European Fund helps vocational training at Extern

Over 30 trainees from Extern Recycling were today recognised for their achievements in vocational training.

Alan Shannon, Permanent Secretary for the Department for Employment and Learning, attended the Awards Ceremony in Mallusk, Co Antrim. The training, which is part funded by the European Social Fund through the Department for Employment and Learning, is part of a return to work initiative for long term unemployed, disadvantaged people including ex-offenders, homeless and those with mental health conditions.

Congratulating the Award recipients, Alan Shannon said: “The experience you have gained here at Extern will be of great help to you in your quest for future employment. Your efforts and your commitment to your chosen course of training have been thoroughly worthwhile, and these awards deserve both our recognition and celebration.”

The Permanent Secretary went on to commend Extern, saying: “Extern has a long and well-respected track record in helping offenders into work, dealing with the obstacles and inequalities they face and developing innovative ways of overcoming these.”

The Secretary also emphasised the importance of developing skills and qualifications in the current economic climate and the benefit these provide to the individual, the economy and society. He outlined the role that the European Social Fund plays in helping to achieve that goal. He added: “By focusing on those most in need of help, the European Social Fund contributes to reducing inequality, building a fairer society and developing a more competitive workforce. These are all key objectives, both of my Department and the Executive.”

The ceremony was also attended by the Chief Executive of Extern, Liz Cuddy, Robin Masefield CBE, Director General, Northern Ireland Prison Service, Brian McCaughey, Director, Probation Board for Northern Ireland and David Scott Beddard, Chairman of the Nomadic Preservation Society.

Notes to editors:

1. The Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) is the Managing Authority in NI for the European Commission’s European Social Fund, which is part of the Competitiveness and Employability Programme.
2. The Axis Recycle project is funded by the NI European Social Fund, DEL, Probation Board NI, Northern Ireland Prison Service and Extern. The project aims to help offenders and homeless people into sustainable employment by providing access to training and work placements.
3. All media enquiries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch on 028 9025 7872. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.