NI ‘must learn’ from world business practices

The Northern Ireland Employment and Learning Minister Sir Reg Empey, has begun a seven day trip to the USA with a fact finding mission in North Carolina.

The Minister was keen to learn more about the now the State encourages workforce and economic development and attracts inward investment. North Carolina has much in common with Northern Ireland and the relationship between the two regions, established over several years, has proved to be of mutual benefit.

Like Northern Ireland, North Carolina’s economy is in a period of transition with their traditional textile and furniture industries as well as manufacturing and tobacco growing all in decline and the “new age” industries of financial services, pharmaceutical manufacturing and high tech research all on the increase.

During the visit, the Minister met Erskine Bowles, President of North Carolina and Martin Lancaster, President of the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) to further explore examples of best practice in the two systems. The NCCCS, in particular, has worked closely with the Department for Employment and Learning in the past few years and has helped to shape many of the Department’s Further Education and Skills policies.

Commenting on the meeting, Sir Reg said: “In order to compete in a global market, Northern Ireland must learn from examples of best practice from around the world. The work being done in North Carolina is an excellent example of how a holistic approach encompassing Further and Higher Education and the business community can raise skills levels and attract inward investment.”

The Minister is expected to travel to Washington DC to experience the Smithsonian Folklife Festival first hand and speak at the University of Ulster Alumni Reception.

(JM)