Local businesses and individuals were recognised, celebrated and rewarded at the 9th edition of the Greater Newry Business Awards at a glittering Gala Awards Ceremony. The biennial event was attended by over 500 guests in the Canal Court Hotel & Spa, Newry on Thursday 15th June and honoured the achievements of 26 individuals and organisations.
The awards have become the premier celebration of business excellence in the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council since their inception in 2004. This year, the awards were kindly supported by Principal Sponsor, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Supporting Sponsor, nijobfinder, 25 Category Sponsors and organised by Newry Chamber.
On the night, a Charity Raffle also raised over £5,000 for PIPS Hope and Support and Samaritans who this year, mark their 20th and 40th anniversaries respectively, providing their vital services to many people within the Greater Newry Area and beyond.
The headline award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Greater Newry Area’, went to Brian Doran, Chief Executive of Southern Regional College and the Greater Newry Area Diaspora Award went to Mick Boyle, Owner of Killeavy Castle Estate. Rosemary Connolly from Rosemary Connolly Solicitors won the ‘Best Businesswoman’ award and the ‘Best Businessman’ award went to Joseph Doherty from Re-Gen Waste.
Julie Gibbons, President of Newry Chamber commented:
“The awards last took place in September 2021 and the 20 months since then, has undoubtedly been an incredibly testing period for local businesses, across the district. However, from the 220+ entries received, which is a record, we can clearly see the local economy is being driven by many successful, ambitious and talented businesses who call this region home.”
“The strength of this year’s awards illustrates a determined, resilient and confident local business community, focused on creating jobs and generating wealth and prosperity for our region. I want to congratulate all the winners, highly commended and finalists and thank everyone who took the time out to enter this year’s awards.”
“The Greater Newry Area is recognised as a place synonymous with entrepreneurship, innovation, excellent service, product quality and customer care. This year’s awards have recognised the very best that this region’s local business community has to offer. As a Chamber, we were delighted to be able to organise these prestigious awards and showcase Greater Newry’s Greatest.”