Entries sought for National Training Awards competition

The NI National Training Awards Competition for 2004 is now open for applications.

Announcing the awards, Permanent Secretary at the Department of Employment and Learning, Will Haire stressed the importance of training and development to the economic well being of Northern Ireland.

Mr Haire said: “The National Training Awards Competition recognises and celebrates success created through personal development and training, and in turn the participants and winners become exemplars in encouraging others to follow suit.

“While recognition of success plays an important part in the process, an equally important aspect is the impact it has on business improvement and profitability. The latter is crucial for people in Northern Ireland to acquire the skills and abilities needed in an increasingly competitive global market place.

“The prestigious National Training Awards can provide competitors with the encouragement and public recognition and I would encourage employers and individuals to take the first vital step on the ladder of success.”

Helen Hall, Training and Development Officer of Newtownabbey Borough Council, which won both regional and national awards last year, outlined the benefits to her organisation of entering last year’s competition.

“Newtownabbey Borough Council has, for a long time, recognised the benefits of investing in training for our staff, and our win at last years National Event gave profile to this culture within the Council. We have found that investing in staff training has not only seen improvements in the performance of individuals, but has also had an effect on our overall organisational performance and our service to the ratepayers and the community.”

Confirming his company's continued sponsorship support for the National Training Awards, Keith Bollen, Fujitsu's Business Director for NI Central Government said: "This is the 3rd year of Fujitsu's association with the awards and we are aiming to build on the success of last year's event. As a company that employs some 400 people in Northern Ireland we have seen the benefits of training investment within our own organisation and would encourage other employers to grasp that opportunity too.

"In the 2003 awards, 24 local organisations, businesses and individuals scooped a total of 33 awards. Of these 24, three went on to win National awards. This demonstrates a clear commitment by many Northern Ireland employers to invest in their staff, a strategy that will improve not only their own productivity, but that of the economy as a whole."

The closing date for applications for the awards is 30 April 2004.

(SP)