Minister Calleary to launch new workability programme for Erris

A new Mayo North East programme focusing on employment outcomes for people with disabilities has been established in Erris.

The programme will be officially launched in Belmullet by Minister of State Dara Calleary TD on July 5.

Erris Workability (Iorras Cumasach) is available to people who are over 16 years of age and have a disability. The primary purpose of the programme is to provide people with the opportunity to gain and sustain employment, or access to education and training to improve employment prospects.

Leader of this innovative programme, Rosemarie Mangan said: “The Erris Workability programme will focus on the individual and their needs, and match them accordingly with local employers and their requirements. 

“We will provide a bespoke and personalised pathway to education, training or employment. As someone with a disability, I am excited to collaborate with employers all over Erris and engage with them in terms of adding value to their businesses by recruiting and retaining people with disabilities in their workforce.”

The programme will provide a progressive route into employment by ensuring that people with disabilities are fully supported and that the businesses which employ participants are also fully supported.

Anne Finn, Social Inclusion Manager (Mayo North East) said: “Contrary to some preconceived notions, studies have suggested that people with disabilities intrinsically experience higher job satisfaction levels than people without disabilities, which generally leads to lower employee turnover and a higher return on an employer’s investments in terms of training and development. 

“Furthermore, employees with disabilities are reported to work harder, be more productive, and have lower levels of absenteeism. Erris Workability is a resourceful programme which will involve a strong focus on employer engagement. So many business owners and managers are unaware of the numerous supports and incentives available for employing people with disabilities.”

You are eligible for the programme if you are over 16 years of age, and you have a disability. 

To register, or to get more information, please email rosemariemangan@mayonortheastldc.com or call Siobhán on 0874996605. 

Everyoneis welcome to come along and meet the Erris Workability team at the launch of the programme at 2pm on July 5 in Áras Inis Gluaire, Belmullet.