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Town Team formed to help with regeneration of Wicklow village
Town Team formed to help with regeneration of Wicklow village

Irish Independent

time02-06-2025

  • Business
  • Irish Independent

Town Team formed to help with regeneration of Wicklow village

This initiative aligns with the national Town Centre First Policy and has been developed in close partnership with Wicklow County Council. The Rathdrum Town Team unites local stakeholders, business owners, community groups, and public representatives who share a vision of promoting sustainable growth and well-being in Rathdrum. The team will focus on strategic actions to support local businesses, improve public spaces and elevate Rathdrum's profile as a vibrant destination for both residents and visitors. There was strong local support on the night, with Cathaoirleach of Arklow Municipal District Cllr. Pat Kennedy, attending alongside fellow councillors Pier Leonard and Warren O'Toole. They joined community members in celebrating the establishment of the team. Cathaoirleach of Arklow Municipal District Cllr. Pat Kennedy, said: "I warmly welcome the formation of the Rathdrum Town Team. This initiative is a wonderful example of how collaboration between local people, businesses, and the Council can create positive momentum for Rathdrum. "Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant Rathdrum that supports our community, local economy, and enhances the quality of life for everyone who lives here or visits." Tim Ryan, chairperson of the Rathdrum Town Team, stated: "We are pleased to bring together people from all parts of the community to make Rathdrum a welcoming and lively town. This team is all about supporting each other and creating a great place for everyone." Stephen Clarke, town regeneration officer from Wicklow County Council, added: 'It's fantastic to see this community-driven initiative taking shape. Wicklow County Council is here to support the Rathdrum Town Team as they help bring new energy to their town." Everyone in the community is asked to get involved, share ideas, and help make Rathdrum an even better place for all.

Sligo man taking top ISME role will focus on minimum wage reform and town centre regeneration
Sligo man taking top ISME role will focus on minimum wage reform and town centre regeneration

Irish Independent

time26-05-2025

  • Business
  • Irish Independent

Sligo man taking top ISME role will focus on minimum wage reform and town centre regeneration

A native of Sligo town, Finbarr operates the award-winning family-owned Centra store in Castle Street and has served as ISME Vice-Chair since 2023. He has held senior roles across the medical device, pharmaceutical, and construction sectors before moving into retail. Mr Filan has played a leading role in the revitalisation of Sligo town centre and the creation of the Sligo Business Improvement District (BID), which he chairs. He is also a member of the Government Advisory Group for the Town Centre First Policy, the National Retail Forum and steering group member of the Irish Town and City Development Association. He said: 'I'm honoured to take on the role of ISME chair at a time when the SME sector is facing both significant challenges and real opportunities. As someone based in the regions, I am particularly focused on ensuring that the voice of SMEs, the backbone of the Irish economy, continues to be heard.' Neil McDonnell, CEO of ISME, said: 'Finbarr brings exceptional experience and a deep understanding of both SME business realities and the broader policy environment. He is a passionate advocate for town centre regeneration and for ensuring our regional economies thrive. We are delighted to have him lead the Association at this important time.' Mr Filan will be focused on securing formal representation for SMEs on the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF). He argues for reform of how the National Minimum Wage is calculated, ensuring it reflects real cost-of-living solutions rather than driving what he says is unsustainable wage inflation. He also champions town centre regeneration through enhanced supports for repurposing derelict buildings and advocates VAT rule changes to support earlier SME entry into export markets. On legal and insurance reform, Finbarr is calling for a statutory defence against transient retail defamation and implementation of key recommendations from the Kelly Report to help reduce public liability insurance costs and protect SME viability. Finbarr holds a BTech in Manufacturing Technology, ACCA Dip in Accounting and Finance and Post Grad Diplomas in European Studies and Management. He takes over the role from outgoing Chair Marc O'Dwyer.

Sligo businessman is new chair of ISME and will seek reform of how the National Minimum Wage is calculated
Sligo businessman is new chair of ISME and will seek reform of how the National Minimum Wage is calculated

Irish Independent

time26-05-2025

  • Business
  • Irish Independent

Sligo businessman is new chair of ISME and will seek reform of how the National Minimum Wage is calculated

A native of Sligo town, Finbarr operates the award-winning family-owned Centra store in Castle Street, Sligo and has served as ISME Vice-Chair since 2023. He has held senior roles across the medical device, pharmaceutical, and construction sectors before moving into retail. Filan has played a leading role in the revitalisation of Sligo town centre and the creation of the Sligo Business Improvement District (BID), which he chairs. He is also a member of the Government Advisory Group for the Town Centre First Policy, the National Retail Forum and steering group member of the Irish Town and City Development Association. He said: 'I'm honoured to take on the role of ISME Chair at a time when the SME sector is facing both significant challenges and real opportunities. As someone based in the regions, I am particularly focused on ensuring that the voice of SMEs, the backbone of the Irish economy, continues to be heard.' Neil McDonnell, CEO of ISME, said: 'Finbarr brings exceptional experience and a deep understanding of both SME business realities and the broader policy environment. He is a passionate advocate for town centre regeneration and for ensuring our regional economies thrive. We are delighted to have him lead the Association at this important time.' Filan will be focused on securing formal representation for SMEs on the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF). He argues for reform of how the National Minimum Wage is calculated, ensuring it reflects real cost-of-living solutions rather than driving what he says is unsustainable wage inflation. He also champions town centre regeneration through enhanced supports for repurposing derelict buildings and advocates VAT rule changes to support earlier SME entry into export markets. On legal and insurance reform, Finbarr is calling for a statutory defence against transient retail defamation and implementation of key recommendations from the Kelly Report to help reduce public liability insurance costs and protect SME viability. Finbarr holds a BTech in Manufacturing Technology, ACCA Dip in Accounting and Finance and Post Grad Diplomas in European Studies and Management. He takes over the role from outgoing Chair Marc O'Dwyer.

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