Write a commentSocial Development Minister, Nelson McCausland yesterday visited the Southern Regional College in Newry where he launched a qualification for those wishing to work in the offshore industry.
The Basic Offshore Safety Induction & Emergency Training (BOSIET) qualification, which will be delivered through the Oceans 14 project in the SRC, will provide accredited training and employment opportunities. The course covers safety and emergency response procedures such as fire fighting, first aid and sea survival. On completion, participants will be able to seek and secure employment in the Oil and Gas offshore industries.
Minister McCausland said: “This is another innovative project developed by the Southern Regional College, with the aim of providing training and employment opportunities for Neighbourhood Renewal residents.
“To date the Department has provided funding of £2.5 million to the College for 17 separate and highly innovative training programmes across the southern area, with over 1600 residents gaining accredited qualifications. This is a major achievement.
“These projects clearly demonstrate what can be achieved through working in partnership with government, statutory bodies and the voluntary and community sector. They will help sustain existing jobs and create new employment opportunities for residents within the Newry Neighbourhood Renewal Area this making a significant contribution to the economic regeneration of this area.”
Southern Regional College Assistant Director, David Vint, praised the commitment of participants on the programme saying: “I hope the BOSEIT qualification will prove to be a valuable community asset and in the future will provide a platform to help stimulate employment and enable those who have benefitted to use their skills and experiences to develop their career paths. Southern Regional College, in partnership with other statutory and voluntary organisations, wish to deliver real benefits for local people and seeks to be an agent for meaningful social change.”
