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 apprenticeship 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 members who represent 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 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.”
