Tay Cities skills plan to boost access to better jobs

EQUALITY: Plan introduces an integrated approach to reducing gender inequality

A skills plan to increase job opportunities for people across the Tay Cities Region was launched in Carnoustie yesterday.

The Skills Investment Plan for the Tay Cities Region focuses on the skills needs of people and businesses across Angus, Dundee, Perth and Kinross and northeast Fife.

Business, Fair Work and Skills Minister Jamie Hepburn welcomed the plan during a visit to the Carnoustie Golf Hotel and Spa in Angus where he met with apprentices and staff members.

The plan focuses on ensuring more people have the skills to access highquality jobs in the key and growth sectors that drive the region’s economy and features a broad range of measures.

Mr Hepburn said: “This plan does not sit in isolation – it is backed up by £20 million committed by the Scottish Government invested in developing skills and employability through the Tay Cities Deal, and this plan is fundamental to ensuring that investment boosts fair work, inclusive growth and productivity.

“This plan addresses the diversity of economy that is seen throughout the Tay Cities Region, from the agriculture sector in Angus to more urban economies that are found in Dundee for example.

“It also takes into account the challenges and opportunities in technology, as well as emerging industries.

“It’s giving young people the skills to move on into higher value jobs.”

The plan seeks to enhance careers information, advice and guidance, promoting careers in key sectors across the region, along with delivering a region-wide effort around foundation apprenticeships.

There will also be an integrated approach to reducing gender inequality in specific occupations and the creation of a regional workforce development fund which will be open to employers in key sectors.

The plan was welcomed by Geoff Morris, director of Eden Campus at St Andrews University.

He said: “The Eden Campus is partfunded by the Tay Cities Deal, and this plan is a cornerstone of the deal for St Andrews University and we are particularly keen to develop working relationships with local colleges.”

The event was held at the Carnoustie Golf Hotel, where the minister was given a tour of the facility.

Hotel general manager Gordon Mackintosh highlighted the venue currently had 15 apprentices, all of whom are local.

He said: “Any investment going into improving opportunities has to be a good thing.”

Picture: Kim Cessford. Business Minister Jamie Hepburn and Gordon MacIntosh, general manager at Carnoustie Golf Hotel. Mr Hepburn met staff members at the hotel yesterday.