New scheme to train security staff launched

Security staff across the country are to be trained to an accredited and standardised level, it emerged today.

The Irish Security Industry Training (ISIT) Skillnet has launched a new scheme to deliver fast, focused and local training programmes in the industry by the industry.

Based on a successful pilot programme, it is expected to benefit more than 8,000 employees at a range of small, medium and large companies operating throughout Ireland.

“This industry has been deficient in the training area and thankfully we are now in a position to address this matter in a structured professional manner,” Martin Stairs, ISIA president.

“With the introduction of this Skillnet programme we will now be in a position to deliver fast, focused, local and value for money training programmes - delivered to the industry by the industry. The varied training programmes we now have in place will lead to standardisation, certification and recognisable accreditation for staff and potential staff at all levels.”

It is hoped the scheme – which meets current licensing requirements – will eventually have the potential to train the estimated 20,000 security staff employed across the industry.

The range of key areas covered through training courses will include tackling conflict, crime prevention, security awareness, first aid, fraud investigation, how to apprehend, arrest and process offenders as well as delivering a hostage, kidnap and ransom programme.