A programme which supports long-term unemployed people, early school leavers, people with disabilities and refugees to get into the workforce was launched recently in Dublin.

 'Ag Obair Le Chéile' is an innovative new training and employment programme run by the National Learning Network in Phibsborough.

The new programme, which is supported by JPMorgan Chase, was launched at Dublin’s Carmelite Community Centre by Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe. The pilot programme began six months ago and will run until April 2018.

The National Learning Network, part of the Rehab Group, has more than 50 centres nationwide offering training and employment support to people with disabilities and disadvantage.

'Ag Obair Le Chéile' offers personalised, one-to-one support to people who are finding it difficult to get and keep a job in areas such as catering and hospitality, ICT and construction.

The participants spend 60 percent of their time in work placements developing the skills and experience they need to get and keep a job. Participants who undertake the course also end up with a QQI Level 4 qualification.

The course can accommodate 40 participants in total who spend three days a week getting real-life work experience with employers in their chosen area.

A number of participants who have commenced the programme have already secured full-time employment in the ICT sector.

“Ireland’s workforce is continuing to grow and, while our economy is recovering, it is important that everyone benefits and that nobody gets left behind. This is why programmes like Ag Obair le Chéile are so important, as they provide a vital resource to people to assist them in finding sustainable work,” said Minister Donohoe.

“This programme is a good example of corporate support for community projects, and both National Learning Network and JPMorgan Chase are to be commended for taking the initiative.”

Support for Ag Obair le Chéile by JPMorgan Chase is part of an annual global investment of $200m by the financial services firm, which is designed to create pathways to opportunity in the regions where they do business by supporting financial capability and development of communities, workforce, and small business.

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