A total of 282 positions were filled this year by four meat processors that supplied the Irish Farmers Journal with information.

Dawn Meats took on 55 new people in 2014, including 15 graduates, which is in line with previous years. Graduate roles can be across a number of different areas, including production, sales, marketing and engineering.

“We take CVs from graduates at any time during the year,” said Larry Keena of Dawn Meats.

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“We are aware that many students take some time to travel after finishing their studies and we don’t want them to miss out on our graduate programme. However, most tend to submit their CV by February or March.”

Larry said that the group has plans for further development next year. “However, this depends on what happens in the industry,” he added. CVs can be sent to hr@dawnmeats.com.

Meanwhile, the Kepak Group has increased its staff by 200 this year. Roles vary from accounts to health and safety. It is hoping to add another 100 people next year, with production being a key area.

“Our ability to increase employment will very much depend on our ability to secure a core number of skilled boners,” said a spokesperson for Kepak.

“These skilled individuals are required to drive production and consequently give rise to the need for other supporting workers. If we cannot recruit the skilled workers required, then we will not be able to increase the overall level of employment.” Send your CV to recruitment@kepak.com.

Liffey Meats is based in Ballyjamesduff, Co Cavan. The company hired 25 people last year, with a turnover of 30%. The company employs 410 in total and hopes to take on 15 people next year.

Two new staff members joined Gilligan Meats in Roscommon in 2014. It hopes to take on three people next year.