- Minister Jerry Buttimer launches Skills for Life Programme.
- Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht provides funding of €200k to support the programme.
- Public libraries partner with Media Literacy Ireland to train over 50 librarians as Media Literacy Champions.
- 18,000 people expected to attend almost 900 events that are planned nationwide
Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Jerry Buttimer, has today (Wednesday, 10th September) launched the Skills for Life programme, which will be delivered by all public library services.
The Skills for Life programme is a key commitment in the Public Library Strategy and it will equip individuals with essential skills to navigate modern life. The programme will be available across all 30 local authority library services and will offer support in six key areas:
- Basic Digital Skills
- Financial Literacy
- Media Literacy
- Business and Employment Skills
- Health Awareness
- Sustainable Lifestyles and Environmental Awareness
The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht is providing funding of €200,000, through the Dormant Accounts Fund, to support almost 900 events that will take place nationwide this year, and to raise awareness of the programme.
Speaking at the launch of the Skills for Life programme in the LexIcon in Dún Laoghaire, Minister Buttimer said:
“I am delighted to be here today to launch the Skills for Life programme which will be delivered through our public libraries. This programme is part of a nationwide effort to help those with unmet literacy needs build the skills they need to navigate the changing world successfully and to take advantage of new opportunities.
This programme shows what can be achieved when we work together, across all of our departments, agencies, and local authorities, with a shared goal of supporting people in their everyday lives.
My Department, the Local Government Management Agency, our City and County Librarians, and the Skills for Life Working Group have shaped a programme that is both strategic and responsive to local needs. I am sure that the collaboration across sectors will continue to strengthen in the years ahead so that libraries can continue to connect people with the right supports at the right time.”