Call for business to partner with local communities

BUSINESS in the Community Ireland, a corporate advisory group, called for a new level of “social partnership” between corporations and the communities in which they operate.

The group is participating in a nationwide tour to promote responsible and sustainable business practices.

In Limerick yesterday it showcased a number of major community relations programmes, including the Moyross Community Enterprise Centre and Limerick Youth Service.

The group’s Tina Roche, said: “At a time of uncertainty in business circles, both locally and globally, businesses must show more commitment to the communities in which they are based. If a business is a partner in the community, it is essential that they recognise that now, in a time of greater need, their community needs that support.

“Ultimately a company, regardless of size, cannot succeed unless it has the support of local citizens and stakeholders. We have seen today some terrific examples of how businesses can interact positively at a community level, but we are looking for companies to create a new ‘social partnership’ with communities in which they are based for the lasting benefit.”

The key elements of yesterday’s part of the week-long tour were a visit to the Moyross Community Enterprise Centre, where the group were briefed on the history of the enterprise centre and how the local business community has supported the regeneration of the long neglected areas of Moyross and Southill.

The tour also involved a visit to the Limerick Youth Service, which works to develop opportunities for disadvantaged young people. The service works with young people at risk from drugs and young people exposed to violence and homelessness. In addition, the tour visited Salesian Secondary School in Limerick, where O2 Ireland provides work experience opportunities and mentoring for senior pupils.

Danuta Gray of O2 Ireland said: “We take a huge pride in our work with the local communities in which we operate. We believe that we have a responsibility to have a positive impact on these communities and to enable our people to actively participate in the areas they live in. Today’s tour shows how business, of all sizes and industries, can interact with community-based initiatives for the better and we fully endorse BITCI’s efforts to embed community relations into corporate behaviour across all segments of the business community."