Glanbia jobs announcement for Kilkenny within weeks

By Kay Kevlihan

An announcement by Glanbia of a new multi-million euro research and development venture, creating up to 30 jobs in Kilkenny, is imminent. Media speculation about the detail of the proposed innovation centre, which has the backing of Enterprise Ireland, is described as ‘premature' and ‘inaccurate', as Glanbia has yet to finalise the small print of the venture.

The lead story in The Kilkenny People last week announced the creation of 40 jobs "at the top end of the market'', in the city. The Journal understands that an announcement on the new venture for the company will be made later this month. It will involve very significant investment in terms of research and development. However, the number of jobs to be created is likely to be in the region of 30 over a period of time rather than 40 as speculated. The company would not confirm at this stage that the new centre will be linked with University College Cork Food Science and Technology Faculty.

Abbotstown recruits ag inspector

Public sector positions attract a lot of attention so seldom they occur. Many applicants never even reach the interview stage, even if they meet the eligibility requirements.

Shortlisting is the norm so great care is needed in making application to provide detailed, accurate and relevant information bearing in mind the job description and duties involved in the position.

Competition will undoubtedly be fierce for an assistant agricultural inspector's post currently advertised. The position in question is for a toxicologist for the Pesticide Control Service currently based in Abbotstown in Dublin to be re-located in Leixlip, Co Kildare.

A first or second class Honours Science degree, majoring in toxicology, biochemistry, pharmacology, physiology or a related biological science subject is essential.

Salary starts at just above €30,000. Details and application forms from the Department of Agriculture at 01 - 8587606 or http://www.publicjobs.ie/

Closing date for applications is 26 February.

Egg producers wanted in Galway

The poultry scare of the last few weeks has again heightened consumer awareness of the need for traceability and safety in the food they purchase.

Consumers need the reasurrance of knowing that fresh food produce such as eggs has been approved under the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme and that this is in turn creating opportunities for farmers.

Murty and Catherine McGrath from Claregalway, Co Galway farm 12,000 free range hens and also have seven producers supplying to their company Galway Free Range Eggs Limited. The company supplies free range eggs to multiples in all the western counties. They started their egg enterprise five years ago after they sold their dairy and sheep quota, and run it in conjunction with a drystock enterprise. "We are now looking for farmers in Galway county who have adequate land to diversify into egg production,'' explained Catherine.

"You need one acre for every 400 birds and we are looking for producers with a minimum housing capacity for 3,000 flock. "This involves an investment of €50,000 upwards, depending on the type of automation chosen and an excellent return on investment is guaranteed.'' Producers must register as egg producers with the Department of Agriculture and must adhere to strict traceability under the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme.

"We provide all the help that is needed on site location for the house. We handle all the paperwork, marketing and distribution. "This is brilliant for producers as they don't have to consider costs involved in packing, labour, transport or marketing. It is a 12 month business with guaranteed markets providing a steady flow of income and we provide on-going support.'' Farmers in the Galway area can phone Catherine McGrath at 091-798370 for details.

Top position with well established company

"This is a top management position in a well recognised company which has been trading a long time," Dr Alan McIlmoyle said of the position currently advertised in today's Journal, General Manager (Designate) with a leading animal feed manufacturer and retailer.

The company does not wish to be identified at this stage and has appointed Dr. McIlmoyle to handle recruitment for this senior appointment.

The position will particularly appeal to those within the agri industry who have extensive experience in management and are keen to take on a new challenge which will include contributing towards the strategic growth and direction of the business.

As the company is involved in manufacturing and retailing, responsibilities will include production and maximising sales and profitability of the company.

According to Dr McIlmoyle the company is offering a remuneration package that reflects the importance of the position and it is negotiable.

Temporary posts with WDC

The Western Development Commission is recruiting for three temporary positions, each of which is expected to last between six to eight months.

Suitably qualified experienced applicants are sought for the full-time positions of investment executive with a starting date in May; regional development executive to start in June and the third position of policy analyst, which can be either full or part-time, to commence in April. All the contracts relate to maternity cover. Job descriptions are available on website at http://www.wdc.ie/ email: info@wdc.ie or telephone 094-9861441.

Closing date for applications is 23 February.