An Aran island business creates jewellery and offers employment for young people on Inishmore.
Seoda Astrid employs 22 girls from Inishmore in the factory and has plans to increase the workforce to over 80. The island was chosen to locate for the factory because of the availability of female labour and because it provides a high level of security for the precious metals used in production.
Telex machines and the Aer Arann service to the island are used to overcome transport and communication difficulties.
A precision tool room has been installed in the factory to design and make the machinery it needs to manufacture the jewellery. There are plans to train local young men in tool making and design.
One worker at the factory, Emer Ní Concheanainn, says that while many islanders would like to take jobs at the factory, they would also like the opportunity to leave Ireland for a few years. The factory provides the opportunity for people to find work if they return to the island.
Seoda Astrid was introduced to Inishmore by Gaeltarra Éireann.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 7 July 1975. The reporter is Jim Fahy.
