Norah Ryan, Managing Director of Barrow Training & Consultancy became the 40th President of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce at their AGM in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel Friday the 6th of June 2025. Norah takes over the role from Michael Quinn of Robert Quinn Ltd who will remain on as Vice President.
“I am honoured to take on this key role within the Chamber – an organisation I am passionate about. County Carlow Chamber of Commerce is the voice of the business community – and I feel privileged to be leading this organisation for the coming two years – as we head towards our 80th anniversary.’ Explains Norah Ryan.
County Carlow Chamber of Commerce was founded on the 6th of June 1947 – 78 years ago to the day from the AGM. Since that time it has evolved to over 220 members and growing – from throughout the county, representing every size and type of business.
‘I would like to commend my predecessor, Michael Quinn on his dedication and drive in the role as President and for his sterling work in growing the Chamber, broadening the membership base and further developing key collaborations. I would also like to recognise the support and dedication of the wider board of directors – all of whom give so generously of their time and expertise.’ Says Norah.
County Carlow Chamber works closely with a wide variety of key stakeholders in order drive development throughout the county – including local, national and European public representatives, Carlow County Council, the Local Enterprise Office Carlow, Carlow Tourism, SETU, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, Chambers Ireland, the IDA and Waterways Ireland to mention but a few. These relationships are key to the economic growth and development of the county.
‘As President I plan to build on the work of my predecessors, increasing the focus on the positive developments that are taking place throughout the county, rallying for the needs of our members – the businesses that are the lifeblood of the local community – and on ambitiously driving forward the strategy of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce.’ Explains Norah Ryan. ‘We are a business community that is resilient, quietly ambitious and clearly high achieving. Carlow businesses often under promise and over deliver – I’m keen to shine a light on the successes, the milestones and the achievements of our members. I’m determined to ensure that this understated excellence does not go un-noticed, and that we celebrate every win, and take pride in our small but mighty county.’