The purpose of this dissertation is to critically review government workforce development initiatives from the perspectives of some of the main stakeholders in the scheme.\ud
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The research was conducted using semi-structured interviews with those involved in developing the strategy behind the schemes and the views one provider of the programmes in the Dublin area.\ud
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The Springboard and ICT conversion skills programmes have been successful in returning people to jobs. Contributing factors to the success are the work-placements, career bridge modules and the collaborative aspect of the implementation of the programmes.\ud
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The findings indicate the continued need for these programmes over the coming years, with perhaps a different funding model being introduced at a later stage. A more cohesive approach from government departments could make the current schemes more effective and efficient