Empey launches ‘learning for business’ courses

Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, has announced that “help is now on hand” for small and micro businesses through the learndirect 'learning for business' courses, which are being piloted at the Acorn Business Centre in Ballymoney.

Learndirect, which is the e-learning network of the University for Industry (UFI), the Government's flagship for lifelong learning, uses information and communication technologies and the internet to deliver skills based learning to individuals and businesses.

Speaking at the official launch of the innovative new business scheme, the Minister said: "This pilot project builds on the ICT infrastructure made available to the enterprise network, courtesy of the Information Age Initiative and also complements the work of LEDU.

"Courses can be accessed using the existing Enterprise NI Network, bringing learning to businesses, anywhere, anytime.”

During his visit to the Centre, which is part of the local enterprise agency network, the Minister also visited several of the tenant companies and discussed potential future development in the Centre with members of the board and management.

Earlier in the day, the Minister met with members of Moyle District Council to discuss a range of issues including the region’s Tourism Recovery Plan which is designed to help the local area claw back some of the tourism revenue lost as a result of foot-and-mouth restrictions.

Sir Reg also visited the Causeway Bottling Company based in Moyle Enterprise Centre, Ballycastle. Set up over a year ago and employing nine people, the company produces a range of alcohol-based soft drinks under the brand name of McCool.

The company is currently developing a catering product and considering future diversification and expansion plans.

(MB)