New figures from the government statistics office, the CSO, show that at the end of June this year, there were 34,700 employed in the Motor Industry, compared to 31,500 at the end of 2009.

This figure shows how the motor industry has been one of the first to significantly recover from the economic downturn and demonstrates the vital role it has to play in Ireland’s economy. It is estimated that every lost job cost the Exchequer an average of €23,000, so the employment created by the motor industry has made a contribution to the economy of some €74 million.

To add a further boost to employment in the motor sector, a new recruitment training programme for apprenticeships has also been launched by FAS in conjunction with the SIMI. Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Batt O'Keeffe, described the Apprentice plan as an “Important platform for the development of careers in the Motor Industry.” Concern had previously been expressed about the low numbers of trainees being attracted to careers in the automotive industry and it is hoped that this scheme will go some way to addressing that.
Speaking at the launch event SIMI President, Eddie Murphy noted the importance of job creation in the motor industry. He said, "Our Industry has gone through such a turbulent time over the last couple of years. Because of the positive impact of Scrappage this year, business in our industry is up over 50% on last year's very low levels. It is only because of this improvement that dealers can now invest in new staff for their businesses. New Apprentices take four years to qualify, so this really is an investment in the future of our industry.”