Cobh & Harbour Chamber Marks Leadership and Collaboration at Annual President’s Gala Dinner

Cobh & Harbour Chamber held its annual President’s Gala Dinner on Wednesday, 13th May 2026, in Fota Island Resort, bringing together members, business leaders, community representatives and guests to mark another year of collaboration, enterprise and community spirit across the Harbour region. The event was attended by over 160 members and guests.

Addresses were delivered by Cobh & Harbour Chamber President Colin Morehead, Guest of Honour H.E. Céline Plane, French Ambassador to Ireland, Keynote Speaker Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Mark Mellett, and Siobhán O’Shea, Chief Infrastructure Officer at EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid and  main sponsor of the event.

In his address, President Colin Morehead reflected on the Chamber’s progress over the past year and outlined priorities for the year ahead, emphasising the importance of partnership between local enterprise, national stakeholders and the wider community in supporting sustainable economic growth across Cobh and the Harbour area.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Chamber’s annual awards, recognising outstanding contributions to the business and community life of the region.

The President’s Award was presented to Doyle Shipping Group, in recognition of its long-standing commitment to the Harbour, its leadership within the maritime sector, and its significant contribution to the economic and operational strength of Cork Harbour.

The Community Award was presented to Cobh Tidy Towns, acknowledging the group’s continued dedication to enhancing the town’s appearance, environmental sustainability and civic pride, and its positive impact on both residents and visitors.

Speaking after the event, President Morehead said:

“The President’s Gala Dinner is a special opportunity to reflect on what we achieve together as a business and community network. The strength of Cobh & Harbour Chamber lies in collaboration and building on connections, between businesses, community groups and partners.  Evenings like this highlight the shared purpose and impact of those relationships.”

Siobhán O’Shea, Chief Infrastructure Officer 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.”

The Chamber extended its sincere thanks to its sponsors, members and the team at Fota Island Resort for their continued support in making the event a success.