Taking Care Of Business with Ronan Berry

Global politics is hitting Irish businesses where it hurts—John Finn of Treasury Solutions breaks down what EU–India trade talks, Mercosur tensions and tariffs could mean for Irish SMEs in 2026. Gillian Peters of Pragmatica introduces a new LOETB-backed programme turning sustainability into practical, profit-smart action for small businesses. HR expert Caroline Reidy shares why AI is reshaping graduate hiring and what it means for career starters and employers alike. And Mullingar’s Noel McIntyre of Motion Picture reflects on winning national acclaim—and how great photography can power great storytelling.

With trade wars looming and EU countermeasures on the table, David Savage of Deloitte joins Ronan Berry to discuss how global shifts could impact Irish businesses in 2026. Jack Pilkington of Agri Data Analytics shares how Irish ag-tech is gaining ground in Europe, following a key trade mission to Brussels. Tony Delaney of SYS Financial reflects on the expansion of GTL Life and Pensions—and why growth doesn’t have to mean losing the values of a family-run business. Plus, James Burke of Mullingar Chamber pays tribute to the late John Connaughton, a true Midlands hospitality pioneer.

If credit dries up, growth stalls—David Broderick of the Small Firms Association joins Ronan to discuss the real financing challenges facing small businesses and why better access to capital is central to the SFA’s new three-year strategy. Breda Dooley of Matrix Recruitment outlines salary trends for 2026, highlighting the sectors most affected by skills shortages and what it means for Midlands employers and jobseekers. And Michelle O’Keefe of Platform55 talks about the roots of bad workplace behaviour, holding leaders accountable, and why real outcomes—not optics—must define company culture in 2026.

A new year brings new questions—and opportunities—for Midlands businesses. Lorraine McLaughlin of Dovida Midlands explains why home care careers are drawing talent from retail and hospitality, and how flexible, supported roles are transforming community care. Jack Murray of MediaHQ shares how to cut through the noise in 2026 with smarter PR, better stories, and the right mix of AI and authenticity. Insolvency expert John McCann tackles the real impact of auto-enrolment on small employers. And Tony McCormack TD outlines infrastructure progress, SME challenges, and key policy changes for Offaly in 2026.

As part of our end-of-year Taking Care of Business special, Ronan Berry speaks with industry and political leaders about the highs, challenges, and opportunities shaping the Midlands economy. John Condron of Condron Concrete shares insights on infrastructure delivery, what 2026 could bring for construction—and rising motorsport star Alex Dunne. Denise Buckley of Sugar Plum Sweetery reflects on a whirlwind year of viral growth and sweet retail success. Minister Peter Burke TD talks enterprise supports, competitiveness and tourism, while Tony McCormack TD highlights key Offaly infrastructure projects and the SME outlook for 2026.