The Department of Labour aims to play a significant role in reducing unemployment, poverty and inequality through a set of policies and programmes developed in consultation with social partners, which are aimed at:

• improving economic efficiency and productivity
• skills development and employment creation
• sound labour relations
• eliminating inequality and discrimination in the workplace
• alleviating poverty in employment.

The Department is responsible for co-ordinating skills development and training through the various Sector Education and Training Authorities.