As we approach the end of the academic year, Fórsa’s Skills Academy is set to head into the summer break on a high.  

In response to exceptional interest from members, an additional date has been announced for Branch Treasurers training. Fórsa Induction also returns, ready as ever to provide members with a solid understanding of our union, along with an unmissable Lunch & Learn session for those looking to take their first step onto the property ladder. 

Fórsa Induction for new members – Online - Wednesday 14th May 

The first stop for any new member as it unravels the mysteries of Fórsa. Fórsa Induction is a short, informative session designed to welcome new members to the union and raise awareness about how they can become more involved at a local level.  

Learn the basics of what exactly a trade union is, the structure of Fórsa and how we do our business, and how members can become more engaged, have their voice heard locally, and raise their issues at divisional and national levels.  

Register here.

Branch Treasurers training – Thursday 22nd May – Nerney’s Court 

A second date has been announced for the Branch Treasurers training for those who missed the chance to register for the first session. 

If you are a treasurer or vice-treasurer who has not availed of this training before, this course is a great opportunity to be guided through your role and responsibilities.  

This is one of our most popular trainings – make sure to register early to secure your place! Register here.

Lunch & Learn - Mortgage essentials: first time buyer’s guides to mortgages - 25th April – Online 

Thinking of buying a house for the first time? Or perhaps you’re not quite there yet but want to know what to expect down the line. Join Mark Solon, Managing Director of Symmetry Financial Management, as he guides you through everything you need to know to get mortgage ready. 

Mark will present a step-by-step guide on how the mortgage process works, as well as provide detailed insight into what lenders are currently offering and the criteria they use to assess applications. By the end of the session, you will have an in-depth understanding of the mortgage and home buying journey and will be able to navigate it with confidence. 

Don't miss out on this valuable opportunity to gain the knowledge you need to embark on your property purchase journey. Register here.

Watch back: previous Lunch & Learn sessions

Members have been treated to two fascinating Lunch & Learn sessions in the past month. Both are now available online. 

In the March Lunch and Learn ‘Making learning easier: assistive technology in education’ Deirdre Madden, assistive technology outreach co-ordinator at Access UCC, explained the various types of assistive technologies and how they can be useful to both abled and disabled people.

You can watch the session here.

In the Friday 11th April session ‘Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) in your workplace’ the Skills Academy asked is ‘AI the fifth industrial revolution or the great destroyer of jobs?’  

Lisen to experts from Fórsa and the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) explain what generative AI is, what effects it may have on workers, and what unions are doing to ensure AI improves jobs rather than replacing them. 

You can watch the session here.

Missed a training? 

The training calendar for the 2025/2026 academic year will be released in early May. If you were sad to miss out on any trainings this year, you will soon have your next chance, so watch this space! 

Join a union that wins. Join Fórsa.