Laois Jobs Fair 'buzzing' as crowds seek out new career opportunities
The “buzz is palpable” at the Laois Jobs Fair this Monday February 20, with up to 2,000 visitors expected at the Midlands Park Hotel seeking jobs.
Laois company CJ Sheeran offered eight roles, with full training options given.
“There is great footfall today. This is about getting the word out about jobs, meeting other companies and networking, and recruiting staff if we are lucky too,” said Aoife Collier.
AOCA were offering roles to civil and structural engineers and architectural technicians.
"It is hard to find people. There is a huge demand for these skills, a lot are going abroad and that is repeated across many industries," Philip O'Connell said.
Senior Training Advisor Sandra Doyle was at the LOETB stand offering a huge variety of apprenticeships, an area that has seen rapid regrowth.
"We offered 202 types of apprenticeship in 2016, now there are just under 700, from biopharma to accounting and hospitality. To be able to offer young people these opportunities is phenomenal. We are extremely busy today," she reported.
Scoil Chriost Rí TY student Aoife Donohue was there with classmates, many of whom need part time jobs for their work placement.
“It 's hard to find a first job. You apply but you don't hear back, you need to know contacts,” she said.
Social care worker Toyin Jayeola was hoping to find work closer to home.
“Honestly I'm really glad this is happening. I'm in Portlaoise since 2007, it was a lot quieter then. I love it. I had to drive to Dublin for the first time last week to a new job and nearly had an accident. I don't find it easy,” she said.
Jacob Murphy from Port is a new graduate with a classics degree from UCD.
“I've come looking for a job, FRS Recruitment were very helpful. I've no real idea what I can do and now I have a better understanding, so so far so good,” he said.
Abdul Qadeen works in IT at Amazon and is seeking a second part-time job.
“I live in Portlaoise, this is to supplement my income, living expenses have gone sky high,” he said.
Caroline Hoffman is the CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance, organisers of the third annual day fair, that also offered job interview rooms and workshops with speakers.
“There is really positive feedback, exhibitors already have a lot of specialised CVs, there is constant footfall.
“We feel this fair bridges a gap, you don't have to go through the usual channels, you can see what jobs are on your doorstep,” she said.
Laois County Council CEO John Mulholland praised the well organised event.
“It's very pleasing to see it continuing. It's a window for people to see the many job offers and to get a chance to work closer to home,” he said.
Deputy Charlie Flanagan said that “the buzz here is palpable”.
“It is a great opportunity to showcase Laois. Credit is due to Laois Chamber Alliance and their allied groups. It is great to see so many young people and to witness these job opportunities in Laois”.
The jobs fair continues until 7pm this Monday evening, February 20.