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Category: News

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Clark Executive Search Solutions

At Clark, we specialise in executive search, providing you with unparalleled
support throughout the entire recruitment lifecycle. Our dedicated team of
Recruitment and search professionals guides you seamlessly through each
phase, ensuring you have access to the strongest pool of candidates.
We pride ourselves on a rigorous, compliant approach that safeguards
against procedural challenges. Our meticulous processes are designed to
meet audit standards and adhere strictly to the CPSA code, offering a robust
defence against any potential disputes.
Our expertise spans a wide range of industries, including legal, human
resources, marketing, accountancy & finance, and engineering, among others.
We employ proven methodologies and advanced systems to assure you that
your executive recruitment needs are being met by a highly experienced
team.
Our professionals are not only ISO accredited 9001:2015 but also highly
experienced in project management, reflecting our commitment to
excellence and precision. Moreover, we are fully licensed by the Department
of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and accredited by the Commission for
Public Service Appointments (CPSA).
We invite you to discover how our executive search services can empower your organisation. We are dedicated to being your trusted partner, helping you secure the leadership talent that will drive your success.

Review our brochure below.

Executive Search Brochure

For more information contact Stephen Farrell-O’Callaghan on 045 881888 or email stephen@clark.ie

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Kildare Business Awards: Clark Named a Finalist in Two Categories!

We are thrilled to announce that Clark Recruitment has been named a finalist in two highly prestigious categories at the Kildare Business Awards hosted by County Kildare Chamber! We are honoured to be recognised for:

  • Best Performing Small-Medium Business of the Year
  • Employee of the Year (Maire Griffith, Senior Recruitment Partner Project Lead)

These nominations reflect our commitment to delivering outstanding recruitment solutions and supporting client needs with excellence and care.

 

Best Performing Small-Medium Business of the Year

Being shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Performing Small-Medium Business of the Year category is a testament to our team’s dedication, resilience, and strategic growth over the past year. Our focus on providing personalised recruitment services and innovative solutions has helped us build lasting partnerships with clients across various industries. This recognition highlights the consistent quality we aim to deliver every day.

From helping clients navigate the complexities of recruitment to ensuring the perfect match for their talent requirements, our team works tirelessly to add value to businesses of all sizes. We are proud that this nomination celebrates our commitment to excellence.

 

Employee of the Year – Maire Griffith

In addition to the business recognition, we are incredibly proud to announce that Maire Griffith, our Senior Recruitment Partner Project Lead in the Temporary Recruitment Division, has been named a finalist for the Employee of the Year award. Maire’s exceptional client focus, her ability to empathise with both clients and candidates, and her dedication to delivering the right solutions in a fast-paced environment have set her apart as an outstanding professional in the recruitment industry.

Her nomination reflects the quality of service we strive to deliver at Clark, and we are fortunate to have such a talented and driven individual on our team.

 

A Commitment to Our Clients

These award nominations not only recognise our internal efforts but also underscore our commitment to our clients. At Clark, we believe our success is directly tied to the success of the businesses we work with. Our goal has always been to help you find the right talent, develop long-term partnerships, and offer recruitment strategies that align with your business objectives.

As we continue to grow and evolve, we look forward to strengthening our relationships with existing clients and building new ones, while maintaining the high standards that have brought us to this exciting milestone.

 

Looking Ahead

Regardless of the outcome, being a finalist in these two categories is a proud achievement for Clark Recruitment, and we remain focused on delivering the same level of dedication and expertise that has led us here.

For enquiries about our recruitment services or to learn more about how we can support your business, contact us at hello@clark.ie or call 045 881 888.

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Clark Shortlisted for ‘Best Workplace Award’ at HR Leadership & Management Awards

We’re honoured to share that Clark has been shortlisted for the ‘Best Workplace Award – Under 250+ Employees’ at the HR Leadership & Management Awards. This nomination serves as recognition of our ongoing commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and development-focused work environment.

At Clark, we believe that the success of our organisation is directly tied to the strength and well-being of our people. Since our inception, we’ve worked diligently to build a culture of collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect. A key aspect of this approach is open communication, ensuring that all employees feel heard and supported. This has facilitated a workplace where innovation is encouraged, and everyone’s contributions are valued.

One example of our commitment to employee development is our leadership mentoring initiative. Through regular one-to-one coaching sessions and tailored training, we help team members at all levels enhance their skills and grow within the organisation. This focus on professional development has been crucial not only in supporting individual growth but also in driving the continued success of Clark as a whole.

In addition, our dedication to employee well-being is reflected in the flexible working arrangements and wellness initiatives we’ve introduced. These measures have ensured that our team remains supported both professionally and personally, enabling them to balance their work and home lives more effectively.

We are immensely grateful to our employees for their hard work and dedication, which have made this nomination possible. We remain committed to maintaining an environment where our team members can thrive and perform at their best. Awards winners will be announced at a dedicated event on October 10th, 2024. Learn more at https://www.hrawards.ie/.

To learn more about our recruitment services or complementary offerings, contact us via our website or at 045 881888 / hello@clark.ie.
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Premium Meeting Room Rentals in the Heart of Naas Co. Kildare LEARN MORE

Premium Meeting Room Rentals in the Heart of Naas, Co. Kildare.

Located on John’s Lane, off North Main Street in Naas, our meeting spaces are ideally situated in Kildare’s central business district. Adjacent to the esteemed Lawlor’s Hotel, our property features an impressive, glazed roof enclosure that covers the central common areas, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that is perfect for your meetings.

 

Our Amenities Include:

  • Excellent ventilation and heating.
  • High-speed WiFi connectivity.
  • Fully secure and private spaces with breakout zones.
  • Lunch catering from local suppliers as required.

 

Easy Access and Convenience:

  • Stairwells and a lift from the ground floor lobby provide easy access to the space.
  • Paid parking available at various locations surrounding the building.

 

Special Rates:

  • Half-day and full-day rates available.

 

Book your space today and experience a professional and comfortable environment for your meetings. Contact us at 045 881888 or email hello@clark.ie.
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Enhancing Recruitment Processes & Outcomes via Strategic Partnerships LEARN MORE

Enhancing Hiring Outcomes via Recruitment Agency Partners

In today’s job market, finding the right talent is more crucial than ever. Companies need to fill positions quickly but also ensure that they bring in candidates who are the best fit for their organizational culture and long-term goals. This is where the expertise of a recruitment agency can make a significant difference. Partnering with a professional recruitment agency can enhance your recruitment experience, streamline processes, and improve outcomes in ways that internal HR departments often cannot achieve alone.

 

Expertise and Industry Insights

Recruitment agency partners bring a wealth of expertise and industry insight to the table. They understand the nuances of the job market, including current trends, salary benchmarks, and the availability of specific skill sets. This knowledge allows them to provide valuable guidance on how to attract and retain top talent. Agencies often specialize in certain industries or job functions, giving them a deep understanding of the specific challenges and requirements of those sectors. This specialized knowledge ensures that they can identify the best candidates who might otherwise go unnoticed.

 

Access to a Broader Talent Pool

One of the most significant advantages of working with a recruitment agency is access to a broader and more diverse talent pool. Agencies maintain extensive databases of candidates, including passive job seekers who are not actively applying for jobs but may be open to new opportunities. This expanded reach increases the likelihood of finding candidates who are a perfect match for your requirements. Moreover, recruitment agency partners have established networks and relationships that can be leveraged to tap into talent pools that are not readily accessible through traditional hiring methods.

 

Streamlined Recruitment Processes

Recruitment is a time-consuming and resource-intensive process. From crafting job descriptions and posting ads to screening resumes and conducting interviews, the tasks involved can overwhelm internal HR teams, especially in small to mid-sized companies. Recruitment agency partners streamline these processes by handling the initial stages of candidate selection. They conduct thorough screenings, background checks, and preliminary interviews, presenting only the most qualified candidates to the employer. This not only saves time but also ensures that the hiring managers can focus on interviewing and selecting from a pool of vetted candidates.

 

Enhanced Candidate Experience

A positive candidate experience is crucial for attracting top talent and building a strong employer brand. Recruitment agencies are skilled in managing the candidate journey, ensuring that communication is prompt, transparent, and respectful. They provide candidates with detailed information about the role and the company, preparing them for interviews and addressing any concerns they might have. By creating a smooth and professional recruitment process, agencies help foster a positive impression of your organization, making it more attractive to high-caliber candidates.

 

Flexibility and Scalability

The needs of businesses fluctuate, and recruitment demands can vary accordingly. Recruitment agency partners offer flexibility and scalability, allowing companies to ramp up hiring efforts during peak times or scale back when necessary. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for businesses experiencing rapid growth or those in industries with seasonal hiring needs. Agencies can quickly adjust their efforts to meet changing demands, ensuring that your recruitment process remains efficient and effective, regardless of the circumstances.

 

Cost-Effectiveness

While there is an upfront cost associated with hiring a recruitment agency, the long-term benefits often outweigh these expenses. The cost of a bad hire can be substantial, including lost productivity, training expenses, and potential damage to team morale. Recruitment agencies help mitigate this risk by ensuring that candidates are a good fit both in terms of skills and cultural alignment. Additionally, the time saved by outsourcing recruitment processes allows your internal teams to focus on core business activities, ultimately leading to greater overall productivity and cost savings.

 

Strategic Partnership

Working with a recruitment agency should be seen as a strategic partnership rather than a transactional relationship. A good recruitment partner takes the time to understand your business, its goals, and its culture. This deep understanding allows them to represent your brand effectively and find candidates who not only meet the job requirements but also align with your company values. Over time, this partnership can evolve, with the agency becoming an integral part of your talent acquisition strategy, helping you navigate changes and challenges in the job market.

 

Conclusion

In an era where talent is a key differentiator for business success, partnering with a recruitment agency can provide a competitive edge. From leveraging industry expertise and accessing a broader talent pool to streamlining processes and enhancing the candidate experience, the benefits are manifold. By forming a strategic partnership with a reputable recruitment agency, companies can enhance their recruitment experience, processes, and outcomes, ultimately driving their long-term success.

 

to learn more about our recruitment services or complementary offerings, contact us on OUR WEBSITE OR BY CALLING 045 881 888.
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6 Tips to Help You Ace Your Next Interview

Landing an interview is an achievement in itself, but nailing it requires preparation, confidence, and strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, these six tips will help you shine in your next interview.

 

1. Research the Company Thoroughly

Before your interview, invest time in understanding the company’s mission, values, culture, and recent achievements. This not only shows your interest in the organization but also helps you tailor your responses to align with their goals. Look at their website, read recent news articles, and check out their social media profiles. Knowing the company inside out will give you a significant edge, and enables you to ask questions which make a lasting impression.

Tip: Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the company’s direction or recent projects to demonstrate your genuine interest.

 

2. Understand the Job Description

Make sure you understand the job description in detail. Highlight the key responsibilities and required skills. Reflect on your past experiences and prepare specific examples that demonstrate your qualifications. This will help you illustrate how you’re a perfect fit for the role.

Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and provide clear, concise, and impactful answers.

 

3. Practice Common Interview Questions

While every interview is different, there are common questions that you’re likely to encounter. Practice your answers to questions like:

  • Tell me about yourself.
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • Why do you want to work here?
  • Describe a challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it.

Tip: Rehearse your answers but keep them flexible enough to adapt during the interview. Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror to build confidence.

 

4. Dress Appropriately

First impressions matter, and your attire plays a crucial role in how you’re perceived. Dress in a way that’s professional and appropriate for the company’s culture. When in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Tip: Pay attention to grooming and ensure your clothes are clean and well-fitted. Your appearance should reflect your seriousness about the opportunity.

 

5. Showcase Your Soft Skills

While technical skills are essential, soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are equally important. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve demonstrated these skills in your past roles. Employers look for candidates who can fit into their team and contribute positively to the work environment.

Tip: Share anecdotes that highlight your ability to collaborate, adapt, and handle pressure effectively.

 

6. Follow Up with a Thank You Note

After the interview, send a thank-you note or email to express your gratitude for the opportunity. Mention specific points from your conversation to remind the interviewer of your key strengths and enthusiasm for the role. This small gesture can set you apart from other candidates and leave a positive impression.

Tip: Send the note within 24 hours of the interview. Keep it concise, professional, and sincere.

 

Final Thoughts

Acing an interview is about more than just answering questions correctly; it’s about presenting yourself as the best candidate for the role. With thorough preparation, a clear understanding of the company and position, and a confident, professional demeanor, you can make a lasting impression that lands you the job. Good luck!

 

JobSeekers can register their cv for future opportunities, or visit our website to search & apply for open roles. For more information on career COACHING, contact us or reach out to our team on 045 881 888 or careers@clark.ie.
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Success Story: County Kildare Chamber

The recruitment of a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is a pivotal moment for any organisation, signifying a step towards future growth and new strategic directions. Clark Recruitment was selected to assist, bringing its expertise to ensure the selection of a candidate who would truly align with the Chamber’s objectives and values.

 

The Challenge

Recruiting a CEO for County Kildare Chamber was a multifaceted task, requiring a nuanced approach to identify a leader capable of embodying the Chamber’s ethos while driving its strategic goals. The Chamber sought a recruitment partner who could:

  • Deeply understand its culture, vision, and the specific leadership qualities needed.
  • Conduct a thorough search and selection process to identify the best candidates.
  • Facilitate a seamless recruitment process that reflected the Chamber’s high standards and commitment to excellence.

 

Our Solution

Clark Recruitment embarked on this journey with County Kildare Chamber, adopting a meticulously tailored approach consisting of:

  1. Understanding Requirements,
  2. Tailored Recruitment Strategies,
  3. Collaborative Approach,
  4. Commitment to Excellence.

 

The Outcome

This engagement culminated with the appointment of a CEO who matched the technical and leadership specifications but also deeply resonated with the Chamber’s culture and vision.  Download the full Success Story to learn more.

 

Partner with Clark for Your Executive Recruitment Needs

County Kildare Chamber’s long-standing relationship with Clark, highlights the value of a trusted recruitment partner when sourcing talent for Senior Management and Executive roles.  Our ability to understand your needs and deliver these requirements highlights the value of our industry expertise and dedicated focus. Our consultants streamline your hiring process, saving valuable time and efforts in sourcing, screening and initial interviewing.

 

Ready to Elevate Your Retail Recruitment Game?

Whether you’re searching for highly sought technical skills, or need qualified team members in various worldwide locations, let Clark guide your recruitment journey. Reach out to us today on 045 881 888 or hello@clark.ie and let’s embark on a path towards success together!

 

Read the Success Story:

 
For more information or to discuss any of these points further, please contact us or reach out to us on 045 881 888 or hello@clark.ie.

 

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Success Story: Sexing Technologies

In fields related to science and other technical skillsets, it can be challenging to attract qualified team members. For Sexing Technologies, a company which specialises in livestock reproductive and genetics technologies, its own unique focus adds an additional challenge in sourcing qualified candidates. That’s why Sexing Technologies enlisted the help of Clark to attract talent for multiple Laboratory Technician roles based in Ireland and Worldwide.

 

The Process

Deep dive into this case study, and learn how Clark’s Recruitment Solutions helped Sexing Technologies® to achieve their staffing goals. Click the image below to read more.

 

The Outcome

Thanks to Clark’s comprehensive recruitment & selection process, Sexing Technologies® sourced multiple candidates with the required technical skills and relevant experience, for various laboratories around the world. It also allowed Clark to develop a talent pool of other qualified individuals who may be considered for future roles, creating a new pipeline of talent for Sexing Technologies®.

 

Partner with Clark for Your Specialised Recruitment Needs

The story behind Sexing Technologies successful relationship with Clark, highlights the value of a trusted recruitment partner when sourcing talent for highly-specialised technical roles.  Our ability to address and deliver these staffing requirements highlights the value of expertise and dedication in recruitment services. Our consultants streamlined the clients’ hiring process, saving them valuable time and effort in sourcing, screening and initial interviewing.

 

Ready to Elevate Your Retail Recruitment Game?

Whether you’re searching for highly sought technical skills, or need qualified team members in various worldwide locations, let Clark guide your recruitment journey. Reach out to us today on 045 881 888 or hello@clark.ie and let’s embark on a path towards success together!

 

Read the Success Story:
For more information or to discuss any of these points further, please contact us or reach out to us on 045 881 888 or hello@clark.ie.
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The Right to Request Remote Working

Since 2020,  traditional workforce models have shifted to include hybrid and remote working. Effective from the 7th of March 2024, all employees in Ireland have a new legal right which entitles them to request remote working from their employer.

 

What is Remote Working?

Remote working is an agreement between an employer and their employee, whereby instead of going to the employer’s location, the employee performs parts or all of their work from another location, typically their home. The employee continues to fulfill the same duties and work hours as if they were physically attending the employers place of business. In contrast, hybrid work  provides employees with the flexibility to choose their own work schedules but still enjoy in-person interactions. For example attending the workplace some days and working from home on other days.

 

Who has the Right to Request Remote Working?

All employees have the right to make this request in Ireland. Employees may request remote working from the day they start a new job, but must have 6 months of continuous service before remote working can commence.

If an employee leaves their job and then returns to the same employer within 6 months, the time spent between roles does not count towards the 6 months of continuous service.

 

Code of Practice on Remote Working

The Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023, sets out the right to request remote working in Part 3 of the act.

Employers and employees can also access further information in the Workplace Relations Commission’s (WRC) Code of Practice for Employers and Employees on the Right to Request Flexible Working and Right to Request Remote Working.

The WRC code of practice includes practical supports for employers, such as templates to help create relevant policies and request forms.

 

Making a Request for Remote Working:

When an employee requests remote working, they should:

  • Make the request as soon as is reasonable practical, and at least 8 weeks ahead of the proposed start date. 
  • Submit it in the form of a written request or online application form.
  • Share specific details of the proposed arrangement including how many days per week and which days you are requesting.
  • Detail the  reasons for you requesting remote work.
  • State the proposed start date and duration for the arrangement.
  • Specify the proposed remote work location e.g. at home,  co-working hubs.
  • Explain the suitability of the proposed location, for example access to broadband/other tools, a workstation that is configured according to health & safety guidelines. (Page 16 of the WRC code of practice details relevant information to include).

 

What Employers Should Consider:

When evaluating your request, the employer should consider:

  • The needs of the business,
  • The needs of the employee and their reasons for this request,
  • The WRC Code of Practice.

This may also include considering your suitability and the suitability of the role for remote working. Relevant considerations may include:

  • Whether the duties of the role can be performed remotely.
  • If on-site attendance is required for certain duties or tasks.
  • If the technology exists internally to facilitate remote work.
  • Whether there are any health & safety considerations.

 

Responding to Requests for Remote Working:

Employers must respond to requests for remote working as soon as possible. At latest, their decision must be delivered to you within 4 weeks of them receiving your request.

The employer may request more time to consider the request and provide a decision to you.  In this case, they must state how much additional time is required, up to a maximum limit of 8 weeks.

 

Request Outcomes

If your request for remote working is refused, the employer must state in writing that it has been rejected and the reasons for this decision.

If your request is approved by your employer, then they will share an agreement which is to be signed by both the employer and the employee. This document should include:

  • The details of the arrangement
  • The start date and anticipated duration

 

In conclusion, the right to request remote working provides employees with greater work/life balance and employers with more flexible work models which in turn help to attract and retain staff. Below are some additional resources designed to help employers and employees as they navigate this process.

 

Additional Information:

 

For more information on this policy please contact us on 045 881 888 or hello@clark.ie.
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Interviewing Skills for Hiring Managers and Businesses - Clark Recruitment - www.clark.ie LEARN MORE

Interviewing Skills for Hiring Managers and Businesses

Hiring the right talent is crucial for organizational success. However, finding the perfect fit goes beyond reviewing resumes and qualifications. It requires an understanding of interviewing techniques that accurately assess a candidate’s skills, competencies, and cultural fit. Interviewing is not just about asking questions; it’s an art that requires finesse, empathy, and strategic thinking. In this blog, we explore how hiring managers and businesses can refine their interviewing skills to identify top talent and build high-performing teams.

 

Understanding the Purpose of Interviews:

Before delving into the specifics of interviewing techniques, it’s essential to grasp the fundamental purpose of interviews. Interviews serve multiple objectives, including assessing a candidate’s qualifications, evaluating their cultural fit, gauging their communication skills, and predicting their potential performance within the organization. By understanding these objectives, hiring managers can tailor their approach to extract relevant information effectively.

 

Preparing for the Interview:

Preparation is key to conducting successful interviews. This involves not only familiarizing oneself with the candidate’s resume but also defining the criteria for evaluation, crafting thoughtful questions, and establishing an inviting atmosphere conducive to open dialogue. Additionally, preparing a structured interview plan ensures consistency and fairness in the evaluation process, minimizing bias and subjectivity.

 

Building Rapport and Creating a Positive Environment:

Building rapport with candidates is essential for fostering open communication and putting them at ease during the interview. Simple gestures such as greeting them warmly, maintaining eye contact, and actively listening to their responses can go a long way in establishing rapport. Creating a positive environment encourages candidates to showcase their true abilities and personality, leading to more insightful evaluations.

 

Asking Effective Questions:

The questions posed during an interview play a pivotal role in eliciting valuable information about the candidate. Effective questions are open-ended, behaviorally-based, and tailored to the specific requirements of the role. Behavioral questions, in particular, prompt candidates to provide examples of past experiences, allowing hiring managers to assess their competencies and problem-solving abilities more accurately.

 

Active Listening and Nonverbal Communication:

Active listening is a critical skill that enables hiring managers to engage with candidates attentively and extract meaningful insights from their responses. Nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice also convey valuable information about a candidate’s confidence, sincerity, and emotional intelligence. By honing these skills, interviewers can gain a deeper understanding of the candidate beyond their words.

 

Evaluating Cultural Fit:

Assessing cultural fit is essential for ensuring alignment between the candidate’s values, attitudes, and the organization’s culture. This involves probing beyond technical skills and qualifications to understand how well the candidate’s personality and work style align with the company’s values, mission, and work environment. Behavioral interviewing techniques and scenario-based questions can help gauge cultural fit more effectively.

 

Mitigating Bias and Promoting Diversity:

Bias can significantly impact the fairness and validity of the interviewing process, leading to suboptimal hiring decisions. Hiring managers must be vigilant in recognizing and mitigating biases stemming from factors such as race, gender, age, or background. Implementing structured interview protocols, diverse interview panels, and blind resume screening can help minimize bias and promote diversity within the organization.

 

Providing Constructive Feedback:

Effective feedback is instrumental in fostering continuous improvement for both candidates and hiring managers. Providing timely and constructive feedback to candidates not only enhances their experience but also enables them to identify areas for growth and development. Likewise, soliciting feedback from candidates about the interview process can offer valuable insights for refining future practices and enhancing the overall candidate experience.

 

Mastering the art of interviewing is a continuous journey that requires ongoing learning, adaptation, and refinement. By adopting a strategic approach, honing essential skills, and embracing best practices, hiring managers and businesses can elevate their interviewing process, attract top talent, and cultivate a culture of excellence within their organizations. As the workforce landscape continues to evolve, investing in effective interviewing techniques remains a cornerstone of successful talent acquisition and retention strategies.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO DISCUSS ANY OF THESE POINTS FURTHER, PLEASE CONTACT US OR REACH OUT TO US ON 045 881 888 OR HELLO@CLARK.IE.