EPIC programme has assisted over 2,950 people from over 101 countries to find employment or enter further education and training
The EPIC programme which is run by sustainability business network, Business in the Community Ireland with funding support from the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration, brings government, business, state agencies and NGOs together to assist immigrants to gain employment by providing business training and support. Over 200 of the latest participants will graduate today at an event in Bank of Ireland, College Green, Dublin and David Stanton T.D., Minister of State for Justice with special responsibility for Equality, Immigration and Integration will present certificates.
The Dublin based EPIC programme commenced in 2008 and over 2,950 people from 101 countries have benefitted. To date 41% of participants found employment (1,216), 24% progressed to training, education or internships (706) and 2% started volunteer roles (66).
EPIC has had participants from over 100 different countries including Nigeria, Brazil, Romania, Poland, Spain and Lithuania. A number of businesses support the programme by providing training, interview skills or work experience placements.
Presenting the Certificates of Achievement to the recent graduates from the Programme, Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality with special responsibility for Equality, Immigration and Integration, Mr David Stanton T.D., said:
“The EPIC Programme is an excellent example of government, business, and non-profit partnership in support of migrant integration. Access to employment is essential for successful integration. The skills and experience provided to EPIC participants will help to ensure they can participate fully in Irish life and society.”
At the event, employees from Accenture, CPL, KPMG and Indeed spoke about their experiences of mentoring the programme participants. In 2017, 306 people have received support from EPIC. Of these, 135 people have started work, 46 in training, education or internships and 4 in volunteering, a total placement rate to date of 60%.
“The support of businesses in Ireland for our EPIC programme has been amazing. Through their support, our EPIC clients are armed with the right skills for the Irish job market. Without a doubt, employment is the best way for people to integrate into a society and the continued success of the EPIC programme is testament to that,” said Tina Roche, CEO of Business in the Community.
In 2017, companies supporting the programme include Accenture, BT Ireland, CPL, Enterprise-Rent-A-Car, KPMG, Gas Networks Ireland, An Post, Indeed, Google, Dawn Farms, Eden Recruitment, Manpower and Work Flow ITC.
The programme targets immigrants that experience difficulties accessing appropriate employment and supports them in the process by providing individual guidance, specialised training and personal development opportunities. Funding for EPIC is primarily from the European Social Fund and the Irish Government, with additional funding from businesses.
Pictured above: EPIC Client Saydyko South who is from Siberia with David Stanton T.D. – Minister of State for Justice with special responsibility for Equality, Immigration and Integration, photo by Stewart Duffy.
Ends
For more information, contact Moira Horgan on 01 874 3812 or mhorgan@bitc.ie
Tags:
