Other News In Brief

Call For Minister To Support Young People With Special Needs

SDLP Employment and Learning Spokesperson Pat Ramsey has voiced his concern at an Assembly debate about the provision of education and support to young people with special needs, particularly those aged 19, who often find themselves without support after formal education.

Mr Ramsey, who is Chair of the All Party Group on Learning Disability, said that those who find themselves without the support must be afforded adequate collaborative planning to bridge the gap in what can be a difficult and challenging transition to post-education.

He said: "This issue is nothing new, as it was identified in previous reports that this gap exists. The focus must be on the needs of the individual and must have input from families, who have the best understanding of the needs of their child.

"We should also be mindful that the private sector should be given support and advice to ensure that young people coming out of special education can access employment and can be given meaningful roles."

Increased Wi-Fi For North Down Welcomed

North Down MLA Peter Weir has welcomed the delivery of the project to extend free Wi-Fi internet access throughout the centre of both Bangor and Holywood.

He said: "I welcome news that the project to extend free wifi throughout the centre of both Bangor and Holywood, our two main towns in North Down has now been delivered and will soon be fully launched. This is something I have been pressing for some time and has been brought about by the co-operation of North Down Borough Council and DSD. The initial project only covered the Main Street and High Street areas of Bangor, but the additional funding has allowed it to be extended the length of Abbey Street in Bangor, thus covering all of the commercial town centre in Bangor, and also the town Centre in Holywood."

Guide For Parents Will Help Them Assist Their Children On Career Plans

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry today announced the publication of a guide for parents/guardians to assist them with their child’s future career plans.

The publication entitled 'A Guide for Parents – how to help your child with future career plans', was developed by the Department’s Careers Service. It aims to assist parents/guardians support their children in future career planning and provide information on the different aspects of careers information, advice and guidance.

Dr Farry said: "This guide aims to help parents understand the range of options and support available at key transition stages. It highlights the importance of parents encouraging their child to research information about current trends and future employment opportunities and to consider these against abilities and aspirations.

"To coincide with the publication of the guide, the Parents' Zone section of NI Direct has been developed.

"The role of parents in influencing the career decision making process of their children is of paramount importance. The findings in the recent report on the 'Young Person’s Behaviour and Attitudes Survey' published by Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency stated that parents and guardians are most influential (72%) in encouraging pupils to think about going to further education college or university, compared to friends (10%) which is the next most influential group."

(CD/H)