NEWS
. A classroom in the new METAC.
Mary Whitney, Future Cast Women in Construction Lead, is pictured alongside training equipment at the new METAC facility.
OFFICIALLY OPENED BY MINISTER ALAN DILLON ON JUNE 9, THE FUTURE CAST PROJECT IS CO-FUNDED BY THE IRISH GOVERNMENT AND EU THROUGH THE JUST TRANSITION FUND… New €1m training centre launched for M&E trades in Ballaghaderreen
A new €1m training centre for mechanical and electrical trades is to open in a previously derelict property in the centre of Ballaghaderreen in Co Roscommon. Employment Minister Alan Dillon launched the new Mechanical and Electrical Training and Assessment Centre (METAC) at the Mill Business Park on June 9. Led by Future Cast, the project has transformed a derelict property in the centre of Ballaghaderreen into a purpose-built training and assessment hub with latest equipment, 16-person classrooms and dedicated workshop spaces accommodating 8-10 learners. Future Cast is a not-for-profit centre for innovation, education and R&D for the construction, manufacturing and quarrying industries. Based in Co Leitrim, it is the trading name of Manorhamilton Innovation and Development CLG. It is hoped that METAC will breathe new life into a region which has experienced job losses from the closure of Bord na Mona peat-burning power stations, by re-skilling locals. The launch was an open event with the
construction and engineering industry and training providers encouraged to attend. METAC is funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund (EUJTF). Through the EUJTF Local and Regional Economic Strategies Support scheme within this Fund, which is administered by Pobal, the EUJTF contributed €800,000 to the €1m cost of the centre with €200,000 coming from industry companies. The Fund was set up to support workers impacted by the transition away from fossil fuel industries. METAC is designed to advance skills development, professional certification and innovation across the construction and engineering sectors. METAC offers programmes in electrical safety, automation, robotics, engineering and design software, mechanical systems and advanced welding. Training is delivered by a combination of Future Cast trainers, industry-specific specialists and QQI-certified providers. “The launch of the METAC training centre in Ballaghaderreen is a powerful example of how targeted investment
and collaboration can drive regional renewal,” said the Minister. “This facility not only revitalises a once-derelict site but also provides a vital pathway for workers to gain the skills needed for the green and digital economy. “Through the support of the EU Just Transition Fund and the commitment of Future Cast, we are empowering communities to embrace opportunity, resilience and innovation.” JJ O’Hara, CEO of Future Cast, said, “The opening of our new METAC training centre is a tangible example of what can be achieved when local innovation meets national support. Today marks a major milestone for Ballaghaderreen and the wider Just Transition region. This centre is about more than just skills development – it’s about creating real opportunities for local people. Thanks to the support of the EU Just Transition Fund and Pobal, we are equipping communities and workers with the tools to shape a more sustainable and resilient future.” For enquiries and a complete list of training workshops available at METAC,
visit the Future Cast website: www.futurecast.info/metac
52 | IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE
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