Cork people offered options at back to education exhibition - Martin

“This is the 33rd year of the VEC exhibition and I look forward to opening an event which will give people across Cork easy access to information about the options available to them.”

“Whether you are from the Class of 2010 and just finished the Leaving Certificate or someone wanting to increase your chances of securing a new job the exhibition will have information and guidance on what direction to take.”

“A large number of colleges, state agencies and other organisations will be on hand throughout the three days to provide information, including Cork City Partnership, Local Employment Service, Cork City Enterprise Board, FÁS, City of Cork VEC, the HSE, UCC, CIT, the Employment Resource Centre, Community Development Projects, Cork Volunteer Centre and the Department of Social Protection.”

“An important aspect of the event is the inclusion of workshops in the Millennium Hall of the City Hall to meet the specific needs of people. On the Tuesday evening at 7:30pm there is a session entitled ‘And What Now?’ this is aimed at those interested in re-training or upskilling.“

“On the Wednesday there are three workshops, at 2:30pm ‘I’m unemployed – get me out of here?’ followed at 3:30pm by a special information session on organising and updating CVs. At 4:30pm there is a workshop entitled ‘One for the Lads’, which is focussed primarily on the problems facing men in getting jobs but I am assured is open to everyone.”

“2010 Exhibition Opening times are: Tuesday – 5pm to 9pm; Wednesday – 1.30pm to 6.30pm and Thursday – 5pm to 9pm.”

This is an important event with free admission and has a strong track record in matching Cork people with the course or scheme that is right for them, I would encourage anyone looking for a job or a new opportunity to consider attending”, concluded Minister Martin.