New Cork Business Association president to focus on housing and safety

Dave O’Brien has been elected president of Cork Business Association (CBA) as it held its 68th annual general meeting last night at The Metropole Hotel. 

Mr O’Brien, head of tax at Xeinadin Ireland - an accountancy group based in Ireland and the UK - has been actively involved with CBA for over five years, serving as secretary, treasurer, and most recently, vice president, where he played a key role in restructuring the organisation.

Director of CBA Cliona Barnes said: “Dave’s strengths in finance, strategy and leadership will make him a great asset to CBA and our members as we continue to grow the organisation and what we deliver.” 

Mr O’Brien said: “As I step into this role, I am mindful of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and I am committed to ensuring Cork Business Association plays a pivotal role in our city’s growth and progress.

“We have fantastic working groups in place now and lots of impactful initiatives in the pipeline”, he said, adding that this year will see a continued focus on two key areas: Cork city as the safest and cleanest city, and the long-term vision of Cork city. 

A major achievement for CBA in 2024 was securing funding for community safety wardens, a new initiative aimed at increasing visibility and support on city streets - implementing this initiative effectively will be Mr O’Brien’s top priority for 2025, he said.

Another key focus will be the roll out of the CBA’s 'Cleaning and Greening' initiative in 2025, which will focus on improving the aesthetics of selected streets in partnership with local businesses and Cork City Council.

With housing expected to remain a major challenge in the coming years, Mr O’Brien vowed to lean on his own strategic and financial background to advocate for solutions, such as increased living over the shop initiatives, tax incentives for property developers, and a more streamlined planning processes to encourage residential conversions.

Ensuring efficient transport links and infrastructure improvements will be another key focus to support both businesses and residents in the city.