Mattarella appoints 2 new Sicilian job knights

The honour of Cavaliere del Lavoro was established in 1901 and is awarded every year by the President of the Republic to entrepreneurs, women and men, who have distinguished themselves with their activities in promoting the national economy, with ethical and social responsibility, contributing to the improvement of the country’s living and working conditions. No more than 25 Knights of Labour may be appointed each year.

The President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella, appointed the Knights of Labour of 2022, between these, two are Sicilians: it is Giuseppe Russello, patron of the Omer and president of Sicindustria Palermo and Carmelo Giuffrè, founder of the Irritec, historical company associated with Sicindustria Messina.

“Giuseppe Russello and Carmelo Giuffrè, with their companies, represent an excellent part of the Sicilian productive fabric. The recognition received by the Head of State is a source of pride for all of Sicily that is recognized in the great insights and great sacrifices made and rejoices in the important achievements of our entrepreneurs" - commented the regional city council member to the productive activities, Mimmo Turano.

Who is Giuseppe Russello?

Giuseppe Russello is the president of Sicindustria Palermo, is founder, president and CEO of Omer spa, a company founded in 1990, which today is a European leader in the design, production and marketing of railway components, for the construction of high-speed trains, but also regional and metropolitan trains, for the most important manufacturers in the world. The products manufactured by Omer equip more than 1000 trains around the world, including Trenitalia trains! The production of Omer has proven to be a Sicilian excellence able to compete around the world and ensure development and well-being in the area.

Who is Carmelo Giuffre?

Carmelo Giuffrè is founder and sole administrator of Irritec spa, a company that deals with the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of irrigation systems «drop», ensuring greater productivity of crops, optimizing the use of water fully marrying the needs of environmental sustainability. The entrepreneurial history of Giuffrè began in 1974, when in Capo d'Orlando, province of Messina, the family company, which initially worked the pvc for the production of roller shutters was transformed into Irritec spa, leader in irrigation systems, which ranks fourth in the world in terms of turnover in the sector.