People of the West Encouraged to Vote in Final Judging

LookWest.ie, the Western Development Commission’s (WDC) online guide to living, working and doing business in Ireland’s Western Region, has been short-listed for a Dot ie Net Visionary Award in the ‘Best Use of Social Media’ category.

Speaking about the awards Helen Rochford Brennan, Chair of the WDC said, “We are delighted that LookWest.ie has been short-listed by the judging panel of on-line industry experts. Last year we won the Award for Best e-Government Website and this year, the category in which we are short-listed recognises organisations that can demonstrate best practice use of social media to drive business growth. Since the start of this year, we have seen the an increase of over 50% in the numbers of people engaging with us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn and the number of visits to our website LookWest.ie has grown by over 30%. Getting to this stage in the awards programme is recognition of the important role LookWest.ie continues to play in promoting the benefits and economic advantages of the West of Ireland to a growing audience base in Ireland and to the Irish Diaspora overseas.”

Gillian Buckley, Acting CEO of the WDC added, “Winning the category is dependent on us receiving the most votes from the public so we are now asking people from the Western Region, both those living here and those living elsewhere, to vote for LookWest.ie by clicking on www.iia.ie/net-visionary/vote/39. Each person can only vote once so we are hoping that all those who have an affinity or link with the Western Region will log on and vote for LookWest.ie. Voting closes at 6pm on September 2nd and winners will be announced on September 30th.”

LookWest.ie, first launched in 2004, promotes the West as an attractive and economically-advantageous location for enterprise and is the definitive guide to living, working and doing business in Ireland’s Western Region. In recent years, social media engagement has become a key part of online activities and LookWest.ie now engages daily with thousands of people across all social media channels to promote the benefits of the Western Region.

The LookWest.ie social media drive has featured two high profile photography competitions including this year’s ‘MySummer’ photo campaign which is currently soliciting photos of best summer moments in the Western Region. Last winter, LookWest.ie launched the ‘7 Wonders of the West’ campaign to create a publicly voted list of the Region’s favourite places, events and things to do.

“Our social media activities have really helped to bring the website to life and the level of ongoing audience engagement is extremely encouraging,” said Paul Keyes WDC Head of Corporate Services. “Other aspects of the website include a skills register (http://www.lookwest.ie/skills-register) where people can register their skills and experience to help create a profile of the talent, qualifications and expertise of people living in the West or considering a move here. We believe that having access to this profile can contribute to attracting jobs and business to the Region – something we have all been very focused on in recent times.

“To build on last year’s success, we hope that people from the West will once again support LookWest.ie’s promotion of the region by voting for us in the final stage of this year’s judging. It would be a great achievement for the West to win two in a row and bring this prestigious award back to the West again,” Mr Keyes concluded.

For further information please contact:

Paul Keyes, Western Development Commission, 086 604 8014 or Bernadette Mullarkey, Bane Mullarkey, 086 8062540

Notes to editors on the Western Development Commission (WDC)

The WDC is the statutory body promoting economic and social development in counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, Galway and Clare.

The WDC’s strategic goals are:

1. Contribute to balanced regional development by ensuring that the Western Region maximises its full potential for economic and social development.
2. Promote the benefits of living, working and doing business in the Western Region.
3. Support the sustainable economic and social development of the rural economy.
4. Provide risk capital to SMEs and social enterprises.

www.wdc.ie and www.lookwest.ie

- Public vote to choose overall winner

The top 50 photos from the LookWest.ie My Summer photo competition have been selected and the public is now invited to vote for the overall winning photo. The competition, part of the Western Development Commission (WDC) LookWest.ie initiative to promote the Western Region as a great place to live, work and do business, attracted hundreds of entries since it was launched two weeks ago.

Ian Brannigan of the WDC said: “We invited people to capture and submit their favourite West of Ireland summer moment and we were absolutely delighted with the response. There were over 750 entries to the competition which captured awe-inspiring landscapes, surfscapes, festivals, gigs and summer fun-filled shots of Ireland’s Western Region. The top 50 photos are truly stunning and all equally portray the West of Ireland at its best; they are now available for viewing and voting on www.lookwest.ie  and on the LookWest.ie Facebook page http://bit.ly/MySummerVoting .”

The judging panel, which included Sligo photographer Colin Gillen of Framelight Studios, had a very difficult job in shortlisting the final 50 due to the creativity and energy of the photographs submitted. The shortlisted photos include captivating pictures of people jumping into Galway Bay from the diving board in Blackrock, Salthill, an enthusiastic dancer taking part in the annual O’ Carolan Harp Festival Door Dancing competition in Roscommon and an Alice in Wonderland themed photo, which was inspired by the Temple House Festival in Sligo.

Members of the public have from now until August 24th to vote for what they consider to be the best photo. Voting is free and easy to do through www.lookwest.ie and on the LookWest.ie Facebook page http://bit.ly/MySummerVoting  and voters themselves are in with a chance to win one of the voters prizes including t-shirts from county Clare-based, Emerald Surfwear, tour vouchers from Galway-based Segway Adventures and a piece of handmade jewellery from Mayo-based jewellery designer Victoria Foutz.

The overall winners will be announced on August 25th and prizes include a weekend for four at the five star Lough Eske Castle Hotel, a gift hamper from the Source Restaurant, Wine Bar and a Cookery School in Sligo town and a gift voucher from McCambridge’s, Galway’s family-owned deli and fine foods store.

LookWest.ie was launched by the WDC in 2004 as a guide to living, working and doing business in the Western Region. As well as the LookWest.ie website, which receives over 20,000 visitors each month, the initiative works in partnership with relevant state agencies and is developing links with the Irish Diaspora to promote inward investment and job creation in the region – both crucial to address current challenges.

Ends

For further information please contact:
Ian Brannigan Western Development Commission, 086 6048012
Or
Bernadette Mullarkey, Bane Mullarkey, 086 806 2540

With just 4 days left to the closing date, the Western Development Commission (WDC) is reminding the public to enter the LookWest.ie ‘My Summer’ photo competition and be in with a chance to win a top prize worth €1,500.

The ‘My Summer’ photo competition is for people to capture their favourite West of Ireland summer moments. Photos can be of a great memory, the fun and excitement of attending one of the region’s many festivals or just a lazy, relaxing day that captures the appeal of the West of Ireland. Entry is free, and photos can be uploaded through the competition link on www.lookwest.ie  or on the LookWest.ie  Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/LookWest  .

Almost 450 entries have already been received and the WDC is expecting a lot of entries following the bank holiday weekend when so many activities and events took place around the Western Region.

After the photo submission closing date (August 5th) a shortlist of the top 50 photographs will be compiled, based on a combination of their popularity on social media networks and the expert judging panel. Shortlisted photos will then be displayed on LookWest.ie and on Facebook for members of the public to vote for their favourite and select the winners.

LookWest.ie was launched by the WDC in 2004 as a guide to living, working and doing business in the Western Region. As well as the LookWest.ie website, which receives over 20,000 visitors each month, the initiative works in partnership with relevant state agencies and is developing links with the Irish Diaspora to promote inward investment and job creation in the region – both crucial to address current challenges.

Winners will be announced in late August and prizes include a weekend for four at the five star Lough Eske Castle Hotel, a gift hamper from the Source Restaurant, Wine Bar and Cookery School in Sligo town and a gift voucher from McCambridge’s, Galway’s family-owned deli and fine foods store. Voters will be rewarded with prizes including t-shirts from county Clare-based, Emerald Surfwear, tour vouchers from Galway-based Segway Adventures and a piece of handmade jewellery from Mayo-based jewelry designer Victoria Foutz.

Ends

For further information please contact:
Ian Brannigan, Western Development Commission, 086 604 8012

Notes to editors on the Western Development Commission (WDC)
LookWest.ie, an initiative of the Western Development Commission, promotes the Western Region as an attractive and economically advantageous location for enterprise. It is the definitive online guide to living, working and doing business in Ireland’s Western Region.

 Public invited to enter their favourite West of Ireland summer photos

The Western Development Commission (WDC) has launched the LookWest.ie ‘My Summer’ photo competition as part of its drive to promote the Western Region as a great place to live, work and do business.

The ‘My Summer’ photo competition, running during July and August, invites people to capture their favourite West of Ireland summer moments and be in with a chance to win the top prize worth €1,500. Photos can be of a great memory, the fun and excitement of attending one of the region’s many festivals or just a lazy, relaxing day that captures the appeal of the West of Ireland. Entry is free, and photos can be uploaded through the competition link on www.lookwest.ie or on the LookWest.ie Facebook page.

The WDC hopes that photos which capture the uniqueness and magic of the seven county region, from county Donegal to county Clare will communicate a positive message to a worldwide audience of the many attractions and benefits of the Western Region.

After the photo submission closing date (August 4th) a shortlist of the top 50 photographs will be compiled. Shortlisted photos will be chosen based on a combination of their popularity on social media networks and an expert judging panel. Shortlisted photos will then be displayed online via LookWest.ie and Facebook for members of the public to view and vote for their favourite and thereby select the overall winning photo.

LookWest.ie was launched by the WDC in 2004 as a guide to living, working and doing business in the Western Region. As well as the LookWest.ie website, which receives over 20,000 visitors each month, the initiative works in partnership with relevant state agencies and is developing links with the Irish Diaspora to promote inward investment and job creation in the region – both crucial to address current challenges.

Ian Brannigan Regional Development Manager for the WDC said: “Entry to the competition runs from July 18th to August 4th so people will have plenty of time to capture their favourite summer moments. Because it takes place in the middle of the main holiday, festival and sporting season, we are expecting some stunning photographs. Alternatively, people can look back through their photos from previous summers and submit their favourite”.

“By hosting the competition online, there will be strong visibility for the region as our 2,500 Facebook fans, 1,535 Twitter followers and 600 plus LookWest.ie LinkedIn members can view and share the photos and their positive message with friends in their social networking communities,” he added.

Winners will be announced in late August and the WDC has partnered with the five star Lough Eske Castle Hotel, just outside Donegal town, for the top prize of a luxurious weekend for four people. The prize, worth almost €1,500, also includes a surfing, fishing or golf activity.

Jeroen Quint, General Manager at Lough Eske Castle said: “We are delighted to partner with LookWest.ie on this great social media campaign. As Ireland’s only hotel to claim a World Luxury Hotel Award, Lough Eske Castle, a Solis Hotel and Spa, is delighted this campaign will give us a unique opportunity to highlight the best of what the North West has to offer potential tourists”.

Runner-up prizes include a Source Sligo Gift Hamper from the award-winning Source Restaurant, Wine Bar and a Cookery School in Sligo town, a piece of handmade jewelry from Mayo-based jewelry designer Victoria Foutz and a gift voucher from McCambridge’s, Galway’s family owned deli and fine foods store. Voters will also be rewarded with prizes including t-shirts from county Clare-based, Emerald Surfwear, and tour vouchers from Galway-based Segway Adventures.

Helen Rochford Brennan, chairperson of the WDC concluded by saying: “We are calling on people who live and work here or who have a connection with the West of Ireland to enter – the more photos submitted to LookWest.ie, the more positive promotion of the region we can generate online. Entry to the competition is free with some great prizes in store, so we are expecting that lots of people will engage with the fun of the competition and we’re really looking forward to seeing all the wonderful photographs”.

Ends

For further information please contact:
Ian Brannigan, Western Development Commission, 086 604 8012
Or
Angela Bane, Bane Mullarkey, 087 286 5217

Notes to editors on the Western Development Commission (WDC)

LookWest.ie, an initiative of the Western Development Commission, promotes the Western Region as an attractive and economically advantageous location for enterprise. It is the definitive online guide to living, working and doing business in Ireland’s Western Region.

The WDC is the statutory body promoting economic and social development in counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, Galway and Clare.

The WDC’s strategic goals are:

1. Contribute to balanced regional development by ensuring that the Western Region maximises its full potential for economic and social development.
2. Promote the benefits of living, working and doing business in the Western Region.
3. Support the sustainable economic and social development of the rural economy.
4. Provide risk capital to SMEs and social enterprises.

www.wdc.ie  and www.lookwest.ie

Connect with LookWest.ie to find out more:
www.lookwest.ie
Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/lookwestie
Like our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/LookWest
Join the LookWest.ie group on LinkedIn.com

The Western Region is facing significant education, enterprise and employment challenges. A more integrated approach to these ‘3Es’ is crucial to reverse high unemployment and emigration, particularly among the region’s young people. Policies and actions which recognise how closely connected the ‘3Es’ are will help enterprises to grow and create badly needed jobs in the region. That’s according to a new Policy Briefing Education, Enterprise & Employment: How can better integration of the 3Es drive growth in the Western Region? published today by the Western Development Commission (WDC).

Pauline White, Policy Analyst at the WDC said: “The Western Region is currently trying to tackle a number of urgent challenges. How can we reduce unemployment, raise education levels, create enterprises in new sectors and limit the loss of our young people?”

“To create employment we need to grow and expand enterprises. To support this, education and training must provide the skills needed by these enterprises, as well as work with them to improve their innovation levels. This is particularly important in sectors where the region has future growth potential such as medical devices, renewable energy, tourism, creative industries and food. Acquiring skills which are needed by enterprises will also make it easier for jobseekers to find employment or set up their own business. Clearly, future job creation and growth depends on how well the ‘3Es’ interact within the region,” she continued.

The Briefing says that, currently, policies and advice for each of the ‘3Es’ are generally developed and published separately. Although efforts are under way to deal with them in a more joined-up manner, the WDC makes five specific proposals which, it says, will achieve greater integration among the ‘3Es’ and also maximise the impact of existing resources.

1. Identify and respond to short and long term regional skills needs: by establishing regional workforce development fora to determine skills needs and how they can be met regionally.

2. Broker relations between higher education and enterprise: a single point of contact to help businesses make contact and work with higher educational institutions.

3. Address the specific issues of jobseekers in smaller centres and rural areas: by supporting access to education and work placements, re-skilling young men who have lost jobs in construction and supporting local ‘learning mentors’ to advise and support jobseekers who are returning to education.

4. Make access to enterprise support easier: through a regional cross-referral system among enterprise support agencies to ensure entrepreneurs are ‘always at the right door’.

5. Encourage job creation: by actively developing the region’s growth sectors, supporting locally trading businesses, improving access to finance, investing in critical infrastructure and supporting sales and marketing activities.

“In the current period of limited resources, a joined-up approach to the ‘3Es’ is not only desirable but necessary. If we better understand how policies for one ‘E’, for example education provision, impacts on the other ‘Es’, such as jobseeker’s employability, and we then actively try to strengthen these relationships we can get the greatest benefit from public spending,” concluded Ms. White.

The Policy Briefing is the fourth in a series of briefings from the WDC which highlight and provide discussion and analysis of key regional policy issues. It is available for download on www.wdc.ie/publications/reports-and-papers/reports-2011/

Ends

For further information please contact:
Pauline White, Policy Analyst, Western Development Commission, 086 832 8055
or
Bernadette Mullarkey, Bane Mullarkey, 086 806 2540

Innovative research commissioned by the Western Development Commission and carried out by researchers at NUI, Galway has highlighted the potential for a doubling of the workforce employed in the Creative Sector over the next 10 years. Additionally this could lead to up to €150 M in additional exports per annum from the sector – a key area of growth identified. The report is a follow up to the WDC’s much heralded Creative West report published in February 2009, which in itself established the creative economy in the western region as being internationally significant with 4,775 businesses employing 11,000 people directly.

Today’s follow up analysis entitled–“Creative Sector in The Western Region – Future Growth Trajectories “, was published this week by the WDC. Complied by a research team led by Dr Patrick Collins of NUI Galway’s Centre for Innovation and Structural Change the report maps out the future growth scenarios for an industrial sector that has been bucking international trends in terms of growth.

“Internationally this sector has been outpacing others in terms of growth and this is a pattern that we see emerging in Ireland” according to Dr Collins at CISC. “It is clear to us that a small number of policies, correctly implemented have the potential to make a massive difference for the sector and the region” he continued. Commenting on the research, Dr. James Cunningham, the Director of CISC maintained that “this work shows an area of potential for the whole of the west of Ireland, and in the current climate, all potential needs to be realised”.

Ian Brannigan regional development manager for the WDC commented: “The WDC are delighted to welcome this analysis of how we create opportunities and employment from this indigenous and significant part of our economy. We have long realized the creative economy is a natural resource and we are now working with the sector to both highlight this and move ahead to grow the employment and export opportunities.”

In particular the report focuses on the promotion of exports and increased collaboration between members of the sector as key steps in attaining this growth. The increasing international demand for the authentic and unique products characterized by this sector points to the growth potential for exporting, while the sharing of knowledge and innovation through collaboration also highlights the growth dynamic of this relatively new sector. The issues highlighted by the research are exceptionally relevant in light of the current economic climate and recent figures showing a rise in the numbers unemployed in the region.

Ian also stated that.” Of particular interest to us is the fact that in addition to the employment and revenue opportunities identified by the businesses themselves, the analysis shows us wider benefits in terms of option, educational and prestige values, which simply means that almost everyone benefits directly from the sector growth in some way or another”

Gillian Buckley Acting CEO for the WDC stated “Once again we are seeing that there is a real return on supporting our indigenous SME sector and that they form a key part in supporting the wider knowledge economy growth in the region and beyond. The WDC is happy to play a key role in helping make this happen in our communities”

This industry involved analysis underpins an ongoing series of initiatives the WDC and partners are undertaking to tangibly support the growth in market, revenue and employment opportunities within the burgeoning creative economy in the western region (The Creative West).

ENDS

For further information contact: Western Development Commission Ian Brannigan, Regional Development Manager, Western Development Commission

Tel: 00353 (0)94 9861893
Mobile: 00353 (0)86 6048012
Fax: 00353 (0)94 9861443
e-mail: ianbrannigan@wdc.ie

website www.wdc.ie
website www.lookwest.ie

For further information contact: Dr Patrick Collins, Centre for Innovation and Structural Change, NUI Galway 091 493326 email: p.collins@nuigalway.ie Full findings of the research and the published article are available at: http://www.wdc.ie/publications/reports-and-papers/reports-2011/

About CISC

The Centre for Innovation and Structural Change (CISC) is an inter-disciplinary research institute, based at J.E. Cairnes Business School of Business & Economic at National University of Ireland Galway, focused on building an internationally-recognised programme of research and education on innovation processes and policies that are fundamental to the development of a knowledge-based economy. CISC is one of the four major research institutes within NUI Galway and it is aligned to the Applied Social Science and Public Policy thematic research priority.

About Western Development Commission

The Western Development Commission (WDC) is a statutory body that was set up to promote both social and economic development in the Western Region (Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Roscommon, Galway and Clare) by:

Ensuring that government policy is directed at improving the social and economic situation in the region.

Developing projects in tourism, industry, marine, renewable energy, technology and organic Agri-food, etc..

Operating the €32 million Western Investment Fund (WIF) to provide loans and equity to business and local communities in the West.

Villa Rose Hotel, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal

Earlier today at the RASRLES Wood Energy Workshop in Balybofey, Donegal, a new report “Energy Crop Opportunities in the Western Region” was launched by the Western Development Commission (WDC) as lead partner in the RASLRES project. The report was developed in partnership with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland and Teagasc. This report provides an analysis of the potential of energy crops in the Western Region.

RASLRES is a European bio-energy project led by the Western Development Commission. RASLRES goes to the heart of the local community by using local resources and supporting local people to develop renewable energy projects and in turn creating jobs and enterprise opportunities for rural communities. RASLRES is funded by the INTERREG IVB – Northern Periphery Programme. Our project partners are from Sweden, Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Faroe Islands and Finland.

Today’s workshop entitled “Building Local Wood Energy Markets” brought together almost seventy industry stakeholders to investigate how they might work together to build local loops of demand and supply in the wood heat market in the Western Region. Of specific interest to farmers, foresters and fuel processors, the workshop provided an opportunity to inform potential users on key issues for developing a wood energy project and discuss experiences in the region to date including:

• The current wood energy scenario in the region, resources, markets and the potential for building local loops of wood energy provision

• Energy crop potential, fuel from forestry and issues relating to fuel supply

• Wood fuel markets and issues for users

The above areas were supported by case studies from Rural Generation Ltd and the Donegal Woodland Owners Co-op and lessons learned from the RASLRES regional audit of wood energy in the region.

Speaking earlier today at the workshop Helen Rochford Brennan, Chair of the WDC commented, “We are delighted to see such a large attendance for today’s workshop. This highlights the interest in the development potential for bio energy and specifically wood energy in the Western Region”.

Ian Brannigan WDC Regional Development Manager added, “In addition, the launch of the energy crop report “Wood Energy Opportunities in the Western Region” provides a substantive document which informs both those who are currently involved in bio energy in the region and those who may be thinking of getting involved in this market.”

“The report makes a series of recommendations focusing on supply chain, infrastructure, fuel processing, management of plantations and supply, and issues for the user including clustering sites, mapping, the identification of plantations near centres of demand and the potential for use of marginal land. Having a report which provides an analysis of the issues, challenges and the potential of energy crops in the region in terms of building enterprise models and job growth is hugely beneficial for the development of bio energy both on a regional and national scale. The WDC through the RASLRES project looks forward to working with Government towards meeting our CO2 emissions targets for 2020 and developing sustainable models for bio energy for the Western Region,” concluded Bernadette Phelan, WDC Development Executive.

For further information on the RASLRES project log on to www.raslres.eu or email Bernadette Phelan at the WDC at bernadettephelan@wdc.ie

Service improvements on Galway-Limerick line a Boost to Regional Development and Tourism – Western Development Commission

The Western Development Commission (WDC) welcomes the Iarnród Éireann announcement of new service improvements and promotional fares on the Galway-Limerick section of the Western Rail Corridor. The WDC also welcomes the passenger figures from Iarnród Éireann indicating that there have been over 250,000 passenger journeys on the Galway-Limerick route since the line was re-opened in March 2010.

Speaking about the new service Gillian Buckley, acting Chief Executive at the WDC said; ““The WDC welcomes these new figures from Iarnród Éireann which show the demand for these services on the Galway-Limerick line. These figures show that commuters and intercity travellers want this alternative sustainable way of travelling”. The route serving Limerick, Sixmilebridge, Ennis, Gort, Ardrahan, Craughwell, Athenry and Galway connects the third and fourth largest urban centres in Ireland, promoting economic development between the two centres. It is also a welcome boost to the tourism sector in the towns along the route and the surrounding areas following a very difficult few years for tourism.

“We also welcome the efforts which Iarnród Éireann continue to make to promote both commuter and intercity services on the route. We welcome the recent changes to the schedule, providing for an additional service from Galway to Ennis as well as some journey time improvements but believe that to see the full benefit of the re-instated route we need further improvements in rail journey times. This will ensure that it can compete effectively with the road network and can contribute fully to more sustainable travel”, Ms. Buckley added.

Deirdre Frost, Policy Analyst at the WDC said: “These figures are evidence of the demand for this rail service and we hope that the next phase from Athenry to Tuam and on to Claremorris will proceed despite the current economic difficulties. The WDC 2009 report, ‘Travel to Work and Labour Catchments in the Western Region’ show even stronger demand for rail services north of Galway city. This report found that the number of people commuting to Galway city from the north of the county, for example from the Tuam labour catchment, is actually greater than the number commuting to Galway city from the south; the Gort labour catchment. This strengthens the case for the next stage of the Western Rail Corridor from Athenry to Tuam and on to Claremorris considerably.”

Ms. Frost added, “This type of transport is exactly what the National Spatial Strategy (NSS) envisaged in terms of sustainable public transport linking key centres so that regions can further develop economically. It also means a significant reduction in car based journeys helping to reduce transport emissions.”

Ends

For further information please contact:

Deirdre Frost (086 605 3317), or Gillian Buckley (087 2236 982), Western Development Commission

Building local wood Heat Markets

14 June 2011

Villa Rose Hotel, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal

13:30 – 18:30

RASLRES is a European bio-energy project led by the Western Development Commission. RASLRES goes to the heart of the local community by using local resources and supporting local people to develop renewable energy projects and in turn creating jobs and enterprise opportunities for rural communities. RASLRES is funded by the INTERREG IVB – Northern Periphery Programme. Our project partners are from Sweden, Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Faroe Islands and Finland.

This workshop brings together industry experts to investigate how to build local loops of demand and supply in the wood heat market. It is of specific interest to farmers, foresters and fuel processors. It will inform potential users on key issues for developing a wood energy project and discuss experiences in the region to date.  A key element of the workshop will be the presentation of a report, which was carried out in partnership with the SEAI and Teagasc, on the potential of energy crops in the Western Region.

While this workshop is free of charge, registration is required.

 To register please call the WDC office at 094 9861441 or email info@raslres.eu

Event Programme

 13:30     Registration and light lunch

 14:00     Welcome– Helen Rochford Brennan
                 Chairperson, Western Development Commission

                    Wood Energy in the Western Region

14:10     Wood energy resources, markets and building local
                  loops - Bernadette Phelan, WDC/RASLRES

             Woody Biomass Fuels and the Business of Fuel Supply

14:30      Energy crop potential in the Western Region -
                   Mike Wilson, Heritage Futures Ltd

Fuel from forestry and issues for developing a fuel supply business -Paddy Donovan, DARE Ltd

Business Case Study: Rural Generation Ltd – Christine Hutton, Business Development Manager (Heat/Energy) and Chris Johnston, Business Development Manager (Waste Management)

Co-operative Case Study:  Donegal Woodland Owners Co-op– John Jackson, Chairman

16:00     Break

Wood Fuel Markets and Issues for Users

16:15      Market demand for woody fuels and potential users -
                   Steve Luker, Steve Luker & Associates Ltd

Lessons from regional audit: best practice in project development -Fred Tottenham, Navitus Ltd

17:00      Panel Discussion with Questions & Answers

17:30      Wood boiler user perspective:  Tommy Gallen,
                   Owner Villa Rose Hotel will provide a site visit of their
                   boiler

Demonstration of the SEAI Bioenergy GIS available until 6:30p

SPEAKER PROFILES

 Paddy Donovan graduated from UCD with a degree in forestry in 1986.  Post graduation he took up a position as Harvesting Manager with Coolrain Sawmills. He became a Forest Manager with the Woodland Group in 1991. In 1998 Paddy set up Donovan Forestry Services, an independent forest consultancy service. He supplies industry expertise in forest management techniques and building a culture of forest management. His current work focuses on the potential renewable energy benefits from forests, including windfarms and solid biomass, developing supply chains. Paddy has worked with Steve Luker and Associates on projects across Ireland and Scotland and is currently working to deliver the objectives of the RASLRES project. Paddy is co-founder and director of rural development consultancy DARE Ltd. 

 Christine Hutton has worked in the Biomass Heat sector for the past 4 years and has gained a wealth of knowledge in this area. She is highly experienced in preparing feasibility reports for clients and advising them not only of the potential savings involved in a biomass heat solution but also in calculating carbon savings and assisting clients in securing financial support.

Christine is involved in a number of advisory committees. She was an advisor to the Western Development Commission for three years and is currently a member of the wood fuel quality assurance scheme oversight committee.

 John Jackson is a woodland owner. He is currently the Chairman of Donegal Woodland Owners Society and was previously Chairman of Donegal Forestry Forum.  He served as National Chairman of the IFA Farm Forestry Section from 2004 to 2007.

He farmed potatoes barley and grass to 1994. John then sold his arable farm and bought over three times his previous acreage on marginal agricultural land with good forestry potential.  He has since developed his main enterprise as forestry, adding value at the farm/forest gate and helping to grow the Donegal Woodland Owners Society Limited from the grass roots.

 Chris Johnston has worked in the industry for the past 5 years and has gained a wealth of knowledge in this area. He has an Honours degree in Microbiology from Edinburgh University and a Masters degree in Food & Agricultural Biotechnology from Reading University. He is experienced in preparing farm nutrient management plans for clients and advising them on the use of organic waste as cost effective and efficient fertiliser.

Chris also works with commercial clients assessing their effluent and sludge waste and advising them on the most environmentally sustainable and efficient way of recycling them. Chris has experience in designing, building and operating effluent irrigation systems in North America, Europe and United Kingdom.

 Steve Luker set up Steve Luker Associates Ltd in 2004.  Based in Glasgow,Steve Luker Associatesundertakes a range of work in the areas of renewable energy and sustainable development, with specialist expertise in wood energy. The company has established a diverse range of clients in the public and private sector throughout the UK and abroad.

Steve has written and contributed to renewable energy and biomass strategies and action plans for regions in Ireland, Scotland and England. He manages and delivers market development programmes in the biomass sector with regional development agencies, local authorities and others. He work includes; investigation of investment in wood energy for the public, commercial and industrial sector and management of the procurement and installation of large and small scale wood energy schemes.

 Bernadette Phelan is a Development Executive with the Western Development Commission.  She specialises in market research and enterprise development in the renewable energy sector. Projects include policy and market development work in the wood energy sector and development models for renewable energy investment. She has over ten years experience in rural enterprise development. 

Prior to joining the WDC, Bernadette worked with the LEADER company for county Kilkenny.  She holds a Masters in Rural Development from UCD, a BA in Economics & Geography from Trinity College and an Advanced Certificate in Renewable Energy from the Tipperary Institute.

 Fred Tottenham holds a mechanical engineering degree and MSc from Trinity College Dublin. Director of energy consultancy firm Navitus Ltd, Fred grew up in a family of foresters. This combination of forestry and engineering gives him a unique insight into biomass systems. Previously employed as a project engineer installing commercial woodchip boilers Fred has delivered over 50 wood chip installations in Ireland.

 Mike Wilson is a Director of Heritage Futures Ltd, with 15 years of project management experience, in process design and system implementation.  He has extensive experience working with SEAI and wider bioenergy stakeholder groups to develop a bioenergy policy strategy. 

Recent projects include: development of the bioenergy GIS; the bioenergy analysis model; overseeing a report on international bioenergy trade; assisting with development of the Wood Fuel Quality Association and most recently, initiating development of a Republic of Ireland heat demand map.

Paradise Possible, the territory-marketing initiative credited with having brought to the world’s attention the Le Marche region, Central Italy, has announced its new “paradise”: ……..Western Ireland.

“Our mission is to find the corners of the world that may have escaped widespread attention but offer outstanding quality of life, affordable cost of living and opportunities for sustainable growth. These are the places that travellers, those looking for a new home, and those interested in investment opportunities will want to put on their radar”, says Giuliano Gnagnatti, co-founder of Paradise Possible and CEO of Liberation Ventures Limited its publishing company. “So we make them known to a worldwide public of travelers, consumers and investors whilst, at the same time, providing through our website a gateway to the best each region can offer.”

Having focused since 1998 on Le Marche, the company is now embarking upon a long term expansion plan to take the Paradise Possible brand into new, undiscovered territories.

The company sees Western Ireland as a land of opportunities for the future, one example being in renewable energy. “With renewable energy technology, Western Ireland can become a new frontier for Europe and the world”, continues Gnagnatti. “An open and hospitable culture, that encourages innovation, entrepreneurship and growth of new talents, will attract talent and resources from around the world, reversing Western Ireland’s history of migration. The future is no longer across the ocean, but right here on the far west of Europe.”

Gillian Buckley of the WDC adds: “The Western Region is an excellent fit with the other international destinations promoted by Paradise Possible including Le Marche in Italy.”

The project will commence as a pilot project in County Mayo which will see the county promoted on the Paradise Possible website www.paradisepossible.com/westernireland

in 2011. Phase two will then see the project being rolled out to the other six counties of the Western Region, namely, Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Galway and Clare over the next year or so.

Peter Hynes, Mayo County Manager said: “Mayo has an un-paralleled heritage and a tradition of habitation going back over 5,000 years. Allied to this heritage is a very strong vibrant community spirit. The county has developed significantly in recent years so that it is now in a unique position in Western Europe to join the new Area Marketing and Development initiative known as Paradise Possible.

We are delighted that Mayo will be the pilot site for the expansion of the Paradise Possible concept outside of Italy, its country of origin. It is arguable that no other part of Western Europe combines the potential for the development of sustainable renewable energy projects, which will benefit the environment and economy locally and nationally, with the development of a tourism haven.

Working in collaboration with the promoters of Paradise Possible and our local communities, we look forward to constructing a Mayo which has significant opportunities for the future. We will continue to encourage investment in infrastructure and innovation, particularly in tourism and renewable energy, and Paradise Possible offers a significant additional branding opportunity to this County and Region. We look forward to its successful deployment in Mayo and expansion through the Western Region in the years ahead”.

Giuliano Gnagnatti of Paradise Possible said: “Western Ireland is a magical location at the most westerly point of Europe. “In seeking out the newest Paradise Possible, we conducted an extensive search and this region matches all our criteria. If you explore it, you witness that it offers that perfect harmony between nature, culture and society that is at the core of true quality of life.”

Ends

For further information please contact:
Anna Connor, Mayo County Council, 087 258 9546
or
Giuliano Gnagnatti, Paradise Possible : +44-7764-475331
or
Paul Keyes, Western Development Commission, 09498-61441

Notes to editors on Mayo County Council

Mayo County Council’s mission is to improve the quality of life for people living in Mayo and enhance the attractiveness of the County as a place to live in, work, enjoy and invest. While the people resident in the County are the Council’s primary responsibility the Council is also concerned with the well being and development of Mayo communities globally.

County Mayo is served by thirty one County Councillors elected from six electoral areas within the county. These Councillors oversee the Mayo County government which carries out the policies of both the state and local governments.

With headquarters based in Castlebar, the County Council services the entire county through a series of Area Offices located in nine towns across the county.

The County Council is responsible for the provision of a range of services, these services include, Environmental Protection, Water Supply & Sewerage, Housing, Development Incentives & Control, Road Transportation & Safety, Agricultural Education Health and Welfare, Recreation and Amenity and Miscellaneous Services

www.mayococo.ie

Notes to editors on Paradise Possible

Founded in 1997, Paradise Possible is a territory marketing initiative and an online publication of Liberation Ventures Ltd. Its mission is to promote undiscovered regions around the world, offering outstanding quality of life, affordable cost of living and sustainable growth opportunities, as destinations for travelling or relocating and as sources of quality products.

Its website (www.paradisepossible.com ) offers a territory information database and multiple customer-driven applications, namely Travel & Tourism, Accommodation, Property, Food & Wine. Through a single access point visitors can access the best the region can offer, create itineraries based on each individual’s passions, book their holiday, find their dream home to buy and the experts to make it all happen and shop for local products.

The first Paradise Possible premiered in 1998 with Le Marche, Italy. A little-known region until late 90’s, Le Marche is today one of the most popular destinations in Italy for the discerning tourist and homebuyer, and – according to a recent international survey – the second most desirable region after Tuscany. Visible results over the last ten years have also been a shift of tourist flows from traditional seaside resorts to the countryside and the mountains and from North to South; a tendency to short breaks throughout the year; and the extensive restoration of derelict country estates across the region.

The company is now embarking upon a long term expansion plan to take the Paradise Possible brand into new, undiscovered territories. New regions around the world will be added alongside Le Marche and carry the Paradise Possible brand as a “territory brand”. In parallel, local Paradise Possible teams will be created in each region to harness local knowledge and expertise, stimulate entrepreneurship and maximize the level of service to visitors and prospective investors.

Western Ireland has now been chosen as the first “new paradise”, with County Mayo being the first county to pilot the new Paradise Possible strategy.