Cobh & Harbour Chamber Marks a Year of Growth at Fota Island Resort
Cobh & Harbour Chamber held its annual President’s Gala Dinner on Saturday, 18th October 2025, in the elegant surroundings of Fota Island Resort, bringing together members, business representatives, community leaders, and distinguished guests for an evening celebrating collaboration, business development, and community spirit.
The evening was hosted by Master of Ceremonies John Keating, who guided guests through a memorable programme that included speeches from Chamber President Toddy Stafford, Guest of Honour Commissioner Michael McGrath, and Siobhán O’Shea, Chief Infrastructure Officer Onshore (Interim) at EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid and the event’s main sponsor.
In his address, President Toddy Stafford reflected on the Chamber’s achievements and outlined its vision for the year ahead, highlighting the importance of partnership between both local and national government, local enterprise, infrastructure, and community.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Chamber’s prestigious awards, recognising outstanding contributions to the business and social fabric of Cobh and the wider Harbour area. This year’s President’s Award was presented to the Commodore Hotel, in recognition of its exceptional service, financial investment and contribution to the region as a destination. The Community Award went to Cobh Community Centre, celebrating its invaluable role as a central hub for community spirit and engagement.
Guests enjoyed a wonderful evening including live music and networking opportunities highlighting the sense of unity and shared purpose that defines the Chamber’s work.
A special announcement during the evening marked an exciting new international collaboration. Cobh & Harbour Chamber, in partnership with the Embassy of Barbados, was delighted to announce the establishment of a Cobh – Barbados Blue Schools Partnership — linking a secondary school in Cobh with a Blue School in Barbados.
The initiative aims to bridge classrooms and coastal communities across the Atlantic, fostering ocean literacy, cultural exchange, and youth-led action on sustainability. Students from both countries will collaborate through virtual classrooms, joint marine science projects, and community outreach activities — deepening understanding of coastal life and the shared responsibility to protect our oceans.
Speaking after the event, President Stafford said:
“The Gala is always a special night, a time for our members, partners, and friends to celebrate what we achieve together. It’s through these relationships that we continue to strengthen Cobh and the wider Harbour community.”
The Chamber extended its thanks to its sponsors, members, and the team at Fota Island Resort for their support in making the evening a success.
Siobhán O’Shea, Chief Infrastructure Officer Onshore (Interim) at EirGrid said, “EirGrid is proud to support Cobh and Harbour Chamber’s President’s Gala Dinner in celebration of the vibrant business and community landscape in Cobh and the surrounding harbour area. As we continue to work closely with local stakeholders, we are committed to providing the energy infrastructure that supports both economic growth and community wellbeing.
“Through projects onshore and offshore, like the Celtic Interconnector and Powering Up Offshore – South Coast, we are helping to create a sustainable and resilient energy future, where businesses and communities in Cobh and the wider county remain at the forefront of innovation and opportunity.”
