3 April 2000

GETTING OLDER PEOPLE BACK TO WORK - GOVERNMENT INVESTS

£10 MILLION IN NEW DEAL 50 plus FOR NORTHERN IRELAND

The Government is to invest £10 million in the New Deal 50 plus programme in Northern Ireland "to change people's lives for the better", Minister of State, Adam Ingram, revealed today.

Speaking in the B&Q Superstore in Belfast, where he launched New Deal 50 plus, Mr Ingram said: "Many people over 50 find that although they want to work it is difficult to find a worthwhile job that pays a decent wage. Others want to work but need help and advice, and sadly there are some employers who simply discard the skills and experience of older employees because of their age.

"New Deal 50 plus aims to help change all that.

"It will guarantee a take home income of at least £170 per week for a year for a 35 hour week. In addition, it can provide a £750 training grant to the individual concerned and will give them access to their own New Deal Personal Adviser who will advise and guide them on training and employment opportunities."

New Deal 50 comes into operation today, is entirely voluntary and is also available for those wanting to start up their own business.

The Minister added: "The basic condition for entry is that people must be aged 50 or over and on benefits for six months or more. After that it is entirely up to them to decide whether or not to take part.

"They will not lose any benefits if they decide not to, but New Deal 50 plus will make sure they are better off and more independent than if they stay on benefit.

"The simple fact is that if Northern Ireland's businesses and economy are to succeed and prosper, we have to make the best possible use of the skills and abilities of everyone, regardless of age. New Deal 50 plus can, and will, make a real difference."

Anyone interested in New Deal 50 plus should contact their local JobCentre to make an appointment with a New Deal Personal Adviser.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

For further information, photographs, interviews and a case study, please contact Simon Burrowes on 01232 257831 or 0850 976067.