Skillnets, the national agency responsible for the promotion and facilitation of workforce learning, welcomed the budget increase of €3.5m announced today by the Minister for Finance, Public Expenditure & Reform, Paschal Donohoe TD. This represents an 19% increase in Skillnets funding to support private sector businesses with their skills and talent agenda. The increase underlines the important role of Skillnets in the development of the Irish workforce.
Speaking after the Budget 2018 announcement, Skillnets Chairman Brendan McGinty said "There are very clear links between the strength of businesses, our national competitiveness and the calibre of the talent and skills pool at firm level. By allocating an increase of €3.5m to Skillnets to address the up-skilling agenda, Budget 2018 demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to this critical area”.
The additional funding being provided by Government in 2018 will in part address the substantial challenges Brexit poses for Irish companies. According to Paul Healy Skillnets Chief Executive: “Responding to Brexit will present many challenges for the Irish business community and while the full implications of Brexit will take some time to be completely identified, a greater investment in the up-skilling of our business leaders and employees is a central component of our response. Moderating the impact of Brexit on Irish firms, particularly SMEs, will be a priority for Skillnets over the coming years.”
Mr Healy added: “This additional €3.5m represents a substantial commitment to Ireland’s talent agenda and is a clear indication of the Governments support for SMEs in particular. Irelands prosperity and on-going competitive position is largely predicated on the supply of talent – a constant focus is needed on this agenda at a national level.”
Skillnets is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Education and Skills.
To learn more about Skillnets view our video or to read our Statement of Strategy, please click here.
Pictured are Brendan McGinty, Skillnets Chairman, Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD, and Paul Healy, Skillnet Chief Executive.