Jobs ‘connector’ set for €100k reward

A Co Meath-based auctioneer stands to make more than €100,000 on the back of one of the Government’s latest jobs announcements.

Jobs and Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton yesterday announced a multi-million euro investment by international industrial company, Mafic, which will create 70 new jobs in Kells over the next three years.

The company will source crushed basalt from the Ukraine from which it will produce basalt fibre for use in the aerospace and automotive industries.

The company is establishing its sole European fibre production site in Kells — initially with three furnaces, but with that number being doubled within 18 months.

The jobs announcement forms part of the Government’s ‘Succeed- in-Ireland’ initiative, which is managed in conjunction with Connect Ireland — the IDA-linked body which rewards individuals, or “connectors”, for putting the agency in touch with companies considering Ireland as a business location.

In this case, Hugh Morris — an auctioneer and father of five from Kells — was the link and stands to make €1,500 for each job created.

Mr Morris described his role as “just a simple introduction”.

“All I did was keep my eyes and ears open for Ireland, make the connections and introductions and I’m delighted that now Ireland, and Kells specifically, are the lucky beneficiaries,” he added.