THE importance of a strong voice to represent business in Ennis has been emphasised by newly elected Ennis Chamber president Colin Ryan.
The Bank of Ireland branch manager was elected president at the Ennis Chamber AGM held on Monday, with Sheila Lynch, partner, Cashin Clancy Solicitors elected vice president.
On election, Colin who last year served as vice president, thanked Darragh McAllister, outgoing president for his hard work and commitment.
He stated, “Ennis Chamber has been fortunate to have had strong presidents during the Covid years, first Allen Flynn, owner Old Ground Hotel, followed by publican Darragh McAllister over the past year.”
Outlining his focus for the year ahead, Colin said, “My mission is to build membership. Already we are back to pre-Covid numbers, and I’d like to grow membership further over the coming year.”
He added, “It’s critical we have a strong voice to represent business in Ennis during these rapidly changing times and Ennis Chamber fulfils that role.”
Colin, who has been involved in Ennis Chamber at executive level for eight years, brings solid experience to his new role.
Sheila Lynch, who steps on board as vice president said, “We know things are very challenging in business right now and we play our part as a Chamber by delivering lobbying supports and training opportunities, such as the ‘Talent Retention Roadshow’, at the Old Ground Hotel, run in conjunction with Skills Mid-West.
“Other supportive events in the pipeline include a HR workshop to be delivered by GHR, one of Ennis Chamber’s newest members, which will focus on how to deal with key issues arising in HR right now. This event, to take place in May, will focus on HR challenges facing the SME sector.”
Business models have changed, as have town dynamics in recent years and they will continue to evolve. Mr Ryan said, “Our aspiration is for Ennis Chamber to be a constant in terms of support we give members during these changing and challenging times.”
They both said they look forward to working closely with Ennis Chamber CEO, Margaret O’Brien and staff of Ennis Chamber over the coming year.