State training agency Fás has announced details of several new training programmes for those who have lost their jobs in the construction sector.
The courses are aimed at helping those in construction “convert or upgrade” their skills to take advantage of the new wave of green technologies.
They include training in how to install various clean energy systems such from solar thermal heating units or bio-mass boilers as well as how to asses the energy rating of buildings.
Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Coughlan said: “The Government is committed to providing assistance to those workers who have lost their jobs through increasing their skills levels and, in some cases, helping them develop new skills sets that will allow them take advantage of opportunities in new emerging growth areas within the construction sector.
Ms Coughland said: “These include the installation of energy efficient and renewable technologies, together with compliance and energy rating work.”