A new training programme, available through selected chambers across Ireland, ‘will help businesses adapt to the global business environment and enable them to operate optimally’, according to David Pierce, President of Chambers Ireland.

Speaking at the recent launch of the programme, he added: ‘Ireland is now facing competition from rival low-cost economies. It is crucial that Irish-based businesses maximise their potential through innovation and maintain their strong competitive advantage into the future. Innovation is therefore both a challenge and opportunity for the next phase of Irish entrepreneurship.’

The diploma in innovation, which was launched in association with Engineers Ireland, is accredited by Dublin Institute of Technology.

Jack Golden, President of Engineers Ireland enthused that ‘One of our key targets for this year is to facilitate access to continuing professional development opportunities for engineers across the country. Partnerships such as the one with Chambers Ireland ensure we can do just that. Perhaps what is most important about this diploma is that it focuses on innovation, an area that we continue to emphasise through our Engineering Excellence Awards which recognise both companies and engineers that have demonstrated innovation.’

Also attending the launch was the Minister for Innovation Policy, Michael Ahern, who said: ‘As Ireland continues its transition to a knowledge based economy, innovation and its application across all sectors is becoming increasingly vital. This initiative is therefore a very welcome stepping stone in enabling companies to fully understand, develop and implement innovative practices, thereby increasing their competitive edge in the global marketplace.’

Interested parties should email training@chambers.ie for further details. Chambers Ireland has 60 member chambers representing over 13,000 businesses throughout Ireland.