The Donegal Gaeltacht is set for an important jobs boost today with the expected confirmation that 60 new jobs are to be created over two years in Falcarragh.
Feidhm na Mara Teoranta (Effective Offshore Training) is establishing a base for the training of workers on off-shore oil and gas rigs. It will provide courses in Basic Offshore Survival Induction & Emergency Training (BOSIET).
The venture is being backed by Udaras na Gaeltachta, which is contributing €150,000, and will be the first centre of its kind in Ireland.
Welcoming the news, Donegal Senator Brian O'Domhnaill pointed out that thousands of people do similar courses in Britain, where there are 28 centres, every year.
"This new centre in Falcarragh will be the first in Ireland. Over the past year alone FÁS have assisted about 150 individuals from Ireland to do the basic course in Scotland. Obviously this new Falcarragh Training Centre will prove hugely beneficial to anyone in Ireland who may wish to work on an offshore rig," he said.
The training includes an initial five-day course for individuals seeking to work on off-shore rigs with a two day refresher course every two years.
"There will also be specific one day training available, in the new centre, for professionals such as doctors who, from time to time, have to visit offshore rigs," Senator O'Domhnaill added.
He also pointed out that the establishment of the centre will have a spin off for the local economy, notably hotels, restaurants and B&Bs.