Former Minister at the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD ), Michael Ring TD, visited Olandi Engineering recently to celebrate the company's LEADER-funded world-class laser CNC machine.
Meeting Managing Director, Damien Flynn, Deputy Ring was hugely impressed by this Castlebar-based company, which offers a wide range of engineering solutions to national and international clients.
Damien Flynn thanked the South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC ) team for their support in securing this significant funding allocation. In particular, he praised the contribution of Sabina Trench, CEO, Sue O'Toole, Senior LEADER Project Officer and Majella Mulchrone, Finance and Administration.
Mr Flynn also complimented the work of Local Enterprise Office (LEO ) Mayo, which has supported his business over many years. He highlighted John Magee, Head of Enterprise and Elaine Moyles, who were particularly supportive in guiding the company during various growth phases.
Commenting on the LEADER grant, he said: "This LEADER investment is a game changer for Olandi Engineering. Before this, we were sub-contracting our laser work, or turning down lucrative contracts for the lack of on-site laser facilities. Now, we are tendering for and winning big contracts on major engineering projects. Here in Castlebar our laser equipment and skills are on a par with any company in the industrial heartland of Germany," he said.
He gave special mention to his staff who have shown great loyalty to Olandi over the years, saying: "I would especially like to acknowledge and thank all the staff at Olandi Engineering, most of whom have been with Olandi many years.
"We have a great team here and it is my intention that Olandi Engineering will continue to grow in capacity and develop skills here in Mayo."
Sabina Trench, CEO SWMDC, highlighted the importance of the small business sector to the national and local economy, saying: "Small and medium sized businesses like Olandi Engineering account for 99.7% of active enterprises in Ireland. They are the foundation stone of our local economy and are a major focus of our LEADER programme in Mayo. In SWMDC, we are very lucky to say that our work has a real impact on real people’s lives and today is an excellent example of that statement in action."
Deputy Ring said: "I am delighted to see that Mayo LAG saw fit to reward Damien and his team for leading the way in business development and local job creation.
"It goes to show what can be achieved from a Mayo base when all the agencies come together to support our local entrepreneurs."
The former Minister thanked Damien on behalf of the Irish Government for taking the risk to leave a well-paid job, return to Mayo, and set up Olandi Engineering in Mayo saying: "Our rural future depends on people like Damien Flynn who combine skills and ambition to create a brighter future for our local people and communities."
