*Cllr Tony O’Brien. Photograph: Martin Connolly

Older employees at Molex may not reap as many benefits as their younger colleagues in the skills audit that is to be carried out among its Shannon workforce, an East Clare councillor has warned.

Speaking at Friday’s special meeting of Clare County Council, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) responded to Junior Minister Pat Breen’s (FG) comments that there was no jobs crisis despite looming losses at Molex, Avara, Roche and Moneypoint by issuing a word of caution.

O’Brien admitted that he appreciated the need to send out positive messages about the county for potential investors but was worried regarding the older workers at Molex. “In all the hope and optimism I want to say a word of caution, Minister Breen is in charge at cabinet butnobody has mentioned the vintage of people like myself who are untrainable and may not be able to get new skills”.

“I would like some assurances for workers in these factories. Many of them have given a lifetime of service, I don’t think they deserve to be left behind,” the Killaloe representative added.

Cllr Roisin Garvey (GP) disagreed with the views of Cllr O’Brien and felt the audit could be enhanced by bringing in organisations such as Clare Local Development Company or LEADER to put together courses based on the needs outlined in the skills audit. “My father learned to make jam at 75, if people want to adjust and learn they can”.

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If you’re here, you care about County Clare. So do we. Did you rely on us for Covid-19 updates, follow our election coverage, or visit The Clare Echo every week for breaking news and sport? The Clare Echo invests in local journalism and we want to safeguard its future in our county. By becoming a subscriber you are supporting what we do, will receive access to all our premium articles and a better experience, while helping us improve our offering to you. Subscribe to clareecho.ie and get the first six months for just €3 a month (less than 75c per week), and thereafter €8 per month. Cancel anytime, limited time offer. T&Cs Apply. www.clareecho.ie.

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