New Jobs At NI Energy Centre

Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster has announced the creation of new jobs in the Northern Ireland Energy Agency advice centre in Enniskillen.

The Minister made the announcement during a visit to the organisation, which also has offices in Belfast and Londonderry and is a partnership between Fermanagh District Council, Derry City Council and the Bryson Charitable Group.

Together with a number of public and private organisations the Energy Agency provides advice on energy efficiency, renewable energy and low carbon transport to Northern Ireland households and not-for-profit organisations.

Arlene Foster toured the Energy Agency facilities and its advice centre, where the number of telephone calls from householders seeking advice on energy saving in the home, has increased from 150 per day to an average of 350 per day, since April 2008.

Minister Foster said: "It is a great achievement and testimony to the quality work being done in the Northern Ireland Energy Agency, that I can announce three new, permanent and full-time posts here in their Enniskillen offices.

"With the recent increases in fuel prices, the need to save energy in our homes is more pressing than ever. With the assistance of such organisations as the Northern Ireland Energy Agency, many more households can take positive action towards reducing their energy consumption and saving money.”

Nigel Brady, Director of the Northern Ireland Energy Agency said: "I am delighted that the Minister has had an opportunity to see what we do first hand here today and announce an additional three posts to ensure the public get a prompt and efficient service."

He added: "By working in partnership with a number of organisations, the Agency promotes, administers and implements a wide range of sustainable activities on a one stop-shop basis."

(PR)