PICTURES: Employability Limerick Employer Awards Celebrate Inclusive workplaces

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Limerick’s leading employers gathered on Thursday, February 19th for the Employability
Limerick Inclusion Awards, recognising organisations making a real difference in workplace
inclusion. Six employers were selected from dozens of applications following a thorough and
independent judging process, recognising their outstanding effort and dedication to
inclusivity.
The morning began with networking over tea and breakfast, followed by opening remarks
from MC Dr Gillian Barry of TUS, Ursula Mackenzie, Manager of Employability Limerick,
who highlighted the importance of creating workplaces where everyone can thrive. A
special address from Minister Dara Calleary reinforced the impact of inclusive employment
on individuals, organisations, and communities.
Awards were presented across five categories. The Emerging Inclusive Employer award
went to Dochas for their dedication to creating a safe and supportive environment for all
staff. The Disability Inclusive Advocate award was presented to The Manor Fields in Adare
for their outstanding contributions to supporting employees with disabilities. Northern
Trust received the Excellence in Inclusive Recruitment award, celebrating their
commitment to fair and equitable hiring practices. The Urban Co-op was named Inclusive
Employer of the Year, reflecting their ongoing efforts to embed inclusion across all areas of
the organisation. Finally, the Workplace Inclusion Award was presented to Cook Medical,
recognising their exemplary approach to cultivating a welcoming and accessible workplace.
A special award was also presented to Kilmartin Educational Services by the employability
team, celebrating their exceptional efforts in supporting their clients.
A panel discussion shared best practices for fostering diverse, accessible workplaces, with
compelling client stories highlighting that true inclusion goes beyond securing a job—it’s
about creating a genuine sense of belonging and opportunity within the workplace.
The event concluded with a closing address from Eddie O’Shaughnessy, IPS Job Coach, Anna
Rooney, Employability Chairperson, and Ursula Mackenzie, encouraging employers at all
stages of their inclusion journey to share their stories and continue driving positive change.
Employability would like to thank the event’s sponsors for their generous contributions,
especially key partners TUS, Cosgrave Nursing Homes, Optima Financial, Midwest
Mentoring and DSM.
Full details about the Employability Limerick Inclusion Awards are available at
employabilitylimerick.ie and across all employability Limerick social media channels.