Accessible NI Apprenticeships Welcomed

The NI Employment Minister has 'smashed the barrier' for over 25s wanting to gain an apprenticeship - as from next month the existing age limit on new apprentices will be lifted.

Currently schemes are only open to those aged between 16 and 24, and now, individuals over this age can train for a trade in the Province.

Employment and Learning Minister Sir Reg Empey said the changes would make industry-learning initiatives more accessible to everyone over 16.

The Minister expressed optimism at the chance for employers to develop and enhance the skills of their workforce.

Launching the scheme at the NIE Training Centre at Nutts Corner, Sir Reg said: "Investing in our employees through the delivery of well structured and tailored training, we can realise a truly skilled workforce that will improve productivity, raise skills standards and improve the quality of customer service.

"Everyone reaps the benefits, employees, companies, and ultimately, the wider economy.

"I urge all employers, both large and small, to really make it their business this year to find out more about apprenticeships and how they can help their business grow, as well as raise the skills level of the Northern Ireland workforce," added Sir Reg.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chair of the Department of Employment and Learning Committee at Stormont has welcomed the decision of Minister Empey to move on what was originally a recommendation of the Committee.

Robin Newton, the East Belfast MLA said that, on examining the DEL provision on the apprentice training programme, 'Training for Success', the Committee detailed a number of proposals with the potential to expand opportunities for the future improvement of our skills base.

"These included, enhancing careers information on vocational opportunities, recognition of the skill shortages in key developing economic areas including retail, tourism, hospitality and leisure, addressing the skills needs of the construction sector and conducting a formal review of automotive training," he said.

"In agreeing to take this first tentative small step I hope the Minister will rise to the challenge and embrace the many other recommendations of the report.

"Northern Ireland needs world-class facilities for vocational training at all levels. Our future economic success will be based on the skills of our people," he said.

(PR/JM)(BMcC)