6 June 2000

MOBILE LANGUAGE UNIT PROVIDES LEARNING BOOST FOR FERMANAGH

An innovative approach to learning a new language for people in rural areas was launched today by the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Higher and Further Education, Mr Alan Shannon.

Speaking at Fermanagh College, Mr Shannon said: "The provision of this mobile language unit will open up new learning opportunities for people living in isolated areas in Fermanagh and the border area, who would otherwise not have access to modern, quality training facilities.

"Speaking a new language can really open up new avenues and business opportunities for individuals and small firms, particularly in areas like Fermanagh where tourism is a way of life.

"There is nothing more welcoming and hospitable to visitors than being provided with information and assistance in their native tongues.

"The expected increase in tourists coming to these shores will provide those who learn a new language with further scope to communicate directly with visitors from mainland Europe.

"It will help add a further dimension to the already high level of hospitality and service provided in this county of outstanding natural beauty."

The European Union Special Support Programme for Peace and Reconciliation (SSPPR) and Fermanagh Local Action Group funds the Fermanagh College Mobile Unit. The facilities will provide accredited language training in French, Irish, Spanish and German combined with computer skills for people living in rural areas.

Mr Shannon also presented certificates to women who have returned to training under the Fermanagh College SPARROWS programme, funded by the European SSPPR. He added: "Lifelong Learning is about encouraging the development of learning throughout our lives. It is the primary objective of my Department and contributes to personal development and ultimately economic success.

"The successes here today will help improve employability and help people find work in the local Hospitality and Tourist industry and beyond."

During his day-long visit schedule in Enniskillen Mr Shannon also opened the new Learn Direct facilities in the Intec Centre. This is one of five pilot sites for the University for Industry's Learn Direct Initiative.

He visited the Training Centre and local JobCentre to see at first hand the work being undertaken to help people get back to work.