Carberry champions EU skills plan with Mayo in mind

“Investing in skills is investing in Europe’s future,” says MEP Nina Carberry in response to the European Commission’s unveiling of its ‘Competitiveness Compass’.

The initiative, presented today in Brussels by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, proves Europe’s commitment to preparing its citizens and industries for future challenges.

“The proposal for a ‘Union of Skills’, central to the roadmap, aims to equip Europe’s workforce with the tools needed to thrive in a fast-evolving global economy,” the Midlands Northwest MEP said.

Carberry, a leading advocate for skills development during and since her election campaign, serves on the European Parliament’s Budget Committee, and has stressed the need for bold financial investment to ensure the initiative’s success.

“The Union of Skills initiative prioritises adult and lifelong learning, promotes STEM education through a strategic plan, and strengthens school-level education via a Basic Skills Action Plan,” she noted.

MEP Carberry also called for a stronger focus on vocational training for trades such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, highlighting their crucial role in addressing labour shortages and supporting Europe’s workforce needs.

“This proposal sets the right direction, but without substantial investment, it risks remaining an aspiration rather than a reality. As a member of the Budget Committee, my priority is to match these plans with the financing needed to make them work.”

Carberry remarked that the next 18 months will be decisive and she called on stakeholders across Europe to rally behind the initiative to ensure its success.

“Up-skilling and re-skilling our workforce are essential to closing the gap between labour market demands and harnessing the potential of new innovations,” she concluded.