City of Derry Airport and the roads structure in and around Derry, says Londonderry Chamber of Commerce President Jim Sammon.

DRD has just announced that it will contribute £8.6m towards the cost of essential safety works at City of Derry Airport, upgrading the runway and other airport infrastructure. Construction is almost complete on the dualling of the A2 between Maydown and the airport, at £25m one of the largest road projects in the North West in recent years.

The A2 upgrade significantly improves the local road infrastructure in Derry, making links between the airport and city both faster and safer. It is also of major benefit to businesses located in the Maydown and Campsie area.

This is one of a series of local road schemes that is of benefit to the North West. Other welcome local schemes include new road crossings and road resurfacing. Work on the Culmore/Madams Bank roundabout is expected to restart in the near future, with completion in the next few weeks.

Jim Sammon, President of Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, said: "Improvements to the local transport infrastructure in the North West is greatly welcomed. DRD is one of the key departments for the business community - it delivers key infrastructure on which our economy depends. The commitment and expenditure by DRD on that infrastructure helps improve the performance of our local economy.

"The airport is of immense importance to our local economy. Derry City Council deserves praise for its role over the years, despite all the problems, in showing commitment to the airport and taking it to the next stage of its development. And DRD equally deserves praise in its support for the airport and the road link.

"The Chamber is unstinting in its praise of government departments where this is warranted. We are very happy with the DRD investment in our local infrastructure. We are similarly very happy at the DRD's continued commitment to the development of the A5 and the creation of a faster and superior link to Dublin. We urge, though, DRD to make faster progress with the A6 link to Belfast - which remains the most important commercial link for Derry-Londonderry."

International Development Charity Trócaire is delighted to launch an exciting new initiative exclusively in the Derry area in 2011- and we are inviting local businesses to take part! ‘The Leap of Faith' is the first charity abseil Trócaire has undertaken, and is supported by Derry City Council and The Adventure Team - a well reputed local abseil provider.

Why would this be a great thing for you to get involved with?

• Most importantly, you would be making a much needed contribution to the critical work of Trócaire. This year's Lenten Campaign is focussed on Poverty - your fundraising will make a real difference to the lives of people living in very challenging situations.
• We anticipate that the event will be high profile and will attract some great media attention. We would be pleased to mention your support when reporting on the event and are likely to have a range of photo opportunities on the day.
• In the current economic climate, where purse strings are tight and budgets for building staff morale are non-existent, this would be a great chance to bring the staff together and get them out for a unique and exciting activity! Sure, they could even head out for some lunch or a drink, post abseil to celebrate their achievement!
• It is also a great opportunity for you to demonstrate your commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility.

Interest in the Abseil is likely to be hot and places are strictly limited to 100 on the day. These will be booked on a first come first served basis on completion of a booking form and receipt of a £20 deposit. Participants must raise a minimum of £100 to take part, but the sky's the limit and there will be special prizes for those who significantly exceed this target.

For more information, an application pack or to book some spaces please contact Lawrence McBride (Trócaire's North West Development Officer) on 028 7135 7288 or e-mail lmcbride@trocaire.ie

Members of the Chamber, please could you please take a small moment of your time to fill out this survey on areas of the Chamber that interest you: 

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/HR8CJVF

Thankyou for your time...

A talk by:

Paul W. Heck
Global Manager
Employee Assistance & Work Life Services
DuPont

Tuesday 25th January 2011
Registration and coffee 2.00 p.m. 2.30 p.m. start
Great Hall University of Ulster, Magee campus

This is a free event organised and supported by the University of Ulster Knowledge Club in conjunction with the School of Sociology and Applied Social Studies

The University of Ulster is delighted to host Mr Paul Heck who has offered to meet with University colleagues, alumni, students and those from the public and private sectors, whilst on his first visit to the DuPont North West site.

The topic is of relevance to all working in the statutory, voluntary or business sector in these challenging economic times.
This talk may also be of interest to those working in the various areas of professional development, personnel, counselling, Employee Assistance programmes and student/staff training. We particularly welcome statutory and voluntary groups, University colleagues and students and local business leaders and all other concerned stakeholders.

Paul Heck has more than 30 years of experience building and managing mental health and employee assistance programs (EAPs) in the U.S. and globally for such notable companies as J.C. Penney, American Airlines and, currently, DuPont where he is responsible for an Integrated EAP serving 62,000 employees and their families in over 60 countries.

Paul was co-founder and first chair of the Asia Pacific Employee Assistance Roundtable and is immediate past president of the U.S. Employee Assistance Roundtable. He has served as an advisor to the World Health Organization, National Business Group on Health, American Psychiatric Foundation, and the Partnership for Workplace Mental Health.

To register for this event, please email: knowledgeclub@ulster.ac.uk or telephone 028 71 375660,  by Wednesday, 19th January 2011.

Further information from Breda Friel, telephone 02871375765 or bn.friel@ulster.ac.uk

"In this new year of 2011 we as political representatives in this city will work towards a positive future for the shared interests, hopes and aspirations of the people of this our city. We will work with others to build a civic leadership that shifts us away from the divisions of the past towards a new era of, co-operation, mutual respect, hope and prosperity for all future generations. As part of this joint approach we will work collectively to address the needs of those most socially disadvantaged and suffering poverty within our city and region.

"As the political leaders of the City we see a future where there is a role for everyone who wants to make a positive contribution to making this a better place. We are making a genuine and heartfelt appeal to those who use or support the use of violence to put away your weapons and join with us in making this a better City for all. This is not to oppose people's right to pursue different and diverse political goals however such goals must be achieved by peaceful and democratic means. Any attack against any part of the city and region or against any person or people in or of the area is an attack against the interests of everyone and against the future wellbeing of this City and its people.

"Irrespective of political differences, 2011 will be the year we commit to working together towards a new era of hope and prosperity for the future. We invite every citizen to work with us to create the conditions for a shared city life in this culturally vibrant City.

"May we take this opportunity to wish all people from all backgrounds, cultures and faiths a very happy and peaceful 2011"

Signed by

Political representatives in the above photograph and including Pól Callaghan who could not attend the photo call

Alan Watts, Padraig Canavan & Sinead McLaughlin launching the Halo North West Event, which is set for the 19th January at the Great Hall, University of Ulster, Magee Campus.

Launched six years ago, Sage's Circle of Excellence recognises and rewards leading Business Partners who provide outstanding customer service and whose customers are the most likely to recommend them to friends and colleagues.

On presenting the award to Acorn I.T. Solutions, Paul Stobart, CEO, Sage UK and Ireland commented: "I'm delighted to present this award to Acorn I.T.. Today's competitive climate means that it is more important than ever for UK Businesses to stay close to their customers and deliver an outstanding service, so my congratulations go to all involved."

He continued: "Our Circle of Excellence Awards programme is testament to our passion for delivering an outstanding customer experience and we are pleased to be able to recognise our Business Partners that are helping us to do this."

Declan Bradley, (Director of Acorn I.T. Solutions) said: "We are delighted to win this award. Not only is it recognition of all the hard work the team has put in but also it is great to receive this type of endorsement from our customers. We would like to thank all of them and we look forward to developing these relationships into the future."

"The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce greatly regrets Valerie Watts' decision to leave her role as chief executive of Derry City Council to take the same position at Aberdeen City Council. It is understandable that she is moving back to Scotland and the new job represents a major promotion for her.

"But it is unfortunate for Derry that an officer of such high calibre has chosen to leave little more than two years after her appointment. Valerie had begun the job of transforming and improving Derry City Council, but it is a job half done. Under Valerie's leadership, the city council was getting to grips with some ingrained problems, such as the management and governance of the airport and the absenteeism rate at the council. She also played a key role in winning City of Culture for Derry.

"We wish Valerie well in her next job. It is now for Derry City Council and its councillors to make another inspired choice for its next chief executive and to appoint someone who will continue the job of bringing excellent civic leadership into the council. There is still a challenging agenda for change and improvement to be addressed, including raising the game in tourism promotion, economic development and in leisure services. We hope the next chief executive will see through this job."

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce's monthly members' lunch was addressed by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, the Rt Hon Owen Paterson MP. The meeting was well attended by Chamber members and is the latest in a series of lunches attended by leading political figures in Northern Ireland.

Sinead McLaughlin, chief executive of the Chamber, said: "We are very happy that the Chamber continues to attract Northern Ireland's most senior politicians to address our members and to keep them informed of what is happening at the top table of government - both in the UK and in Northern Ireland. Owen Paterson's speech was stimulating and has given our members real hope of seeing a reduced rate of corporation tax in Northern Ireland."

Chamber President Jim Sammon introduced the secretary of state, urging him and local ministers to support a reduction in corporation tax to match or beat that of the Republic of Ireland and to commit to improving regional infrastructure, including roads and university expansion.

Quotes from Owen Paterson at the Chamber of Commerce lunch.

On the financial settlement for Northern Ireland:

"We fought a campaign successfully for PMS savers, who the previous Government had left in limbo. We produced a settlement for Northern Ireland which I put to you is pretty fair. There is a clear and fair settlement and I expect to see a Budget set. There is controversy about the previously promised £18bn capital funds for Northern Ireland. This came from a series of streams of funds. Perhaps one of the streams will be reduced, but that is only one of them. We will achieve the £18bn from other means."

On Shared Future

"I am committed to Shared Future and I support integrated education. I made comments about the waste of money of empty school places. Then the Irish News came up with a figure of 72,000 empty school places. It's for me to point out some examples of where public money is wasted. It's up to local ministers to decide what to do about it."

On rebalancing the economy

"Gordon Brown commissioned David Varney to write a report on reducing the corporation tax rate, which concluded it would cost about £310m a year and said that we couldn't afford it. So we came up with a solution that did not make it a spending commitment - to take it from the block grant. Since then I have been pursuing this with manic enthusiasm. Cutting corporation tax transformed Ireland. If we could pull this off for Northern Ireland, then I think it's a game changer. The mechanism is clear - it would have to come off the block grant."

On the expansion of the university in Derry

"It is a brilliant proposal for university expansion, which has drawn on the experience in Lincoln. I have been to Lincoln and I have seen the effect of the new university there. It has transformed the city."

On the problems in the Republic of Ireland

"We have an enormous interest in the UK, especially in Northern Ireland, in seeing a successful and prosperous Republic of Ireland. It's not for us to interfere or impose, but I would strongly propose that we help if asked. I would also strongly resist any moves to take away the advantages of the low corporation tax rate."

Seedups, the new crowd-funding site for entrepreneurs, launched its Beta website in Ireland this week. Seedups uses "wisdom of crowd" applications to match great business ideas and start-ups with a pool of sophisticated high net worth investors. The aim is to enable entrepreneurs to secure funding for start-up businesses faster, as well as offering investors access to a wide range of early stage projects to review follow and invest in. The business has been in development for 12 months and is backed by Derry entrepreneur Michael Faulkner the founder of EuroXchanger.com and EuroXchanger Currency Services.

Michael says the idea came to him when using other crowd funding initiatives in the US such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo which fund creative and lifestyle ideas. Looking at the problems we face in the banking sector and traditional funding mechanisms for start-ups, this seemed like a timely solution in part for those most promising start-ups that need seed capital.

Seedups is aimed at improving the chances for early stage entrepreneurs match up with potential investors by providing a free platform to pitch their ideas in a secure environment. The SnapShot^TM system allows entrepreneurs to build an easily viewed, rich-media profile which is accessible only to the pre-qualified high net worth individuals and angel investors who are interested in that sector or project type and registered with Seedups. Entrepreneurs can be looking for seed money in order to develop brand new ideas or for larger amounts as they develop and grow their businesses which in start-up phase should be under 2 years old.

Seedups is Irelands first crowd-funding website and aims to fill a niche in the market for entrepreneurs looking to raise small amounts of equity capital, and Seedups provides the social networking arena in which to pitch ideas. We are now calling on all enterprise development partners to leverage their networks and refer active start-ups seeking start-up capital to Seedups.com

For further information contact Michael Faulker at:
Michael@seedups.com
www.seedups.com
www.twitter.com/seedups

OPT2VOTE WINS SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT ELECTRONIC VOTE COUNTING CONTRACT
Awarded £5.2m contract in partnership with Logica
Derry, 3 November, 2010

Derry-based election services provider OPT2VOTE Ltd. has won a multi-million pound contract to provide electronic vote-counting services in local government elections in Scotland. The company won the £5.2m contract in a partnership led by Logica, one of the UK's largest technology companies. OPT2VOTE's software will be used to prepare ballot papers for printing and to enable the electronic counting of completed ballot papers while Logica will provide implementation and support services before and during elections. The contract covers the local government elections scheduled in all 32 Scottish Councils for May 2012 as well as subsequent by-elections in local authorities until 2015.

Scotland's Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism Jim Mather said: "Since the problems encountered in the 2007 elections, this Government has taken a series of measures and introduced reforms to ensure there is no repeat. The introduction of the new e-counting system is a major step in that process. Come the election, it will offer greater transparency through better displays of information as the count progresses. The system will have been subjected to rigorous testing to protect against the failures of the past. We have worked closely with our partners in local government to ensure that an effective and transparent e-counting system is in place that meets all expectations".

"We are delighted to have secured such a high-profile contract", said Ann Marie Slavin, Managing Director of OPT2VOTE. "The win confirms our position as one of the premier providers of election services in the UK. We are particularly pleased to have won the contract in collaboration with Logica, a long-standing and valued partner with huge expertise in the UK public sector."

Phil Gooch, Director, Public Sector at Logica added:
"Scotland is leading the way in eCounting and we are proud to have been chosen to help deliver this cutting edge technology for the 2012 local government elections. We have a truly dedicated team of experts with extensive experience in working with the Scottish Government and the Scottish Parliament. This gives us a unique knowledge and understanding to help us deliver this innovative system. We are confident we can deliver for Scotland."

The Scottish Government uses the single transferrable vote (STV) system for local government elections in Scotland. Due to the complex calculations involved in the STV system used in Scottish local government elections (the Weighted Inclusive Gregory system), electronic counting is required to deliver an accurate result within a satisfactory timeframe. A manual count would take approximately two to three days. OPT2VOTE and Logica were selected as the preferred suppliers of the electronic counting services after a rigorous competitive tender.

About OPT2VOTE

OPT2VOTE is one of the premier election service providers in the UK, providing outstanding knowledge and experience across all areas of election management. Founded in 2002, the company has pioneered the introduction of technology and automation in the election process and is a leader in e-voting (the use of the internet, telephone and SMS for elections), electronic vote counting and postal vote management and verification. The OPT2VOTE electronic counting system accelerates the speed of election counts, improves the accuracy of results by reducing manual errors, and reduces the amount of manual effort involved. The OPT2VOTE system supports a number of voting methods including Single Transferrable Vote (STV) and has been used in legally binding elections in the UK since 2007, as well as Scottish Health Board elections in 2010. The count algorithm has been independently certified by the Laboratory of Software Quality (Eindhoven University of Technology/Radboud University Nilmegen), to ensure its accuracy, integrity and compliance with the formula for the calculation of these election results.

About Logica

Logica is a business and technology service company, employing 39,000 people across 36 countries. The company delivers business consulting, systems integration and outsourcing across all industries and business functions. Logica creates value by successfully integrating people, business and technology to create effective, sustainable business ecosystems. Employees apply insight to create innovative answers to help with business needs.

"David Anning, Logica, Liz Ure, Scottish Government, Ann-Marie Slavin, CEO, OPT2VOTE,and Siobhan Donaghy, Chief Technology Officer, OPT2VOTE."

"Ann-Marie Slavin, CEO, OPT2VOTE. Photograph: Stephen Latimer."

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce premiered the "Into the Future" DVD at St Mary's College. Representatives from many of the local Secondary Schools were present as Jim Sammon, Chamber President outlined the importance of the Education & Skills Agenda, "This Chamber wants to contribute to the delivery of actions that have the potential to benefit our members the most. We are committed to creating confident, creative, skilled and motivated people who are equipped to work in a changing world; whilst contributing economically, socially and culturally to their communities."

The "Into the Future" film was the brain child of local entrepreneur and businessman, Philip O'Doherty. Philip leads the Chamber on issues pertaining to Education & Skills and contributes to the city wide Education Debate as a member of the Education and Skills Sectoral Working Group. Philip said "The Chamber is aligning its efforts with others, we have been looking at education and skills in the context of the City's Regeneration Plan. Our Chamber wants to ensure the provision of the necessary skills required to support entrepreneurial activity suitable for a 21st century economy. And we also see the value of integrating our education and skills provision with the business sector to provide our people with access to work".

Chamber commission this "Into the Future" DVD to support growth and the take-up locally of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths within our local schools. It is also hoped that this short film will help promote Entrepreneurship and to showcase local companies that are performing to world class standards. Marie Lindsay, Principal of St Mary's College welcomed the local voice given to the promotion of STEM. "Our 8th, 9th and 10th year students can really identify and relate to the content of this programme. It is through real business stories, spoken by people living, working and succeeding in Derry- that will highlight Business Opportunities and perhaps offer alternative career choices and encourage young people to think creatively about their futures.

Into the Future" is a short, inspirational and informative film to promote, and provide insight into, the exciting range of STEM careers available in Derry ~ Londonderry.

It focuses on six innovative and successful local companies - 360 Production, E&I Engineering, Singularity, Nuprint, Rural Generation and Darkwater Studios and will be of interest and assistance to teachers of STEM subjects, Computing, IT, Learning for life and Work, Careers and Business Studies.

The resource is suitable for integration into lessons for pupils of all levels and abilities. As all six companies were set up by local people, the film will also promote a culture of entrepreneurship, and hopefully inspire some of the students of today to become the business innovators of tomorrow.

You Are Special - James!

Local business leaders attending the 53rd Annual Dinner of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce gave a standing ovation to well known businessman James Doherty, on the announcement that he has been recognised with this year's Chamber Business Achievement Award.

Even at the mature age of 86, James remains active in the family business, as non-executive chairman of James Doherty Meats. James continues to make daily visits to the factory. This year he welcomed his two grandsons, James and Matthew, into the organisation. This is now the sixth generation of the Doherty family to work within the company.

Sinead McLaughlin, Chamber's Chief Executive, said that she was delighted and honoured to hand over the award to Mr Doherty. "He is an inspiration to all of us," she said.

Sinead told the 300 strong audience: "Since James first entered business life in 1945, he has seen some real economic shifts, with globalization, the rise of the emerging markets and the internet changing the way we do business. But one thing has remained constant - the power of the entrepreneur. James's optimism, ability to spot opportunities and sheer hard work continues to drive positive change and inspire others."

Chamber President, Jim Sammon, said: "James has a strong belief in Corporate Social Responsibility; this is witnessed by his huge contribution to the life of the community, particularly in the field of education. As a father of 10, he had his hands full - he could have very easily just got on with his own business, but he didn't, he always made time to contribute to the bigger society and it is this admirable quality that gives an example to us all."

Doherty Special Mince is iconic in the North West, but the applause from Chamber members saluting both the business and the civic achievements of James Doherty left him in no doubt that he is also very special in the hearts of the business community.

MPA Recruitment Ltd has recently been awarded the tender for the supply of support staff across all four of the North West Regional College's (NWRC) Campuses. MPA will hold this Public Sector contract until 2013.

MPA Operation's Director Julie Roddy commented, "We win contracts on the strength of our commitment to clients, our quality systems and the hard work and dedication of our consultants. MPA offer a professional, "can do" approach to our clients, which has stood us good stead in the current economic climate."

MPA already hold the tender for Apex Housing Association, formally North West Housing and are the only Local Agency to be named on the WHSCT tender for the supply of staff.

MPA Managing Director Mary Pat O Kane commented, "We are delighted to have been successful with this regional contract for which we undertook a very rigorous tender process. It is a valued acknowledgement that our recruitment processes comply with the high standards required to win such an important public sector tender."

MPA Recruitment is now responsible for supplying all support staff for students with learning needs to the NWRC. It has provided employment for an additional sixty people bringing the number of people working weekly for MPA to 490.

The Mayor Cllr Colum Eastwood has condemned the car bomb incident on the Culmore Road saying the city will not deviate from its progressive path for future development and regeneration.

"This city is united in condemnation of this incident and is determined to continue with the positive work we are doing to bring about a positive change for everyone in this city. We will not be deterred from our partnership approach to maintaining peace and stability and working collectively for a better future," he commented.

Sir Roy McNulty, chairman of Ilex Urban Regeneration Company said: "The city has invested time and resources to determine the way forward through the Regeneration Plan process, which has the potential to make a major impact on the city. This is the time to be confident and committed to change and a better future for the city."

Jim Sammon, President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce said: "We are shocked and very disappointed in the actions of such a few and the impact that it has on the lives of so many. To put our city in centre stage in such a negative manner puts in jeopardy the good work that is ongoing in building a viable, innovative and competitive business region. At a time when the economy is struggling - this incident detracts and damages our reputation as a viable investment opportunity.

"As we approach 2013 our City is poised for the potential for growth and we must collectively continue on this path. The business community in Derry are trying to build a future for our young people, not to drive them away. We are trying to attract new business not drive it away. We are looking to build not destroy. Give this City and it's young people a chance -a chance to change, a chance to live a chance to grow and prosper we must make every effort to provide jobs for all of the people in this region.

Derry has the opportunity to recreate itself as a modern and vibrant city. The regeneration plan has stressed that Derry will be an ‘education city', with an expanded university, an important technical college and schools that aspire to and achieve excellence for all their pupils. Our city will also be a cultural centre of international renown, helped no end by the City of Culture status.

But there is another central element in our future planning for the city - our transformation into ‘Digital Derry'. Our region's connectivity is now second to none, with Project Kelvin delivering high quality, fast broadband lines straight into our city from America. This is both a practical and a symbolic demonstration of our role as a bridge between Europe and North America.

Digital Derry, though, represents far more than the opportunity to exploit that fast speed connection. In fact, it links all these three key elements of the regeneration plan - it brings together physical connections with our cultural qualities and our growing skill base. More than anything, Digital Derry is about creativity.

And our city has already made a great start in its journey towards this future. We have firms here that are recognised leaders in the creative industries, welding our cultural excellence with the local technological know-how. Those organisations include Learning Pool, the Nerve Centre, Smalltown America and 360 Production.

The Chamber of Commerce has taken the leading role in pushing forward on Digital Derry and building on our existing, excellent, foundations. We intend to help create a digital hub that operates across the entire city and the benefits from which are received by the entire city.

To pursue this objective we have established a high powered Digital Action Team to provide inspiration for the digital sector in the city. Derry-born Colm Long, operations director for Facebook across Europe, is our new Digital Ambassador - broadcasting our position across Ireland and internationally. And Mark Nagurski - already well-known to Derry Journal readers - is the Derry Digital Champion. Mark's remit is to promote the sector and achieve a 25% growth in Derry's creative industries through the expansion of our digital section.

Our objectives are demanding, yet they are realistic. We are determined that Derry will become the best place on this island to start and build a digital business by 2015 - and a renowned centre of digital excellence..

When that happens, the results will be clear to all. We want Digital Derry to be financially self-sustaining and not relying on grant support from anyone. Digital Derry will be inclusive and operate as a partnership between the private, public and academic sectors. Within five years, we want dozens of new firms operating in the digital economy, core local digital companies building annual turnovers above £5m and a handful pushing on to the £20m mark and beyond and we want to attract at least one internationally renowned web business to establish a base in the city.

If our aims are achieved, the whole city will be winners. We will see many jobs created locally and this, in turn, will help to retain more of our young people and reverse the talent drain. We will see a thriving, active and engaged community.

The digital technology has already brought positive change to much of the world. Our city's creativity can be combined with that technology to achieve much more, also, for our citizens.

The Chamber is delighted to announce that Phil Redmond, the man behind shows like Grange Hill, Brookside and Hollyoaks will be the guest speaker at there forthcoming Annual Dinner which takes place on Friday 22nd October.

Sinead McLaughlin, CE of Chamber said "This is fantastic news for the Chamber, the Annual Dinner is the highlight of the Chamber calendar and we are delighted that Phil Redmond has agreed to be our guest speaker. She continued, the Chamber annual dinner attracts a high caliber of speaker every year, but this year we are particular pleased as we have a lot to celebrate.

She continued "The Chamber is delighted that Principle First are the main sponsors of the Annual Dinner. Gareth Flanagan, Managing Director, Principle First Financial Advisers said "Having been one of the official sponsors of the Chamber of Commerce for the past year, we are delighted to be the main sponsor of the 53rd Annual Dinner - one of the most prestigious North West business events of the year.

To date the Chamber has been invaluable in our own development, both previously as a member and currently as one of the sponsors. Our sponsorship of the Annual Dinner is providing a great opportunity for us to increase brand awareness and to continue developing our relationships with local businesses, some of whom we may not ordinarily have come into contact with.

As a financial planning company, we are committed to educating our clients in as many areas of financial planning as possible and our sponsorship of the Chamber has provided an ideal platform to do so.

We look forward to seeing members at the annual dinner, for a great evening of networking and entertainment."

This year also we would like to welcome Barclays who are the VIP drinks sponsor for the event.

Adrian Doran, Head of Corporate Banking for Barclays Northern Ireland, said: "Barclays is delighted to support Londonderry Chamber of Commerce in hosting this important event, especially at such a critical time for our local economy. We are keen to support more businesses in the North West and look forward to continuing to work with the Chamber and supporting its members in the coming months

To reserve your place please contact Christina McCallion on 028 71 262379, places are extremely limited and will be allocated on a first come first serve basis.

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and its members have played a key role in the regeneration planning process. Derry's regeneration plan is the result of much hard work over the last 18 months put in by an enormous number of people, from across the business and voluntary sectors. If for no other reason, the results of the process deserve respect because of that work. But the plan itself is also essential for the future of Derry and if it is all agreed and implemented our city would be truly transformed.

For the first time, citizens from this city have been able to debate the issues affecting our region - often passionately and aggressively. But the result is a plan that brings together the best ideas from this city - in a process that is more democratic and inclusive than anything that has happened previously.

This is not the end of the process. While a large number of people were able to engage in the debate, many in the wider population have not yet done so. That wider engagement is essential: we need to get this plan right as this is a chance for all of us to create a better future for the city and the region.

Derry wants to play its part in delivering a region that is economically viable - we want to become a net contributor to the economy. We want our business community to be vibrant and confident. We want people to have jobs and we want an affluent population, where not having a job and not having enough money is the rare exception, not the all the common rule. We want to drive transformational change.

Derry has won something remarkable by becoming City of Culture 2013. This is an asset that needs to be exploited and marketed for all its worth. The designation will lead to the accelerated growth of tourism and the cultural economy. But we also need government to allow the University of Ulster at Magee to expand substantially. The fast tracking of investment and implementation of an integrated transport strategy would strengthen the role of the city as a regional hub: this requires the development of the port and the airport, as well as the dualling of the A5 and A6.

The business community is already seizing the moment with the digital economy. This week, the Chamber, in partnership with Derry City Council and Ilex, launched ‘Digital Derry'. This aims to stimulate and grow the digital economy to a scale that will have a positive and lasting impact. The digital economy is the fastest growing industry, with growth rates of 20% per annum. Derry aims by 2015 to be the best place in Ireland to set up a digital business.

These are exciting times for the North West. It is the private sector that will bring our economy out of recession, but it needs the right environment to enable this to take place. The regeneration plan could provide that environment. It is people who make things happen - which is why much of the regeneration plan is about raising the skills of Derry people. But it is also why it is up to the people of Derry and across Northern Ireland to make sure that the regeneration plan delivers what it is intended to deliver - the means to change our society in a way that is truly transformational.

The US Economic Envoy to Northern Ireland Declan Kelly spoke of the unique opportunities for Derry~Londonderry to share its talent, creativity and energy with the rest of the world, during its hosting of the UK City of Culture title in 2013 and encouraged the private sector to get involved in helping the city make its mark nationally and internationally.

Speaking at a conference held in the Waterfoot Hotel organised by the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce in association with Derry City Council, entitled "Realising the Economic Potential of the City of Culture 2013", the US envoy said winning the title was a tremendous achievement for the city, region and Northern Ireland as a whole, and set in motion a unique opportunity for real and successful partnership working that will have a lasting legacy for generations.

"The UK City of Culture 2013 provides unrivalled opportunities for Derry~Londonderry, the North West region and whole of Northern Ireland. It is a great honour for the city to be the cultural capital and provides us with opportunities to engage with everyone who wants to get involved to maximize the opportunities that exist so we can all benefit from the massive economic benefits that we expect to come with winning this prestigious title," he commented.

Valerie Watts, Town Clerk and Chief Executive of Derry City Council said work on developing the cultural programme and setting up the Cultural Company are currently in progress. She said the assistance and co-operation of the private sector was important in making the city's UK City of Culture legacy a success from which everyone can benefit.
"Winning the UK City of Culture title for 2013 was a tremendous achievement for us and since the announcement in July, the team have been working diligently to put in place the next steps that will bring culture to every citizen in the city and to a wider international audience. We have been overwhelmed by the response we have received from the public to our win, the level of support has been phenomenal and we believe that this is our chance to make a difference to future generations. Its imperative that the public sector works closely with the private and voluntary sectors to ensure that we build on the emerging confidence that exists and transform our city and region into the City of Culture we want it to be in 2013," she said.

Philip Gilliland, Deputy Vice President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of the business community welcomed the "Call to Action". In the last few weeks the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce has received many inquiries regarding potential investment opportunities. As the leading voice of business in the region, we are determined to help shape this interest into a permanent economic advantage and create a lasting legacy.

The increased demand for hotels, cultural activities, restaurants, retail and other tourism infrastructure has already begun, with a discernable rise in visitor numbers since the City of Culture announcement. And this is helping the confidence of businesses, which intend to invest over £200m between now and 2014. This will represent one of the biggest ever boosts to the city's economy and provide a stimulus of enormous importance to the construction sector and employment in the North West of Ireland.

-The latest thinking in Strategy and Leadership

Articles from Harvard Business Review

Need to keep yourself updated on the latest thinking? Need to stay ahead of the competition? No time to do it? Here's your chance to hear what the experts have to say.
Over breakfast with the Ulster Business School, we will present the latest thinking in Strategy and Leadership. In the format of an engagingly short and digestible presentation, the session will be followed by focused discussions on the relevance application to your business.

Leadership Master Class
September 10 2010. 7.30am - 9.00am
Venue - Corporate Dining Room (MD050)
Lecture Theatre MD007

To reserve a place please call +44 (0)28 71375426
or e-mail d.mclaughlin@ulster.ac.uk

Attendance strictly by RSVP

Registration - £25
(includes breakfast and materials)

---------

Executive Education
Breakfast Master Class with the Ulster Business School
in association with
The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce

- The latest thinking in Strategy and Leadership
The Ten Most Influential Articles from Harvard Business Review

Need to keep yourself updated on the latest thinking? Need to stay ahead of the competition? No time to do it? Here's your chance to hear what the experts have to say at a business breakfast.
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Strategy

"What Is Strategy?" - Michael E. Porter, argues that rivals can easily copy your operational effectiveness, but they can't copy your strategic positioning-what distinguishes you from all the rest. Learn how to develop your own unique strategic positioning.

" Blue Ocean Strategic Thinking" - Kim and Mauborgne. They argue that traditional competition-based strategies (red ocean strategies) while necessary, are not sufficient to sustain high performance. Companies need to go beyond competing. To seize new profit and growth opportunities they also need to create blue oceans of uncontested space. Learn how.

Leadership

"Authentic Leadership" - William W. George . What is authentic leadership? How can you become and remain an authentic leader? In this timely presentation, we outline what it means to be a leader. Leadership is not about style or emulating another leader. It's about responsibility and stewardship. A true leader appeals not only to people's minds, but to their hearts, as leaders demonstrate through their vision and values.

"Managing Oneself" - Peter F. Drucker, encourages us to carve our own paths by asking questions such as, "What are my strengths?" and "Where do I belong?" This classic has timeless relevance.

Alan Christie 2010

By Jim Sammon

Derry's euphoria from winning the UK City of Culture 2013 title has not yet died down, yet the hard work of delivery has begun.  Derry has been overwhelmed by support and good wishes from across Ireland and our city has never been more united in its determination to succeed.

Civic pride is at an all time high, with a shared commitment to embrace, celebrate and respect each community's rich cultural heritage.   For once, our unique history is playing to our advantage and the Chamber of Commerce - as the leading voice of business in the region - is determined to help shape this into a permanent economic advantage.

Derry's business community is intent on maximising the investment required to deliver a comprehensive cultural and arts programme in 2013 and to support this with improvements across the hospitality and leisure sector.  We must create a positive and lasting legacy for the region and Northern Ireland as a whole.

Businesses in the city have got behind the bid, pledging over £200M for major capital investment to improve the hotels, cultural venues, restaurants, retail and other tourism infrastructure required to deliver a successful programme in 2013. 

Over the next two years Derry will engage in a hectic phase of transformation.  The city is intent on creating a major new industry around cultural tourism and our Chamber will help to drive and extend those improvements into our retail and leisure sectors.  Collectively these initiatives will provide a tremendous boost to employment and local prosperity, with over 1,500 new jobs expected in the construction sector alone.

Yet despite all this positive news, the Chamber is not complacent.  Cultural tourism will be just one facet of an expanded and successful economy in Derry in the future.  Another - we are determined - will be based around the high quality research and development that we want to see emerge from the University of Ulster's expanded Magee campus in the city.

Working with local partners, the Chamber is also seeking a 25% growth in Derry's creative industries through the expansion of our digital sector.  Digital technologies are a priority for Derry, backed by the city hosting the Project Kelvin telehouse that brings direct trans-Atlantic high speed communications connections into the heart of Derry.   Our Chamber has created a high powered Digital Action Team, whose focus is to provide leadership for the development of a successful digital content industry in the city. We are determined that Derry becomes Ireland's Centre for Digital Excellence.

At the heart of the Digital Action Team are leaders from our city's digital industries, which includes some of Ireland's fastest growing firms in the sector, including Learning Pool, EyeSpyfx , 360 Production, the Nerve Centre and Smalltown America.

We have the backing of public bodies and local third level institutions.  We have also appointed a Digital Ambassador - Derry native Colm Long - who is operations director for Facebook in Ireland.   The team is already working to ensure that Derry competes in digital infrastructure, that our schoolchildren - our future labour force - have advanced digital skills and that our city can host world class digital conferences. 

Derry~Londonderry~Legenderry, call us what you will - we are the City of Culture 2013.  But we are an awful lot more.  We are Northern Ireland's second city and proud to be so.  We will also increasingly be recognised as a centre for excellence in digital technologies and in higher education.  The City of Culture is only the start for a city that has both a unique history and a very bright future.

Jim Sammon is President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and Managing Director of SAMMON Chartered Surveyors

Redmayne Bentley Stockbrokers are launching a new stock picking competition on the Redmayne-Bentley Stockbrokers LLP website.

Entrants must pick ten FTSE 100 stocks that they think will be the best performers between 2nd August and 10th September 2010 ~ based upon the average percentage increase.

The competition 'Crop of the Stocks' is available for you to view and enter at:
www.redmayne.co.uk/crop/Belfast

The competition is now live

The prize is £1000 to invest in shares with Redmayne-Bentley.

This is a great opportunity for you to try your Stock picking skills and get to know Redmayne Bentley Stockbrokers better.

(July 27th, 2010 - Derry, N. Ireland) A new event announced this week is set to attract dozens of top developers and technology companies to the North-West to showcase their latest, innovative projects.

The free, one-day conference entitled SHOWCASE, is designed as a platform for some of the hottest talent in the fields of cloud, mobile and web applications to demonstrate or launch new projects that they've been working on. All in front of an audience of 150 peers, industry professionals and potential customers.

As organiser, Mark Nagurski, explained: "For companies with something to show off, SHOWCASE is a perfect opportunity to do just that in front of an influential crowd - and if you're involved in the technology industry and are keen to keep 'in the loop', this event is unmissable."

"Even if you're not directly involved in the technology industry, we've got companies working in everything from the arts and creative industries to retail and medicine. If you want to know how you can use the latest ideas in mobile applications or the web in your business, this is your chance. The fact that Derry City Council, the University of Ulster, Invest Northern Ireland, the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and NORIBIC are all supporting this event is testament to just how beneficial something like this can be." he continued.

Lyra McKee, co-founder of NewsRupt, one of the companies that will be launching a product at SHOWCASE, added: "Events like SHOWCASE are critical to the success of start ups like NewsRupt. In a young company where marketing budgets are tight, events like this present the perfect opportunity for us to get out and spread the word. Very few people know what NewsRupt is right now but after the conference, everyone will be talking about it. That kind of viral marketing is priceless."

SHOWCASE takes place at the Magee campus of the University of Ulster between 9am and 5:30pm on Thursday, September 16th. It's completely free but places are limited so anyone interested in attending is invited to register their place by visiting www.showcaseconf.com

Members of a Derry -based project for people with learning disabilities have taken their campaign to reach the 2010 finals of the National Lottery Awards to social networking site Facebook. The Destined group is urging the local public to weigh in with thousands of votes as they battle with nine other groups to win the "Best Health Project" category with their project 'Access to Citizenship' . This is an innovative project that is delivered in partnership with the Western Health and Social Care Trust, the North West Regional College and Mencap. Now the campaign has gone online to reach a self set target of 10,000 public votes. The Destined Facebook page now has over 100 group members after it was set up on Friday. Volunteers are encouraging Facebook users to urge their online friends to vote for the organisation.

Founded in 2002, Destined has established itself in Great James Street as a pivotal service for people for people with learning disabilities and operates a seven day service from its Drop-In centre offering a range of programmes including Health & Fitness, Arts, Education and Social activities.

The 'Access to Citizenship' project has the opportunity to win £2000 by winning the final of its category and will be invited to take part in an star studded  Awards ceremony in London to be screened on a BBC1 on prime time TV on a Saturday night.

Destined founder Dermot O'Hara is urging the Derry public to vote the group through to the finals in London. "The fact that the Access to Citizenship project has made it this far is a testament to the worthwhile work it does for people who otherwise would feel isolated and left behind by society. Destined exists to empower people with learning disabilities and recognition from the National Lottery Awards shows the value of this project. We know that the people of Derry and their enthusiasm will take us through to the finals and we are appealing for all the help we can get from schools, businesses, organisations and the general public. We see Facebook as a major part of getting the votes needed.

Michael Cole, a member of Destined said "We 're going to put a massive effort into this and we are asking people to support us by phone, online and on Facebook to take us to the finals in London. Voting closes on the 18^th June, so we need people to rally now."

To join the Destined Facebook group simply search Destined under groups on your page, join and vote. Or log onto www.destined.ie and click on the Facebook link there. To register you vote for the Access to Citizenship by phone call 08446861992.

For further information on Destineds bid contact Dermot O'Hara: 02871362424.

Translink Ulsterbus are planning changes to Ulsterbus Foyle City Services from September 2010.

These changes are in line with the on going development and regeneration of the City with improved connections to make education, health and leisure outlets more accessible for all.

Key Changes are:

- New quality bus corridor from Pennyburn to Altnagalvin hospital with 10min frequency.

- Improved frequency to Derry City Airport with an hourly service 143 (to Limavady).

- Improved frequency to and from Drumahoe Park & Ride.

- 7 buses per hour from the City Centre to Altnagalvin Hospital.

- FY1 Strathfoyle - hourly service extended to Butlers Wharf.

- FY9/11 Hazelbank & Woodbrook services integrated into one hourly service.

- FY13 Sandbank/Fernabbey - hourly service.

-2010 Deloitte Fast 50 Technology Awards now open for entries

-11^th Annual Technology Awards to take place in Belfast this year

The local technology industry is being urged to use its 'home advantage' as entries open for the 2010 Deloitte Fast 50 Technology Awards, which this year will be held in Belfast's Europa Hotel on Friday 8^th October. The awards, now in their eleventh year, recognise and rank indigenous technology companies - from all over the island of Ireland- with exceptional growth in turnover over the last five years.

15 NI firms made into last year's Fast 50 including e-learning provider for the public sector Learning Pool who picked up the Rising Star award. Deloitte is calling for more companies than ever to get 'on track' and make their mark on this year's all-island Fast 50 competition.

One of Learning Pool's founding directors Mary McKenna, commented on the company's Fast 50 experience: "2009 was an exciting year for us, and winning the Deloitte Fast 50 Rising Star award was the icing on the cake. We welcome the additional profile that the prestigious award brings and as part of our growth trajectory, we're still doubling revenue year on year"

The ranking will feature both private and public listed technology companies that have demonstrated innovative strategies, sound management practices and marketplace vision driving them to achieve the status of high-growth leaders. Details of how to enter the awards can be found at www.fast50.ie. The closing date for entries is Friday September 3rd.

Pictured with David Crawford, Partner at Deloitte Belfast, is Mary McKenna, founding director of Learning Pool (right) and Lisa McGonigle, senior marketing executive Learning Pool (left).

As many of you know, Learning Pool's main office is located in Derry, Northern Ireland. We were delighted recently with the appointment of Councillor Colum Eastwood as the city's Mayor. Derry has always been known for being one of the oldest remaining walled cities in Europe and Mayor Eastwood is now helping the city to be known for having one of the youngest but most innovative mayors in the city's history.

Learning Pool's Modern Councillor service aims to bring to life the stories of elected members and here we chat to Mayor Eastwood about -

• His transition from Councillor to Mayor at the ripe old age of 27
• How the community of Derry have come together to support the City's bid to win the title of UK City of Culture
• His hopes for getting young people more involved in Civic Life
• And what he thinks makes a Modern Councillor

Mayor Eastwood's Interview:- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9wwdfW0j5o

Learning Pool would like to wish the City of Derry all the best with their City of Culture title 2013.

The Derry Chamber of Commerce this week welcomed the long awaited publication of the Retail Strategy for the City Centre. Sinead McLaughlin, Chief Executive commented "This Retail document gives a fair and detailed analysis of the retail offer in our City as well as examining the policy environment in which the retail offering operates within."

The Report prepared by Roger Tym & Partners and commissioned by Ilex and DSD has recommended an initial programme of action under the following 5 key areas.

• Strengthened Planning Focus on City Centre
• City Centre Expansion
• Improved Integration
• Co-ordinated and Dynamic Marketing
• A City Centre Framework for Business Agency Co-ordination

Sinead McLaughlin continued "Our members tell us how difficult trading has been in recent months and the increase of VAT in the New Year will add even greater burdens on this already struggling sector. Our City Centre streets are a testament to the difficulties of this sector, with increasing numbers of vacant premises.  It is particularly difficult for our independent retailers, especially those trading in secondary retail locations.

However, it is with optimism I say our centre is without doubt the jewel in Derry's Crown.  It is not only our precious tourism product but it could be and should be a "destination retail shopping centre" that compliments our ancient walls and encapsulates an unique leisure experience that expands the "brand Derry" offering for all shoppers. 

In 2013, Derry will become the first UK City of Culture, we will be welcoming many visitors to our home town and we want to make each visit special. The shareholders of this city need now to sit down and work with this Strategy to develop a Business and Action Plan that will make considered and co-ordinated improvements in our existing and future offering.  Derry City Council, Ilex and Government departments will be the lead agencies in delivering on the City's Retail Strategy but the Private Sector has a major role to play in contributing their commercial expertise.  The Chamber warmly welcomes the proposals to set up a strengthened City Centre Partnership with increased involvement of the Retail Sector. This strategy is just the beginning, all of us with a vested interest in our City Centre need to stop the talking, roll up our sleeves and get our house in order - the visitors are coming.

 Well Done to All of Us

"Great news for the City that Derry~Londonderry has been named UK City of Culture 2013 brings with it a great sense of pride that each citizen of this historic city should savour and enjoy", said Chamber President, Jim Sammon.  "Our time has come and this platform will give us the opportunity to broadcast the talent of our people and the beauty of our place. This is a time to celebrate, to create and to attract and captivate visitors and investors.  The challenge now is to do Northern Ireland proud and to take advantage of the win to create a positive and lasting legacy for the region. We've got history and we should be proud of our history - in the past we've been prisoners of our history, following the bloody Sunday announcement and now the announcement of the City of Culture we can now look forward to brand new brighter days to share with the young people of this region - who are our future."

Chief Executive, Sinead McLaughlin echoed the comments made by the President, she said "Derry~Londonderry promoted itself with the slogan "Just say YES".  Well YES it is, and on behalf of the Chamber, I want to congratulate the bid team who worked hard and long hours and the effort has definitely paid off" She continued. "There was a great sense that the whole city was involved in the bid and behind the bid.  The title will bring more tourists, increase investment and create jobs, as well as boost the profile of Derry.  This Chamber looks forward to playing its part in developing and delivering a programme of events that will put our City on the centre stage and ultimately build a lasting legacy for this city.

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomes the recognition given to their Vice President, Padraig Canavan, in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.  Padraig was awarded an OBE in recognition of his contribution to Business in Northern Ireland.

Jim Sammon, President of the Chamber in Derry, said on behalf of the Chamber that he congratulated Padraig on receiving this honour.  "It is very well deserved and from working closely with Padraig in the Chamber for a number of years I can wholeheartedly endorse this award.  Padraig has demonstrated time and time again that he is a fantastic ambassador and leader for the North West, he has made a tremendous contribution to our Chamber and to the entire business and economic life of Derry". 

Padraig established Singularity in 1994, when the operation was at the leading age of technology - and it still is.  Padraig and his team have continued to be innovative and developed the company into a multi-million dollar business with operations in London, New York, Singapore, Hyderabad India and Belfast, as well as Derry.

Sinead McLaughlin, CE of the Chamber said "Padraig's commitment to Northern Ireland is to be admired; he has chosen Derry to be the headquarters of his global company.  This has not always been the easiest solution, but Padraig's heart and passion lies in his home and he has overcome many obstacles in order for his business to remain a world leader and to continue to be based in Northern Ireland.

"I admire Padraig's insightful, thoughtful and quiet determination to get things done and to do the right things - this award recognises all those essential ingredients that make him a great role model for many of our young people.

"Well done Padraig - it is well deserved."

Yes! It's hard to believe but a year has passed and The Waterfoot Hotel L'Derry celebrates its 1^st Birthday on Friday 2^nd July 2010! This is one event you do not want to miss! It will not only be a fantastic night of celebrations and an excellent opportunity to support the special "Joie De Vie" Gala Ball, but also an opportunity to raise funds for the local Western Trust Altnagelvin Hospital Cancer Unit as all ticket and auction proceeds will be donated to this much needed charity.

It is guaranteed to be a night to remember with amazing welcome reception including cocktails on arrival, a five course dinner and great entertainment in the form of The Martin John Swing Time Big Band and the ever popular UTV presenter Julian Simmons as our main Compere for the evening. Julian will also act as auctioneer as we auction some fantastic items donated by local businesses and customers to raise much needed funds for the Western Trust Altnagelvin Hospital's Cancer Unit. Anyone interested in donating a prize for auction to endorse your support for this charity can do so and will be featured with all sponsors on the main menu and sponsor screens throughout the evening. So call now! 

The Joie De Vie Gala evening will be an ideal opportunity for guests to show their support for the Waterfoot Hotel's chosen charity by purchasing tickets to attend. Tickets are £50 per person and are currently being sold in tables of ten at £500. This prestigious event presents an occasion to celebrate for everyone. Make this special event an opportunity to get together with family, friends, colleagues or special guests.

Tickets will be limited for this fantastic event so we urge early booking to secure your place. For more information or to book call now on 02871345500.

Representatives of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce have called on Northern Ireland MLAs and MPs to persuade the new government to maintain the block grant to Northern Ireland and to reduce corporation tax here.

Speaking from the Chamber of Commerce, President  Jim Sammon said:

"The new Conservative/Liberal Government in the UK has an opportunity to support social and economic growth in Northern Ireland.   While there is no doubt that Government intends to reduce spending, there is a special case for continued support for Northern Ireland.  Reduction of public spending here at this time would undermine the work that has been done in recent years to build our economy and reinforce the peace process and social progress here.  It is very important that our elected representatives in Stormont and Westminister persuade Government to support our economic and social development in Northern Ireland - and, given our history, ensure that Government makes a special case for Northern Ireland when it comes to funding. We have the potential for sustained economic growth and performance - but we are coming from behind and we need continued support to make that happen."

Chief Executive, Sinead McLaughlin, also emphasised

"The global economy is returning to growth - it is very important that at this critical time nothing is done to undermine the economy of Northern Ireland. There is an opportunity for the Westminster Government to reduce corporation tax in Northern Ireland to the level of the Republic of Ireland.  Such a decision would create a level playing field of investment on the island of Ireland and encourage new investment in Northern Ireland by companies in high value added industry.  There would, no doubt, be a great return as regards reduced unemployment and higher productivity.  The conservatives have already signalled their intention to do this.  I would expect public representatives from Northern Ireland to make a strong case for implementation of such a policy."

For further information contact Sinead McLaughlin on 02871262379

Londonderry Chamber of Commerce has called on the devolved administration to fast track investment in our physical and educational infrastructure, particularly increasing the student numbers at Magee.  The call was made at the Chamber's AGM in the city at the weekend. 

"We need to increase our employment rates, address economic inactivity, develop a more diverse sustainable economy, grow more productive companies requiring higher skills, and to achieve all this we need to create a better skilled workforce," chief executive officer Sinead McLaughlin told the meeting.   

Chamber President, Jim Sammon said the priorities for 2010 would be to continue pushing for infrastructural investment, to support regeneration initiatives and in particular to support the City of Culture bid.  

Mr Sammon also said that the chamber's staff and board played a vital role to members "by providing an efficient, customer oriented structure and service, offering value added members benefits, and being response to the constantly changing needs of local businesses. "

Congratulations to Chamber Member HMD Architects on their recent success of being part of the Bovis Lend Lease award of the £115m Lisanelly Shared Educational Campus in Omagh under the NI Schools Modernisation Programme.  This is a milestone project for education under the Revised NI Curriculum.  The Campus model will address issues of sustainability and the shared planning of capital provision among six post primary schools in the Omagh area.

This continues on from their current involvement in a number of other educational projects throughout the province, namely the £25m Review of Primary School provision in the Dioceses of Derry, Dromore, Down and Connor, the Holywood Schools Project; the £15m St Columbanus College, Bangor and the £3.5m Slemish College Sports Academy, Ballymena.  Completed projects of ours have included Magh Ene College, Bundoran, Ballymacricket Primary School, Glenavy, Creggan Primary School, Randalstown, Moorfields Primary School, Ballymena and School of Music, Queens University, Belfast.

Jim Sammon is delighted to announce that Sinead McLaughlin is Chamber's new Chief Executive. Sinead is the former Business Operations Manager of this Chamber and has been Acting CE since 8 February.  Sinead brings great energy and talent to the Chamber and I have no doubt that with her input as CE that the Chamber will grow and flourish in the years ahead.

Sinead is very commercially focused and her key priority is to represent our members' best interests.  She is extremely experienced in the provision of valuable services to our powerful business network.  Sinead is approachable and wants to engage with members at every opportunity so if you have any ideas or thoughts to offer her she will be more than happy to listen.

There are many challenges ahead but with a strong Board, strong CE and strong proactive Members we can make a positive impact for all the businesses in the region.  Wishing you all a very a happy Easter and hopefully some better weather also.

Times are tough, marketing budgets have been slashed but all of us in business are trying to get cost effective ways of communicating with our client base.

Derry Chamber of Commerce have looked at ways that they can utilise the vast array of digital software in order to reach a wider business audience.  Using the expertise of Zoo Creative, one of our Member Companies, we have for the first time got a commercially effective website.  We have a Picture Gallery that is updated after each event as well as up to date news and responses section together with a comprehensive events calendar and this is all on our home page.   Members have now the opportunity to book events and pay online making it much more user friendly.

Acting CEO, Sinead McLaughlin said "We have also just this month launched Chamber TV News.  This TV news service is also on our website and will broadcast news to our members each month through the new medium of our own online TV news station. This online station provides the Chamber with another potentially viable channel to get messaging out to key audiences.  We believe that Derry Chamber's TV News, provided by Lifeonmedia, provides a deeper and more immersive experience for our web visitors"

In today's technology driven economy it stands to reason that visitors to our website will click on a video before they read text based press releases. We have also found that our visitors are staying longer on our website.  I would encourage all businesses to look at their websites and evaluate if they are paying their way.  It might be worth investing in a Makeover.

Business and community leaders in Derry will be urged today to strengthen their  support for the city's bid for UK Capital of Culture, at a special lunch being held by the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, Derry City Council and urban regeneration company Ilex. 

The message going out is that people need to step forward and act as "champions" for their city and its wealth of creative and artistic talent.   The lunch is being addressed by special guests, including US Economic Envoy to NI, Declan Kelly, who says many people across the North West "were at the forefront of showcasing Northern Ireland's economic viability to the United States. "

"Creative initiatives like the City of Culture bid will complement these continued inward investment efforts and I applaud the work of local political leaders, ILEX, and those in the private sector", says Mr Kelly. Together you are demonstrating to business decision makers abroad that the region you represent is open for business".

"We very much appreciate the support of Declan Kelly and our politicians as we prepare to submit the final bid in May", said Mayor Paul Fleming.  "Our ambition is to create a step change for the city and achieving this accolade will create many platforms for showcasing local and international talent while encouraging creativity in our everyday lives, in our communities, with business and in our local and international partnerships. We are confident that 2013 will be our year".

Chairman of urban regeneration company Ilex, Sir Roy McNulty said today's event "has brought together individuals and organisations from right across Northern Ireland and beyond who are keen to play their part to ensure we win this accolade. City of Culture 2013 is about ambition; it's about confidence in ourselves and raising our game. Ultimately, it would help us present a more positive profile of the city and region internationally, and significantly enhance the city's regeneration plans'".

Chamber President Jim Sammon said winning the bid would be of immense economic value to the city and to all of Northern Ireland.  "Cork had a 38% increase in visitor numbers, which generated £322m to the local economy, and Liverpool saw business rise by 10%. So everyone must pull together now to ensure that we win."

The President of Londonderry Chamber of Commerce says that having a local Minister for Policing and Justice "could create a deeper acceptance that laws to protect people are our laws - they are not imposed from afar.  That has the potential to create a new attitude and culture towards crime," said Mr Jim Sammon, who was speaking on the occasion of the Chamber's first visit today from PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott.  

"We encourage the political parties to seize the opportunity now to build a world class Policing and Justice Ministry.  Policing and Justice are integral to creating a healthy social and economic environment. Our local economy needs business and healthy businesses depend on healthy communities," he added.  .

Mr Sammon told the Chief Constable that the Chamber "supports you and your officers in delivering good and effective policing.  The PSNI has made radical changes.  We know that the service will continue to evolve and improve. "

Chief Constable Matt Baggott, visiting the City at the invitation of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce addressed an audience of over 100 key business leaders and said, "the current financial situation is one that affects us all, be it in the private or public sector.   However, the challenges faced by the Police Service of Northern Ireland provide us with an opportunity to re-prioritise what we are aiming to achieve as a service, with a focus upon what matters to local communities, issues of serious harm and a relentless pursuit of value for money in everything we do.  This will, of course, involve building upon the legacy of Patten, but preparing for a future in a devolved environment." 

He continued, "I believe the devolution of policing and justice is a key development as we strive to deliver a personal, professional and protective policing service to the people of Northern Ireland.  This agreement will provide us with the increased financial assistance required to plan for the future and will better enable us to move forward  with certainty as an organisation."

The sponsors of the business lunch were Grafton ESP, the HR specialist division of the Grafton Employment Group.  They said they were "delighted to be involved as a partner with the PSNI and the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce at this prestigious event during what is a ground breaking moment in Northern Ireland politics".

Speaking after the event, the Chamber President said the lunch "had a distinctly business and private sector focus and it was clear that guests appreciated the honest and transparent insight into the business of policing."

The Chamber Board and Members raised questions regarding a number of issues pertaining to tourism.  Mary Blake, the Tourism Officer in DCC, has furnished the Board with a written report answering all the questions raised please see link below.

Tourism Strategy

Check out Airporter's new online reservation system. Now you can make your Airporter reservations in the same way as making your flight reservations.

Got to our home page - http://www.airporter.co.uk - and click on to Book your bus.

From there you are asked to enter your travel arrangements and then select the appropriate service time that suits your needs.

Your reservation is then processed immediately and an email is automatically sent to you with your travel details and unique booking reference.

Passengers must bring this information to check-in / board the Airporter.

Please note:

Passengers will no longer be able to buy a return ticket from the driver - they will only be able purchase a one-way fare.

If you have any comments or queries please do not hesitate to contact us online at info@airporter.co.uk or by phone on 02871269996

The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce have regretfully informed their members and stakeholders that after 13 years with the organisation, CEO Janice Tracey is to step down.  President Jim Sammon in a statement to the press said, "We are very sorry to have received Janice's resignation.

Janice has been with the Chamber almost 13 years and has been a key driver in the success of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce. Our Chamber is respected far and wide for best practice and this is due in no small measure to the talent and application of Janice Tracey.

During her time as CEO, Janice has been the 'Voice of Business' in the North West representing the interests of the City Region with Government Departments and global businesses at home and abroad. She led the organisation through a remarkable period of growth and together with her team she has enhanced the quality and range of services available to Members. Janice was awarded the OBE, in the New Years Honours list 2007 for services to the Economy and Education. 

We will miss Janice and wish her every success in the future"

Derry Can deliver World Class Solutions ......

Mr Jim Sammon, President of the Londonderry Chamber, warmly welcomes the announcement of 85 additional Jobs in Seagate's Springtown Plant.

"We are particularly pleased that this £60M investment is part of Springtown's plan to develop research and technology within the city.  Seagate has demonstrated time and time again their commitment to this region, to not only the economy but to their valued employees. Seagate have always been innovative and they are to the forefront of driving technological & digital solutions for their global business.  This Chamber champions their investment and looks forward to contributing to the development of further research & development posts within the Digital Sector.  There is no reason that Derry can not be a recognised centre of Digital Excellence in Ireland, when global companies such as Seagate have demonstrated their belief in this regions ability to deliver world class solutions."

Speaking at the launch of the construction phase of the new Peace Bridge in Derry, Janice Tracey says that the bridge is the sign that the tide has turned.

"Together with the ongoing work that will transform our public space in the Guildhall Square and surrounding area, our members are looking forward to operating in an environment that is more fit for purpose than they have been used to."

"For our members this will be seen as the first physical manifestation of the regeneration of our city that we have talked about for far too long. The actual construction process will give hope to a business community that has faced a very challenging 18 months and have had just this week learnt of more job losses at Artnz Belting and Raytheon."read more >

At a meeting in the City today, Chamber CEO Janice Tracey assured Minister Reg Empey that there was a wide body of local support for the key aspects of the U4D campaign to have an enhanced University presence in the city. She said that this could best be achieved by building on the excellence and expertise that currently exists in Magee Campus but that significant expansion was necessary.

Speaking earlier to the BBC, Ms Tracey pointed out that such expansion would act as a necessary driver for the economic regeneration of the city and stressed that expansion of HE provision at the University of Ulster in Derry would ensure that Derry and the NW play an active role in the economy of Northern Ireland. A strong Northern Ireland needs a strong NW.

A delegation from The North West Chamber of Commerce Initiative met with the Regional Development Minister, Mr Conor Murphy, to receive his Departmental up date on the progress of a number of major infrastructural issues currently in progress throughout the Region.  Representatives from Derry, Letterkenny, Omagh and Strabane were heartened to hear an upbeat Minister assuring us that the NW Region was high on his agenda. 

Ian Crowe, told the Minister "the NW business leaders want to contribute fully to the economic development of Northern Ireland in every way that they can.  The people of the region are innovative, creative and entrepreneurial, however the connectivity to the region is still exceptionally poor and until the completion on both the A6 and A5 road schemes the NW has the added peripheral hurdle when trying to attract Foreign Direct Investment."read more >

We had our last networking event of the year this morning and it was a fabulous event. We had input from 2 very different speakers, John Rice from JamMedia and Siobhan McAleer from The Mortgage Shop. The speakers role was to stimulate conversation and ideas and faciliatate networking and they did all that and more.

Siobhan's input showed us very clearly how a vulnerability can be a strength if matched with steely determination. She stressed the importance of our Business Allies when times are tough and urged us to break long term relationships with extreme caution. When talking about leadership she said that it is incumbant on all leaders to paint a picture where the sun will shine again, to have our feet firmly on the ground but look up, up, up.

John Rice gave us all a good laugh by playing some of his award winning and contract bearing video and cartoon clips. He talked about his early beginnings and tracks his success right back to getting very bad leaving cert results. How often have we heard the story of successful businesses starting from positions of adversity?read more >

Chamber President Jim Sammon has welcomed the announcement of the major expansion of Foyleside. "Foyleside is a real jewel in our crown and a very important element of our retail offering. To have such a gem in the heart of our city centre has been a real asset and I know has boosted trade for the surrounding shops and not just those in the centre. This investment will reinforce the city centre offering and underpin the competitiveness and attractiveness of Derry at the heart of a successful region. Such significant expansion plans at a time when we have seen little development will bring a real boost to the construction industry and provide much needed jobs in a wide range of sectors."

Jim also commented on the added value that such a significant building project could provide. "Such an extensive project, with a price tag of £100 million, has the potential to make a real difference, both in developing a design package that enhances our environment and also in the provision of training opportunities for our local labour force through targeted apprenticeship schemes. Together with the new iconic peace bridge, this construction project could really transform our waterfront"

Ends for further information please contact Helena Kearney on 028 71 262379

University for Derry, the group putting forward radical plans to upgrade and expand university provision in Derry-Londonderry, has reached Westminster.

An Early Day Motion has been tabled in the House of Commons congratulating Professor David Chiddick, the eminent founding Vice Chancellor of the University of Lincoln, on his retirement.  Professor Chiddick is advisor to the University for Derry group and has produced the vision plans for the university-led regeneration of Derry-Londonderry.read more >

The US Economic Envoy Declan Kelly was on a whirlwind visit to the NW and found time to meet with members of Derry's Chamber of Commerce. 

Jim Sammon, Chamber President said, "Given that the entire focus for the new envoy is the economy, it is fitting that Mr Kelly meets as many business leaders as possible.  Given Derry's long association and close links with a number of key US cities, we will be keen to discuss our plans for the city and to make sure when he is shining a light on Northern Ireland's assets, that this city and region is in the spotlight."
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Chamber member, Trish Hegarty, received a special award in Dublin at the weekend in recognition of her role as first woman president of the Union of Students in Ireland in 1986. Trish, who is director of Inis Communications PR and Media Consultancy, said she was honoured to meet President Mary McAleese at the 50^th Anniversary of USI event and that she was delighted to receive the award.

"It was a fantastic evening and it was great to see so many old faces from my years in USI."  Former USI officers who also attended include RTE's Joe Duffy and Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore.
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President Mary McAleese is to make a special award to Chamber member Trish Hegarty, of Inis Communications, at a special event in Dublin tomorrow evening, to mark the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the Union of Students of Ireland (USI). Trish was the first woman to become President of USI in 1988.

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People and Place are what really matter most and what puts Derry at the top of the Christmas list.

Derry is the principal retail centre in the North West of Ireland and the retail capacity of the city has been boosted in recent years by the doubling of retail floor space. Locally based independent retailers, accounting for some 68% of the retailing sector, significantly complement an expanding range of both UK and Irish major high-street stores. To complement the retail experience, Derry's service industries also offer an added value s a hotbed of creative activity. The city hosts numerous theatres, museums and galleries offering the shopper a choice of creative and artistic activities.
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John Spangler received a top accolade from the Chamber of Commerce CEO Janice Tracey at their 52nd Annual Dinner.  Named as the Chamber’s Person of the Year, John received a standing ovation when accepting his award.

The Dinner was attended by almost 300 Chamber Members and Guests.  Guests included Ministers from North and South, Senior Government Officials, MPs, MLA’s, and all the local stakeholders.

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Youth and Education are the two main themes of the Chamber’s 52nd Annual Dinner.  The key event in the business calendar for the North West, the Chamber Dinner is renowned for its high level guests, challenging speeches and all round good night’s entertainment.  

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Chamber President Jim Sammon has led a united welcome for the recently launched review of Economic Policy in Northern Ireland.

Jim Sammon said,

"I commend the Minister for establishing this review which is direct response to concerns expressed by business organizations such as ours. We welcome in particular the emphasis on Innovation and R&D. The focus on higher value added jobs for the people of Northern Ireland is entirely the right way to approach economic policy and fits very well with the emerging outcomes from the city's regeneration plans."read more >

Four leading science and technology industries in the North West have come together to invite post-primary Principals and Head of Careers to visit their premises and see first-hand how modern hi-tech industries operate.read more >

Member comments on Jenni Timony, speaker at the Chamber of Commerce's first Motivational Business Lunch Series held last week. This Series, in partnership with Derry City Council, aims to provide support to our business community in these challenging times.

The Motivational Business Lunch Series is organized by Chamber of Commerce and aims to create an environment where speakers will share their own experiences in a realistic and honest address. These events will also provide a network for our members and non-members with likeminded people.

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Inspiring and motivating were the comments from Chamber of Commerce members at the first of their Business Lunch Series held on last Thursday at The Waterfoot.read more >

The Chamber of Commerce Team finished the Tesco's Half Marthon on Saturday, September 12 and raised in excess of £800 for The Foyle Hospice.read more >

"It is Council's job to lead in marketing the city and region to Foreign Direct Investment, and this seminar is a good early step", said Chamber Vice President Padraig Canavan, following a seminar with telecoms giants Hibernia Atlantic.
Padriag promised that Chamber will assist Council in this critical job of work but that as the local authority they have the right kind of mandate to lead.read more >