A group of Galway-based Travellers graduated in a FÁS certification exam this week as part of a unique training programme for long-term unemployed.
The 18 participants overcame literacy difficulties to score very high results in the FÁS Safepass exam, which allows them to work on construction sites.
During their training, the men also designed and fitted out their own classrooms, an art room, canteen and computer room at the Sandy Road Training Centre in Galway city.
The project-based approach to training was devised by tutors including Mr Peter Connolly, working with Mr Paul Hogan, the centre's director. All aspects of general construction work were taught over a three-year period on a part-time basis. Within the past year the centre was transformed as a result of the practical skills learned.
A draughty warehouse was fitted with suspended ceilings and plastered and painted by the trainees. A hairdressing salon was kitted out to allow for additional training programmes with members of the Travelling community, some of whom have been assigned work experience in city-centre salons.
The Sandy Road Training Centre is one of a network of Traveller training centres nationwide and is funded by the Department of Education and the EU. More than 120 Travellers take part in various programmes throughout the year in Galway.
"When the pressure came on to send long-term unemployed here on a mandatory basis, this presented new challenges for us as we didn't want to frighten people away," Mr Peter Connolly explained. "We were aware that if we put too much initial emphasis on literacy skills, this could be counterproductive."
Mr Michael McCarthy, one of the participants, aims to set up his own DIY and landscaping business next week as a result of the training received over the past three years on the programme.
He has also been keen to develop his general educational levels as a result. "I didn't have the confidence before, whereas now I have all these new skills and the confidence to approach people and offer my services," he said.
A group of Traveller men with hearing disabilities are also being trained at the centre. Mr Micheál Ó Ceallaigh, metalwork tutor, works with limited sign language and no signing interpreter. However, he says that much can be taught with minimum dialogue.
Several members of the group have business plans which may eventually take them out of the social welfare system.
However, participants said they would be keen to offer their skills on a voluntary basis to health boards for specific construction projects, such as building disability ramps and refurbishing local authority dwellings for senior citizens.
"We'd love to take some of those empty houses up around Bohermore and do them up and kit them out, and you could do it in six to 12 weeks," Mr Eddie Ward said.
