As the immigrant population in Northern Ireland grows, a local company has been recognised for its best practise in relation to its employment of migrant workers.

Moira-based McMullen Architectural Systems received the Small Voice Business accolade at an awards ceremony in Newry.

Members of the Polish community nominated businesses and service providers who they believe have promoted good practise and McMullen’s scooped the top award in the corporate award category.

The awards, now in their second year, are organised by CBI Northern Ireland and Glosik, the first Polish magazine in the Province.

Orla Rafferty, Human Resources Manager at McMullen’s commented, “McMullen is a dynamic and progressive company and we are delighted that one of our Polish employees Krzysztof Chmielecki nominated us for this award, as it is testament of our commitment to delivering best practise within the organisation.

“We employ 270 employees with 150 based in Moira. Other employees are based on our construction sites across Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and England. We have a design office in Poland and a factory in the USA. 32% of our workforce is made up of Polish employees.

“Currently there are estimated 30,000 Polish workers in Northern Ireland and with the skill and labour shortages in the Province, migrant workers are now playing an increasing role in many sectors of the economy.

“We have been able to accelerate our growth by employing their expertise, and they are important members of our team.

“The Small Voice Business Awards are an excellent medium to promote integration within businesses and are the only awards scheme in Northern Ireland where employees can nominate their employers. We are delighted to receive this award and look forward with optimism to 2008.”

McMullen is a specialist window and curtain wall contractor involved in large commercial projects throughout the UK and Ireland.

See: Growing NI Population Becoming Multi-Ethnic And Older

(BMcC/KMcA)