Skillnet Ireland, the national agency responsible for the promotion and facilitation of workforce learning in Ireland has launched Dundalk Chamber Skillnet alongside five new networks.
The event was hosted in the Virgin Media Studios with Dundalk Chamber Skillnet represented by Aidan Callan (Network Manager) & Thomas McDonagh (Network Promoter) along with representatives from Skillnet Ireland and the other networks.
Skillnet Ireland works closely with these networks to address emerging skills needs, by designing bespoke programmes and qualifications across multiple sectors.
Speaking at the launch Paul Healy, Chief Executive, Skillnet Ireland said;
“In order to remain competitive, businesses need to invest in their greatest asset, their employees. Promoting continuous learning and upskilling will not only improve productivity; all the evidence shows it actually increases employee engagement and staff retention.
“These new networks will drive greater levels of training and management development within a wide variety of sectors. By facilitating industry led collaboration with training and education providers Skillnet Ireland will address the specific skills gaps and shortages that employers face. This will ensure Ireland has the breadth of skills needed for businesses to grow, which is a key element of the Government’s economic and employment strategy.”
Dundalk Chamber Skillnet Network Manager, Aidan Callan said it aims to support 70 businesses, upskilling over 400 employees from all sectors including, services, manufacturing, retail, accountancy and technology.
“We’ve only been in operation for six weeks and yet already we’ve supported many businesses in the North East. For example, we supported a rapidly expanding SME to streamline product codes, following a recent competitor acquisition. We supported a local accountancy firm with a graduate programme to develop young talent. We brought two large manufacturing companies together to collaborate on developing a Leadership Development Programme and we’ve supported 13 smaller SMEs in developing administrative and general business skills.”
Our approach
Skillnet Ireland networks operates under a joint investment model whereby learning networks can apply to receive up to 50 percent of the cost of training from Skillnet Ireland, and the remainder of costs are funded in matching contributions from participating businesses in the learning network. The approach has received international recognition as a model of best practice from the OECD, amongst others.
For more information contact skillnet@dundalk.ie or call Aidan on 085 862 0266
