Our spring networking event saw us pitch up at Buddy’s farmers market in March. Located in the Ballymun Industrial Estate, Buddy’s provides locally produced fruit and veg and is the latest venture of local businessman Maurice Mathews and his business partner Udo Whittman.  In addition to the market, Udo runs the adjoining deli providing gourmet pizzas, breads and fancy treats. It is a wonderful addition to the area providing local employment and enhancing the retail mix.

On arrival our members were greeted with the lovely aroma of freshly baked breads, pizzas and cakes which they duly gorged on throughout the the evening.  After a period of networking and catching up, proceedings kicked off with a quick introduction and welcome from our chairperson Robert Murphy who spoke the importance of buying local, how it supports the local economy and climate action. Maurice spoke about being in the family business for over 40 years in Ballymun, his plans for the future and his passion for the area. Maurice is a great advocate for Ballymun believing the community spirit and potential for he area is second to none.

Next up was keynote speaker Hugh Fitzmaurice www.claritycoach.ie who delivered a mini-workshop on ‘Corporate Wellness’ and how wellness programmes can attract and retain staff, increase productivity, sales and reduce burnout. After some Q&A from the floor, the meeting concluded with our AGM.  Robert presented the draft 2022 annual report and commended the work of the steering committee throughout the previous year. The meeting saw the resignation of Ed Coleman from the Rediscovery Centre.  Ed who had been pat of the steering committee for the past 4 years was moving on to a new position with St. Patrick’s Cathedral.  Everybody wished him all the best and thanked him for his enormous contribution during that time. Robert Murphy was re-elected as chairperson, Joanne Gallagher vice-chairperson, Shane Callanan, secretary and Eoin Murray as treasurer. Other ordinary members elected were Liam Barry, Annabelle Conway, Anthony Whelan and a place was left open for the Rediscovery Centre following Ed’s departure.

With that another fine event came to a close and it was on to preparing for our next event, our summer BBQ in June. The B4b steering committee would like to extend a huge thanks to Maurice and Udo for welcoming us to their shop and providing us with wonderful food and refreshments.  The bag of spuds on the way out was al lovely gesture too!

See you all at the next one in June

B4b.

info@b4b.ie