Fine Gael Galway West Deputy Seán Kyne is urging jobseekers in Galway to consider availing of one of 13 new courses available under Springboard, a scheme launched by Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairí Quinn as part of the Government’s Job Initiative.
Springboard provides some 6,000 new higher education places specifically set aside for jobseekers who suffer no loss of social welfare payments while undertaking the courses. NUIG is hosting six courses under the scheme, diplomas in innovation management, technology commercialisation, environment sustainability, LEAN and quality systems, and medical device science. GMIT has seven courses that jobseekers can undertake, two in energy engineering, degrees in mechanical engineering, bio-pharmaceuticals and healthcare science, as well as computing. There are also certificates available in business in computing applications, and business studies and enterprise development.
Deputy Kyne commented: “The courses under Springboard demonstrate the practical commitment from the Government to help jobseekers gain new skills or update existing ones. The subject areas being provided by GMIT and NUI Galway will result in skills and qualifications in sectors which are well positioned to grow and provide new jobs.
“The fact that jobseekers can retain the payments provided by the Department of Social Protection when enrolled on these new courses reflects the understanding that jobseekers need support and assistance while retraining and up-skilling. I am certain the new higher education courses will prove to be very beneficial and I urge jobseekers to give careful consideration to applying to participate in one, either locally or at other locations.”
The Government has set up a website – www.bluebrick.ie – for potential students to find more information or to apply online.
