Crafts Council of Ireland hosts event for local craft makers

Local craft makers, business people and members of Offaly and Westmeath Enterprise Boards gathered at the Hodson Bay Hotel last week for a special networking evening hosted by the Crafts Council of Ireland. The initiative was part of a series of networking events being hosted throughout the country during 2009 to create opportunities for dialogue between the Crafts Council of Ireland and craft enterprises, craft networks and key stakeholders in the regions. The evening was well attended by Midland-based craftspeople of all disciplines, including current and prospective retailers of crafted design, owners of galleries/art centres and individuals involved in supporting and promoting craft enterprises. Attendees included: Aileen Duffy, Manager, CORE Crafted Design, Ballinahown, Co Westmeath; Stephen Mitchell, Stephen Mitchell Furniture, Glasson, Co Westmeath; Helen Conneely, Celtic Roots Studio, Ballinahown, Co Westmeath; Michelle O"Donnell, Glass Hammer Designs, Rhode, Co Offaly; Rhona Rodgers, Tourism Development Office, County Westmeath Tourism Ltd. and Christine Charlton, CEO, Westmeath County Enterprise Board. A welcome reception where attendees learned about CCoI services and met board members preceded a presentation by Úna Parsons, CEO, Crafts Council of Ireland on the work of the craft council and its future plans to further assist craft makers and grow the €122 million craft sector. Craft makers and micro enterprises were made aware of the training and development available to them via the Crafts Council of Ireland to improve capabilities and competencies in a competitive retail environment. This was followed by an open discussion chaired by Gerry Wycherley, Chairman, CCoI and some light refreshments. Speaking at the event, Úna Parsons commented: 'It is wonderful to see such a vibrant creative sector in the Midlands. CORE Crafted Design features the work of 60 craftspeople from the surrounding counties and Fáilte Ireland is working with tour operators to bring groups there. Offering everything from a café to art & crafts classes for children, the development of regional retail outlets like CORE provides local makers with a fantastic opportunity to introduce their products to prospective customers.' For further information on the Crafts Council of Ireland, visit www.ccoi.ie