IRISH RAIL WANT to address a massive shortfall in the number of women applying to become apprentices.
The rail operator received almost 2,000 applications for 13 apprenticeships during the previous intake last year, but just 9 women applied.
One was eventually hired, electrician Olivia Harte from Firhouse in Dublin, who said she found some women didn’t even consider applying for roles.
“It is something that they would have been interested in but didn’t really think it was something other women applied for or could apply for,” Harte said,
Women are just as capable so there is absolutely no reason why they shouldn’t apply.
Irish Rail is currently advertising for apprentice fitters, diesel mechanics, and electricians, involving work at depots in Drogheda, Dublin, Portlaoise and Limerick.
The company, which currently employs some 3,770 people, said apprentices have the opportunity to build on other skill-sets, as well as advance up the ranks to senior management.
Irish Rail’s annual report for 2014 revealed revenue was up 11.7% to €218 million, with its deficit standing at €2.2 million.
Some 37.8 million journeys were made, up 3%, and increases in punctuality across Dart, Intercity, and Commuter services.
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