Ireland can become an international Centre for Excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility
Awards to recognise excellence in CSR launched today
Chambers Ireland today (10/3/16) announced that applications for the 2016 CSR Awards are now open. The Awards recognise the positive work done by the business community for the benefit of their employees, the local community and the environment. This unique competition offers the business community in Ireland a chance to promote their Corporate Social Responsibility activities and gain recognition for best practice.
Speaking at the launch, Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland said, “These Awards recognise best practice in Corporate Social Responsibility in Ireland, now in their thirteenth year, it is clear to see the rapidly growing importance of CSR to Irish businesses strategy. This presents an opportunity for Ireland to differentiate itself from international competitors by promoting ourselves as a nation focused on responsible business. It is by working together to develop and promote Corporate Social Responsibility through groups such as the National Stakeholder Forum, that Irish businesses can show leadership internationally in responsible business practices. Ireland can become an international centre of CSR excellence and attract investment from the many international companies and funds that have CSR as a core business activity.
Kieran McGowan, Chairperson Business in the Community Ireland said, “The Sustainable Development Goals launched last year demand a new role and commitment from business. Companies in Ireland need to understand how the goals relate to them and to showcase what they are achieving and what impacts are being made. Awards can help communicate these impacts to stakeholders so we encourage companies of all sizes and from all sectors to enter.”
Theo Cullinane, BAM Ireland Chief Executive said “BAM is proud to once again promote responsible business in Ireland through our sponsorship of the CSR Awards this year. Sustainability is not only a key value for BAM; it is at the very heart of our strategic plans for growth and development. It is incredibly heartening to see an increasing number of Irish businesses share this view. I’d like to wish all entrants and everybody in Chambers Ireland and Business in the Community the very best of luck for this year’s awards.”
Award categories include: Excellence in Environment, Community (divided into Charity, Volunteering and Community Programme), Workplace, Marketplace, Supporting Youth Employment, CSR Communication, Best SME and the overall Outstanding Achievement in CSR Award.
The launch of the thirteenth annual CSR Awards took place in Ulster Bank Head Office, George’s Quay, Dublin. Ulster Bank won the 2015 outstanding achievement in CSR Award. The awards are run in association with the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, partnered by Business in the Community Ireland and kindly sponsored by BAM Ireland. The applications are now open and information and application forms can be found at www.csrawards.ie. The closing date for nominations is Thursday 21st April 2016.