Courses aim to help redundant workers

THE University of Limerick is working on new programmes to help workers who lose their jobs get back into employment.

UL president Don Barry outlined the new courses yesterday when addressing new graduates.

He reiterated the university’s commitment to the region as more job losses continue to be announced in Limerick.

Prof Barry said: “In recent days the announcement of major redundancies in companies in the mid-west, such as Dell and Kostal, represents a major blow to the city and to the region. And other difficulties are being experienced all around Ireland in this extremely challenging economic environment.

“It is incumbent upon us as a university to respond proactively to these testing times and to provide leadership and assistance.

“That is why, for some months past, we have been working to develop an integrated response in collaboration with regional and national partners.

“We have just launched a portal where individuals can seek guidance and help in finding a path to education, training and employment opportunities. And we are developing some specially-designed programmes that will help people cross the bridge from redundancy to a new future of fulfilling and productive employment.”

He said UL has a well-established track record of collaboration with industry and will continue to play a key role as an economic driver for the regional and national economy.

He added: “Ireland needs to adapt to the new global context. UL will play its part in responding to the challenges ahead.”

This week 1,274 graduates will receive awards at the university in a range of disciplines, including business, education and health sciences, engineering and science. This includes 53 PhDs.