Mullingar's Eric Bates is one of 1,500 competitors in Lyon.
A Westmeath man will be bringing his talents to the world stage this morning.
Mullingar's Eric Bates is among 1,500 competitors from 71 countries at the WorldSkills competition in France.
18 Team Ireland members will compete in categories such as Industrial Mechanics, Carpentry, Food and Hospitality, and construction.
Mr Bates will be taking on the world's best painter/decorators - he says he's "delighted" and "honoured" to represent Ireland in Lyon this week.
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