A ground-breaking UK 'Skills Passport' (UKSP), a new tool to enhance the experience of those in the hospitality, tourism, travel and leisure industry, has been launched

The Department for Employment and Learning and the Sector Skills Council People 1st have launched the UKSP which is a major initiative with Northern Ireland selected as an initial region to roll-out the programme to employers.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey, said:

“UKSP is an excellent initiative for Northern Ireland. By improving the skills of employees in the Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism sector we will not only give tourists a higher quality of visit, but also allow Northern Ireland to develop internationally competitive business.

"The passport will encourage continuous training and provide an environment in which employers within the hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism sector have access to the right number of people, with the right skills and qualifications.”

Edward Brian Wisdom, Chief Executive, People 1st commented: "Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in Northern Ireland and most school leavers are unaware of the huge range of opportunities offered by our sector.

"UKSP brings together some of the best employers in Northern Ireland and shows potential employees where the best places to work are. We need to use UKSP to engage with the brightest and best to get them to look at a career in our vibrant sector."

UKSP has been welcomed and adopted by leading Northern Ireland’s hoteliers, including Bill Wolsley and Howard Hastings, who both see it as an important tool to not only recruit new employees, but to improve the skills of employees currently in the sector.

Chris McClurg from Shu Restaurant and winner of the 2007 Robbie Millar Scholarship is delighted to be one of the first UKSP holders: “I wish UKSP had been up and running when I started out in the industry. I can now easily research courses and learn about new skills and training available. This will be an essential tool for any young person considering a career in the Hospitality, Tourism, Travel and Leisure industry.”

(BMcC)