26 January 2000

FARREN PRAISES NEWRY TRAINEES

Eight young Newry trainees are among the first in Northern Ireland to achieve Modern Apprenticeships in Light Vehicle Body Repair, Dr. Sean Farren, the Minister for Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment, revealed today.

Dr Farren was speaking as he presented the trainees with certificates at Clanrye Employment and Training Services in Newry.

He said: "These young people have worked extremely hard and shown great commitment and determination to achieve their National Vocational Qualifications.

"Indeed, through their drive and dedication they have earned the distinction of being among the first in Northern Ireland to complete a Modern Apprenticeship in Light Vehicle Body Repair.

"Modern Apprenticeships are a key part of the way ahead - they enable more young people to achieve higher level qualifications and skills. They also provide opportunities for progression to further, higher and lifelong education and training and will give companies in Northern Ireland access to a pool of more highly skilled and qualified young workers at a local level."

Clanrye Employment and Training Services, in partnership with local employers, provides vocational training for young people under the Jobskills programme. It is contracted to deliver the New Deal Core Gateway Programme in the Newry area.

The Minister added: "It is vital that employers and training providers work together to raise the skills levels of our young people.

"The partnership Clanrye has created with local employers in the development and delivery of the Modern Apprenticeship Programme is doing just that. It is a win win situation for all."

 

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Clanryre Employment and Training Services, part of Clanrye Abbey Development, was set up in March 1982.

Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) were introduced into Northern Ireland in 1996 in response to employer demand to enhance the status of apprenticeships and improve the supply of young people with skills for the future.

MAs are open to 16-24 year olds who follow a training framework leading to NVQ Level 3.

For further information please contact Paul Rainey on 01232 257792.