19 July 2001

NEW CAREER IN THE BAG FOR JAMES

James McErlean has put unemployment to bed and bagged himself a new job as a processing operator at Bulrush Peat in Bellaghy, through the Training and Employment Agency’s New Deal 50plus.

The 53 year old, who had been unemployed for 8 years, previously worked in the construction industry. However, without any means of transport, employment options were limited. James says: "Through New Deal 50plus I was determined to get a job. I saw a vacancy in Ballymena JobCentre for a processing operator in Bulrush Peat. I applied, went for an interview and within a week was notified I had been successful.

"I was absolutely delighted. In addition to getting the job I was eligible for the New Deal 50plus credit benefits. This meant that I would receive Employment Credit of £60 a week tax free for up to a year on top of my wage. The extra money has helped me to buy a new car, so transport will not be a problem in the future."

Sharon Graham, Personal Adviser at Ballymena JobCentre, says: "I have seen a dramatic change in James since he joined Bulrush Peat. His confidence has increased, he is more outgoing and he has become more independent since the purchase of his new car.

"James was determined to get employment and his positive approach has definitely paid off.

"With New Deal 50plus there is a Training Grant of up to £750 which may be available when you start work and James is currently looking into availing of this."

Liam Devlin, Factory Manager at Bulrush Peat, feels that the company has benefited from employing James. He says: "There are numerous assets that employees who are 50plus can bring to the workplace. James has a strong work ethic; he is reliable while being flexible and has fitted seamlessly into the team at Bulrush. This has been a testimony to his previous work experience.

"The New Deal 50 plus programme has benefited both James and Bulrush."

For further information on the New Deal 50plus programme contact your local JobCentre on freephone 0800 353530.

For further information, please contact the press office on 028 9025 7792 Or Anna Shiels/Neil Lynas at Carmah Communications on 028 9127 5965.