Alliance sets out its stall in style weeks ahead of big launch

JUST weeks before the official launch of the new Listowel Community and Business Alliance and the group is already proving itself as a fantastic platform around which the entire town is now coming together in strength.

This was seen with crystal clarity on Wednesday last as the group – under Chairman Stephen Stack – extended an almightly Listowel welcome to the judges of the National Enterprise Towns awards.

“It was a fantastic occasion and the judges seemed hugely impressed with welcome they received from Listowel!” Stephen told The Kerryman.

The competition is worth its weight in gold to the new alliance, offering a prize of €50,000 for the victor of a field comprising up to 50 towns.

The day started at the stunning new Butler Centre in the old bank in the Square where a number of local experts delivered presentations on Listowel’s tourism and vibrant events programme; its retail sector; its spirit of enterprise and much, much more - to a large gathering in a conference suite of the new centre. It was over to the Seanchaí then – where Stephen said Billy Keane did a fantastic turn as MC amid a programme that included other key local speakers.

“I just want to thank everyone who contributed to what was a phenomenal morning. It really showed the judges just how closely-knit and vibrant our community and enterprises are,” Stephen added. The Alliance will launch at the Butler Centre on November 6.

Listowel native Lisa O’Carroll of the Kerry Local Enterprise Office presenting to the group last week.

A business breakfast in the Butler Centre to get things started on the right note.

Listowel Garvey’s Supervalu manager Paul O’Connor giving an entertaining overview of the retail sector.

Listowel woman and head of Kerry County Council Tourism Joan McCarthy speaking at the Alliance event last week.

Young Emmets players getting that quintessential Listowel welcome out for the Alliance event with organiser Stephen Stack.