New €350,000 training fund established for private sector workers – Coffey

Fine Gael Waterford Minister Paudie Coffey has said the establishment of a new €350,000 training fund will enable private sector companies to address their skills needs. Minister Coffey said businesses of any size, from a sole trader to SMEs are able to apply and the fund will also be open to existing industry bodies or enterprise groups.

“Skillsnet will administer the new scheme that would allow a group of businesses from the same region, or specialising the same sector, to collectively apply to develop a network and draw down funding support for training.

“The economy is now in recovery mode and many businesses are moving from a hand-to-mouth approach to looking towards growth and expansion. Having the appropriate skills, including addressing future skill needs to deal with expansion, is vital for sustainable development.

“Skillnets operates under a joint investment model whereby participating training networks can receive up to 50 per cent of the cost of training with the remainder of costs funded in cash contributions from participating companies.

“The agency has announced two funding call deadlines; March 23rd and July 31st. Further information on the training fund can be found atskillsnet.ie and I would encourage all Waterford businesses interested in this scheme to apply.”

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