Wanted: over 8,000 people to fill job vacancies in the west. That's the message from Galway Chamber of Commerce this week as it prepares for what may be the largest recruitment fair to take place west of the Shannon.
Exhibitors at the two-day fair, which opens this coming Friday in Leisureland, Salthill, Galway, are seeking a wide variety of professionals and graduates. The search is on for those with two years' experience to those with 32 years in "all skill sets", according to the project manager, Mr Niall Killilea.
Research conducted by the Galway Chamber of Commerce indicates that there are vacancies for over 8,250 people in the region extending from Sligo to Athlone to Limerick.
Latest figures for Galway city house prices also indicate that they are lower than Dublin - by over £43,000 for the average house - and also less expensive than Cork. The cost of buying a basket of basic consumer items in Galway is also 20 per cent less than in Dublin, the Chamber of Commerce says.
Companies ranging from 3Com Technologies to Ericsson to Ireland.com/The Irish Times to Siebel to the Marlborough Group are participating, and admission is free. Those interested in finding a job are advised to come prepared for an interview, and to bring an updated curriculum vitae.
Opening hours are 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. next Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. next Saturday. For more information, the chamber's website is www.galwaychamber.com, or you can call Virginia Allan at (091)563536.
