Tánaiste Visits Roscommon

Mary Harney, Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment today visited Roscommon Town where she launched an Employers Resource Pack on behalf of RosEqual Development Partnership and two publications, 'Enterprising Roscommon' - A directory of micro businesses in Roscommon; and 'Women Insight' - Perspectives on education, training and employment in County Roscommon on behalf of Roscommon Partnership.

Speaking at the launch of the Employers Resource Pack the Tánaiste said: "Many employers have discovered the value which people with disabilities can bring to the workforce, but many more employers have yet to realise the contribution which people with disabilities can bring to their business.

"This Government's policy is geared towards measures aimed at the fullest participation by all sections of society in the labour force. Measures such as the Equal Initiative bring together various organisations in a coordinated way to promote awareness of the role which people with disabilities can play in this economy. I very much welcome this valuable information Pack which aim to encourage employers to take positive steps to employ people with disabilities", the Tánaiste added.

Speaking at the publication launch on behalf of Roscommon Partnership the Tánaiste said "Organisations like Roscommon Partnership and indeed most of the groups I have met today show their strong commitment to the future development of Roscommon and to encouraging full participation by all in its community. 'Enterprising Roscommon' clearly highlights the strong business environment that exists in Roscommon and its potential for future investors. The publication "Women Insight-Perspectives on education, training and employment in County Roscommon" highlights once again the particular difficulties which women face in accessing training and employment. Greater investment in training is clearly needed if Roscommon is to avail of this valuable pool of workers".

During her visit the Tánaiste also presented the "Company of the Decade" award to Waldron Meats, Brideswell, Co. Roscommon. This award was made to mark the 10^th Anniversary of Roscommon County Enterprise Board. She also presented certificates to the 2003 County Enterprise Award winners.

ENDS/ETE 1150