Skillsafe scheme will protect apprentice training

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, today pledged to provide further support to help apprentices placed on short time working.

The Minister said: “As the impact of the recession continues to be felt across Northern Ireland, many employers, especially in the manufacturing engineering sector, have been forced to place a number of their employees on short time working patterns. Inevitably this is impacting on the department’s apprentices employed within these companies.

“As a result, my department has taken the decision to launch the Skillsafe scheme which will help affected apprentices to continue their training during their ‘down time’. It will take effect from 8 June 2009 for apprentices in manufacturing and engineering with a view to expanding to other key sectors. Apprentices will receive a training allowance to help boost their pay which will have been impacted as a result of being placed on short time working. This scheme will be part funded by the European Social Fund.”

Sir Reg continued: "This Skillsafe scheme is a practical way in which my department can financially support vulnerable apprentices and will augment the procedures we have already put in place to protect them from some of the effects of the recession. Apprentices are a vital link in our workforce and we must continue their training to ensure that we have a properly skilled workforce to take advantage of the upturn, when it comes.”

The department also has a dedicated team of officials available to businesses to help them identify and address their training requirements. These officials will provide advice and assistance on upskilling non-apprentice staff.

Anyone who wishes to find out more about the Skillsafe scheme, or to arrange a visit from a departmental official for skills advice, should contact the Department for Employment and Learning via 028 9044 1880, email: skillsafeni@delni.gov.uk or visit skillsafeni

Notes to Editors:

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