The overall aim is to initiate a process which continually mobilises people, organisations and resources in support of local economic development and employment. Its key operating tool is an interactive computerised register of interests, skills and business contacts which will be based on a detailed survey of employers in the Pact area. This system will also help create pathways for the long-term unemployed. Rural areas and low income farm families will also benefit from a Pact project aiming to reduce underemployment and social exclusion. The project will focus on training and small business support in order to assist the creation of alternative economic activities.
Some projects target particularly disadvantaged groups.
For instance the Midland Health Board Traveller Health Care Project aims to improve the overall health of this indigenous ethnic group, as well as to create jobs for them. The project will train six Traveller women in health care, and then support their employment within their own communities. Two other projects target early school leavers and at-risk youth by encouraging training and the definition of specific pathways into the labour market. However, this partnership was greatly expanded for the Pact and now includes 47 members comprising a wide range of public sector agencies, social partners, community groups, local business development groups and NGOs. While the WCD oversees the daily operation of the Pact, a separate steering group has been made responsible for policy development.