Plastics Ireland, the Ibec group that represents the plastics and polymer industry, today successfully gained approval for a new apprenticeship, which will provide tailored training and specialised skills to those looking for a career in the industry. The sector has a turnover of €1.7 billion. The Apprenticeship Council received 86 submissions, but only 25 have been selected for development, including the Plastics Ireland proposal.

Director of Plastics Ireland Mark McAuley said: “There are over 6,500 people working in the plastics sector across 179 companies, but there aren’t enough skilled workers to fill new jobs. Unemployment is still above average in the Midlands, South-East, Border, West and Mid-West regions; by giving people the skills they need we can support regional growth in these areas. This new Polymer Processing Technician Apprenticeship will give people an opportunity to work in a growing sector which has exports of €1.25 billion.”

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