Near Zero Energy Building opens
“This is a really exciting time for skills provision and training in the Munster region and this new centre in Bishopstown will play a crucial role in this.”
Those were the words of Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD has this week as he officially opened a new Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) and Retrofit Centre of Excellence in Cork.
The new centre, run by Cork Education and Training Board, joins other existing centres of excellence operated by Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board, Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board and Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board.
Minister Harris said: “Learners will be able to access the skills training needed to achieve the Government’s target of retrofitting 500,000 homes to BER B2 rating by 2030. These courses are free to attend whether you are already working in the construction industry or are new to the sector. They are also flexible meaning courses can be taken in the evening or at weekends. This new centre will give learners the best possible chance to succeed in their careers while delivering significant benefits for the region.”
He added: “It may be challenging to attract people to undertake training and education in emerging skills areas related to the new green economy.That is why during this European Year of Skills, I am encouraging everyone to take up a new skill. We are funding many reskilling and upskilling initiatives so that we can grow the economy and bridge skills gaps. These courses are fast, flexible and free. I would encourage anyone working in construction to future proof their qualifications and take up one of these courses.”
SOLAS CEO Andrew Brownlee said: “We welcome the new NZEB Centre of Excellence in Bishopstown as a significant development in further expanding the national training infrastructure available to deliver on critical NZEB and retrofitting commitments in how we build and maintain houses.”
Insert: Minister for Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD.