The final countdown

ElectricAid Recruitment Week

ElectricAid's Recruitment Week in November turned out to be an even bigger success that originally estimated. Membership among staff in November '05 increased by 195, while 42 additional pensioners signed up. More new members are still signing up, and now staff in Eirgrid are also now contributing to ElectricAid.

Taking ESB-matching funds and tax rebates into account, this increase of 237 in membership means at least an additional €125,000 per year for desperately needed projects. Many existing members increased their subscription during Recruitment Week. We estimate that the total overall gain will be at least €150,000.

During the Week, ElectricAid also did a collection for the victims of the Pakistan earthquake. A cheque for €8,500 was presented to GOAL. This is in addition to the €25,000 already given to the Irish Red Cross.

Finally, ESB-matching funds have also been generously adjusted to recognise ElectricAid's growth and development - and to challenge us to grow some more! Matching funds were previously "capped" at €150,000. This has been adjusted to €200,000 for 2006 and to €250,000 for 2007.

ElectricAid is deeply grateful to ESB for this generous increase. We also thank all our existing members - and our new recruits. Thank you all, and roll on Recruitment Week 2006!