Comhdhail Oileain Na hÉireann AGM 2012
The 2012 AGM for Comhdhail Oileain Na hÉireann will be held on Bere Island Co. Cork on April 27th & 28th 2012. The AGM will begin with a business seminar on Friday evening, 6.30 pm, with a talk by Susan Steele, Innovation coordinator with the BIM innovation centre in Clonakilty. Susan has many years of experience developing seafood businesses and will give participants an insight into her role with BIM and what supports are available to potential entrepreneurs.
This year Comhar will focus on mentoring and practical advice for attendees. Maire Ui Mhaoláin and Mary Lavelle from Comhar Na nOileain will focus on the Arts and Crafts sector this year. A consultant with expertise in marketing and branding will give a talk to the participants and also run one-to-one mentoring sessions Friday for anyone who wants particular advice on their business or idea. The consultant will also look at practical problems craft workers face starting a business. This will also be relevant for any other type of small business on an Island – the mentor will have expertise in tax compliance and Social Welfare entitlements.
On Saturday, Maire will outline the achievements of a group that she has supported, who have a successful marketing strategy and explain how they evolved over a few years. Mary Lavelle will give a talk on the RDP (Leader) programme and will discuss a sample of successful projects and explain the difference they have made in terms of employment, ensuring sustainability at this time and benefits to the community. If you are running a small business or thinking of developing one, this is the place to be.
The AGM will start at 12 noon on Saturday the 28th and this will be followed by a questions and answer session with officials from the Islands division. After the formal part of the AGM, Bere Island Projects group have arranged a talk on the development of Lonehort fort and on the development of walks on the Island. There will also be information on the recycling facilities on Bere.
For information on ferries and accommodation please call 027 75099 or log on to www.bereisland.net