Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has welcomed 143 Operational Delivery apprentices into the Department for Communities (DfC).

The new starters will help deliver essential frontline services across Northern Ireland. They will work under the supervision of a line manager and receive guidance from a mentor and a dedicated support officer, while undertaking a relevant qualification with Belfast Metropolitan College.

Gordon Lyons said: "It is my pleasure to welcome the apprentices who are gaining valuable work experience while carrying out important public service work.

"The pivotal role my Department has played in shaping and delivering this initiative is testament to our commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for people who want to make a difference to society.

"It has been striking to speak to the apprentices today and hear their enthusiasm for gaining new skills during their time with the Department.

"This is a great opportunity for apprentices to begin a successful career in the Civil Service and for public services here to benefit from their skills and enthusiasm. "I am determined to support more people into sustainable employment and reduce economic inactivity across Northern Ireland."

The scheme offers a starting salary of £25,796. On successful completion of the Operational Delivery Apprenticeship Scheme, including achievement of the qualification, apprentices will progress to the Administrative Officer (AO) grade with a salary of £26,449.

Among the new intake is Claire Harris, who has joined the Department for Communities Private Office. She said: "I'm delighted to have joined through the apprenticeship programme and to have the opportunity to work in Private Office.

"It's an exciting start to my career in the Northern Ireland Civil Service, and I'm looking forward to learning, contributing, and meeting lots of new people along the way. Private Office is one of the best places to start and I'm developing invaluable skills."

Noel Hudson, taking up a role as a Universal Credit Case Manager, said: "I feel that the combined nature of the job and course will prove to be invaluable for a career in the Civil Service.

"I appreciate the demand for this apprenticeship programme would have been intense, which makes me more determined than ever to succeed."