Funds benefit employment prospects at a local level- Empey

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, today praised the work carried by projects, supported by the European Social Fund, to help people back to work.

The Minister was speaking as he visited Limavady’s North West Lifelong Learning Association to meet staff involved in the delivery of the “Skills 4 Service” Project, which is funded by the Northern Ireland European Social Fund (NIESF) Programme.

The Skills 4 Service Project is one of 74 Projects (11 in the North West) funded under Priority 1 of the Northern Ireland ESF Programme 2007-13, which aims to help people into sustainable employment prospects and address the needs of those disadvantaged in the labour market.

Speaking after the engagement, the Minister said: “There is no doubt that the North West has been dealt a hard blow under the current economic downturn. However projects such as Skills 4 Service, with the assistance of the Northern Ireland European Social Fund and my Department, can help people obtain the necessary skills to get work.”

The project’s main aim is to help people into sustainable employment through an educational programme, with particular emphasis on recruiting those from disadvantaged areas in the regions serviced by the Limavady and Ballymoney/Ballymena boroughs. It incorporates on-going mentoring, help and assistance throughout training and during the first few months of work, therefore allowing the participant to feel supported throughout their entire time on the project. The project will also help to bridge the gap in respect of access to learning opportunities by offering outreach to those rural areas where there is currently scattered provision.

The Minister continued: “The Northern Ireland European Social Fund supports the EU's goal of increasing employment by giving unemployed people the training and support they need to enter jobs and also increasing the level of skills in the existing workforce. By focusing on those most in need of help, it contributes to reducing inequality, building a fairer society and developing a more competitive workforce, which are all key objectives both of my Department and the Executive.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The North West Lifelong Learning Association (NWLLA) is an independent charity based in Limavady that provides computer training and educational advice to the local community.
2. Media queries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office 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.