Chamber Business Awards will honour the best in New Ross

THE New Ross Chamber Business and Community Awards were launched last week at the chamber’s annual barbecue which was held at Creacon Lodge.

President of the chamber, John McSweeney, wearing the chamber’s first chain of office, said New Ross is undergoing ‘significant change’ adding that improved transport links were already yielding a surge in business opportunities.

Mr McSweeney thanked Wexford County Council and New Ross Municipal Council for their sponsorship of the awards which will take place in the Brandon House Hotel on November 4.

This year there will be 12 categories and the closing date for applications is on September 22.

He said that the awards recognise businesses and community groups who work tirelessly to promote Ross.

‘Recognition by business and community of their own business and community activities is a significant and important element of building this town and district for the future. Before we can ever be recognised by outsiders we must, I believe, call out those who already have their shoulders to the wheel in driving business and community success.

‘I’m sure those nominated and those who will ultimately be successful in the 2017 awards will like past winners continue to display this strong work ethic.

He said that the chamber will continue to work with the council ‘in supporting the delivery of business and community activities for the betterment of New Ross & District. So much improvements have taken place and continue everyday if you take the time to look around the district. Whilst many people have their own views on what New Ross meant to them in the past, as a town with a future we must be sure that the view remains positive at all times and challenge those who may think otherwise.’

Attending the launch was Ann O’Connor from Secret Valley Wildlife Park which was named Business of the Year at last year’s awards. Ann told the crowd how her business has thrived over the past year.

Mr McSweeney also thanked individual award sponsors, Lake Region Medical Ltd, Molloy’s Supervalue, Guardian Fire & Safety, Wexford Local Enterprise Office, JFK Trust, AIB Bank and Fred Curtis who sponsored the awards trophies this year.

He concluded by saying he hoped that the energy of all the businesses and community groups in the district would be reflected at the awards.

Back: Declan Stamp of Guardian Fire & Security, Cathaoirleach Willie Fitzharris, Calum Molloy of Molloy’s SuperValu, Chamber president John McSweeney, Tom Banville of Wexford Local Enterprise Office, Derek O’Neill of Creacon Wellness centre and Abraham...

2016 overall winner Ann O’Conner from Secret Valley Park cutting the launch cake with New Ross Municipal District cathaoirleach Willie Fitzharris and Chamber president John McSweeney.