A grant aimed at helping former construction workers in Ireland to get back into employment has been announced.

The European Commission has proposed the allocation of €35 million from the European Union (EU) Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) for the sector, which relates to three applications by the Irish government.

Intended to assist 5,987 individuals previously employed in construction, the money will be used to provide occupational guidance, training and self-employment support.

It must first be voted on by the European Parliament and the EU Council of Ministers and, if agreed, will cover primarily those workers who had jobs in small building businesses.

Commenting on the proposal, EU commissioner for employment, social affairs and inclusion Laszlo Andor stated: "I am confident that the support and training the EGF can provide to the Irish workers will help them and allow a smooth transition to a new job."

Unemployment across the EU stood at 9.5 per cent overall during August 2010, unchanged over the month from July and 0.1 points lower year-on-year, according to Eurostat.

Posted by Alex Donnell