The Irish Accommodation Services Institute marks a landmark weekend celebrating excellence
The Irish Accommodation Services Institute (IASI) recently hosted its Annual General Meeting, Conference, Exhibition Pavilions and Black-Tie Gala Awards Weekend at the Galway Bay Hotel, marking one of the most successful and prestigious events in the Institute’s calendar.
The weekend brought together accommodation professionals from across Ireland for a dynamic and engaging programme, including the AGM, an inspiring industry conference held under the theme “Shape Your Success – You Set the Standard: Empower, Elevate, Excel,” and vibrant exhibition pavilions showcasing the latest innovations, products and services supporting the accommodation sector.
IASI President Madeleine Dermody highlighted the importance of the weekend as a key opportunity for industry connection and collaboration. She stated that the event allows professionals from across the country to come together to meet, share experiences, discuss challenges, and ultimately celebrate their teams and achievements through the awards programme. She also emphasised the value of the Exhibition Pavilion, noting that it provides an excellent opportunity for members to engage with new suppliers and discover innovative ideas and solutions for accommodation rooms and guest spaces.
Inspiring Speakers Drive Conference Theme of Empowerment and Growth
A key highlight of the conference was the contribution of three outstanding speakers who delivered insightful, thought-provoking and highly motivating presentations. Attendees heard from Austin O’Malley of Hexagon Performance, Christina Foley, Founder of Inish Living, and Darren Cawley, speaker and educator. Their sessions offered valuable perspectives on performance, sustainability, leadership and personal development, aligning strongly with the conference theme and making the day an incredibly inspirational experience for all in attendance.
Black-Tie Gala Awards Ceremony
The highlight of the weekend was the Black-Tie Gala Awards Ceremony, where over 120 awards were presented, recognising excellence, professionalism and dedication across hospitals, hotels and accommodation providers nationwide. The awards celebrate the individuals and teams who continually raise standards and demonstrate exceptional commitment within their organisations.
Healthcare Accommodation Awards
The Healthcare Accommodation category finalists included Cobh Hospital, the National Forensic Mental Health Service Hospital, and Connolly Hospital, with Cobh Hospital announced as the category winner in recognition of its outstanding standards and commitment to excellence.
Sustainability Award
Sustainability remained a key focus of the evening, reflecting the industry’s ongoing commitment to responsible and environmentally conscious practices. The Sustainability Award finalists were Sligo Park Hotel, Ballynahinch Castle, and Castle Leslie, with Ballynahinch Castle named overall winner for its exceptional leadership in sustainable operations and environmental stewardship.
Hotel Category Awards
In the Three-Star Hotel Category, the finalists were Maldron Hotel Limerick, Ballyroe Lodge, and Maldron Hotel Portlaoise, with Maldron Hotel Portlaoise taking the Supreme Winner title.
The Four-Star Hotel Category finalists included Ballyseede Castle, Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport, and The Meadowlands Hotel, with Ballyseede Castle awarded the Supreme Title in this category.
In the Five-Star Hotel Category, the finalists were The Europe Hotel & Resort, Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, and Ashford Castle, with The Europe Hotel & Resort taking home the Supreme Award.
The Irish Accommodation Services Institute congratulates all award winners and finalists on their remarkable achievements. The Institute also extends its sincere thanks to its members, sponsors, exhibitors and partners for their continued support in making the weekend such a memorable and successful celebration of excellence within the accommodation sector.
