Now is the time to celebrate training - Empey

Skills Minister, Sir Reg Empey, today launched a new innovative category within the 2009 National Training Awards (NTA).

The category is designed to identify and celebrate the businesses and volunteer organisations that have invested in training as a direct response to the recession.

Its launch is timed to coincide with the "Now is the time" press campaign, co-ordinated by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, in collaboration with major UK employer organisations. It urges employers not to cut training to cut costs, but to invest in training to build workforce talent and boost their competitiveness for recovery.

Sir Reg said: "Research has shown that companies which invest in training during recession are two and half times more likely to survive. I therefore fully support this new "Now is the time" award which will recognise the training initiatives that organisations have established specifically to help them survive the recession and thrive in recovery.”

The category is open for private companies of all sizes, as well as voluntary organisations. The training entered for consideration in this category should have started no earlier than September 2008 and needs to have been designed and delivered as a direct response to the current economic climate and the challenges this poses to organisations.

Highlighting the closing date of 26 June 2009, the Minister encouraged local employers to enter the competition, and said: “It is vital for the economic success of Northern Ireland that people are given the skills to meet the challenges we face during the current downturn. I want to encourage employers, who have invested in skills during the recession, to enter this category and get public recognition for their commitment to training and re-skilling."

After a selection and judging process, the short-listed finalist will be acknowledged at the regional NTA ceremony and will also be invited to the gala NTA ceremony in the Horticulture Halls in London, on the 10 Dec 2009, where the Winner of the Year will be presented with a trophy.

To find or more about the entry and judging process or to download an on-line application please visit the National Training Awards website.

Notes to Editors:

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