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Apprentices are the lifeblood of our economy - Empey

19 December 2007

Employment and Learning Minister Sir Reg Empey today stressed the importance of apprentices to achieving a thriving and growing economy in Northern Ireland.

During a visit to FG Wilson in Larne, he congratulated the company for the part it has played in creating apprenticeships and training young people.

FG Wilson is an internationally renowned exporter of generator sets and has received numerous accolades for its approach to corporate responsibility. It recently won a prestigious National Training Award for a programme that demonstrates excellence in the training and development of employees.

The company has also taken on a number of apprentices in disciplines such as Mechanical Fitting and Fabrication and Welding, under the Department for Employment & Learning’s ‘Training for Success’ provision.

Speaking with members of FG Wilson’s Senior Management Team, Sir Reg said: “Northern Ireland is changing - a tangible new confidence is starting to emerge and there is a sense of possibility and change throughout the business community. This is reflected by companies recognising the need to invest in their people and I am delighted that FG Wilson is continuing its exemplary track record in training by engaging fully with ‘Training for Success’ and apprenticeships.”

NOTES TO EDITORS:

  1. The National Training Award is a prestigious competition that is highly regarded by the business community in the UK. The award recognise excellence through lasting training and development of staff.
  2. ‘Training for Success’ is the Department for Employment & Learning’s primary work-based learning provision that was launched in September 2007.
  3. Media queries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on (028) 9025 7872.
  4. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.