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Wairarapa employers can expect a new boost from the government's employment skills programme, says Wairarapa MP Georgina Beyer.
A package aimed at building skills in critical areas of the workforce was announced yesterday by Prime Minister Helen Clark and Tertiary Education Minister Steve Maharey.
Ms Beyer said the package will enhance worker education and training, and responds to demands from employers facing skills shortages.
"It'll be ideal for everyone in Wairarapa who wants better opportunities and more job security from work skills and qualifications.
"Based on our slice of the cake last year, the Wellington region's employers could expect to see roughly 55 more Modern Apprentices and around 486 more government-funded industry trainees. That'd bring the regional numbers to over 420 modern apprentices and almost 9,700 industry trainees.
"The Wellington region's economy, which includes Wairarapa, is strong and we're enjoying record employment levels, but many employers tell me they're finding it tough to meet growing demand for their goods and services; they'd be doing better if only they could put enough skilled workers onto the job."
The 'Skills Package' includes an extra $8.9 million nationally over the next four years for faster expansion of the Modern Apprenticeship scheme - providing 1000 more places this financial year.
It also provides a one-off addition of $5m for more participation in industry training - about 5000 additional funded industry-training places in 2005.
"The Government's working with employers to invest in our prime asset in a knowledge-based economy - the skills of our workers."
For more information, please see Steve Maharey's announcement at:
www.beehive.govt.nz/maharey
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