The European Parliament has approved funding of almost €36m in aid for workers in Ireland who have lost their jobs.
The Government had filed three applications on behalf of almost 6,000 people who were laid-off by companies involved in construction, architecture, engineering and technical testing.
The aid will be provided from the EU Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) to help the workers return to the labour market.
Minister for European Affairs Lucinda Creighton welcomed the approval.
"As a small export-oriented economy, Ireland suffered from the credit crunch's impact on its major trading partners," she said in a statement.
"Banks were severely hit, with knock-on effects on mortgage loans and building activity in the country. Any funding that will help those who have lost their jobs is very welcome."
