Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 March 2022
103. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if an analysis has been carried out on an all-Ireland basis in relation to skills shortages throughout the island of Ireland; the proposals to arrange training and the provision of relevant courses on a cross-border basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12867/22]
View answerMy Department is committed to the promotion of collaboration on a North South cooperation and the all-island economy.
In 2008, the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN), whose secretariat hosted in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, carried out an All Ireland Skills Study. Since then, the skills architecture has changed substantially, including the establishment of two Regional Skills Fora in the border regions (North West and North East). The Fora bring together enterprise, education and training providers and other key stakeholders at local level to facilitate tailored responses to skills needs in these regions. The Deputy may also wish to note that Inter Trade Ireland supports business on both sides of the border to develop their capacity, including through skills development.
My officials are working closely with the Department of the Economy in Northern Ireland on the development of a proposal to address skills needs in the 6 border counties and Northern Ireland, as part of the forthcoming PEACE PLUS programme.
I can assure the Deputy that this programme will facilitate the development of innovative cross-border responses in the area of skills, including re-skilling.
