Blueprint for job creation to focus on green economy

BUSINESS leaders and community groups in south and east Cork are joining forces to develop a job creation strategy, with a strong focus on green economy opportunities.

The blueprint will be developed at the South and East Cork Area Development (SECAD) Employment Seminar at the Radisson Hotel, Little Island, Cork, on Friday, November 26.

Bord Gáis chief executive, John Mullins, is to discuss research and employment opportunities in the green economy in the Cork Harbour area. He will be speaking in his capacity as vice-president of Cork Chamber of Commerce.

SECAD chief executive, Ryan Howard, said: “Community groups, employers, training providers and policy makers will discuss how to ensure that south and east Cork is prepared for employment growth and is in a position to best utilise available community resources.”

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation Batt O’Keeffe will open the seminar. Employers will learn about new opportunities in green technology and benefit from direct access to policy makers. Community groups will hear about opportunities to employ staff under current and new Government schemes.

SECAD chairman, JJ Harty, said: “Community groups involved in the social economy through the provision of space and services such as community halls, sports facilities, services to those experiencing disadvantage will be interested to hear about new opportunities for the provision of employment in their projects.”

TJ Fleming, principal officer at the Department of Social Protection, will give an update on the new schemes which community groups can avail of in employing staff to assist in the running of their projects. SECAD, which has been working in east Cork since 1996, will also launch its employer survey at the event.

Entry to the seminar is free. To book a place, contact SECAD on 021 4613432 or via email to [e-mail].