Finland Times

An EU statement said the new network's Board, made up of senior managers from the Public Employment Services nominated by each Member State and the Commission, is meeting on Tuesday for the first time in Brussels.

This new Network is based on a Council and European Parliament Decision to maximize the efficiency of public employment services through closer cooperation adopted in May 2014.

"Well-functioning and efficient Public Employment Services are essential to facilitate quick access to jobs and training for unemployed people across Europe. The new Network will contribute to their modernization and reform across the EU," said Laszlo Andor, EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion.

The new structure will provide greater opportunities for comparing public employment services performance against relevant benchmarks, for identifying good practices and for improving co-operation, including through mutual learning and peer to peer assistance programs.

One of the more immediate tasks facing the Network is to exchange knowledge and successful practices, as most public employment services are the designated national contact points for this crucial reform.

The EU said in many Member States, the functioning of public employment services must be improved to ensure individual young people receive appropriate personalized advice on job, education and training opportunities most relevant to their own situation, resulting in a tailor-made, concrete offer within four months.