Wednesday 11th November saw the start of CORKMEET 2009, one of the biggest business networking events in Ireland, which was held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Little Island.  Over 200 guests attended the opening event which was hosted by CORKMEET Media Partner, the Irish Examiner.

The Irish Examiner Welcome Evening offered an informal networking opportunity for participants to settle in, as well as the first chance for them to register for CORKMEET 2009 which is funded and organised by Trading Link Cork (a partnership for business between Cork County Council, Cork County and City Enterprise Boards and Cork Chamber).

Speaking at the Welcome Evening, Cllr. Derry Canty, Cork County Mayor said: “Tonight we officially open CORKMEET 2009, an event that is not only is a first of its kind, of such a scale to be held in Cork, it is a first for Ireland and promises to be a proactive and innovative approach to help kick start our economic recovery.”

Michael Hanley, CEO West Cork Enterprise Board (WCEB) welcomed guests, including international delegates from France, Romania, Wales and Poland, as well as participants from all over Ireland, and invited guests. He added “Over the coming days, 390 Irish and international delegates from 307 companies will participate in a lively programme of networking opportunities where they will meet, develop business links, and learn more about doing business nationally and internationally.”

Media partner, and host for the evening, the Irish Examiner was represented by Aidan Forde, Head of Advertising, who stated. “The Irish Examiner was very happy to become involved in this new initiative and felt that the innovative and enterprising group of the Cork County Council led by Martin Riordan, Cork County and City Enterprise Boards and Cork Chamber were to be applauded for their foresight and determination in succeeding in bringing this event to fruition.” He added “This partnership provides the Irish Examiner with a perfect platform to reinforce our commitment to the general business community, and that the newspaper is an ideal vehicle to target new customers for businesses through focused and strategic messages driven through an advertising platform.”

Guests enjoyed music courtesy of a string quartet from the Cork School of Music, and a canapé and wine reception. Upon registration, participants received CORKMEET 2009 Conference Packs which included their tailor made programme for the event with their schedule of pre-arranged one-to-one meetings to take place on Thursday 12th November as well as the Conference Programme taking place on Friday 13th November.

For up to date information on CORKMEET 2009 visit www.corkmeet.ie.