Diversity & Inclusion Employer Seminar in Cork

As part of the Department's commitment to "Working for All" this event will focus on how employers can strengthen their workforce while providing a workplace which is inclusive by its very nature.

The ESRI report of October 2023, states that the Irish domestic economy looks set to continue to grow in 2023 and into 2024.

While there is a slower economic growth rate , the Irish labour market continues to perform robustly, with unemployment stabilising at approximately 4 per cent over the past year. The domestic Irish economy is presently operating at capacity, in particular in employment intensive sectors.

The aim of this event is to showcase how as an employer you can strengthen your workforce by engaging with an under utilised talent pool.

We will cover practical advice on the wide range of Intreo supports & services available to employers. The event will also include contributions from employers who are creating greater diversity in the workplace.

The keynote speaker is Leanne McDonagh:

Leanne McDonagh will share insights into her life's journey as a young Traveller woman. She will share her experiences of the education system where teachers strongly encouraged her to fulfill her potential. Leanne began practising art at Crawford College of Art & Design in 2007 and five years later she graduated with an Honours Degree in Fine Art as well as a Higher Diploma in Art & Design Education. As a visual artist she feels she has a unique opportunity to represent and record her community from within.

Attendees will learn about her experiences of the world of work, from the perspective of being part of a recognised marginalised group within society. She will explain how her in her current role as a Traveller Education Co-ordinator in Munster Technology University Cork she has supported many into further education, employment and the opportunity to excel.

In the panel discussions, local employers will share their experiences of the benefits of an inclusive workplace and demonstrate how they have successfully availed of our Departments's financial supports and services.

Attendees will learn from local service providers whose valuable work has supported other marginalised groups and young unemployed into training, up-skilling and into the world of work. Even with consistent economic growth and increased employment levels challenges remain in terms of how marginalised groups can access the open labour market and make their contribution.

Panel discussions will include the Cork based team from IASIO - Irish Association for Social Inclusion Opportunities and the Employment and Training Co-ordinator from Cork Simon along with an input from the Community Training Centres whose role it is to identify the needs of early school leavers and young unemployed and to support their career path.

Join us to hear more-"Strengthen your business-Strive for Inclusion"

Refreshments will be served from 12.30pm. The event will commence at 12.45pm sharp. We look forward to seeing you on the day.