EMPLOYMENT and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry has described the work of a local charity as ‘vitally important’ in helping people with disabilities access work.
He was attending a Celebration of Achievement event held by The Cedar Foundation.
Funded by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) and the European Social Fund (ESF), its Vocational and Employability Service Programme aims to improve the employability of people with disabilities by reducing or removing their personal barriers to employment.
The event held at the Clandeboye Estate, Bangor recognised the recent achievements of its local users and the continuing development of staff.
Mr Farry said: “These awards recognise the work that is being undertaken by The Cedar Foundation and provide an opportunity to congratulate the participants on their successes.
“The programme provides participants with relevant training, support, assistance, advice and guidance that will enhance their future training and employment opportunities. It also strengthens participants’ confidence, and helps create the conditions where participants can fulfil their potential.
“I congratulate The Cedar Foundation and its partners for the vitally important work they provide.”
The Vocational and Employability Service Programme will receive funding of up to £3.4m from DEL and the ESF over the period April 2011 — March 2014.
Stephen Mathews, chief executive of Cedar, said: “I am delighted that the minister could join us today in celebrating our achievements. I would like to thank him for presenting awards and for the long and successful partnership between Cedar and the Department for Employment and Learning.”