Good news on jobs front

Sinn Fein Councillor Paul Duffy welcomed news that Tesco are advertising for temporary customer assistants, to star immediately in Portadown.

“This provide opportunities to those who have lost, or, are at risk of losing their jobs,” said Cllr Duffy

“I want to also pay tribute to our retail staff who are to the fore and crucial in our response in the weeks and months ahead.”

DUP Councillor Darryn Causby said: “The news that Tesco are seeking to hire employees with immediate starts is very welcome.

“Given the uncertainty and economic challenges ahead, these jobs could provide a lifeline for families.”

Another local employer, poultry giant Moy Park, has also announced a recruitment campaign.

The company is looking for people to join its teams across a range of roles in its agriculture and production operations.

Moy Park says many of these positions could be particularly suitable to those from within the hospitality industry due to an existing awareness and familiarity with food hygiene and safety regulations, as well as other transferable skills.

Speaking about the opportunities, Moy Park HR and Performance Director, Kirsty Wilkins said; “There has been a noticeable increase in grocery sales as people practice social distancing and self-isolate.

“This has resulted in a heightened demand for chicken produce and with it, opportunities in the sector to meet this demand.

“As a team we are committed to ensuring we provide nutritious food for our communities, and we are keen to support individuals who are looking for short term employment to meet changing consumer purchasing habits.”

“This increase in grocery retail comes at a time when there has been a fall in demand across our sister sectors of hospitality and tourism as people’s socialising and travel plans are curtailed.

“We hope the pressure being faced across these industries is short term and, in the meantime, we are keen to help anyone looking for a job through these new opportunities.”