Offaly Job Fair 2025 attracts companies and job seekers from across the Midlands

HUNDREDS of job seekers from across the Midlands and further afield flocked to the fourth annual Offaly Job Fair in the Tullamore Court Hotel on Saturday last.

Companies exhibiting at the fair were delighted with the level of engagement with job seekers with many deeming the event to be the most successful staged yet.

The county's three Dail Deputies – Carol Nolan (Independent), Tony McCormack (Fianna Fail) and John Clendennen (Fine Gael) – performed the official opening and committed themselves to the development of Offaly over their terms of office.

The event was organised by Tullamore and District Chamber of Commerce in association with a number of partners.

Chamber President, Caroline Collins, in the keynote address at the official opening, said the fair was designed to serve a wide and diverse group of job-seekers – from school-leavers seeking apprenticeships or further education, to commuters hoping to find employment closer to home and improve their work-life balance, to professionals looking to advance their careers or relocate to a more affordable and connected community outside the major cities.

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"This Jobs Fair would not have been possible without the vital support of Offaly County Council, Offaly Local Development, Offaly Local Enterprise Office, Laois Offaly Education and Training Board, and The Technical University of the Shannon. Thank you all for your partnership, time, and energy in making this event a reality.," stressed the Chamber chief.

She continued: "Over the past few years, the Chamber has worked tirelessly to support our members through exceptionally challenging times. Emerging from the disruption of Covid-19 and into the current cost-of-living crisis, we have consistently consulted with local businesses to understand what supports are most needed. We continue to collaborate closely with the business community, Offaly County Council, and the IDA to advocate for our members and our local economy.

"There are many exciting projects either completed or currently underway in Offaly that hold great promise for the future. Two current Chamber initiatives under review - the Digital Quid Voucher Offering and the Summer Sizzler Coupon Campaign – aim to support local retailers and hospitality businesses by encouraging footfall and promoting the “Shop Local” message.

"I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Chamber’s events committee, especially Anne Starling and Mairead Guinan, who have gone above and beyond to bring today’s events to life. Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and I think that you’ll all agree that their efforts have made this event something special."

Added the Chamber President: "I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of County Offaly. We have a strong, emerging generation entering adulthood, our businesses are resilient and growing, and our community spirit remains vibrant. These strengths make Offaly a truly great place to live, work, and thrive."

She said it was a real pleasure to welcome the large attendance and the three local TDs.

She paid tribute to Deputies Nolan, Clendennen ad McCormack, for their support for the chamber and business in Offaly.

"On behalf of the Chamber, I’d like to sincerely thank all of you not just for your participation, but for offering thoughtful counsel and acting as a sounding board for new ideas. Your unique perspectives on the challenges we face are deeply appreciated."

The Chamber chief also welcomed Paul McLoughlin, Director of Services at Offaly County Council and she thanked him for his continued engagement and support.

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In her address, Deputy Carol Nolan said: "“I am united with my constituency colleagues in pushing Offaly forward and ensuring that all levers of state and state agencies are pulled in an effort to draw employment and permanent job creation to our county."

Revealed the Independent TD: " I have recently met with the IDA regarding Cardinal Health and that engagement continues to be constructive. I am actively seeking to promote our wonderful heritage as a tourism opportunity, in particular around Kinnitty, Birr and Charleville castles. Offaly has so much potential. I want to see it thrive.”