ICOS (through the ICOS Skillnet) and its co-operative member organisations are inviting job seekers to a free ‘Foot in The Door’ training and advisory event in Thurles on Thursday, August 28.

Launched in May by ICOS Skillnets and Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and the Marine, Simon Coveney, the ‘Foot in The Door’ initiative is targeting potential new employees for the agrifood sector.

Events are taking place around the country to highlight new job opportunities and skills needs in the agri-food industry.

‘Foot in The Door’ events are happening nationwide (with agrifood co-ops from each region participating). The Thurles event includes a jobs advice clinic being provided by ICOS and co-ops including Dairygold Co-operative Society, Kerry Group, Cork Co-Operative Marts, and North Cork Co-operative Creameries.  Other venues for these events will include Clonakilty, Sligo, Dublin and Galway.

Billy Goodburn, ICOS Skillnets Manager said: “The future growth and expansion of the Irish agri-food industry requires additional human resources. In particular the dairy sector has considerable potential given the industry expansion agenda that exists around the removal of milk quotas next year.”

The event in Thurles takes place at the Anner Hotel, on Thursday, August 28 2014 from 2.00 pm – 5.30 pm. Advance registration is essential. To register to attend, candidates should please contact Breeda Flood or Billy Goodburn on 01 613 1348 or on email: [email protected]

Pictured at the launch of ‘Foot in The Door’ an Irish co-operative industry initiative, with ICOS Skillnets, targeting potential new employees for the agri-food sector are Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine, Simon Coveney, (centre) pictured with from left Billy Goodburn, ICOS Skillnet Manager, Alan Nuzum, CEO, Skillnets and Seamus O’Donohoe, CEO of the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS).