The next meeting of the recently established Westmeath Unemployed Networking Group takes place this morning, Friday, in Mullingar.
With some 100,000 people across the country facing into their second year of unemployment, and over 10,000 people now signing on in Westmeath, the network aims to encourage unemployed people to interact with each other and with the local business community.
Organiser Tom O’Mahony says the group, which meets for the third time today, will help people get out of the house, develop business ideas, and find out what companies are recruiting.
“People need contact, and they want to get out and network. We feel if people can come together initially, then they can start networking with the business community. Even if businesses are not taking anyone on now, they might do in a month,” he explains.
“Some employers are hiring but are doing it quietly and not advertising. If you are not out in the world you are not going to know. We also want to get people together who want to start their own business.
“People are in a serious rut, and the doom and gloom has to stop. The Mullingar network is moving steadily. It is a very simple local solution and it will work.”
Guest speakers are also being invited to address the group on issues such as starting your own business or financial advice, while a report is also being prepared for the group on local voluntary groups looking for help.
The group meets every fortnight, and there are plans to establish additional networks in Athlone and Castlepollard.
The third meeting of the group takes place this morning, Friday April 23, from 10am to 12 noon at the Westmeath Community Development Office, Church Avenue, Mullingar.
