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Hardware Association Ireland (HAI) welcomed James Lawless TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science of Ireland to a briefing of its members on Friday, 12th September at the headquarters of General Paints Group, Celbridge, Co. Kildare. The event brought together key decision-makers from the hardware and building materials sector to discuss the strengthening of the sector.
Key topics addressed during the meeting included:
- Strategies and innovations for supporting builders and tradespeople.
- New apprentice pathways for students leaving secondary school.
- Challenges facing business owners in an era of full employment.
Minister Lawless said: “I was delighted to meet with Hardware Association Ireland, which represents all levels of the supply chain, from international companies to independent hardware businesses. The hardware and building materials sector is a vital part of Ireland’s broader construction industry. My Department and I will continue to engage with stakeholders as we work together to strengthen the construction skills pipeline at every level.”
Commenting on the event, Martin Markey, Chief Executive of Hardware Association Ireland said, “Today’s discussion with Minister Lawless is of key interest to the hardware and construction sector, obtaining the latest information directly from Minister Lawless. The exchange of information, ideas and strategies here will undoubtedly strengthen our community and drive future success.”
Hardware Association Ireland is the representative body for Irish hardware and DIY retailers, builders’ merchants, distributors, and manufacturers. It represents over 400 members nationwide and 26,000 staff in the sector.
ENDS
Please note: Chief Executive of Hardware Association Ireland Martin Markey is available for interview.
For more information please contact:
Paul Allen Frieda Forde
Paul Allen & Associates Paul Allen & Associates
18 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2 18 Fitzwilliam Square, Dublin 2
01 676 9575 / 087 257 5700 01 676 9575 / 086 892 3834
