NI entrants top National Training Awards

Twenty Northern Ireland entrants in this year’s National Training Awards competition have won prizes for excellence.

During a ceremony at Belfast City Hall yesterday evening, a total of 30 National and Regional Awards were presented to employers, individuals, partnerships and training organisations.

Of the 30 trophies presented, 20 trophies were presented in the Regional category with 10 of these receiving National winner status, which is a record for Northern Ireland.

Statistics show that, this year, Northern Ireland has cornered 20% of the total UK-wide National winning entries.

Commenting on the winners, Employment and Learning Minister, Maria Eagle MP, said: “This year has been a landmark one for Northern Ireland in the prestigious National Training Awards competition. The success of the winning entries is a clear reflection of the importance that is being placed on the development of people through education, training and teamwork.

“When the government launched the Northern Ireland Skills Strategy earlier this year, the emphasis was on tackling economic inactivity and increasing the skills of the working age population."

The Minister added: “That work continues, as does the recognition of exemplars like the winners tonight, who are demonstrating the impact training can have on the real world of work and ultimately the local economy. The winners can be justifiably proud of their achievements.”

If you are interested in attending a National Training Awards information seminar in November, please log on to www.delni.gov.uk/nta-information-seminars.

(EF/KMCA)