Skills for Life Pogramme to be Delivered by Public Libraries in Cork

The Skills for Life programme across public libraries in Cork will equip individuals with essential skills to navigate modern life, Fine Gael TD for Cork North West John Paul O’Shea has said.

It 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

Commenting on the Programme, Deputy O’Shea said “This programme will be available across library services in Cork and can help those with unmet literacy needs build the skills they need to navigate a 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.

“The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht is providing funding of €200,000, through the Dormant Accounts Fund, to support events in Cork and to raise awareness of the programme,” Deputy O’Shea continued.

Public libraries will partner with Media Literacy Ireland, which will train over 50 librarians as Media Literacy Champions.

Speaking at the launch of the Skills for Life programme, Junior Minister with responsibility for Community Development and Charities Jerry Buttimer said “I am delighted to be here today to launch the Skills for Life programme which will be delivered through our public libraries. 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.”

The Skills for Life National Steering Group will oversee the ongoing development and effective implementation of the programme across public libraries at a national level. The National Steering Group includes representation from the key stakeholders involved in the coordination and delivery of the programme, including various Government departments.