Waterford Credit Union – on line!

Do you want to check your balance, get a statement, transfer money or apply for a loan? If you are a member of Waterford Credit Union you don’t have to call to either of their branches at Parnell Street or Grange.

But what is on line banking?

If you're like most people, you've heard a lot about online banking but probably haven't tried it yourself. You still pay your bills by direct debit, by mail and lodge cheques at your bank branch, much the way your parents did. You might shop online for a present, insurance or a holiday, but when it comes time to commit, you feel more comfortable working directly with your Credit Union.
Online banking isn't about changing your money habits. Instead, it uses today's technology to give you the option of bypassing the time-consuming, paper-based aspects of traditional banking in order to manage your finances more quickly and efficiently.

What are the advantages of online services?

Convenience:
Unlike your branch, online services never close; available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and they're only a mouse click away. You can even apply for a loan with Waterford Credit Union on line.

Accessibility:
If you're away from home or even out of the country when a money problem arises, you can log on instantly to Waterford Credit Union and take care of business 24/7.

Transaction speed & Effectiveness:
Online services can be completed at a quicker pace than ATM or counter processing speeds.

Efficiency:
You can manage, move and monitor all of your credit union accounts from one secure site.

You can manage all of your assets more effectively.

This is just another step that Waterford Credit Union have made in order to improve their services for their members. General Manager, Ilonda Parle, is delighted with the service, “We’re so please to offer this product. It’s very exciting that our members can access their accounts from home or work. Of course we’re happy to meet our members and it is important to keep in touch with them but we must keep up with technology and changing times for the sake of our membership base and the future of our Credit Union”.

Waterford Credit Union is currently offering personal demonstrations in both branches on various days during the month of July where a member of staff will show you exactly how to register and use the on line system. These demonstrations mirror an on-line demonstration available on Waterford Credit Union's website. And don’t forget there’s a free draw for an Apple iphone for all who register on line in July

Waterford Credit Union operates from Parnell Street and Upper Grange. For more details of the services available check out www.waterfordcu.ie

HCS Business Solutions to introduce unique product to European Market

HCS Business Solutions is set to introduce an innovative software application to the Northern European markets. FSMobile, a unique data collection application, will give remote or “mobile” staff the resources to complete their jobs more effectively.

The application, pioneered by Waterford company HCS Business Solutions, based in the Cleaboy Business Park, was recently launched to the UK market to great acclaim and plans are currently underway to launch FSMobile in Norway, Denmark, Germany, Holland and Sweden.

The premise of FSMobile is to act as a succinct and effective mobile communications system for staff that work remotely and exchange information on a regular basis. Using a Windows mobile handheld PDA or smart phone field staff can link into all information back in the office.

Neil Phelan, Director HCS Business Solution said “We have just returned from the UK where the product was officially launched to that market and introduced to a number of select potential partners. The feedback was excellent and we received a huge amount of interest from these UK companies.”

“The functionality of FSMobile is unparallel with anything else on the market. FSMobile can dramatically improve field sales and field service as accurate information is relayed wirelessly to one’s back office system, giving the client real time visibility and reporting on the status of every part of the business process.”

HCS Business Solutions was recently awarded Platinum status by Mamut Business Software, an accolade held by no other Irish or UK partner. This status has given HCS the impetus to initiate new and exciting software applications. Based on the success of FSMobile in the UK, HCS has plans to bring the product to Northern Europe.

Sean Hegarty, Director HCS, added “Without a doubt we were excited by this new product. It was only when we brought it to the UK market and received such a positive response that we looked at its further potential. As Platinum partners of Mamut, one of Europe’s leading exponents of business solutions, we are in the fortuitous position of being able to work closely with them and tap into their networks and established client base. Northern Europe is the next focus of our attention and we hope to roll out the marketing and distribution over the next several months.”

HCS has been working with Enterprise Ireland, the government agency responsible for the development and promotion of the indigenous business sector in Ireland, which has co-funded the development of FSMobile under the research and development fund.

For further information about HCS Business Solutions and Mamut software log onto www.hcs.ie or call 051 595200.

Pauls’ Crafts get behind the Deise

As a bricklayer, Paul Whelan couldn’t escape the ill-effects of the downturn in the construction industry. So, with over 30 years experience in brick laying becoming dormant Paul returned to his childhood passion; hurling. Combining his creative skills and his love of caman and sliotair, Whelan’s Plaster Designs emerged from the mould.

Paul has designed two casts that capture the passion and determination of Waterford’s hurlers as they go head to head with Cork in next weekend’s Munster Hurling Final in Thurles. “The Wall” is a cast of a determined hurler breaking through a brick wall to achieve his goal and “The Hand” depicts a hurler’s hand gripping a sliotar.

A former pupil of Scoil Lorcain, Paul proudly held the school’s Long Puck title and has always followed the highs and lows of the Waterford Senior Hurling Team. When bricklaying work became more infrequent he focused his attention back to hurling to create these unique sporting casts.

According to Paul “The idea to combine art and sport was quite simple. I love hurling and capturing the passion, power and determination of the hurler in a cast seemed to make sense.”

“When Waterford Hurlers do well and progress to the latter stages of provincial and even national championships the whole county goes mad. Every man, woman and child gets behind the team. The casts capture that moment that every hurling supporter loves to see – our team having the belief and power to break through walls.”

Ciaran Cullen, Acting Chief Executive of Waterford City Enterprise Board which is backing the initiative through marketing mentoring (provided by B2B Communications) added “The concept presented by Paul is unique – the casts are distinctive and finished in the blue and white of the Deise. Paul was proactive in creating a product that will resonate with a large slice of the population. That is the type of enterprising spirit that we love to see alive and well in Waterford.”

“The Hand” and “The Wall” are available in outlets throughout Waterford including Ken McGrath Sports, Waterford Gift Gallery, Ryan’s Shoe Repair, Excel Promotions, Pet World and GAA clubs throughout the county. They are also available in all county colours upon request.

For further information call Paul Whelan on 086 8820369.

Home Instead Senior Care and Mulligan’s Pharmacy promote the importance of the PIP

Several years ago one of the market leaders in the pharmaceutical sector revealed that in emergency situations, many patients were unable to convey their medical history and conditions to emergency staff. In some cases this lack of information became an impediment to proper care.

As a result the Personal Information Pack (PIP) was devised with vulnerable populations in mind, such as older people, the majority of whom have medical conditions and also those with long-term illnesses, e.g. diabetes or asthma.

The PIP contains all relevant information, including a brief medical history, current medication, next of kin, donor status, doctor and allergies. It is stored in the refrigerator, a common location for emergency staff to check and the least likely place to be compromised by fire. A notice is also put beside the hall door signalling that a PIP is in the refrigerator and emergency personnel will look out for this.

Speaking to B2B Communications Danette Connolly of Home Instead Senior Care Waterford has been stressing the significance of the PIP in ensuring seniors receive the most appropriate care. “The PIP, when used correctly, is an invaluable aid for seniors to inform family and friends of their medical history and conditions, in case of an emergency.”

“The research conducted by Pfizer found that over half of children said their parents were on a prescription medicine but 77% did not know the name of the medicine. What is equally worrying was that 1 in 5 did not know the name of their parent’s doctor.”

“The PIP contains all of this crucial information about a patient and if the need arises for emergency services to be involved, they will have ready access to their medical history.”

In a joint promotion with Mulligan’s Pharmacy of Tramore, PIP’s will be available free and there will also be advice on hand from Home Instead personnel and Mulligans’ staff about the most effective ways to use the PIP.
Niall Mulligan, Pharmacist, Mulligans Pharmacy said “Any publicity that focuses the spotlight on the PIP is good publicity. Many of our customers are prescribed a wide range of medicines. In order to keep track of that history and to guarantee the best medical care when needed the PIP is crucial.”

PIP’s are available free of charge from Mulligans Pharmacy, Tramore and a Home Instead consultant will also be available to answer any queries in relation to medication safety. You can also pick up copy of “The Pensioners Handbook” – a guide to services to seniors in Ireland from Home Instead Senior Care or Mulligan’s Pharmacy of Tramore.

For further information log onto http://www.homeinstead.ie/ or call Home Instead Senior Care Waterford on 051 333966.

Kelly’s on the Quay – looking forward with an exciting maritime theme!

There are very few stores in Ireland that retain such a rich tapestry of heritage and tradition, very few stores that are held dear by generations and very few stores that have retained that custom, while at the same time forging ahead with contemporary and exciting ideas and ranges.

But then again, you won’t find many stores like Kelly’s.

Kelly’s on the Quay has been synonymous with quality fashion since 1847. Its mantra of stylish collections, originality and quality remain the cornerstone of Kelly’s success and customer loyalty. Kelly’s stocks a portfolio of much-admired and exceptional lines such as Fenn Wright Manson, Linea Raffaelli, Jackpot and Joseph Ribkoff.

Not content to rest on its laurels, Kelly’s is now delighted to announce the exciting launch of the new REDGREEN Autumn Winter collection for men and women, yes you read correctly…….men are now also catered for in Kelly’s on the Quay.

REDGREEN, a Scandinavian label which specialises in stylish maritime clothes, is the latest feather in Kelly’s cap and according to Managing Director, Ian Doolan, a very welcome addition to Kelly’s.

“REDGREEN is a contemporary smart label that many men and women in Waterford and the South East will be familiar with. What is particularly exciting for Kelly’s is that the Autumn Winter collection theme is ‘Vintage by the Sea, Winter Nights and Scandinavian Ethnic’. Our customers can expect a nautical inspired theme with strong references to the outdoor and maritime lifestyle as well as soft chunky winter knits.”

The main colour theme in this collection is true navy blue, white and red with the recognisable REDGREEN maritime logos.

The REDGREEN label is particularly attractive to Ian, a proficient sailor himself, with its strong nautical theme – stylish, exceptionally high quality casual clothes for both women and now men as Kelly’s will also be stocking the REDGREEN men’s collection.

To coincide with the arrival of the new collection in mid-August, Kelly’s will undergo a striking shop fit-out that will lend itself to displaying and showcasing the REDGREEN range at its best.

It’s not only the fashion lines at Kelly’s that are expanding – ranges such as jewellery, glassware and accessories are also set to grow. Jewellery by Chamilia is a sophisticated accompaniment to any outfit. In fact this range allows you to create your own look from their collection of over 500 beads comprising of Swarovski crystals, Italian Murano glass, coloured stones and combinations of 14ct gold and sterling silver. Fashion your own jewellery and you’ll be guaranteed to make an impression.

This season a visit to Kelly’s on the Quay is a must. From smart and stylish labels, to indigenous hand crafted gifts, to sophisticated accessories and something to suit all the family – you won’t have to look far!

Call to Kelly’s on the Quay, Waterford (just opposite the Clock Tower) or call 051 873557.

New Waterford Insurance Company “breaks away from the Pack”

With almost 700,000 Irish households owning a bicycle and more than 2% of all journeys being made by bicycle, a new initiative by two avid cyclists has been launched to ensure all cyclists are fully covered!

CycleSure.ie is Ireland’s only dedicated cycle insurance website and offers a level of cover that is flexible enough to suit individuals or groups, such as club cyclists, tri-athletes, leisure cyclists, mountain bikers, and families.

CycleSure is the brainchild of two Waterford businessmen and cycling enthusiasts, Brendan Mulhall and Shane Hamm. Brendan has over 20 years experience in the insurance industry working both in large insurance companies, multi agency intermediaries and on a self employed basis, whilst Shane has amassed valuable sales and business development experience and also spent seven years in the insurance industry.

According to Mulhall, “Cycling has made a phenomenal comeback in recent years due to sustainability, health factors and the hugely popular Government bike scheme. The premise of CycleSure is to ensure that the cyclist, regardless of the level they are at, can enjoy full insurance cover for their bikes, themselves and the public.”

Shane Hamm added “At present, the availability of cycle insurance is quite limited in Ireland. At CycleSure we will be the definitive source for cycle insurance for all cyclists - professional, amateur and leisure.”

Waterford City Council has also been active in promoting and encouraging cyclists to get out and about over the summer. According to Niall Kane, Senior Engineer, Waterford City Council, “Cycling is increasing in popularity as a way to quickly and easily get around the city. Waterford City Council is encouraging this by the provision of cycle lanes and dedicated cycle parking within the city, through the promotion of events such as Bike Week 2010 and through the publication of a cycling skills leaflet in association with CycleSure.”

As part of a wider insurance portfolio CycleSure will also supply a registration system for customers that acts as a means for stolen cycles to be returned to customers. The system will involve two labels being supplied with the insurance policy. One label will be a prominent label stating the bicycle has an invisible ID mark. This second label will include a registration number which can be read by the Garda Siochana, which notifies Cyclesure, which in turn notifies the bicycle’s rightful owner.

CycleSure will be exhibiting at the Phoenix Park in Dublin during Bike Week which takes place throughout Ireland from June 13th to June 20th and will also be making an appearance at the People’s Park in Waterford during Bike Week.

For more information about how CycleSure can get you and your bicycle covered visit http://www.cyclesure.ie/ or call 1800 85 55 57.

Dunmore East set to “Ready Steady…..Fish”

The line up for one of Dunmore East’s favourite festivals is complete and professional and amateur cooks will be donning their Chef’s hats for the Dunmore East Food Festival which takes place from June 25th to June 27th.

Waterford’s most picturesque fishing village will enjoy a jam-packed weekend of family fun, festivities and fish when the festival is officially launched by Celebrity chef and proprietor of Dunbrody House Hotel, Kevin Dundon.

Visitors to Dunmore East can expect a busy schedule of events over the three days. The festival will be launched in the Peoples Park on Friday, June 25th and some local celebs will be feeling the kitchen heat as they compete in the final of “Ready Steady Fish”, the cookery competition to find the best “Seafood Pancake” recipe. The finalists will be ably assisted by team captains Kevin Dundon and Michael Quinn.

Whilst the focus is going to be on fresh food, there is going to be plenty for all the family to do. With street artists, face painters, a Farmer’s market, a mobile farm, food seminars, angling competitions, sand castle competitions and plenty of food stalls throughout the village and harbour.

According to Festival Committee member, Paul McDaid, the festival is guaranteed to be one of the most exciting summer festivals in the region. “The committee has worked hard to put together a festival that leaves no – one out. From cookery demonstrations and seminars through to food markets and sandcastle competitions there is undoubtedly something for all the family.”

“We have already started the competition for our “Seafood Pancake” finalists with a series of cook offs over the next few weeks, culminating in our final on June 25th. Our two celebrity finalists will be under the watchful supervision of Kevin Dundon and Michael Quinn.”

Timmy Ryan and Aoibhinn Fallon of WLRfm took part in the first quest to find the perfect Seafood Pancake recipe at Lemon Tree. Every Thursday for the next four weeks there will be two local celebs competing in The Ocean, The Haven Hotel, Azzurro, The Strand and The Spinnaker.

For more information about the Dunmore East Food Festival, June 25th to 27th visit http://www.waterford-dunmore.com/.