An employability programme which is helping women back into the workplace will now receive funding until March 2015, according to Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry.
He attended a recent event at Hillsborough Castle marking the achievements of those completing the European Social Fundbacked education project.
The event, organised by the Kilcooley and Shankill Women’s Centres, recognised the success of the scheme which provides opportunities to improve the employability of women enabling them to better compete in the labour market.
Speaking at the event, minister Farry said: “This event recognises the work that is being undertaken by the Kilcooley and Shankill Women’s Centres, and provides an opportunity to recognise the participants on their successes.
“The programme, which is funded by the European Social Fund via my department, has a particular focus on supporting initiatives to help address inequalities in the labour market.
It aims to improve the employability of those striving to enter sustainable employment by equipping participants with qualifications, skills and work experience.
“I commend the Kilcooley and Shankill women’s centres, and other partners, including the Training for Women Network, for the vitally important work they provide.”
Also speaking at the event Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland said: “I am pleased to be able to support these very worthwhile projects and share my executive colleague minister Farry’s enthusiasm for the invaluablework carried out by both Shankill and Kilcooley women’s centres and congratulate the participants on their successes.
“My department provides 35% match funding towards the total project costs to support ESF programmes.
I want to target resources in a way which has maximum impact.
These organisations are at the heart of the community and offer invaluable services to some of the most deprived areas in Northern Ireland.
Their collective aim of reducing economic inactivity and increasing workforce skills is a welcome boost especially in the current economic climate.”