Minister Kelleher presents the Excellence Through People Awards

Tuesday , 21^st October 2008

“Successful employers encourage their staff to reach their full potential, because they know that this allows the organisation to also reach its full potential”, so said the Minister for Labour Affairs, Mr. Billy Kelleher T.D. when he presented the FÁS Excellence Through People Awards in Dublin today.

Minister Kelleher said “the emphasis on business enhancement through employee involvement plays an important role in increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of Irish business. The Government recognises that organisations must constantly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of their operations to turn today's challenges into tomorrow's success. We must continue to ensure that Ireland’s ability to reap the benefits from the global marketplace is maximised through making certain that not only the quantity, but also the quality of labour force skills is available to meet industry needs. Ireland must continue to move up the value chain to remain competitive in the future. This involves increased levels of investment in training as well as research and development, technology and innovation. Such measures have become necessary to bolster Ireland’s competitiveness in a knowledge and innovation based global economy and also to enhance the attractiveness of Ireland for both domestic and international investment”.

“We encourage the development of a lifelong learning culture where successful employers are those who realise that their people are their most important asset and act on that by investing in their skills and development. That is why we want all employers to take responsibility for improving the skills of their workforce. The members of the Excellence Through People network have already grasped this economic reality and have shown their sustained commitment to reach excellence through valuing and developing their employees”.

“According to recipients of the award, not only does the standard enhance learning and HR practices; it also has the added benefits of instilling a culture of enhanced communications, engagement and increased employee commitment to an organisation’s future”.

“Through involvement in this event you have the opportunity to network with other organisations and share views and concerns with other companies that are facing similar challenges and pursuing excellence through their people. I know today that you have had the opportunity to hear from such eminent professionals as Dr. Laurie Bassi”.

“I am impressed by the range of organisations that have achieved the Excellence Through People standard and I am particularly pleased to have been asked to present your highest award level – Platinum, to the most recent recipient, the Garvey Group”.

“I would like to congratulate each of the companies here today and am confident that the Excellence Through People Standard will further enhance your business and provide support during these challenging days for Irish industry”.

“You are role models for the future successful advancement and development of business in Ireland. It gives me the greatest pleasure to applaud each and every one of you on your achievement and to wish you every success in the future”, Minister Kelleher concluded.

ENDS/LA300