High praise for award-winning Limerick apprentice

LIMERICK TD and Minister of State for Skills and Further Education Niall Collins has extended his congratulations to Mairide Bennis from Castletown who recently won a prize at the inaugural Apprentice of the Year awards. 

Minister Collins visited the company where she works - DesignPro Automation in Rathkeale -  to present her with a gift on behalf of her employer in recognition of her award. 

Minister Collins also received a tour of the DesignPro facilities and he spoke to the at their quarterly town hall meeting about the importance of apprenticeships. 

Apprentice at Limerick firm receives national recognition

DesignPro Automation is a highly innovative automation company that currently employs 50 people.  

Commenting following his visit, Mr Collins said: “I was delighted to visit Design Pro Automation and present Mairide Bennis with a gift on behalf of her employer as recognition for her marvellous achievement of being named the Apprentice of the Year. It’s a massive achievement and I’m delighted for her and her employers who have supported her through her apprenticeship."

The Limerick TD said increasing the number of people accessing apprenticeships is a key priority for him and government.

"I'm delighted to see successful and innovative companies in Limerick like Design Pro supporting apprentices like Mairide. Apprenticeships are going from strength to strength across the country and I look forward to seeing the further success of Mairide and DesignPro Automation," he stated.

"Apprenticeships are crucial to the growth and prosperity of the country and I would encourage any school leaver to have a look at apprenticeships as they are a great way to earn while you learn,” he added.