The presidency of the Cork Business Association is a role that those elected to take great pride in, and Clara O’Neill is no exception.
The newly elected president, Ms O’Neill of Total Planning Solutions, is ready to embrace the role and use her new office as an avenue to move Cork forward.
Clara O’Neill takes over from Dave O’Brien.
Clara brings a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Cork’s business community, with particular expertise in planning, development and infrastructure, as well as a strong commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable city centre.
A long-standing member of the CBA, Clara has been actively involved in its executive for more than a decade. She currently chairs the CBA’s Cork City 2030 Committee, which focuses on giving the business community a voice in the future growth, development and regeneration of Cork city.
Commenting on her appointment, CBA President Clara O’Neill said, “It is a great honour to take on the role of President of the Cork Business Association. Cork is at an incredibly important point in its development, with a real opportunity to shape a city that is ambitious, sustainable, connected and attractive to businesses, residents and visitors alike.
“My priority for the year ahead will be to ensure that the voice of Cork’s business community is central to that conversation. Cork City 2030 will be a major focus of my presidency.
“In particular, I aim to focus on supporting the advancement of the transformative public transport projects that Cork needs to realise its potential as Ireland’s fastest-growing city.
The delivery of Luas Cork, the roll-out of BusConnects, and the imminent opening of new Park & Ride facilities at Dunkettle and Blarney are critical enablers of sustainable growth.
“I will also champion the expansion of the Living City Initiative and other targeted incentives to stimulate the private housing market, with a particular emphasis on increasing the supply of apartments in the city centre. Supporting Cork’s extraordinary community of independent family retailers, who form the backbone of our city centre, is equally essential.
We must continue to advocate for a safe, clean and welcoming urban environment that attracts people to live, work and visit, thereby sustaining the vibrant retail sector that makes Cork unique.”
Clara added that the Association’s wider priorities would remain firmly focused on creating the conditions for businesses to thrive.
“While Cork City 2030 will be a particular priority, our committee will also focus on the immediate challenges facing businesses. A safe, clean and welcoming city centre, support for our retail and hospitality sectors, and addressing the rising cost of doing business remain critical.
“I look forward to working with our members, our voluntary Board and Committee, and the CBA team to ensure that we continue to be a strong and effective voice for Cork’s business community.”
Cork is an ever-growing city and a place where people want to live and do business.
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