Northern Ireland hailed as leader in training

Minister for Employment and Learning Sean Farren has announced the Northern Ireland winners of this year’s National Training Awards.

Organised by the Training and Employment Agency (T&EA), the UK-wide National Training Awards are designed to reward companies and individuals who have excellence and success through training.

Presenting the awards Dr Farren said: “Northern Ireland has always performed exceptionally well in the National Training Awards competition and this year is no exception. We should take much pride in this achievement. I believe it is now widely accepted that investing in people makes a significant contribution to successful business and the social and economic well being of Northern Ireland.

“By harnessing the ideas and enthusiasm of our people Northern Ireland companies can offset some of the current difficulties from the global economic slowdown and position themselves to benefit from the inevitable upturn in business.

The nine National Award winning entries are:

• Beverly Wilson, Rockall Seafoods, Kilkeel



• Stream International, Londonderry



• Toughglass, Kilkeel



• Fermanagh Training, Enniskillen



• Opportunity Youth, Belfast



• United Hospitals Health & Social Services Trust, Antrim Hospital



• The Cedar Foundation in partnership with the T&EA



• NACCO Materials Handling, Craigavon



• B.I.C. Systems in partnership with the T&EA

Congratulating the winners, Dr Farren said: “The quality of our people has always been our most valuable resource and their contribution must never be underestimated. If we are to keep pace with the changing methods of doing business successfully and competing in the global marketplace, it is absolutely vital that people have the opportunity to update and develop their knowledge and skills. The simple fact is that every employer, in establishing their processes, should give training and people development a very high priority.

“This year’s winners are testament to the success training can bring. Every single entrant is a winner in his or her own right. We just want others to follow their example.” (AMcE)