RURAL Development Minister Michelle O’Neill today (13 August) launched a new support package to help address youth unemployment in rural areas.
The CD Rom, ‘Get that Job Toolkit’, provides unemployed 16-24 year olds with a complete package of resources, support and guidance to ensure they have the skills and attitude needed to compete in today’s difficult job market.
It is part of the BOOST Programme, which is designed to help this age group get the opportunity to develop skills to increase their employability and improve their chances of securing a job.
The Programme is designed and managed by enterprise and employability expert Advantage Foundation Ltd, and supported by both the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Department for Employment and Learning.
Launching the CD Rom, Minister O’Neill said: “I am keen to ensure that the unemployed youth in rural areas get the assistance and support they need to help them into employment.
“This new resource will make the BOOST programme more accessible for the young unemployed in hard to reach rural areas. It allows a young person to work through a series of interactive modules, in their own home, at their own pace, developing their skills and knowledge as they go.”
The Minister added: “This initiative is also an excellent example of Executive Departments working closely together in responding to rural challenges, which is the core aim of the recently launched Rural White Paper Action Plan.
“Supporting young people in developing their skills and employability is vital, particularly in rural areas where opportunities can be limited. I would encourage unemployed young people in rural areas across the north to make the most of the support available through the BOOST programme.”
Also commenting on the Programme, Minister for Employment and Learning, Dr Stephen Farry MLA, said: “The Boost Programme will provide young people in rural areas with a valuable opportunity to improve their employability by acquiring important skills and knowledge required by local employers. I am pleased that the European Social Fund Programme has enabled the Department to support Boost, which promises to be an innovative initiative that will complement the Department’s mainstream employment and skills provision for young people in rural areas and throughout Northern Ireland.”
