That's according to the Chief Executive of Athlone Chamber of Commerce Gerry McInerney who says the staffing crisis is particularly hitting the hospitality sector.
It's resulting in some hotels having to recruit workers from overseas while others are planning career open days.
Following the lifting of many Covid restrictions last month, Gerry says hotels in Athlone are reporting a rise in bookings for both accommodation and conferences.
He's now hopeful this trend will continue and recruitment will ramp up.
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