That is why active policies are necessary under the ESF, and why our Guidelines put such an emphasis on employability and training. Labour strategies are not confined to your industry, but the problems of geographical mobility adds itself to that of new skills and work practises. The ESF cannot solve this problem, it requires you and your local partners to work together to attract the workforce you need. The second policy field of the ESF is promoting social inclusion and equal opportunities for all in accessing the labour market This field also continues a well-established area of Social Fund intervention, although without the specific identification of 'target groups' as under the current Regulations, in keeping with the flexible nature of the new framework. Third is developing education and training systems as part of lifelong learning No part of the economy, and no industry, can afford to ignore the need for a workforce that is continuously updating its skills and competence.
Nothing puts the breaks on jobs growth and productivity like skill shortages.
This is a lesson currently being learned here in Ireland. Much of this problem is due to the fact that many new jobs created require higher skills levels than are available in the labour market. That is why a commitment to updating skills and employability throughout life is particularly important, and why the Social Fund must take this on board. Fourthly, improving systems to promote a skilled, trained and adaptable workforce This builds upon the work currently done under Objective 4. It is an approach of anticipating and adapting to change that is already demonstrating its value.