The Chamber Executive is sub-divided into a number of Working Groups established to concentrate on specific areas of activity. Each group has an elected Chairperson, who will be a member of the executive, executive members may from time to time co-opt non-executive members to assist with activities in the working groups.

The Working Groups are as follows:

• Economic Development Working Group

• Tourism Development Group

• Infrastructure / R&D Development Group

At a monthly meeting, the group chairperson reports on key activities/developments actioned during the month. All activities are monitored against group goals and objectives set at the beginning of the year. At the monthly meeting key issues are debated and actions agreed where appropriate. By concentrating on the areas listed above The Chamber attempts to highlight specific needs and issues to be addressed, bringing these to the attention of Government bodies and relevant voluntary organisations.

Through continuous interaction and dialogue with a variety of organisations The Chamber is kept informed of pending changes and developments within the community. We strive to provide a greater awareness of proposed changes and developments and where appropriate provide feedback in the form of constructive criticism or counter proposals. A proactive approach is also employed by, submitting proposals for inclusion in key development plans or initiatives e.g.; Local Area Plans and County Development Plans etc.

The Chamber remains actively involved by participating on boards and committees of a variety of key organisations e.g. Newcastle West Community Council, Limerick Chamber of Commerce; Leader; etc. The Chamber also provides a number of support services for local businesses. The Newcastle West & District Chamber is affiliated to the Limerick Chamber of Commerce and Chamber of Commerce Ireland (CCI) and plays an active role in various strategic initiatives or projects of national importance.

Goals and Objectives

• Influence and accelerate change in the interest of overall economic/social development

• Create awareness through timely communication of accurate and factual information

• Challenge and provide counter development plan proposals where appropriate

• Make independent submissions for key development initiatives

• Create a forum that will promote greater interaction and awareness between Local Government and Voluntary Organisations

• Expand The Chamber membership to improve economic viability

Achievements

The following are some examples of recent achievements:

• A completion of town census - in association with West Limerick Resources, the Chamber has commissioned the Marketing Department of UL to carry out a complete census of the urban area within 3 km of town centre. Population now over 7,500, with a total of 22,500 inhabitants within a 15km radius of the town centre.

• Development of a comprehensive business organisation database.

• Provision of a comprehensive range of services for business.

• Promotion of Newcastle West & District at various tourist events.

• Participation in CCI events and programmes of national significance.

• Completion of detailed website for Newcastle West & District.

• Completion of marketing survey to identify business and shopping trends in Newcastle West.

• Meetings with various government agencies to promote investment and infrastructure for the area.

• Met with An Taoiseach to promote the West Limerick area.

• Met with Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment to fast-track the development of the new technological park in Newcastle West.

• The Chamber is involved in the West Limerick task force to promte job creation in the area.

• The Limerick County Fleadh Ceol held in Newcastle West in partnership with Killeedy Comhaltas.