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The Performance Management Development System commenced roll-out to all sections of the Local Authority during 2005 and the long-term focus of the training department will be to respond in a planned way to the needs which will be identified in the preparation of Personnel Development Plans under the system. During the year, training was provided to supervisors / line managers to enable them to carry out their role under the system effectively.

During 2005, the Training Department of the Council delivered programmes such as:-

Certificate in Health and Safety

The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 introduced significant changes in relation to occupational health and safety. In conjunction with Sligo I.T. a training programme was developed to equip staff with the skills to manage work activities so that persons at work are not endangered.

Disability Awareness Training

Under the Disability Act 2005, Local Authorities are required to ensure a high level of awareness among all staff in regards to the requirements of persons with disabilities. In 2005 a programme of training was initiated to meet this need. This will be continued in 2006, and will include the following:-

• Staff Awareness Sessions
• Universal Accessibility Auditing Programme which will focus on the technical aspects of disability proofing, structured projects and conducting access audits.

NUI Diploma in Irish

During 2005, in conjunction with NUI Galway, a training programme was developed to ensure a better availability and a higher standard of services through Irish. Twelve staff members successfully completed year one of this course, and will complete the second and final year of the course in 2006.

Area Based Staff Training

During 2005, particular emphasis was placed on the training needs of the area based staff. This was reflected in programmes such as:-

Non National Roads Training Programme

• This included courses on signing, lighting and guarding at roadworks, and health & safety at roadworks. Health & Safety
• Training courses included site dumper training, chainsaw training, safe use of abrasive wheels, manual handling training, safepass training and training for safety representatives.

Waterworks Caretakers

• The Council have an ongoing training programme in relation to Water and Waste Water Treatment, which also covers dealing with the operation and maintenance of systems.  A number of staff attended this training during 2005.

Return to Learning Programme

• The Return to Learning Project is a partnership initiative between the Local Authority National Partnership Advisory Group (LANPAG) and the Department of Education and Science (DES), supported by the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA). The project aims to give staff an opportunity to attend a workplace basic skills course.  Participants benefit from the course by improving their literacy skills, increase in self-confidence and the re-awakening of an interest in learning.  During 2005, nine staff members were successful in achieving FETAC Certification in Computers under the Return to Learning programme.

Customer Service Training

• During 2005 Customer Service Training was delivered with a particular emphasis on the needs of area based staff. The aim of the programme was to provide an understanding of the concept of customer care, and equip staff with skills to deal with customers in difficult situations.

This scheme provides opportunities for staff to pursue part-time courses of study leading to a recognised qualification.  15 No. Staff are currently funded under this scheme to pursue courses which include:

• BA in Local Government Management
• Certificate in Public Management
• Diploma in First Line Management
• BSc Library Studies
• B Soc Sc in Housing and Community Studies
• Degree in Construction Economics and Management
• Masters In Town Planning.