€20m training fund targets low-skilled and unemployed

TRAINING for work in green energy, pharmaceutical and eco-tourism is being offered for low-skilled and unemployed people through a €20 million fund targeting people whose previous qualifications are no higher than the Leaving Certificate.

The course providers are offering qualifications up to degree level for 6,589 people, almost twice the 3,500 places it was expected would be funded, with any savings potentially being invested in places on courses offered by unsuccessful tenderers later this year.

Tánaiste Mary Coughlan said three-quarters of the places are aimed at those with qualifications at or below Leaving Certificate level, with particular emphasis on under-35s and the long-term unemployed. The courses have also been chosen as suitable for former workers in the declining construction, retail and manufacturing sectors.