Minister Michael McGrath was joined last week by Adaire Fox-Martin, Head of Google Ireland in St Andrews Resource Centre, Pearse Street in Dublin to announce the launch of 'This City Works', a newly expanded programme that helps long-term unemployed people to find sustainable employment solutions.

The launch of This City Works represents the next stage in the evolution of Google’s Local Employment Task Force. 

Sustainable Employment

The initiative was established in 2020 by Google’s Community Affairs team in collaboration with local community employment, training and education services.

The Employment Task Force aims to find sustainable employment solutions for long-term unemployed people and provide them with training, education and development opportunities.

'Continued Commitment'

"I am delighted to officially announce the launch of This City Works today, representing the expansion of the Task Force," said Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath.

"I want to thank Google and all of the expert partners for their continued commitment to this important work.”

This City Works

This City Works is an initiative that is driven by the local community and made up of Google representatives, community based training employment and education services, local businesses, Dublin City Council and the Department of Social Protection. 

Last week’s announcement follows a commitment of over €500,000 by Google in 2021 at the launch of the Employment Task Force and a further €300,000 funding provided by Google.org, the philanthropic arm of Google in 2022.

'Part Of Community'

"Google has been part of the Ringsend and Pearse Street community for over 20 years now, and we remain committed to helping create meaningful, sustainable and long-term employment for members of our local community," said Head of Google Ireland, Adaire Fox-Martin.

"Today’s announcement is testament to the positive impact that this programme has, and I want to commend those involved, our community partners, those in Government and most importantly our participants - it is a joy to recognise the potential and to celebrate the achievements of this group.” 

New Website

Google has also announced the creation of a dedicated website for This City Works at this cityworks.withgoogle.com. 

Created by Google, the site aims to be a one stop shop for job seekers and those seeking to enhance their skills or change career path. 

The site also provides information for businesses seeking staff or for those curious about training and support services in their community.

Source: www.businessworld.ie