Evaluating the EU training activities in the public service

Abstract

This study outlines and assesses (i) the EU-related training means available to the Public Service through Government's central training agency- the Staff Development Organisation; (ii) the Twinning Programmes which came into being in February 2002; and (iii) the training currently undergone by the Customs Division under the Service Contract with the European Union. This study also considers whether variables of age, gender, workplace, grade etc., have a significant effect on the participation in such courses. Two sets of questionnaires were mailed to identified participants which included a mixture of open-ended and direct questions. It was found that although in theory, language and VAT training programmes fall under the EU-training umbrella, the majority of participants do not share this perspective. Their participation is motivated either by personal satisfaction or immediate occupational needs. Others attend courses without any specific objective in mind. A sense of uncertainty as to whether Customs Systems will eventually be upgraded or altered to satisfy EU requirements or not, is perceived through the second questionnaire, whilst others denied ever attending any courses under Service Contract. Following the diagnosis of the analysis and research, this report proposes a few recommendations which I believe are more effective, both with regard results and costs.