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<h2>Minister Harris celebrates the 1,000th graduate of the Dublin Construction Skills Project</h2>Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris this week congratulated the 1,000th graduate from a Dublin Construction Skills Project run by St Andrews Resource Centre in Dublin. The programme was set up in 2017 to help the long-term unemployed gain skills and employment in the construction industry.<h2>The Results have been amazing!</h2><ul><li>1,003 people have graduated since 2017</li><li>60% of graduates start a job within the first month</li><li>Female interest in the course is growing - 10% of graduates in 2023 were women</li><li>90% of candidates complete the three-week course</li><li>102 courses have been completed since 2017</li></ul>The intense course, for which all candidates are issued with a full set of workwear, prepares recent graduates with a diverse set of qualifications and experience for employment on construction sites. It consists of two main components: a Construction Skills Certification at Level 3 and a Retrofitting Assistant Certification.<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/615eb-minister-harris-celebrates-the-1000th-graduate-of-the-dublin-construction-skills-project/"></a>At the graduation event at The Substation at Dublin Port, Minister Harris said:<blockquote>&quot;It is an outstanding achievement that 1,000 candidates have completed the project since its inception in 2017.</blockquote><blockquote>&quot;With an average of 60% gaining employment within the first month of completing the course, I fully believe that the work that happens here is a crucial step towards introducing these learners back into viable employment which is exactly the aim of the project.</blockquote><blockquote>&quot;I also want to pay tribute to St Andrew’s Resource Centre and its partners for looking to significantly expand the project into the future, with a target of 1,090 learners in 2024.</blockquote><blockquote>&quot;Projects such as this also help ensure we are creating a construction sector which is supported by skilled and engaged workers, who are aware of how their roles will make a difference.</blockquote><blockquote>&quot;I wish to thank the St Andrew’s Resource Centre, Department of Social Protection, Dublin Port, SOLAS, Laois &amp; Offaly ETB, the National Construction Training Centre in Mount Lucas, Dublin City Council and the Inner City Renewal Group for all their tireless work on this project, and without whom we would not have been here today to mark this special occasion.&quot;</blockquote>The Dublin Construction Skills Project incorporates two strands: A Construction Skills Certificate and a Green Homes (Retrofitting) Certificate. The intensive course is delivered over a 3-week period and equips participants with a broad range of qualifications and experience, to work in the constructions sector. Practical skills are taught in a new state-of-the-art Construction and Retrofitting Training Centre in Dublin Port.Accredited training is delivered through a partnership between St Andrew’s Resource Centre and the National Construction Training Campus at Mount Lucas. Participants are provided with the opportunity to gain essential Health and Safety Training, including Safe Pass, Manual Handling and key CSCS tickets required for entry into construction and a NFQ Level 3 Construction Skills award that offers core skills sought by employers and is a first step on a pathway to a successful career in construction and retrofitting. Jim Hargis, Employment Services Manager at St Andrews Resource Centre, said:<blockquote>&quot;The Dublin Construction Skills Project is a successful, low-cost solution that fulfils the need of taking people off the live register, while putting them into sustainable well-paid jobs in a sector that is crying out for workers. We are extremely proud that the project has built up an excellent reputation with employers in the sector and is now seen as a reliable source of trained labour.</blockquote><blockquote>&quot;As employment demand in the sector evolves so too does the skillset we offer our trainees – this can be seen in the up to date retrofitting training that contributes to the green economy. The trainees go through three weeks of intensive training, which includes all basic operative training including, health and safety. They graduate on a Friday with their training and equipment fully ready to start work the following week and it has been a life changing experience for many of them.&quot;Notable companies that have hired graduates include John Sisk &amp; Son, Careys Building &amp; Civil Engineering, Walls Construction, Alufix, and Clarke Concrete.Original Source of Article;<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/615eb-minister-harris-celebrates-the-1000th-graduate-of-the-dublin-construction-skills-project/">https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/615eb-minister-harris-celebrates-the-1000th-graduate-of-the-dublin-construction-skills-project/</a></blockquote>

Excellent Employment Results from Dublin Construction Skills Project

In a bid to promote greater diversity, more people from migrant backgrounds will be able to pursue civil servant roles in Government departments following their announcement to accept candidates holding &#39;Stamp 4&#39; permissions.The Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform Paschal Donohoe TD has announced the expansion of the eligibility requirements to apply to civil service jobs. Potential candidates holding Stamp 4 permission will now be able to pursue civil servant roles in Government departments.The initiative has been developed by the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform and the Public Appointments Service. It progresses the public service wide goal of being an employer of choice by promoting diversity and inclusivity, as outlined in its Public Service Transformation 2030 Strategy “<a href="https://www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/255872/e6feb71e-0199-4061-894e-6f8e80bafad1.pdf#page=null">Better Public Services</a> .The expanded eligibility requirements follow research undertaken by the Public Appointment Service and work carried out by an Interdepartmental working group to increase diversity across the civil service and better reflect the society it serves.Announcing the decision, Minister Donohoe said:<blockquote>“There is an increasing need within the civil service to attract and retain skilled professionals across several sectors to ensure high-quality public services continue to be provided to our growing population. By opening up the civil service to include the thousands of people who have made Ireland their home, we have a real solution that both provides a greater recruiting talent pool, and helps drive a more diverse, innovative and inclusive public service that delivers for all of Ireland’s communities.”</blockquote>Commenting, Margaret McCabe, CEO of Public Appointments Service said:<blockquote>“The Public Appointments Service, through our website publicjobs.ie, is focused on recruiting a diversity of people for the civil service with the talent, character and commitment to deliver for Ireland. Removing this eligibility barrier for those from a migrant background follows an in-depth study we conducted in partnership with NGO The Open Doors Initiative and global immigration services firm Fragomen. Its removal opens up a wider recruitment talent pool for the civil service, that will further help us effectively implement our skills first approach to recruitment. We now look forward to receiving applications from talented individuals who would have previously found themselves unable to pursue a career in the civil service”.</blockquote>20,259 Stamp 4 permissions were issued to residents in Ireland in 2022 (Source: Department for Justice)Read More:https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2023/1022/1412176-civil-service/#diversityandinclusion#civilservicejobsireland#jobalert

Expanded Eligibility Requirements to Promote Greater Diversity

Cost of Living Lump Sum Supports

<a href="https://www.rte.ie/news/upfront/2022/1207/1340555-join-the-upfront-audience/"></a>Super Garden - RTESuper Garden is returning for a brand new series in 2024 on RTE and they are looking for 5 budding garden designers who are ready to showcase their talents on Ireland&#39;s longest running garden design television series. The winner of the series will have an opportunity to showcase their garden at Ireland&#39;s premier garden show, Bloom by Bord Bia in 2024Successful candidates will display a passion for garden design and demonstrate a flair for creating desirable outdoor spaces. Applications are welcomed from anyone aged over 18, who has not previously designed a garden for Bloom.<a href="https://www.rte.ie/tv/audience-participation/2023/0601/1386861-super-garden-2024-applications-open/">CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY </a>

5 budding Garden Designers required for RTE's Super Garden 2024!

Craft, Mechanical &amp; Operational Apprenticeships:Craft, mechanical and operational vacancies within the OPW are extremely varied and interesting and offer opportunities for entry-level training and highly skilled craftspeople and technicians.Some examples includeGeneral Operative Band 3General Operative Band 2 Excavator DriverGeneral Operative Band 3 ConstableSafety OfficerCraft Stonemason and StonecutterCraft Carpenter and JoinerCraft ElectricianCraft PlumberCraft GardenerCatering and Service AssistantChef The following roles are currently available:➡️Apprenticeship in Carpentry and JoineryThe OPW is offering training opportunities in the Craft of Carpentry and Joinery in the National Monuments Service.The occupation includes setting out production and assembly of joinery which includes stairs, doors, windows, floors and built in furniture.

⭐🖱️<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-carpentry-and-joinery"> APPLY HERE</a>➡️Apprenticeship in Carpentry and JoineryThe OPW is offering training opportunities in the Craft of Stonecutting and Stonemasonry in the National Monuments Service.The duties of an apprentice Craft Stonecutter/Stonemason are widely varied. These include assisting in conservation and restoration on site, repairing and building stonework and building dry stone and mortar walls.⭐🖱️ <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-stonecutting-and-stonemasonry">APPLY HERE </a>

<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-carpentry-and-joinery"></a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-carpentry-and-joinery"></a>➡️ Apprenticeship in Construction Plant FittingThe OPW is offering training opportunities in the Craft of Construction Plant Fitting in the Arterial Drainage Maintenance and Construction Services Division in Newtown, Trim Co. Meath.The Craft of Construction Plant Fitting is varied and wide. These include carrying out fitting duties as required on OPW Mechanical Equipment, including Construction Plant and Equipment and Fixed Mechanical Installations as part of the maintenance and repair programme for the Arterial Drainage Maintenance and Construction operations. ⭐🖱️<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-construction-plant-fitting">APPLY HERE</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-construction-plant-fitting"></a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-construction-plant-fitting"></a>➡️Apprenticeship in Brick and StonelayingThe OPW is offering training opportunities in the Craft of Brick and Stonelaying in the National Monuments Service.The duties and responsibilities of an apprentice in the Craft of Brick and Stonelaying are widely varied. These include assisting in conservation and restoration on site, repairing and building brickwork, building mortar walls, pointing, underpinning, flaunching/capping of walls, working with and mixing mortar, lime and cement.⭐🖱️<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-brick-and-stonelaying">APPLY HERE </a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#apprenticeship-in-brick-and-stonelaying"></a>
See what current and past Apprentices say about their experiences <a href="https://heritageireland.ie/articles/apprentice-programme/">HERE</a>Advice for applicants and intervieweesOPW Human Resource Management (Operational) provides general information which may be of benefit to interviewees who may be preparing for OPW interviews.Click <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b59f8-civil-and-structural-engineers/#advice-for-applicants-and-interviewees">HERE </a>for more information.

Become an Apprentice with the OPW

What is Fuel Allowance?Fuel Allowance is a payment to help with the cost of heating your home during the winter months. It is paid to only one person in a household.The Fuel Allowance season normally begins in late September of each year and ends in April. This year’s Fuel Allowance season started on Monday, 25 September 2023. It will be paid for 28 weeks (until 5 April 2024).The current rate of Fuel Allowance is €33 per week. You can choose to get the Fuel Allowance paid every week or paid in 2 instalments (lump sums).How to qualify for Fuel AllowanceTo get Fuel Allowance you must:-Live alone (or only with certain people listed below)-Be getting a qualifying payment (unless you are 70 or over)-Satisfy a means testThese 3 conditions are explained in detail below.You must also live in Ireland. You cannot get Fuel Allowance if your heating costs are provided in full as part of your accommodation. Who can I live with?You must live alone or with:-A spouse, civil partner or cohabitant who qualifies for an increase on your pension or social welfare payment or is getting a qualifying payment in their own right-Dependent children-A person who is getting Carer&#39;s Allowance or Carer&#39;s Benefit and is caring for you or for your spouse, partner or cohabitant or qualified child dependant on a full-time basis-A person getting short-term Jobseeker&#39;s Allowance or basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance-Other people who are getting a qualifying payment and who would be eligible for a Fuel Allowance in their own right-A person aged 70 or overIf more than one person in a household qualifies-Only one Fuel Allowance payment is paid to a household.-If more than one person in the household is getting a social assistance payment, you can decide who applies for Fuel Allowance.-If someone in the household is getting a qualifying social insurance payment, such as State Pension (Contributory) or Invalidity Pension, they should apply first (so a means test can be carried out on their income). Another qualifying person in the household can also apply for Fuel Allowance, but they must include information about the person getting a social insurance payment.-If someone in the household is 70 or over, they should apply.Qualifying social welfare payments and pensions-If you are 70 or over, you don’t need a qualifying payment to qualify for Fuel Allowance.-Social welfare payments are either based on your PRSI contributions (social insurance payments) or means-tested social assistance payments.Qualifying social insurance payments-State Pension (Contributory)-Widow&#39;s, Widower&#39;s or Surviving Civil Partner&#39;s (Contributory) Pension-Incapacity Supplement under the Occupational Injuries Benefit scheme-Invalidity Pension-Guardian&#39;s Payment (Contributory)-Death Benefit under the Occupational Injuries Scheme-A pension or benefit from a country covered by EU Regulations or a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement (provided there is an equivalent Irish payment)Qualifying social assistance payments-State Pension (Non-Contributory)-Widow&#39;s, Widower&#39;s or Surviving Civil Partner&#39;s (Non-Contributory) Pension-Disability Allowance-Blind Pension-Deserted Wife&#39;s Benefit or Allowance-One-Parent Family Payment (OFP)-Guardian&#39;s Payment (Non-Contributory)-Farm Assist-Jobseeker&#39;s Transitional payment (JST)Supplementary Welfare AllowanceYou can qualify if you have been getting Basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance for more than a year (this is 364 days over 12 months - it is paid on a 7-day week basis so 12 months’ payment is reached after day 364).Jobseeker’s AllowanceYou qualify if you have been getting Jobseeker&#39;s Allowance for more than 312 days (over 12 months - it is paid on a 6-day week basis so 12 months’ payment is reached after day 312). Days on Jobseeker&#39;s Benefit (JB) and PUP can count towards the 312 days, if your JB or PUP was immediately before your JA claim.You can keep your Fuel Allowance if you move to Jobseeker’s Allowance from One Parent Family Payment , Carer’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Transitional payment.Spouse, civil partner or cohabitant on a CE schemeIf you are getting Jobseeker’s Allowance, and your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant is on a Community Employment (CE) scheme, they can be considered as a qualified adult on your payment if you apply for Fuel Allowance.Employment or education support schemesYou can keep your Fuel Allowance if you were getting it before you started any of the following schemes:-Back to Work Allowance-Back to Education Allowance-Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA)-Community Employment (CE)-Rural Social Scheme (RSS)-TúsCE, RSS and TúsYou can apply for Fuel Allowance at any point when you are on CE, RSS or Tús if you meet all the relevant qualifying conditions for Fuel Allowance. If you were getting a long-term qualifying payment before starting CE, RSS or Tús, you satisfy the qualifying payment requirement.Time spent on the above schemes cannot be used to meet the minimum number of days on a qualifying payment for Fuel Allowance.Half-rate paymentsYou do not qualify for Fuel Allowance if you are getting a half-rate payment in addition to a qualifying payment. This does not apply to half-rate Carer’s Allowance.How your income is assessed for Fuel AllowanceFuel Allowance is a means-tested payment. This means that the Department of Social Protection (DSP) examines all your sources of income. Your gross weekly income must be below a certain amount to pass the means test.You are usually accepted as passing the means test for Fuel Allowance, if you are getting a qualifying social assistance (means-tested) payment.If you get a means-tested payment, you have already satisfied the means test and it does not need to be done again.<h3>Social welfare income</h3>Some social welfare payments are not counted in the means test:-All social assistance payments are not counted-If you get a social insurance payment and your spouse or partner gets a social assistance payment, the income from the social assistance payment is not counted-Half-rate Carer’s Allowance is no longer counted (from January 2023)-Disablement Benefit is no longer counted (from January 2023)You can read the full list of <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e7fcaa-operational-guidelines-fuel-allowance-scheme/#means-test">payments that are disregarded</a> (not counted).<h3>Capital</h3>Capital includes the value of savings, investments, shares or any property you have (but not your own home).If you are under 70, the first €20,000 of your capital is not taken into account.If you are 70 or over, the first €50,000 of your capital is not taken into account. Find out more about <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/irish-social-welfare-system/means-test-for-social-welfare-payments/how-to-assess-your-means-from-capital-for-social-welfare-payments/">capital not included in the means test.</a>Capital is assessed by assuming an amount of weekly income for the capital you have above a certain figure.<h4>Second property</h4>If you have a second property (property other than your own home), the rental income from that property is assessed. However, the capital value (less any mortgage outstanding on the property) will be assessed if the property is not rented.<h3>Renting a room in your home</h3>If you are <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/4bf45-minister-humphreys-announces-measures-to-remove-barriers-facing-social-welfare-customers-seeking-to-take-in-tenants/">renting out a room in your home</a>, you can have an income from rent of up to €269.23 a week (€14,000 per year) without affecting your Fuel Allowance. The person renting the room in your home must use the room for a minimum of 28 consecutive days and cannot be an employee of yours or an immediate family member. The <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/moving-country/ukrainian-refugees-in-ireland/accommodation-recognition-payment/">Accommodation Recognition Payment</a> (for hosting people from Ukraine) is not taken into account in the means testThe person renting the room from you must be getting a qualifying social welfare payment or must qualify for a Fuel Allowance in their own right.<h3>UK Winter Fuel Payment</h3>Some UK pensioners living in Ireland may be eligible for a <a href="https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment">Winter Fuel Payment</a> from the UK. However, the Winter Fuel Payment taken into account in the means test for Fuel Allowance.<h2>Fuel Allowance income limit for people over 70</h2>You should read how your income is assessed (above) before reading this section.You can have income of up to €500 per week, or €1000 per week for a couple and still qualify for Fuel Allowance.Your capital (savings, property and investments) are also assessed. The first €50,000 of your capital is not included in the means test.<h2>Fuel Allowance income limit for people under 70</h2>If you are under 70, you must be getting a qualifying payment to apply for Fuel Allowance (see ‘Qualifying social welfare payments and pensions above’).To qualify for Fuel Allowance, your means must be less than the maximum State Pension (Contributory), including any increases you could get for dependents or living alone, plus an additional €200. This is called the ‘assessable income limit’.For example, the maximum State Pension (Contributory) for a single person under 70 is €265.30. You then add €200 to €265.30, which gives a total weekly income limit of €465.30.Click <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/social-welfare-payments/extra-social-welfare-benefits/fuel-allowance/#a6e16b">here</a> to view the table for examples of weekly assessable income limits.How to apply for Fuel AllowanceIf you apply for Fuel Allowance after the start of the Fuel Allowance season, it will not be backdated.You do not need to reapply for Fuel Allowance each year as long as, your circumstances remain the same and you continue to get the same social welfare payment.Online applicationYou can apply for the Fuel Allowance <a href="https://services.mywelfare.ie/en/topics/pensions-and-older-people/fuel-allowance/">online</a>. You must have a <a href="https://www.mygovid.ie/en-IE/Error/?aspxerrorpath=/en-IE/GettingStarted">MyGovID</a> account to apply online.If you can’t apply online, you can use a paper application formIf you are aged under 70, fill in the NFS1 form to apply for fuel allowance If you are aged 70 or over, fill in the NFS2 form to apply for fuel allowance Links to forms <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/social-welfare-payments/extra-social-welfare-benefits/fuel-allowance/#fd2466">here</a>.You can also get a form from your local post office or by phoning 0818 200 400. You should ask for the relevant form for your age.You can get help to fill in your application form at your Intreo Centre, Social Welfare Branch Office or Citizens Information Centre.

More information: <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/social-welfare-payments/extra-social-welfare-benefits/fuel-allowance/#cc5001">HERE</a>

How to claim: Fuel Allowance

OverviewThe new Rent Tax Credit is available for the tax years 2022 to 2025. The Rent Tax Credit reduces the amount of Income Tax that you are due to pay for a tax year. To benefit from the Rent Tax Credit, you must have an Income Tax liability to offset against it. The amount of Rent Tax Credit you can claim will be calculated for you when you submit your claim. This amount will depend on the amount of:-rent you pay and Income Tax you pay.Rent means the amount you pay for use of the property. It does not include any amount you pay for extra services such as utilities, board or laundry. You should exclude any amount you pay for these services when calculating the rent you pay.The maximum value of the Rent Tax Credit is €1,000 per year for jointly assessed married couples or civil partners. The maximum value is €500 in all other cases, including single persons. This is the case no matter how many properties you pay rent for during the year.Subject to a number of conditions, the Rent Tax Credit may be available where you pay rent for:-your principal private residence-another property you use to facilitate your attendance at work or on an approved course or a property used by your child to facilitate their attendance on an approved course.The conditions which apply relate to the:-location and use of the rental property-type of tenancy-relationship between you, or your child, and the landlord and age of your child and the type of course they are attending, where relevant. Qualifying conditions for all claimantsThere are several conditions which must be met for all claims of the Rent Tax Credit.How to claim for 2022<h4>How to claim if you are a PAYE taxpayer:</h4>You can claim the credit for 2022 by completing your Income Tax Return in myAccount. To claim the credit and complete your Income Tax Return, please follow these steps:-sign into <a href="https://www.ros.ie/myaccount-web/sign_in.html?execution=e1s1">myAccount</a><a href="https://www.ros.ie/myaccount-web/sign_in.html?execution=e1s1"></a>-click on ‘Review your Tax 2019-2022’ in the ‘PAYE Services’ section-request a &#39;Statement of Liability&#39; for 2022-click on ‘Complete your Income Tax Return’-in the ‘Tax Credits &amp; Reliefs’ page select ‘You and your family’ and click on ‘Rent Tax Credit’-work through the claim process-submit the Income Tax Return.For a step-by-step guide on how to complete the claim process, please see <a href="https://www.revenue.ie/en/tax-professionals/tdm/income-tax-capital-gains-tax-corporation-tax/part-15/15-01-11A.pdf">Rent Tax Credit guidance.</a><a href="https://www.revenue.ie/en/tax-professionals/tdm/income-tax-capital-gains-tax-corporation-tax/part-15/15-01-11A.pdf"></a>How to claim for 2023:
If you are a PAYE taxpayer, you are able to claim the credit in-year through <a href="https://www.ros.ie/myaccount-web/sign_in.html?execution=e2s1&amp;lang=en">myAccount</a>, for rent paid in 2023.You will need to:-sign into <a href="https://www.ros.ie/myaccount-web/sign_in.html?execution=e2s1">myAccount</a><a href="https://www.ros.ie/myaccount-web/sign_in.html?execution=e2s1"></a>-go to the &#39;PAYE Services&#39; section-click &#39;Manage Your Tax 2023&#39;-click &#39;Add new credits&#39; -under the &#39;You and Your family&#39; section, claim the Rent Tax Credit.Alternatively, you can claim the credit for 2023 by completing your Income Tax Return for 2023 next year. How to claim if you are self-assessedYou will shortly be able to claim the credit for 2022 by completing your annual Income Tax Return (Form 11) in <a href="https://www.ros.ie/oidc/login?client_id=rosint_rp">Revenue Online Service (ROS)</a>. To claim the credit, complete your Income Tax Return and follow these steps:-sign into ROS-open the ‘My Services’ screen-click on ‘File Return’-select ‘Income Tax’ from the dropdown menu-select the tax year for which you wish to file a return (select 2022)-locate the ‘Rent Tax Credit’ section of the tax return and enter the information requested.Tenancy
The payment must have been made under a tenancy. A tenancy must have been entered into with the consent of the landlord.Certain tenancies must be registered with the Residential Tenancy Board (RTB). This includes Student Specific Accommodation (SSA) provided by universities, colleges or private sector organisations. If this registration is not complete, the claimant will not be eligible for the Rent Tax Credit. The RTB website sets out full details of the various tenancy types and conditions required for registration.In certain cases, the Rent Tax Credit applies for tenancies which do not need to be registered with the RTB. This includes ‘rent-a-room’ or ‘digs’ type arrangements.However, the Rent Tax Credit will not be available for ‘rent-a-room’ or ‘digs’ type arrangements if:-you and the landlord are related or you are paying rent on behalf of your child. Interesting read: As printed on the Journal.ie:JUST UNDER 50,000 individuals or couples have claimed the Rent Tax Credit this year out of the 400,000 individuals who are eligible to apply, new figures show.The figures come as the Government contemplates doubling the amount available for renters to claim back in next month’s Budget.The Rent Tax Credit was introduced in Budget 2023 and is worth €500 per year per claim. Renters who are paying tax on their earnings can claim the money back from Revenue as long as their landlord is registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).Judging by the newly released figures, the vast majority of those seeking to claim it have not yet done so. Claimants will, however, have up to four years to claim the credit for this year. The measure was introduced to ease pressure on renters as a result of the cost-of-living crisis. It is claimed on a “taxpayer unit” basis, meaning it can be claimed by an individual who is singly assessed or a couple in a marriage or civil partnership who have elected for joint assessment.The Government has signalled that it plans to increase the Rent Tax Credit in next month’s Budget. Finance Minister Michael McGrath said he was ”examining the rent tax credit” last month.However, new figures show that just 49,335 taxpayer units had claimed the credit for this year up until 13 September. This is despite the Department of Finance (which oversees the credit via Revenue) estimating that 400,000 individuals are eligible to claim the credit.The figures were given to Sinn Féin TD and housing spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin and Fine Gael TD Richard Bruton in response to parliamentary questions. In total, according to the figures supplied, 286,419 Rent Tax Credit claims have been made by 252,317 taxpayer units for 2022 and 2023 to date. This breaks down as:-202,982 taxpayer units that made claims for 2022 only-34,102 taxpayer units that made claims for both 2022 and 2023-15,233 taxpayer units that made claims for 2023 onlyThe figures suggest that if 2023 figures are to match that of last year a large cohort of those eligible should make their claim later in the year. “First of all, the very low level of uptake for this year is very concerning,” said Eoin Ó Broin. Ó Broin said that the government had not done enough “to ensure that those renters who need this credit but are least able to access it” are catered to.He said that people from migrant or lower income backgrounds may not be aware of the existence of the credit or how to access it and that more needed to be done to advertise its availability.“We need the Residential Tenancies Board and the Department of Finance to be much more proactive in showing that this is available,” he said.RTB registeredÓ Broin also said it had been reported to him that the fact that a tenancy had to be registered with the RTB provided a barrier for many tenants.“We’re hearing lots of complaints that RTB registration being mandatory is a real problem,” he said.Renters may not wish to contact a landlord to ask them to register in case this puts their tenancy at risk, he said.One person renting in Dublin with their partner spoke with The Journal on condition of anonymity. They said they would not be claiming the credit even though they were entitled to do so, as their tenancy was not registered with the RTB.“There’s a very strong financial incentive for us to shut up and say nothing and not claim this tax rebate,” they said.“Because if there was any suggestion going anywhere close to Revenue that might mark those payments down as rental income benefitting someone else, I’d be seriously jeopardising my personal relationship with the landlord and consequently my entire ability to stay in this country and work.”The person said they would like to be able to claim the credit, but that it was preferable to be able to live somewhere, as they had been “completely priced out of the market” in Dublin.“We’re taking this because it’s the only thing we’ve got,” he said.Relevant Links:<a href="https://www.thejournal.ie/rent-tax-credit-news-6174874-Sep2023/"></a><a href="https://www.thejournal.ie/rent-tax-credit-news-6174874-Sep2023/">Orginal Article</a><a href="https://www.revenue.ie/en/personal-tax-credits-reliefs-and-exemptions/rent-credit/index.aspx">Revenue information page</a>

Have you claimed your rent tax credit?

As reported by DublinLive:Thousands of college students across the country are in line to claim a major €500 cash boost.As a result of Budget 2023 due to the cost of living crisis, thousands more people are eligible to have their fees paid through the SUSI grant as well as receive a maintenance grant. General applications for the SUSI grant remain open until November.The SUSI grant now allows students from households with an income of between €62,000 and €100,000 to apply for the €500 grant towards their student contribution fee. Latest figures show that while an estimated 40,000 students are eligible for the grant, only 10,000 have applied.Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris said: “While a large number of students have already applied for the grant, there are potentially tens of thousands more who could be availing of this support.“Today I am encouraging students and their families to go to susi.ie and to use the eligibility reckoner and take advantage of the supports that are there to reduce the cost of education.”

Here&#39;s everything you need to know about the €500 SUSI grant, who can get it, and when it can be expected to be paid.What is the SUSI grant?The Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) is Ireland&#39;s national awarding authority for further and higher education grants. SUSI offers funding to eligible students in approved full-time courses at PLC, undergraduate and postgraduate levels in Ireland and in some cases the UK. Who can get the SUSI grant?A new student contribution grant of €500 has been introduced for undergraduate students. For it is available to those who meet the following criteria:-Families of less than four dependents with an income of €100,000 or less.-Families of four to seven dependents with an income of €109,600 or less.-Families of eight or more dependents with an income of €118,806 or less.The new income thresholds for the 50% student contribution grant have increased to the following amounts:-Less than four dependent children in the household - €62,000-Between four and seven dependent children in the household - €68,014-Eight or more dependent children in the household - €73,727Students in this 2023/24 academic year will also see the full benefit of increases to the maintenance grants announced in Budget 2023. From 1 January 2023, the Special and Band 1 maintenance grant rates increased by 14 per cent and all the other maintenance grant rates increased by 10 per cent.The increase in student earnings outside of term time from €4,500 to €6,552 has also come into effect this academic year. There has also been a reduction in the eligibility period from 5 years to 3 for second chance mature students who did not complete a course and are returning to college to pursue an approved course at PLC, undergraduate or postgraduate level. How to apply for SUSI:-Before you apply check out the eligibility criteria via susi.ie-Create an account in the SUSI student portal. You will be asked for your Name, Date of birth, Personal Public Service Number (PPSN), email address and phone number.-Complete the form and submit your application using the SUSI student portal-You may be asked to send on supporting documentation such as a copy of your birth cert to SUSI (it&#39;s best to send this on quickly)<ul></ul><a href="https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/cost-living-thousands-students-can-27732038">ORGINAL ARTICLE</a>

€500 Payment boost for Students

Answering competency-based questions on a job application form requires careful preparation and a structured approach. These questions typically ask you to provide specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your skills and abilities. Here&#39;s a step-by-step guide on how to answer them effectively:<ol><li>Understand the Question: Read the question carefully to understand what competency or skill the employer is looking for. Competency-based questions often start with phrases like &quot;Give an example of a time when...&quot; or &quot;Describe a situation where you...&quot;</li><li>Choose the Right Example: Select an example from your past experiences that best demonstrates the skill or competency being asked about. It should be a situation where you successfully applied that skill or resolved a challenge.</li><li>Use the STAR Method: The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a widely used framework for structuring competency-based answers. Break your response into these four components:<ul><li>Situation: Describe the context and background of the situation or problem. What was the setting, and why was this situation significant?</li><li>Task: Explain your specific role and responsibilities in the situation. What were you expected to achieve or contribute to?</li><li>Action: Detail the actions you took to address the situation or complete the task. Be specific about the steps you took, your thought process, and the skills you applied.</li><li>Result: Share the outcome of your actions. What were the positive results or achievements? Use quantifiable metrics if possible to demonstrate your impact.</li></ul></li><li>Be Specific and Concise: Avoid vague or general answers. Provide concrete details and focus on the key elements of the situation. Keep your response concise and to the point, but make sure it adequately addresses each part of the STAR framework.</li><li>Highlight Your Skills: Emphasize the skills and competencies that are relevant to the job you&#39;re applying for. Show how your past experiences align with the requirements of the position.</li><li>Use Keywords: Use keywords from the job description and company values to align your response with the employer&#39;s expectations.</li><li>Practice: Before submitting your application, practice your responses to competency-based questions. You can do this with a friend or family member, or even in front of a mirror. This will help you refine your answers and ensure they are clear and effective.</li><li>Proofread: Always proofread your answers for grammar and spelling errors. Well-written responses demonstrate attention to detail.</li><li>Tailor Your Answers: Customize your responses for each job application. While you may reuse some examples, make sure to adapt them to fit the specific competencies and requirements of the job.</li><li>Quantify Your Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers or percentages to quantify your achievements. This adds credibility to your response and makes it more impactful.</li><li>Stay Honest: Be truthful and honest in your responses. Don&#39;t exaggerate or fabricate experiences.</li><li>Submit on Time: Ensure that you complete and submit the application form within the specified deadline.</li></ol>Remember that competency-based questions are an opportunity to showcase your skills and experiences, so take your time to craft thoughtful and compelling responses that demonstrate your suitability for the job.BEST OF LUCK!

Answering Competency Based Questions

Open competition for appointment to the position of Clerical Officer, permanent and temporary, nationwide in An Garda Síochána.<h3>Closing date is 3pm, Wednesday 20th September, 2023</h3><h4>Overview of An Garda Síochána</h4>An Garda Síochána is the national police and security service of Ireland with approximately 14,000 Garda Members, 3,350 Garda Staff and 370 Garda Reserves. The mission of An Garda Síochána is ‘Keeping People Safe’. An Garda Síochána is unique among policing services internationally as a unitary body responsible for the security of the State andthe provision of policing services. The two functions are united by an underpinning philosophy: the protection of the individual and the safety of communities. An Garda Síochána is in and of the community and community policing is the key and core to what the organisation does.<h4>Clerical Officer Role</h4>An Garda Síochána seeks to employ permanent Clerical Officers and temporary Clerical Officers nationwide. Following completion of the competition, two panels will be established and they will remain in place for a 2-year period from when the panels are first created.<h5>Responsibilities</h5>The nature of the work carried out by clerical staff may vary depending on the area of assignment within An Garda Síochána. It will involve such clerical/administrative tasks as may be assigned to the employee from time to time.The following reflects the typical duties you may be required to undertake, if appointed.<ul><li>General clerical and administration duties e.g., filing, photocopying, answering/making telephone calls, dealing with emails etc. under the supervision of a designated manager;</li><li>Supporting line-managers, and colleagues – both Garda Staff and Garda Members;</li><li>Working as part of a team in delivering services;</li><li>The role may involve interacting with the public - communicating and responding to queries and providing information face-to-face, by telephone or via email;</li><li>Providing the highest standards in customer service;</li><li>Using Information Technology on a daily basis, e.g. word processing, spreadsheets, databases, email and internet;</li><li>Maintaining high quality records in a thorough and organised manner;</li><li>Checking all work thoroughly to ensure it is completed to a high standard;</li><li>Approaching work in a careful and methodical manner, displaying accuracy at all times, even when conducting routine/repetitive work;</li><li>Any other duties deemed appropriate which are relevant to the grade of Clerical Officer.</li></ul><h5>Person Specification</h5>The candidate appointed as a Clerical Officer (CO) or Temporary Clerical Officer (TCO) in An Garda Síochána will be an individual of the utmost integrity and ethical values, demonstrating personal drive, commitment and energy. They will foster a culture of ethical behaviour and personal responsibility throughout their areas of responsibility.Experience/Qualifications Required:By the closing date of Wednesday 20th of September, 2023, candidates must:<ul><li>Have the requisite knowledge, skills and competencies to carry out the role;</li><li>Be capable and competent of fulfilling the role to a high standard;</li><li>Have a good general level of education;</li><li>Be at least 17 years of age before the closing date i.e. born on or before 20th of September, 2006.</li><li>Fulfil citizenship, health &amp; character requirements (see below) and clear Garda Vetting &amp; Security Clearance.</li></ul>Desirable Requirements:<ul><li>Previous relevant work experience, preferably in a customer service office environment;</li><li>Skills/experience in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word.</li></ul>In addition to the above, candidates must also be able to demonstrate the key competencies identified for effective performance at this level.<ul><li>Team Work;</li><li>Information Management/Processing;</li><li>Delivery of Results;</li><li>Customer Service &amp; Communication Skills;</li><li>Specialist Knowledge, Expertise and Self-Development;</li><li>Drive &amp; Commitment to Public Service Values.</li></ul>For more information about eligibility and the application process please see information booklet.Closing DateThe closing date for receipt of applications is: 3pm Wednesday 20th of September, 2023.Applications will not be accepted after the closing date.How to ApplyCLICK <a href="https://www.garda.ie/garda/en/about-us/our-departments/office-of-corporate-communications/news-media/open-competition-for-appointment-to-the-position-of-clerical-officer.html">HERE</a> TO GO TO THEIR CAREERS PAGE

Clerical Officers An Garda Síochána

FOR EMPLOYERS WHO WANT TO ADVERTISE APPRENTICESHIPSAt JobAlert.ie we want to help jobseekers to find Apprenticeships. If you have an Apprenticeship opportunity on offer send JobAlert.ie the details at info@jobalert.ie and we&#39;ll give you 1 Free Job Ad Credit to post your job.This offer is valid for the month of September 2023. 1 Free Job Ad will be given to each registered company for 1 Role. Additional Job Ad Credits can be purchased on our website <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/post-job/packages">HERE</a> or by contacting us on 01 8495003 or info@jobalert.ie FOR JOBSEEKERS - BACKGROUND TO APPRENTICESHIPSApprenticeships in Ireland offer a valuable pathway to career development, providing individuals with the skills and experience they need to excel in their chosen fields. If you&#39;re interested in pursuing an apprenticeship, it&#39;s advisable to research specific programs and contact the relevant institutions and employers for more information.The Irish government has been actively promoting and expanding apprenticeship programs in recent years to address skills shortages and provide career opportunities for young people.Types of ApprenticeshipsThere are numerous apprenticeship programs available in Ireland across a wide range of industries, including construction, engineering, healthcare, hospitality, information technology, finance, and more.DurationThe duration of an apprenticeship can vary depending on the specific trade or occupation. It typically ranges from 2 to 4 years, with some shorter and longer programs available.EligibilityTo become an apprentice in Ireland, you generally need to be at least 16 years old and in some cases have completed your Leaving Certificate or equivalent. However, eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific apprenticeship program.Finding Apprenticeship OpportunitiesTo find apprenticeship opportunities in Ireland, you can visit the official government website, www.apprenticeship.ie. This website provides information on available apprenticeships, how to apply, and contact details for further assistance. You will also find apprenticeship opportunities on our website and directly with employers on their career pages.Apprenticeship ProvidersMany vocational colleges and training centers collaborate with employers to provide apprenticeship training. These institutions work closely with apprentices to ensure they receive both classroom education and on-the-job training.Apprenticeship WagesApprentices in Ireland are entitled to receive a wage from their employers. The wage rate may vary depending on the occupation and the level of the apprenticeship but generally increases as the apprentice progresses through their training.Support and ResourcesApprentices in Ireland receive support throughout their training, including access to mentors, workplace assessments, and opportunities for continuous skill development.Traditional craft apprenticeships include;Agricultural MechanicsAircraft MechanicsBrick and StonelayingCarpentry &amp; JoineryConstruction Plant FittingElectrical, Electrical InstrumentationElectronic Security SystemsFarrieryFloor &amp; Wall TilingHeavy Vehicle MechanicsIndustrial InsulationInstrumentationMechanical Automation &amp; MaintenanceMetal FabricationMotor MechanicsPainting &amp; DecoratingPipefittingPlasteringPlumbingPrint MediaRefrigeration &amp; Air Conditioning, Stonecutting &amp; StonemasonrySheet MetalworkingToolmakingVehicle Body Repairs and Wood Manufacturing and Finishing. A number of new style apprenticeships and traineeships have been introduced or are in the process of being developed. Some of them can lead to an award ranging between Level 5 and Level 10 on the National Framework of Qualifications and these include;Accounting TechnicianAuctioneering and Property ServicesChef de PartieInsurance PractitionerIndustrial/Electrical EngineerManufacturing TechnicianManufacturing EngineerPolymer Processing TechnologistCommis ChefInternational Financial Services AssociateInternational Financial Services SpecialistLaboratory AnalystLaboratory TechnicianLogistics AssociateAdvanced Quantity SurveyorArboricultureBakerButcherEngineering Services ManagementGeo-DrillerHGV DriverInternational Financial Services Advanced SpecialistPrecision Turned Parts ManufacturingRetail PracticeScaffoldingApplied horticultureAssociate sales professionalCGI technical artist: animation, games, VFXEquipment systems engineerExecutive ChefFarm managementFarm technicianFintech Associate ProfessionalICT associate professional in cybersecurityLean Sigma managerManufacturing ICT EngineerManufacturing TechnicianPrincipal engineer - Professional DoctorateProfessional bar managerProfessional hairdressingProfessional healthcare assistantRecruitment practitionerScience Aircraft Asset ManagementSoftware system designerSous ChefSport turf managementStud farm managementSupply chain associateSupply chain managerSupply chain specialistWind Turbine MaintenanceApplied AccountingFood and Drink Process OperatorMaintenance Operations EngineerTelecommunications Field TechnicianAircraft Maintenance TechnicianAircraft Structures TechnicianEngineeringLaboratory AssistantIT Support SpecialistSoftware DeveloperDigital Sales and MarketingIT Network SecurityAnimation Studio AssistantEarly Childhood Care and EducationHealth Care AssistantHospitality NFQ Level 4Hospitality NFQ Level 5Food and Beverage ServiceOverhead Lines OperatorInterior SystemsSupply Chain LogisticsLogistics and DistributionOffice AdministrationBusiness Systems Service TechnicianBusiness AdministrationMedical AdministrationLegal AdministrationRetail AssociatePharmacy Sales AssistantRetail Skills Health and BeautyOutdoor Activity InstructorEquestrian International Instructor (BHSAI)Sports, Recreation and ExerciseBeauty TherapistAccounts ExecutiveFinancial Administration MORE INFORMATIONFor updates and further on Apprenticeships and development of new style apprenticeships check out CareersPortal.ie, they have a lot of information that may help you as a student or parent https://careersportal.ie/apprenticeships/traditional_apprenticeships.php?ed_sub_cat_id=244)The ETBs (Education Training Boards) have some really great pre-apprenticeship &amp; apprenticeship courses. These include traditional apprenticeships but also some new ones so it’s worthwhile checking out their websites – list of ETBs can be found here; https://www.etbi.ie/etbs/directory-of-etbs/SO WHO&#39;S RECRUITING APPRENTICESHIPSOf course small business right across the country are hiring apprenticeships from time to time, but some really large organisations are also offering opportunities each year such as the ESB, Aerlingus, Atlantic Aviation, County Councils, Dublin Bus and GSK to name a few. Check out job boards like ours JobAlert.ie or jobsireland.ie and it’s also worthwhile putting out the word that you are looking for an apprenticeship as word of mouth still works and you can check in with your local ETB office or jobs centre because sometimes they get information on vacancies that are not even advertised.ALLOWANCES AND GRANTThere are allowances paid when doing an apprenticeship details of rates can be found here; https://careersportal.ie/apprenticeships/traditional_apprenticeships.php?ed_sub_cat_id=234#.W2Vk9VMvzVpFor some of the pre-apprenticeship courses / traineeships other grants and allowances apply, but you would need to check what’s available and your individual eligibility. These are some of the options that may be available;SUSI - Student Maintenance Grant: This means tested grant is a source of financial help available to students on full time Post Leaving Certificate/ Further Education programmes. Check out all grant application information on www.studentfinance.ie SUSI, the grant body, provides a support desk for queries regarding grants, eligibility and the application process. The support desk can be contacted at support@susidetb.ie or alternatively contact 0761 087874. Back to Education Allowance: Mature students may qualify for assistance by means of Back to Education Allowance which allows adults to return to full time education while continuing to get income support. People in receipt of certain social welfare payments can retain payments whilst participating on our PLC/Further Education programmes. All BTEA information is available from the Department of Social Protection /your local Social Welfare Office.To search for Jobs or to Advertise a job go to www.jobalert.ieWe hope this helped you, best of luck.

Hiring Apprentices?

Many organisations are struggling with how to get workers to come back to the office after they have been working remotely. At first, different companies tried incentives, ranging from better food to more relaxed working conditions, but these do not seem to have done the trick.Let&#39;s face it: employees do not want to return to the office. Once you have gone months or even years without the daily commute, endless pointless meetings, office gossip and backstabbing and the like, you probably will not be tempted back with the sorts of incentives that have been offered to date.As a result, companies are increasingly resorting to more coercive approaches. Many major organisations are now threatening employees with a range of sanctions, including dismissal if they do not return to the office. Many companies are calling for some sort of hybrid work week, with two or three days a week at the office and rest of the week done remotely, but there is an increasingly shrill and almost desperate tone to the calls for employees to return to the office or face the consequences.Read more about why this is happening - full article and recordings from RTE on the subject here:<a href="https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2023/0904/1402957-offices-workers-bosses-managers-executives-psychology/">https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2023/0904/1402957-offices-workers-bosses-managers-executives-psychology/</a><a href="https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2023/0904/1402957-offices-workers-bosses-managers-executives-psychology/"></a>Source: RTE.ie#worklifebalance #workingfromhome #returntooffice

Time to Return to the Office?

The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana/"></a>Garda is set to offer higher rates of remuneration to recruits when they initially join the force in a bid to attract greater numbers and, in particular, good-quality candidates. The increase in pay is being recommended to Government by senior Garda management in what sources say is part of the biggest shake-up in Garda recruitment and retention for decades.It is also possible some allowances, for all Garda members, would be changed to marginally increase remuneration, in a bid to help retain serving members.Senior Garda management is concerned changing demographics in the Republic have undermined Garda recruitment. They believe conditions on entry to the force must be made more attractive as part of efforts to offset a coming decade of surging retirements.“People used to join the Garda from school but now they’re doing degrees, maybe a master’s, working in the private sector for a while and have mortgages and even children by the time they join,” said one source. “So if people in that age group want to join the organisation now, they’d have to make a big financial sacrifice.”Keep an eye out for future recruitment campaigns <a href="https://www.garda.ie/en/careers/">HERE </a><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2023/08/31/garda-to-offer-better-pay-for-new-recruits-in-effort-to-increase-and-retain-staff/"></a><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2023/08/31/garda-to-offer-better-pay-for-new-recruits-in-effort-to-increase-and-retain-staff/">SOURCE OF ARTICLE </a>

Better pay for new Garda recruits & age limit for entry increased

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD officially opened the Craft Skills Training Hub at Louth Meath ETB Drogheda College of the Future, Donore Campus.The opening of the hub will allow the college to provide training for over 300 apprentices each year with three intakes during the year.This is a significant investment and expansion in apprenticeship training in the Louth-Meath area in key craft areas, such as electrical trades.Speaking today, Minister Harris said:<blockquote>“We know we have skills shortages in this country, but today is another important step on the road to addressing that challenge.</blockquote><blockquote>“Today we are following through on our promise, investing in our young people and sparking their interest in the careers on offer here in electrical trades and more.</blockquote><blockquote>“This facility will make a valuable contribution to the availability of skilled workers in the construction industry, helping to achieve the ambition set out in the Government’s Housing for All plan.”</blockquote>Minister Harris added:<blockquote>“I am particularly delighted with this facility, considering that a key recommendation of the Geiran Report in January 2021 was the requirement for more apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programmes in Drogheda. This is exactly what is being delivered here, and all in a state-of-the-art facility.”</blockquote>The Hub represents more than a capital and educational service investment in Drogheda. As well as instructor jobs at the facility, other support positions are in place. This will lead to up to 20 permanent jobs in Drogheda.Further indirect jobs will be created as the apprentices will need to avail of accommodation, services, and hospitality. It is anticipated that this facility will bring up to 450 additional visitors to Drogheda each year.Chief executive, Louth Meath Education and Training Board, Martin O’Brien said:<blockquote>“LMETB is extremely proud to be the first ETB to establish an innovative FET centre uniquely dedicated at this time to the delivery of electrical apprenticeship training in Ireland.</blockquote><blockquote>“LMETB acknowledges and thanks Minister Simon Harris and his officials from the Department of Further and Higher Education Research Innovation and Science (DFHERIS) and SOLAS management for their support and investment in this unique concept.</blockquote><blockquote>“Drogheda College will be of enormous benefit to the young people of Louth and Meath and surrounding counties in addition to stimulating business development further in this region. I especially want to thank my team in LMETB for their hard work and dedication in the submission of our successful bid and then transforming this building into a reality in a 16-week construction period. We hope that our FET centre is a model that may be utilised by other training boards.”</blockquote>Andrew Brownlee, CEO of SOLAS, said:<blockquote>“Today’s opening of the new FET College of the Future apprenticeship training hub in Drogheda is a significant development for learners and communities in the Louth-Meath region, but also an important milestone in the evolution of FET facilities and provision nationwide.</blockquote><blockquote>“The apprenticeship training programmes provided at Donore Campus by Louth Meath ETB will be essential in addressing skills gaps in the construction industry and in realising the Government’s Housing for All plan. A warm congratulations to my colleagues in LMETB and all of the apprentices that will receive their training in this new cutting edge facility.”</blockquote>Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB), working in partnership with employers, industry partners, SOLAS and the Department of Further and Higher Education Research Innovation and Science successfully secured support and permission for this innovative response to address the urgent need for craft apprentices.

Minister officially opens the new Craft Skills training hub in Drogheda

Back To Work Connect - Connecting supports, skills and job opportunities to guide you back to work.Their mission is to demonstrate the value of midlife workers (Returners and career changers) to the jobs market and connect them with the supports, skills, and opportunities they need to re-enter the workforce in a meaningful and financially viable manner. Whether you’re starting your return-to-work journey or have been on the path for a while, the process can feel overwhelming, lonely and at times, frustrating.Back To Work Connect is here to help.They&#39;ve created a one-stop Returner hub to arm you with the tools and support you need to navigate your return-to-work journey successfully. ⭐ Check out the following:Community Events are here to help support your journey back to the workplace: Click Here: <a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/events">Events/Free Online Webinars</a>Returner Friendly Jobs Board - Promotes and Encourages employers to be Returner Open: Check out available jobs here: <a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/search/job">Returner Friendly Jobs </a>Free Tools &amp; Resources:Search previously recorded webinars, blog posts, career spotlights, and Podcasts here: <a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/careerhub/blog/">Free Tools &amp; Resources</a>You can join the Returner Community here: <a href="https://mailchi.mp/23d7fb9b57ba/candidate-id"></a><a href="https://mailchi.mp/23d7fb9b57ba/candidate-id">Candidate Register</a><a href="https://mailchi.mp/23d7fb9b57ba/candidate-id"></a>More information can be found on: <a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/">https://backtoworkconnect.ie/</a>----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------⭐ JobAlert Resources:If you need help with building a CV you can check out the Jobalert.ie Jobseekers CV templates here: <a href="https://mailchi.mp/23d7fb9b57ba/candidate-id"></a><a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/search/course"></a>
<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/basic-cv-template">CV Templates</a>
<a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/search/job"></a><a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/search/job"></a>And our Ultimate Guide to Jobseeking can be found here: <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/the-ultimate-guide-for-jobseekers">Ultimate Guide</a><a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/search/job"></a><a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/events"></a><a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/events"></a><a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/events"></a><a href="https://backtoworkconnect.ie/events"></a>

Returning to Work? 

&quot;Empowering Employees: The Importance of Flexible Time Off&quot;In the ever-evolving landscape of modern work culture, one question remains particularly pertinent: Can employees take time off when they need it? This query delves beyond the surface of work policies and employee benefits, unveiling a profound shift in the way organizations approach employee well-being and productivity.Gone are the days when rigid schedules and limited time-off options were the norm. As businesses recognize the significance of a well-balanced workforce, the concept of flexible time off has emerged as a cornerstone of progressive employment practices.Prioritizing Mental and Physical HealthAllowing employees to take time off when they need it sends a resounding message that their mental and physical well-being matters. In a world where stress and burnout are all too common, this emphasis on self-care fosters an environment where employees feel valued, leading to increased loyalty and commitment. A well-rested and rejuvenated workforce is more likely to perform at its best, ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organization.Fostering a Culture of TrustFlexible time off cultivates a culture of trust between employers and employees. When team members have the freedom to manage their time, it reflects a belief in their ability to meet deadlines and fulfill responsibilities. This autonomy promotes a sense of ownership over one&#39;s work, resulting in improved job satisfaction and boosted morale.Enhancing Work-Life BalanceThe elusive work-life balance becomes more attainable with flexible time-off policies. Employees no longer find themselves grappling with the challenge of juggling personal commitments and professional duties. Instead, they can seamlessly integrate both aspects of their lives, leading to reduced stress and increased happiness. This balance directly translates to improved mental health, reduced absenteeism, and heightened productivity.Unleashing Creativity and InnovationThe freedom to take time off when needed has a remarkable impact on creativity and innovation. A rested mind is more capable of thinking outside the box, problem-solving, and generating fresh ideas. A workplace that encourages such innovation thrives in a competitive landscape, constantly pushing boundaries and staying ahead of the curve.A Win-Win for Employers and EmployeesIn the end, the answer to the question &quot;Can employees take time off when they need it?&quot; is more than a mere policy detail. It&#39;s a reflection of an organization&#39;s commitment to its workforce&#39;s well-being, trust, and success. As businesses increasingly adopt flexible time-off approaches, they reap the rewards of a workforce that is healthier, more motivated, and more productive. Employees, on the other hand, experience a newfound sense of control over their lives and a better quality of work.So, can employees take time off when they need it? In a progressive and forward-thinking work culture, the resounding answer is not only &quot;Yes&quot; but also a testament to the transformative power of prioritizing people above all else.

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