The Lord Mayor said:
 
I would like to welcome PJ Timmons as President of Dublin Chamber of Commerce.
 
This is a critical time for our city.  It is a time when we need to stand shoulder to shoulder to ensure a vibrant future for all our people.  There have been few times in the economic history of Dublin that have been so challenging, requiring strong united efforts by all bodies in the city.
 
As Lord Mayor I have engaged on a variety of fora with Mr Timmons.  I believe that he has qualities of leadership and vision which will serve both the Chamber of Commerce and Dublin well.  His retail experience at Clerys and his engagement with wider social issues in the city are testimony to his commitment to Dublin.  I believe that he will bring to this role a strong sense of realism along with the resilience necessary for our uphill battle to keep Dublin competitive.
 
I know that PJ Timmons joins with me in believing in Dublin and its people. Let there be no mistake Dubliners are realists. We know we are in crisis but we also have the audacity to dream of challenging our current difficulties and the belief in ourselves not to allow failure to be an option. 
 
I welcome PJ Timmons to the battle!
 
 
 
Eibhlin Byrne
Lord Mayor
Tel: 086 8132051