Farry launches innovative employment programme for Causeway Coast

The initiative entitled SOURCE is part of the Local Employment Intermediary Service [LEMIS] and provides tailored assistance to the long-term unemployed to find employment. The programme will be delivered by community based organisation, Network Personnel in Ballycastle.

Speaking at the official opening of Network Personnel offices in Ballycastle, the Minister said: “In the current economic climate it is vital that we do all we can to help people find jobs and progress in the labour market. Through LEMIS, we can specifically target those individuals in areas of most need, and work with them to help them find employment. We will continue to work with community-based organisations, such as Network Personnel, on a range of initiatives which are designed to have a positive input in the Moyle area.”

The Minister continued: “My Department has invested £7.4 million in LEMIS since the service began in April 2007 and over 1,800 people have entered full-time permanent employment. In making this type of targeted provision available, it is vitally important that we ensure people, from whatever background, have the right skills to help them move into a job and compete effectively in the labour market.”

The service is also provided by local community employment organisations in Belfast, Londonderry, Strabane, Newry & Mourne and Cookstown; areas identified by the Noble Indices of Multiple Deprivation as having the highest levels of unemployment/low employment.

Network Personnel will offer an impartial and confidential advice and support service to help people in Moyle find a job that best suits their skills and abilities. The service is voluntary, person centred, flexible and puts the needs of the client first.