13 September 2001

SEOUL BECKONS FOR N.I. WORLD SKILLS COMPETITORS

Four Northern Ireland students will compete with the best in the world at this year’s World Skills Competition being held in Seoul, South Korea.

Part of a 30 strong UK team they will compete in the 36^th World Skills Competition.

The competitors, Richard Craig, Londonderry, Plumbing; Alex Lockhart, Richhill, Commercial Wiring; Richard Rooney, Downpatrick, Carpentry; and Tracy Megoran, Downpatrick, Women’s Hairdressing; overcame stiff competition at National Skills competitions to win their much coveted places.

Minister for Employment and Learning Dr Sean Farren met with some of the competitors before they flew out to Seoul and said: "I am delighted to see Northern Ireland so well represented as a region in the UK team for this event. I wish them every success and know that they will all endeavour to bring four gold medals back home."

Mr Ian Walters, Chief Executive of the Training and Employment also wished the competitors well. He said: "Your success at National level reflects the high standard of training which is delivered through our Further Education colleges and other training organisations and also the calibre of the young people working towards NVQs in their chosen professions. As local ambassadors at this prestigious competition you are amongst the best in the world."

Media Enquiries to Kevin Mulhern, Press Office telephone 028 902 57790 or mobile 07799 711523.

Notes to Editors:

1. The World Skills Competition is a biennial event. 35 countries world-wide participate. During four days of gruelling competition over 600 competitors showcase their outstanding technical skills in their respective trades.
2. The 36^th World Skills Competition will take place in Seoul, Korea, 13-16 September 2001 – this competition aims to challenge young people, teachers, trainers and employers to achieve world-class standards of competence in commerce, services and industry and to raise the profile of vocational education and training.
3. Over 40 occupational skills will be featured in the 2001 competition – ranging from Bricklaying, Jewellery, Autobody Repair and Hairdressing to Information Technology, Cookery, Graphic Design, Industrial Electronics and Computer Aided Design (CAD).
4. Contestants will compete for Gold, Silver and Bronze medals – Diplomas of Excellence are awarded to those who reach a defined international standard.
5. UK competitors are selected from the overall winners of recognised national competitions, having fought their way through regional and national competitions to compete on an international stage. Competitors will be supported by a team who coach them through a personalised training programme.