Tullow sparky Gary in Screwfix national final

TULLOW electrician Gary O’Neill has secured a place at the national final of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2026.

Gary will go head-to-head with nine other tradespeople from across the UK and Ireland at the finals later this month. The winner will take home a €20,000 prize bundle of tools, tech and training.

“I am very proud to have secured a place in the final of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2026,” said Gary.

If he wins, he wants to use the platform to encourage more open conversations about mental health in the male-dominated sector. Having seen the toll of mental health issues, he wants to help people find support when they need it, as well as raise the profile of the trade more widely.

“Since I started in the trade, I’ve worked hard to develop my skills and I still have the same passion I did on day one. To be recognised on a national stage and to be able to share my story with the judges is something I’m really excited about,” Gary continued.

Gary followed his father into the family business, O’Neill and Sons Electrical Services, with the company’s roots in the electrical trade stretching back over four decades. Today, he handles electrical installations, full rewires, solar systems and EV charging and continues to build his knowledge of renewable technologies.

After several years of working across Carlow, Gary impressed the Screwfix judges at the semi-final stage. He spoke of his passion for the trade and daily commitment to going above and beyond for his customers.

He has three principles: stay professional but approachable, keep standards high and pay attention to detail.