A Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science initiative bringing employers and education and training providers together.
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• What We Do
• Who We Are
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Activity Highlights
- National
- Cross-Regional
- Regional
• Contact Details
Minister Foreword
As a small open economy, Ireland faces both opportunities and challenges. These range from societal and demographic changes, keeping pace with technology advances and AI, an ever-changing world of work post-Covid, and the impacts of de-globalisation. All these factors impact our businesses. While change is constant, there remains one inescapable truth, in a knowledge economy, skills development will be central to our success - both at the level of individual enterprises, and for Ireland as a whole.
It is well accepted that our people are our greatest strength, however with the rate of change only increasing, ensuring that we all have the skills to thrive has never been more important. Since my appointment as Minister, I have been greatly impressed by the rich and diverse range of learning programmes available across the tertiary sector, and the increasing number of flexible pathways open to learners and workers. This shows a huge commitment by the skills ecosystem. We need to continue that commitment and make sure that our provision aligns with the needs of enterprise and the labour market. The Regional Skills Fora (RSF) have a key role to play in helping us to achieve this aim, as they act as a bridge between enterprise and education in the regions, making sure that the voice of enterprise is captured as we respond to skills needs.
The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Ireland, Skills Strategy Report makes it clear that in a complex skills ecosystem, one of our key challenges is navigability. We want to help enterprises and learners find the right solutions to their skills gaps. This is a constantly evolving space as we try to anticipate our future skills needs, and again this is where the Regional Skills Fora play a pivotal role. Some of their daily activity includes the provision of impartial advice to enterprises on their skills needs, building an awareness of offerings, and facilitating new programme development through round table discussions and working groups.
Since their advent in 2016, the Regional Skills Fora have been a key component of the national skills architecture. Activity at regional level in addressing skills needs must align with national skills policy, and this is where the Regional Skills Fora play a hugely significant role. The network of nine Fora provides the perfect vehicle to ensure that national policy is shared with key stakeholders through enabling the exchange of information and fostering collaboration to spark innovation.
This joined-up thinking represents a whole-of-Government approach in action. In May 2024 my predecessor Minister Patrick O’Donovan TD announced the newly reformed National Skills Council. Led by Dr. Kevin Marshall, the Council is working independently to provide the government with the necessary strategic advice to adapt and evolve its policies quickly and in tune with the fast-shifting skills requirements of society and the labour market. It is very appropriate that the Regional Skills Fora are represented on the Council by Patrick Buckley, Chairperson of the South-West Forum. Providing regional enterprise insights is essential to ensure the regions have a voice at the table and guarantee that the relevant skills issues are heard and addressed.
I would like to thank all involved within the Regional Skills Fora who have played their part in this – the nine Regional Skills Managers and active Forum members who make it all happen. I would also like to acknowledge the leadership provided by the nine Chairpersons who give voluntarily of their time to ensure the needs of regional enterprise are being addressed, and I very much welcome their increased levels of collaboration and peer networking in evidence.
Finally, I would strongly encourage all enterprises and stakeholders in the system to engage with your Regional Skills Forum for the benefit of you and your community. This report highlights some of the many activities carried out by the Regional Skills Fora in 2024 and shows what we can achieve by working together.
James Lawless TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.
What We Do
Ireland has an advanced skills policy ecosystem, driven out under the broad framework of the National Skills Strategy. The primary skills architecture includes the National Skills Council and a network of nine Regional Skills Fora (RSF), which were established in 2016.
The Regional Skills Fora foster engagement and collaboration by providing an opportunity for employers and the education and training system to work together to meet the emerging skills needs of their regions. This involves identifying, interrogating and validating skills needs, while acting as an impartial broker to ensure that employers are linked to the right places to get responses they need. The Fora also provide valuable bottom-up information and insights to ensure that Ireland has a skills agenda, at national level, which is evidence-informed and serves its purpose for people across the country.
The primary objectives of the Regional Skills Fora are to provide:
• A single contact point in each region to help employers connect with the range of services and supports available across the education and training ecosystem
• More robust labour market information and analysis of employer needs to inform national skills policy and new programme development
• Greater collaboration and utilisation of resources across the education and training system and enhancement of progression routes for learners
• A structure for employers to become more involved in promoting employment roles and opportunities for career progression in their sectors.
Provide analysis of regional employer needs
Inform national funding decisions
Alignment of provision with the skills needs Help employers understand and access provision Enhance links between providers
RSF Manager RSF Chairperson
Employers & Industry Champions
Education Providers
Enterprise Agencies & Sectoral Bodies
9 Regional Skills Fora
Who We Are
Membership
Each Regional Skills Forum has a voluntary chairperson and a full-time manager. Most chairpersons have an industry background and work together with the manager to ensure delivery on their strategic priorities.
Membership of each Forum is comprised of the following stakeholders at regional level:
• Employers
• Education and training providers e.g. Third level institutions, ETBs, Skillnet Ireland Business Networks
• Enterprise Support Agencies e.g. IDA, Enterprise Ireland, LEOs, IBEC, Chambers of Commerce, ISME
• Government bodies e.g. Local authorities, Regional Enterprise Programmes, Dept. of Employment Activation & Social Protection.
Structure
Regional Skills Fora are responsible for and have the flexibility to set their strategic priorities based on regional needs. This includes working closely with the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to ensure alignment with the overarching objectives of national skills policy. Each Forum typically meets on average four times per annum to agree their strategic objectives and annual plans, and monitor and review progress. In addition to the main Forum membership, the Regional Skills Fora also operate a structure of industry sub-groups or clusters - working groups involving stakeholders addressing specialist or niche areas, mostly sectoral but which can also be of a thematic nature. Some of these originated within and are managed by the Regional Skills Fora, while others are led by stakeholder partners and where the Regional Skills Fora play an active role in shaping or leading the regional skills agenda.
The following pages detail some examples of these sub-groups in action, however here is an overview of some of the main sectors and themes across the nine Fora.
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Stakeholder Engagement
At its core, the work of the RSFs is centred around engagement with regional stakeholders to address national policy imperatives. This includes extensive engagement with enterprises, primarily through the following means:
o Individual company skills audits
o Signposting companies to relevant solutions
o Using the industry sub-group model to deliver projects such as industry round tables, information events, programme co-creation and research projects
o Events - co-ordination and/or participation on information webinars, industry and learning expos either led by or attended by RSFs
o Research projects to identify and validate regional skills gaps and opportunities.
Type of Engagement
Micro (<10) 228
Small (10-49) 364
Medium (50-249) 530
Large (250+) 233
Associations 45
This shows the breakdown of company sizes with which the RSFs engage, and underlines the variances, ranging from micro enterprises through to large companies, including multi-nationals. A notable feature is that less than half (42%) of the enterprises directly engaged with are small or micro in size. This cohort group represents the significant majority of Irish enterprises, and typically require more support guidance and signposting on skills needs. This is primarily due to their lack of professional HR and Learning & Development capability, due to their relatively small scale. These figures underscore that the companies in need of most help are often the least aware of their skills needs and potential solutions, and can be the hardest to reach.
Top 5 Sectors of Engagement
Sectoral Engagement Breakdown
This presents an overview of the sectoral breakdown of companies engaged with in 2024. It demonstrates the broad reach and diversity of sectors with which the RSFs are engaged.
It also involves engagement with the many other members of the skills ecosystem, including the following:
• Education providers - Fostering stronger collaboration between enterprise and education and training providers to develop appropriate locally based skills solutions
• Regional bodies - Representation and active participation on relevant regional groups and entities to provide a skills perspective and ensure alignment e.g. Regional Enterprise Programmes
• National bodies – Acting as a Focal Point providing regional representation and input to national agencies or working groups with a skills dimension e.g. on projects led by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) or sector specific activity
• Data Analysis – Providing data on regional enterprise needs to help inform relevant agencies involved in skills policy or programme oversight e.g. SOLAS Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (SLMRU) skills bulletins, Enterprise Ireland Spotlight on Skills, HEA Springboard+.
A fundamental part of the work of Regional Skills Managers is engagement and communication with enterprises to advise and provide support in addressing skills gaps. This is achieved through a variety of means, from traditional marketing channels to social media, and direct engagement through various events and fora, as can be seen below.
MARKETING CHANNEL FOLLOWERS/ SUBSCRIBERS
TOTAL
Communication with regional enterprises and stakeholders is a central element of the Regional Skills Fora. There are ca. 18,000 client organisations across the nine Fora, with a combined audience of over 36,000 established across the main digital and social media channels i.e. email, LinkedIN and Twitter/X. This combined reach also has an amplifier effect. Many of the key RSF stakeholders are networking organisations or support agencies e.g. some Chambers of Commerce regularly share RSF communications i.e. ezines with their membership to promote the regional skills agenda and new learning opportunities.
2024 saw the further development of a central engagement strategy for the Regional Skills Fora. At regional level, each RSF Manager engages regularly with local representatives from the various stakeholder agencies, most of whom would sit on the Regional Skills Forum. A twin-track approach was adopted to facilitate greater collaboration with key partner agencies & bodies at national level, in order to underpin the local working arrangements and reinforce shared learnings across all regions. In 2024 the Regional Skills Managers held in person roundtable events with:
• The National Tertiary Office
• The IDA Regional Team
• Skillnet Ireland.
In addition to the above, Regional Skills Forum Managers had regular interaction, including targeted briefing sessions, with:
• SOLAS Enterprise, Employee and Skills Team
• National Apprenticeship Office
• Enterprise Ireland
• SOLAS Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (SLMRU)
• National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT)
• The Wheel
• Irish Universities Alliance
• DFHERIS Green & Construction Skills Unit.
These interactions also led to the identification of opportunities for increasing or improving levels of collaboration at RSF level.
Most of the activities undertaken by a Regional Skills Forum have a regional dimension by nature, with each having their own areas of strength and relative priorities which are largely dictated by the industry profile within each region. There follows a selection of highlights from within each RSF to illustrate the diversity of activity.
Activity Highlights
National
A key role of the Regional Skills Fora is to ensure that regional activities are aligned with national skills policy and the strategic priorities of Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. As part of this process, the RSF Managers act as Focal Points on a range of national initiatives – most often serving on committees or working parties who have a remit relevant to national skills policy. The role of RSF Managers as a Focal Point is to keep a watching brief, feed back any significant developments to their peers and the Department where required, and contribute a coordinated skills perspective on behalf of the Department to the relevant stakeholders as appropriate.
This can also involve acting as ambassadors for the Regional Skills model, such as assisting with study visits. As an exemplar of best practice, in March 2024 the Regional Skills Fora were invited by the OECD to present to a Swedish delegation as part of a project on strengthening the Swedish skills governance system. The Regional Skills Co-Ordinator and Dublin Regional Skills Manager presented on the RSF model and how it is an integral part of the national skills infrastructure by facilitating the alignment of national policy in the regions.
Here are some examples of increased collaboration between the Regional Skills Fora and national initiatives in 2024.
• National Skills Council
In 2024, the National Skills Council (NSC) was reformed as a new strategic partnership on skills between the government, industry, and the social partners. The NSC is working independently to provide Government with strategic foresight and expert advice on future skills needs. The RSFs are represented on the new NSC by Patrick Buckley, MD of EPS Group and chairperson of the South-West RSF, to provide key regional enterprise insights on skills.
The new NSC is being supported by a High-Level Skills Implementation Group, bringing the important views, inputs and expertise of the “supply” side and the public sector to drive this key agenda. The Regional Skills Managers are also represented on this group by Dr. Siobhan Bradley, South-West RSF.
• Micro-qualifications
As part of the move towards more flexible learning programmes, 2024 saw the advent of the first tranche of Further Education and Training (FET) micro-qualifications. Designed collaboratively between SOLAS, ETBs and enterprise, micro-qualifications are short, accredited, and highly subsidised upskilling programmes for enterprises and employees. They are delivered locally through the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs) nationwide and are provided under the Skills to Advance upskilling initiative.
The first 28 micro-qualifications were formally launched in January 2024, covering subjects such as sustainability, digital, robotics, immersive technologies, business innovation and market development, with a number under development throughout the remainder of the year. The Regional Skills Fora have played a significant role in the development of new micro-qualifications, engaging with SOLAS to ensure their relevance to enterprise and meeting skills needs. An RSF Manager participated on the SOLAS National Oversight Group, while others continued to engage directly on sectoral or thematic sub-groups in the development and accreditation of new micro-qualifications. These include AI (Artificial Intelligence), Learning & Development, Transversal & Leadership Skills, Biopharma, Warehouse Skills and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages).
Focal Point Case Study - Biopharma
Overview:
Biopharma is one of the most important sectors of the Irish economy. 50,000 people were employed directly in the sector in 2022, comprising 32% of Irish industrial exports with a value of €42.3 billion. Employment grew 61% between 2016-22, with a forecast of more than 21,000 additional jobs being created by 2027. While there are main clusters of regional activity (i.e. Dublin, South-west, Mid-west & Midlands), the scale of the sector means it has a significant presence with large-scale employers in every region.
Shaping National Policy:
In 2022, the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) commenced a study on Future Skills Needs in the Biopharmachem Sector. The Skills for Biopharma Report was published April 2024, detailing a number of recommendations to fulfil the potential of this high-tech sector of the economy. A Regional Skills Forum Manager was centrally involved in the EGFSN project, providing regional perspectives in the development of the Skills for Biopharma Report, and remains centrally involved with the Implementation Group which was set up in 2024 with a mandate to enact the key recommendations.
Stakeholder Engagement:
• NIBRT
The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) is a not-for-profit consortium of industry, academia and Government, supporting the development of the industry by providing world class research and training solutions in state-of-the-art facilities in Dublin. It trains approximately 4,500 people per annum in person, and a further 6,200 via its Online Academy. During 2024, as part of its central stakeholder collaboration strategy, the Regional Skills Fora developed a relationship with NIBRT to help embed deeper knowledge of the sector. This included the delivery of a bespoke ‘Biopharma 101’ online session by NIBRT to the RSF Managers in July. In October, the RSFs were invited to exhibit at an IDA conference “Future-Proofing Ireland’s Life Sciences Workforce – Strategies for Talent Transformation” held in NIBRT and attended by key players and enterprises from the sector.
• Regional
Many RSFs have a regional biopharma cluster or industry sub-group with whom they work to advance regional skills needs. The South-West has a Pharma/Biopharma Group which engages in researching activities including new programme development. The South-East RSF provides support to the SETU Pharma Industry Board, an industry-led group with academic input. Also a Biopharma industry working group led by RSF West was set up in 2024 to engage in collaboration with academics on skills needs and responses.
Activity Highlights
Cross-Regional
2024 saw an increase level of inter-regional activities, whereby RSFs collaborate with each other to create synergies and share best practice to help drive a skills project which crosses over different regions. This can happen in a variation of ways, with some of these projects evolving organically from within the RSFs. Other projects may originate elsewhere, with RSFs partnering with the lead entity to address the issue and raise awareness with regional enterprises. Some examples are presented below.
• Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor (DBEC)
Three RSFs (Dublin, Mid-East and North-East) have collaborated during 2024 with the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor. This is a joint project involving eight local authority bodies in a key economic region and a strategic location for cross-border trade, stretching 100 miles between the two largest cities on the island. A key objective of the Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor is to ensure a highly skilled workforce is available to help local industry compete. The three RSFs have actively engaged on the project to assist with investigating local skills gaps, identifying issues and potential solutions for same.
• OEM Engineering Apprenticeship Webinar
The OEM Engineering Apprenticeship is targeted at the Original Equipment Manufacturing, Installation and Service Sector which sell to national and international markets. With ca. 12,790 manufacturing enterprises dispersed around Ireland, the OEM sector forms a considerable number of these enterprises.
This apprenticeship programme is directly in response to ‘The Future Skills Requirements of the Manufacturing Sector Report to 2020’ which addressed the emerging demands for skills in the sector in Ireland. A multidisciplinary programme, the apprentice qualifies as a highly trained OEM Engineering Technician with a much sought-after skillset across many sectors and industries.
Three RSFs (North-West, Mid-East and North-East) partnered to deliver an online information webinar in April 2024 on the OEM Engineering Apprenticeship. The event was attended by employers from within the three regions, and demonstrated how this newly developed programme is tailored to industry specific needs to plug identified critical skills gaps. It also highlighted the many related benefits and incentives available to enterprise.
• IMR Visit
Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR) is an Enterprise Ireland supported research technology and innovation centre supporting industry in Ireland to achieve impact through advanced manufacturing. Following discussions with the Regional Skills Co-ordinator, in November a visit was arranged to the IMR state-of-theart R&D lab facility in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, which was attended by the RSF Managers and RSF Forum members from the Skillnet networks.
This included a site tour and presentation by IMR Learning and Development Expert Peter Purcell. This covered four Thematic Areas – Digitisation, Sustainable Manufacturing, Design for Manufacturing and Robotics and Automation. It also highlighted the Smart Industry Readiness Index (SIRI), the world’s first independent digital maturity assessment in manufacturing, which has been adopted by the World Economic Forum as the only global standard framework for Industry 4.0 transformation.
3. Regional Highlights
The next section provides a selection of highlights from within each of the nine Regional Skills Fora during 2024.
Supporting Inclusion by ‘Empowering Our Future’
One of the Strategic Goals in the National Skills Strategy 2023-25 is ‘Supporting Inclusion’. This strives to ensure that learners all across the tertiary system are enabled to access the supports they require, in particular to meet the needs of vulnerable learners, people with disabilities and those from a background of disadvantage. This will promote widespread engagement with the education and skills systems and in turn contribute to individual, community and national growth and prosperity.
As part of Dublin City’s Local Enterprise Week 2024, a conference took place on 7th March in partnership with a number of key stakeholder including Dublin City Council, TU Dublin, Dublin City Local Enterprise Office and Dublin Regional Skills Forum. Titled ‘Empowering Our Future’ - Supporting People with Disabilities in Dublin into Employment and Self-Employment, the conference addressed employment challenges for people with disabilities, bringing together a range of stakeholders from enterprise, academia and beyond.
The event saw engaging panel discussions which provided an insightful exploration of the issues that need to be dealt with. Topics covered included the ‘Welfare Benefit Trap’ as a barrier to people seeking employment, and the on-going issue of employers not valuing the capacity of people with disabilities to be excellent employees. Next steps include ensuring alignment with the objective as set: “To facilitate every individual to realise their full potential through engagement in economic activity.”
This objective is centred around inclusivity, with initiatives that are targeted at marginalised and disadvantaged communities to support their pathway to employment or self-employment.
“Access to equal opportunities is the right of every individual, and this event reflects our commitment to making it happen for the people of this city”
Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daithí de Róiste
Key partners and presenters pictured at the launch of ‘Empowering Our Future’ conference co-hosted by The Lord Mayor, Dublin City Council and TU Dublin in the Mansion House
Pictured are (L to R): Mei Lin Yap, Senior HR Assistant - Cpl, Trinity College Dublin; Natasha Kinsella, Dublin RSF Manager; Edel McSorley, Operations Director - MrPrice Branded Bargains
State of the Art Supports in the Regions – Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering
One of the successes of the Regonal Skills Forum model is enhancing links between providers to help improve the understanding and awareness of the array of learning programmes and facilities available. As part of this process, the Mid-East RSF chooses to rotate the hosting of Forum meetings in different facilities across the region, and indeed on occasion in neighbouring regions. This allowed Forum members to receive an insight into some state-ofthe-art advanced manufacturing facilities available to employers locally.
Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) and the AMTCE
““AMTCE and CELTEC are more than just training centres; they are a vital resource on our doorstep, empowering individuals and industries with the future of manufacturing through excellence in Innovative training” Ciaran Brennan, Cushaling
In 2024, the Mid-East Regional Skills Forum were hosted by Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) and the Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence (AMTCE) team in Dundalk. The AMTCE was established in 2021 by LMETB to deliver hands on skills-oriented training needed to underpin the transition of Irish enterprise to Industry 4.0 based operations in the manufacturing, pharma, food and drink, construction, and engineering sectors. The centre is dedicated to providing high quality training through a variety of delivery modes in Industry 4.0 using state-of-the-art technologies for delivery and learning and assist industry by supporting companies as they embrace the opportunities and challenges of technology adoption.
The Forum members were able to experience first-hand how the AMTCE supports industry and offers upskilling and reskilling training programmes in response to identified skills needs in the latest technologies.
Robotics and Collaborative Robotics
Modern Methods of Construction Additive
Manufacturing and 3D Printing
ICT
Cyber Security
Electrical and Automation Systems Metrology
Systems
Maintenance
Precision Engineering (CNC/CAD/CAM)
Processes and techniques for Pharma/ BioPharma, Med Tech, Food and Beverage
Operational Optimisation.
““The AMTCE and CELTEC are two truly outstanding facilities operating at the very leading edge of technology and training techniques, in robotics, AI, cyber security and technical engineering. The passion and commitment to training from the teams at each centre is truly admirable and an inspiration.”
John Cunningham, Epicom Ireland Ltd. (Mid-East RSF Chairperson)
Celbridge Engineering Lab Training and Education Centre
The Mid-East Regional Skills Forum were also hosted by Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board (KWETB) at the Celbridge Engineering Lab Training and Education Centre (CELTEC). CELTEC is a state-of-the-art facility where innovation meets expertise and offers upskilling opportunities to both employees and jobseekers. Courses are designed to empower individuals with the skills needed in the ever-evolving field of automation and manufacturing, and delivered by industry specialists with lived experience of working in advanced manufacturing environments. Forum members and guests were truly impressed with the cutting-edge facilities and resources offering upskilling and supports in Robotics, Automation, Advanced Manufacturing Techniques and 3D Printing.
Supporting Recruitment and Retention in Tourism and Hospitality
The Hospitality & Tourism sector accounts for 7% of total regional employment in the Mid-West representing 15,500 employees. National employment in the sector is forecast to grow by a further 75,000 by 2035 according to EU agency CEDEFOP. To support the sector with both talent attraction and retention the Regional Skills Forum is working with partner agencies to embed a culture of upskilling and career development within the sector.
The Mid-West RSF identified key stakeholders - Fáilte Ireland, the Irish Hotels Federation and the Department of Social Protection to collaborate on the delivery of an event to showcase targeted supports across recruitment, retention, and career pathways for the sector. The Forum facilitated several meetings with partner agencies to agree event logistics such as speakers, format, target audience, promotion and the role of education and training providers.
““The hospitality & tourism sectors offer wonderful opportunities for employees to navigate a range of career pathways based upon their skills and personal interest. This event provided employers with an important overview on Government supports to help them with their talent development and retention plans.”
Kane Fitzgerald – Director, Woodlands House Hotel & Spa
A key ingredient in the successful delivery of sectoral focused events is the involvement of industry players. The event was chaired by Ms. Elaina Fitzgerald Kane, former president of the Irish Hotels Federation and Director of Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel & Spa in Adare. Attendees heard presentations from the three primary stakeholders - Fáilte Ireland, Department of Social Protection (Intreo Employer Services) and the Mid-West Regional Skills Forum. Information on recruitment grants, access to overseas talent channels, employability supports for those with disabilities, marketing strategies, consumer trends, training and upskilling pathways was provided.
Employers had the opportunity to meet and engage with training providers across both further and higher education to discuss their specific training needs. Similar to SMEs within the wider economy, many of the participant organisations do not have Learning and Development managers, with the training role the responsibility of Human Resources. These events provide a platform for organisations to receive an overview on the broad range of Government business supports with a particular focus on skills and employee career development.
Planning is already underway for a similar 2025 event which will include a guest speaker on the impact of technology and sustainability in the sector. A panel discussion with employers that have availed of various supports will also form part of the event. These discussions can have a positive impact towards incentivising employers to put in place career development strategies for their employees.
Pictured at the Hospitality & Tourism event are (L to R): Eimear Brophy, LCETB; Siobhan Lawlor, DEASP; Joe Leddin, Mid-West RSF, Michael Quinn, Fáilte Ireland; Elaina Kane Fitzgerald, Woodlands House Hotel & Spa; Paul Patton, LCETB
Elaina
Spotlight on the Midlands Food & Drink Sector in 2024
Pictured at the “Overview of Supports to Help Your Food Business Thrive” event are (L to R): Ann Marie Kelly, MidlandsIreland.ie; Orla Martin, LEO Offaly; Sarah Morgan, MREP; John Costello, MRSF; Emmet Kavanagh, MidlandsIreland.ie; Evelyn Reddin, LEO Laois; Fiona McCormack, The Farmhouse Bees and Trees Ltd.; Eileen O’Meara, MREP; Bernie Everard, Midlands Food and Drink Network; Dr. Tony Johnston, TÚS: MMW
A strong level of Midlands Regional Skills Forum (MRSF) collaboration with key stakeholders in the Food & Drink Sector contributed to major regional successes throughout 2024. MRSF leadership and support in key project areas of the Midlands Food & Drink Strategy helped achieve strategic objectives, reinforcing the Midlands as a thriving food and drink ecosystem where businesses of all sizes can access vital support.
Aligned with the strategy, a skills assessment was completed in early 2024. The Food and Drink Skills Audit was conducted by the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS: MMW) in collaboration with the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan and the Midlands RSF. The forum facilitated survey participation ensuring diverse representation ranging from large-scale food manufacturers to small-scale artisan producers. Additionally, the Midlands RSF was actively engaged with TUS: MMW, RUN EU University network, Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, Teagasc, and Fáilte Ireland throughout the interrogation of findings, the presentation of significant insights, and the development of recommendations shared with participants, stakeholders, and affiliates.
The survey project spawned further activity. Proactive outreach and direct requests for support shaped the impetus for recurring MRSF engagement. SWOTs identified in the survey were continuously validated though ongoing skills assessments. The Forum provided broad range and bespoke guidance to help companies address talent and training needs. Support publications developed and distributed by the MRSF included Progression Pathways frameworks in the areas of Hospitality and Food Production, and an abridged FE/HE signposting guide.
Another key pillar in the Midlands Regional Food and Drink Strategy is Awareness, and throughout 2024, the Midlands RSF aimed to foster a greater awareness of skills and talent supports available to regional enterprise. This was achieved by means of formal presentations and targeted networking to constantly build new client relationships at regional Food and Drink events. These included the official launch of the new Midlands Food and Drink Directory, networking over 100 local producers at Ballykilcavan Brewery in Stradbally, Co. Laois. Also a very successful Midlands Regional Food and Drink Network event “Overview of Supports to Help Your Food Business Thrive”, was held at The Village Barn, Tyrrellspass, Co. Westmeath, which was jointly developed by the Midlands Regional Enterprise Plan, Midlands RSF, and the Taste 4 Success Skillnet.
Overall, in 2024, the Midlands RSF proved instrumental in skills and talent strategic planning for the Food and Drink sector. The Forum looks to build on momentum generated in 2024 by continuing to promote diverse, inclusive, and sustainable supports. Accessibility to supports together with a keen focus on Best Practice sharing among regional stakeholders, including client companies, TUS: MMW (Athlone), Midlands.ie, Skillnet Ireland Business Networks, LEOs, ETBs, and IDA, embody the spirit of the MRSF as it looks forward to continue supporting worldclass hospitality and food product experiences in the Midlands.
Creating Awareness of Learning Opportunities for Employees On-site
Abbott Nutrition’s facility in Cootehill, Co. Cavan is a vital player in the production of high-quality infant nutritional products. As part of a globally recognised healthcare company, the site plays a crucial role in meeting the nutritional needs of infants worldwide. To maintain its reputation for excellence and innovation, Abbott continually invests in the development of its employees, ensuring they are equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to meet industry demands.
In September 2024, the North-East RSF collaborated with Abbott Nutrition to deliver a dynamic and impactful Site Staff Development Day in Cootehill. This initiative aimed to create awareness of the training and educational opportunities available at both further and higher education level, ensuring that Abbott staff had access to highly subsidised relevant training and upskilling opportunities. The event brought together over 70 Abbott employees and key education and training providers to discuss the evolving needs of the workforce and the pathways available to support lifelong learning.
The success of the event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of various education and training institutions, including:
• North-East Regional Skills Forum
• University of Limerick (UL)
• Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT)
• Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB)
• University College Dublin (UCD)
• Irish Medtech Skillnet.
These partners provided critical insights into a range of learning opportunities, from apprenticeships and traineeships to flexible learning and funded upskilling initiatives.
The North-East RSF played a pivotal role in orchestrating the collaboration, acting as the bridge between Abbott Nutrition and the education and training providers. By facilitating dialogue and creating an interactive platform, this ensured that Abbott staff received first-hand information on educational opportunities and career progression pathways. A structured panel discussion, supported by an MC, enabled seamless interaction, making the session engaging and informative.
The event successfully highlighted key training and educational opportunities such as:
• Apprenticeships and traineeships tailored to industry needs
• Flexible learning options to accommodate work schedules
• Funded upskilling and reskilling programs such as Springboard+ and Skills to Advance
• Micro-credentials and part-time programs designed for career enhancement
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), with insights provided by Patrick Logue, RPL Lead at DkIT.
Building on the momentum of this collaboration, the North-East RSF aims to:
• Continue fostering partnerships between industry and education providers
• Develop tailored learning pathways aligned with Abbott’s workforce needs
• Promote greater engagement in lifelong learning initiatives
• Support ongoing discussions on skills development and Recognition of Prior Learning.
““Employees left the session with a greater awareness of their options and a clearer understanding of how to take the next steps in their professional development. The success of this event underscores the value of strong industryeducation partnerships in ensuring a highly skilled, adaptable workforce. By continuing to collaborate and innovate, RSF and its partners will play a crucial role in shaping the future of skills development in the North-East region.”
Hannah Farrelly - Learning and Development Manager, Abbott
North-East RSF Manager Ray Murphy pictured with some of the guest presenters at the Abbott Nutrition Site Staff Development Day in Cootehill, Co. Cavan
New Cyber Security RoadmapEmpowering
Micro Enterprises to Protect Their Business
North-West Regional Skills & Cyber Ireland‘s North-West Chapter launched the Cyber Security Skills Audit Report for the North-West in May 2023. The research project was commissioned to examine the shape of the cybersecurity sector in the North West region as well as to identify the key skills gaps and challenges that need to be addressed to help the sector grow and flourish. The research highlights the need for targeted cyber awareness interventions that are easy to access and deploy and cover the cyber essentials needed for owners, managers, and employees of SMEs.
Building on these findings, the North-West Regional Skills Forum, in collaboration with Cyber Ireland, has taken action by launching a Cyber Security Roadmap tailored specifically for micro enterprises. With cyber threats on the rise, small businesses are increasingly at risk, yet many lack the time, knowledge, or resources to implement effective security measures. The roadmap addresses this gap by providing clear, actionable steps designed to help micro enterprises protect their businesses.
Hilary McPartland, North-West Regional Skills Manager, highlighted the importance of this initiative: ”Cyber security is a critical issue for businesses of all sizes, yet micro enterprises often struggle to navigate it. This roadmap is designed to be simple and practical, allowing businesses to quickly assess their risks and take meaningful steps toward security. By improving awareness and providing a clear path forward, we aim to help small businesses build resilience and avoid costly disruptions.”
Developed with industry expertise, the roadmap covers essential topics such as identifying common cyber threats, strengthening passwords and authentication, securing devices and networks, protecting customer data, and responding to cyber incidents. These foundational practices empower business owners and employees with the knowledge they need to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance overall cyber resilience.
Paul Brady, Chair of Cyber Ireland’s North West Chapter, highlighted the collaboration behind this project: “By working with the NorthWest Regional Skills Forum, we’ve ensured that this tool is accessible, easy to follow, and relevant to real-world business needs. We want to empower micro enterprises to take control of their security, rather than reacting after an attack has already happened.”
The Cyber Security Roadmap is freely available to all micro enterprises and small businesses and can be accessed online. This initiative reinforces the commitment of the North-West Regional Skills Forum and Cyber Ireland to addressing skills gaps and ensuring that businesses in the region are equipped to navigate the evolving cyber landscape.
For more information and to access the roadmap, visit Cyber Ireland’s website.
“”Cyber security is not just an IT issue - it’s a business-critical concern. Many micro enterprises don’t know where to start, and that’s where this roadmap comes in”
Paul Brady, Chair - Cyber Ireland North West Chapter
Identifying Solutions for Priority Engineering Skills Needs
The remit of the Regional Skills Fora includes researching skills and training needs of various enterprise sectors from time to time, often in collaboration with representative groups. In partnership with ‘Engineering the South East’ cluster, the South-East RSF decided in late 2023 to conduct a survey of regional enterprise to determine priority training / skills needs in the broad ‘engineering’ discipline area.
Market Dynamics was commissioned to undertake the work targeting businesses in the key engineering, manufacturing and construction sectors. A total of 109 businesses, employing a total of over 6,000 engineering staff, participated in the survey. This comprised a good mix of businesses of different sizes, industries and industry sub-sectors, thus providing a robust overview of engineering skills and training needs in the South-East region. The following are the key conclusions of the survey:
• An overall lack of availability of many key skills, with almost half consider it a ‘major shortage’
• In terms of roles, the greatest shortage was craft-qualified engineering personnel e.g. electricians, metal fabricators, skilled engineering operators e.g. welders, etc and engineers with degrees
• The most impacted sector is Manufacturing with over half of firms in Engineering, Medtech and Food heavily impacted as well as Construction – Professional Services
• Many businesses surveyed intend to employ more people with engineering skills with a 7% increase expected by the end of 2024
• One-third of respondents had a high level (11-20%) of skilled engineering staff turnover
• Skills most in demand are primarily traditional roles including mechanical engineers, welders, electrical engineers, metal fabricators and civil engineers
• A good mix of sources are used to hire engineering skills with many employing graduates and apprentices; a quarter hire from outside the EU, evidence of the skills shortages they face
• Among the emerging engineering skills that respondents consider will be required in the future are sustainability skills, digital transformation, automation, data analytics and AI.
While the challenges faced will not be solved easily or quickly, there are, however, steps that can be taken to help improve the situation. Recommended actions include:
• Encourage schoolchildren to embrace STEM and subsequently promote the attractiveness of apprenticeships as a career choice to school leavers
• Reduce the financial barriers that businesses face in regards to taking on apprentices hence making it an easier option as a career path
• Education and training providers need to ensure the availability of flexible courses in areas where shortages exist, including third-level courses, apprenticeships as well as shorter courses aimed at upskilling existing engineering staff
• Potential for education providers to broaden the scope of their engagement with employers
• Education providers also need to take steps to ensure curricula include emerging engineering skills including sustainability, digital transformation, automation, data analytics and artificial intelligence
• Encourage young people to come to the South-East to be educated with a view towards subsequent employment in the region.
This report has been used by SETU, the regional ETBs and regional Skillnet Ireland Business Networks to refine and develop engineering courses suitable for industry, and in later 2024 South-East RSF continued its research activity programme with a project highlighting leadership & management skills needs in the region.
Pictured at the launch of the report are (L to R): Roseline Dalton, Boston Scientific (South-East RSF Chairperson), John Gilsenan, Market Dynamics and Edmond Connolly, South-East RSF Manager
One-Stop Signposting Supports for South-Western Enterprise
The South-West Regional Skills Forum plays a crucial role in helping employers navigate the increasingly complex landscape of skills development courses and funding supports. With a rapidly evolving labour market, businesses require access to relevant training programmes such as apprenticeships, Skillnet Ireland Business Networks, ETB Skills to Advance courses, Springboard+ programmes, micro-credentials and post-graduate options. However, the vast range of course and provider options can make it difficult for companies to identify best fitting options for their specific needs. To address this challenge, the Forum provides structured signposting resources that simplify the process.
One of the RSF’s key initiatives, seasonal upskilling ezines, are released in autumn and spring to assist companies in workforce planning. These ezines focus on specific industries, such as STEM and hospitality, and provide employers with a comprehensive directory of training courses. The STEM edition, published in summer and winter 2024, lists courses from Cork/Kerry ETBs, UCC and MTU, covering essential areas including lean, supply chain, automation, Industry 4.0, sustainability, ICT, health & safety and management.
The hospitality edition includes training opportunities in food and beverage, culinary arts, sales, marketing, finance, management, and sustainability, along with links to additional shorter Skillnet programmes. Each ezine is structured to categorise courses by level, location, start date and funding availability, making it more userfriendly for employers to choose the best options for their teams.
In addition to ezines, the Forum hosts skills specific employer signposting webinars throughout the year, where representatives from ETBs, Skillnet Ireland Business Networks and universities present relevant upskilling options, aligned to priority needs identified through RSF enterprise engagement in the preceding 12 months. A notable example is the 2024 Leadership & Management webinar, which provided a structured overview of available training, ranging from short foundation courses to Level 5 and 6 management programmes with ETBs, as well as funded Springboard+ and microcredential courses from MTU and UCC, extending up to Masters level. These webinars also feature Q&A discussions with course leaders, offering businesses deeper insights into available training solutions and funding supports.
Through these initiatives, the South-West Regional Skills Forum continues to streamline access to upskilling opportunities, enabling businesses to develop talent in line with evolving market demands.
Boosting the Art of Selling through the ’Sales Professionals
Network Context
The Sales Professionals Network (SPN) is a dynamic initiative designed to connect and develop sales professionals in the West region of Ireland. Established under the umbrella of the West Regional Skills Forum, the SPN serves as a vital platform for those working in sales to enhance their expertise and inform future course development in the region.
Collaboration
The SPN thrives on collaboration, bringing together key stakeholders from various sectors:
• Industry partners and employers
• Education and training providers
• Enterprise support agencies
• Government bodies.
This diverse membership ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing skills needs in the sales sector.
Regional Skills West Forum’s Pivotal
Role
The West Regional Skills Forum plays a central role in facilitating the SPN’s activities. It serves as the backbone for:
• Identifying and validating skills needs in the region
• Bringing together industry, economic, and education partners
• Implementing proactive responses to current and future skills requirements
• Facilitating working groups to address skills gaps.
Progress and Achievements
The SPN has made significant strides in enhancing sales expertise in the region, including prompting the development of the national Sales Apprenticeship offered by member Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim Education and Training Board and the Diploma in Inside Sales offered through itag Skillnet.
A notable recent achievement was the November 2024 event in Galway featuring Rachael Ryan, TikTok’s Global Head of Research, who shared insights with SMEs on leveraging creative influencers to drive sales. This high-profile event showcased the network’s ability to attract top-tier industry leaders and provide valuable insights to its members.
The network has also organized various workshops and webinars, covering topics such as storytelling for sales, marketing and sales strategy alignment, and using digital tools to maximize sales.
Future Steps
Looking ahead, the SPN is exploring the possibility of creating a cluster for the network. This initiative aligns with the growing trend of national and regional sectoral clusters serving as vehicles for promoting collaboration between employers, providers, and wider actors in the skills ecosystem. By continuing to evolve and address emerging trends such as the rise of Artificial Intelligence for sales, the Sales Professionals Network is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of sales in the West region and beyond, contributing to the broader goals of Ireland’s skills strategy and economic development.
““Rachael Ryan (TikTok) gave some really useful info for anyone working in digital marketing or sales at the Sales Professionals Network evening. She spoke about her focus in TikTok around how people make decisions, how they are behaving and how they are going through the world when making brand decisions”
Áine (small business owner)
Pictured at the SPN November event in Galway are (L to R): Denise Rocks, West RSF; Darragh O Connor, Glenlo Abbey (SPN Chairperson); Rachael Ryan, TikTok
