The Network Galway Annual Business Women of the Year Awards took place in the Claregalway Hotel last Friday April 23.The evening kicked off at 7pm with a champagne reception and networking, followed by a five course dinner, after dinner speech by special guest Deputy Enda Kenny presentation of the awards with Lisa Brady as MC and dancing until late to the sound of Restless.

Enda Kenny gave an inspirational speech about female entrepreneurs and how they should be applauded for creating jobs and inspiring others in this difficult time. He went onto say that many businesses are finding themselves in difficulty due the banks refusing credit and that instead of judging those businesses that fail, we should be lending them support and encouragement .He lauded Network Galway for holding the awards and said that this year more than any other year they are needed to celebrate the great talent evident in Galway and encourage others to follow sooth

The Network Galway Annual Business Women of the Year Awards winners were as follows:

Network Galway Business Woman of the Year (Employee).

• Karen Barrett – The Carlton Hotel

Network Galway Business Woman of the Year (New Business).

• Julia McAndrew – Compleat travel essentials

Network Galway Business Woman of the Year (Self Employed).

• Jenny Beale – Brigit’s Garden

Network Galway Business Woman of the Year (Presidents Award)

• Áine Walsh – Misneach School of reflexology

Network Galway Outstanding Business Woman of the Year

• Nollaig Kelly – Vicar Street Florists

Speaking at the awards, Sinead O’Connell, President Network Galway said “The awards are about celebrating and recognising the amazing contribution that women have made and continue to make to business life in Galway. In these challenging times it is now more important than ever to support, encourage and celebrate our fellow women in business. Unlike other award ceremonies this one is "for women by women" and considering the high calibre of business woman in Galway. The winners from the first three categories are then put forward for The Network Ireland National Awards in 2011”

Sponsors were: Talktoeu.ie; RDJ Glynn Solicitors; Busylizzie Lifestyle Management; Kilgallon PR; Galway Independent and The Claregalway Hotel.