Tánaiste presents City and Guilds Certificates to Clondalkin Trainees "Project is a prime example of the potential of new Social Economy Programme”- Harney

Tánaiste Mary Harney today (Monday 20th September, 1999) presented City & Guilds or NVQ certificates of achievement to fifteen trainees of the Clondalkin Home Insulation Project. In doing so she welcomed the launch of the project as an independent, limited company .

“This project is a prime example of Partnership in action, with the local community working hand-in- hand with State agencies and the Local Authority to achieve success,” said the Tánaiste. “It is also an indication of what can be achieved when a Social Economy Project receives the necessary supports through the start up and early operational stages of its development. These types of projects have the added bonus that any profits generated can be reinvested in the Community for the benefit of everyone,” she added.

The Clondalkin Home Improvement Project was established in 1997 by ACE (Action Clondalkin Enterprise) a Clondalkin based organisation which assists, advises and supports both individuals and local groups in the development of enterprise. In the last 4 years ACE has helped over 1000 clients, 60% of which have moved from unemployment to self-employment.

The Home Improvement Project, with the assistance of FAS and the Clondalkin Partnership trains local unemployed people in the skills needed to install draught-proofing and attic insulation. South Dublin County Council has also been involved in the initiative by providing housing for the training courses.

"Today’s launch of the Clondalkin Home Insulation Project as an independent limited company provides an excellent example of the potential the new Social Economy Programme in supporting imaginative, locally based initiatives in disadvantaged areas to the benefit of their communities,” said the Tánaiste. The project plans to have six full-time viable jobs by the end of next year.

“It is important that participants in any Community Business project such as this should receive the best training available, and where possible, that such training should reach the standard where it can be certified by accredited organisations such as City & Guilds or NVQ,” said the Tánaiste.

The Tánaiste concluded by congratulating everyone concerned with the success of the project and said “In particular I want to congratulate the trainees on attaining the qualifications necessary to carry out your future work in a professional manner. I wish everyone you all success in the future.”