Job fair to tackle Larne’s high youth unemployment rate

The event, which will run on Friday February 4, will highlight employment, training and further education opportunities for local jobseekers and will include a youth zone, focusing on opportunities for the under-25 age group.

The proposal is being supported by the Department for Employment and Learning, LEDCOM and the local Jobs and Benefits Office.

According to a council report, in the Larne Jobs and Benefits Office, there were 546 claimants, of whom 146 were under the age of 25, as per information supplied on October 7 2015. Youth unemployment was “remaining stubbornly high”.

Cllr Mark McKinty welcomed the proposal during a meeting of the council’s Economic Growth and Development Committee on November 16, saying: “Youth unemployment is an issue which this borough isn’t unique in suffering from.The first job fair took place in Larne a couple of years ago and the outcome was very successful.

and noted that it is “an issue which has been raised consistently at Larne Development Forum in recent years.”

It added that a target list for the event of over 50 employers, employment agencies, training organisations and educational institutions has been drawn up based on those most likely to have vacancies or opportunities. available for local people.

A minimum target of 30 exhibitors will be pursued.

A council report recommended that council should provide £2000 towards the event.

“I propose that we do support this and it’s given as much support as possible.”

In response to a question from Alderman Gregg McKeen, a council officer said that the event would be open to all age groups with a “particular element focused on youth.”

Alderman Maureen Morrow, who is the Chair of Larne Development Forum, said that the Wilson room would be used for young people while the main room would deal with all other jobseekers.

Ald McKeen seconded the proposal, which was unanimously agreed by all councillors.