8 December 2004
Trainees and Apprentices Recognised at Christmas Function
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Syd Stirling MLA
Minister for Employment, Education and Training
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More than 250 apprentices and trainees from the Greater Darwin area are attending a special Christmas function in their honour at Parliament House this afternoon (8 December).
Employment, Education and Training Minister Syd Stirling, who will host the function, said it was a chance to acknowledge and celebrate the important role apprentices and trainees play in the development of the Territory.
“Undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship can be a real challenge, involving many sacrifices and lots of hard work,” Mr Stirling said.
“But the skills and expertise gained last a lifetime.
“With the Territory currently facing skills shortages, we need to work hard to build our skills base.
“It’s important that we support and encourage young people as much as possible to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship. Without them, we do not have a workforce of tomorrow.
“The Territory Government is already on track to meet its Jobs Plan commitment to put on more than 7000 trainees and apprentices over three years, with 2900 in training in the first year of the Jobs Plan.
“This evening’s function is a chance to congratulate and encourage those young people who are undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship and inspire other young people to do the same.
“It is also an opportunity to acknowledge those employers and trainers who are investing in our young people and providing them with employment and training opportunities.”
Mr Stirling said the Territory Government had held similar apprentice and trainee functions throughout the Territory in 2004.
Tonight’s function is being held in Main Hall, Parliament House, starting at 5.30pm .