Ulster Unionist Spokesperson for Children & Young People, Sandra Overend, has congratulated the young people who have received their A-Level results.
The Mid-Ulster MLA said,
“I want to congratulate all those who have received their A Level results. Once again, the young people of Northern Ireland have done brilliantly in these important examinations, with 83.5% of students here achieving A*-C grades. This is a fantastic achievement and is to be commended.
"Many students will now be receiving offers for colleges and universities in Northern Ireland, all over the UK, and even some further afield. Many of course, aim to gain successful employment as soon as possible. No matter what your choice, I wish all students the very best for their future.
For those who did not get the grades that they wanted or needed, it is not the end of the world. There are a large number of options still available.
Whatever you achieve, be sure to take time to discuss your options with a teacher or careers advisor, and consider your decision carefully. Our Careers Advisory service must be the best that it can be at this time.”
Sandra, who is also the Ulster Unionist Spokesperson on the Economy, continued,
Regrettably the outlook for our young people going into employment is not particularly bright especially considering statistics released earlier this week: we know that there are 400 more people claiming unemployment related benefits in July 2012 in comparison to the previous month. That's a year on year increase of 3,000 - the second highest region of all the 12 UK regions.
When one considers the fact that Northern Ireland's youth unemployment figures are worse than the UK average, I am naturally concerned that our young people leaving school are facing a very difficult time in finding employment, with there being much more competition for every place available.
It is therefore encouraging to see so many Northern Ireland students achieving such good results. It is imperative, however, that the Enterprise Minister and the Employment & Learning Minister strive harder to help create more employment opportunities and to ensure that our young people are equipped for the world of work. The Ministers also need to ensure they provide businesses with the help and support businesses need to grow and prosper and to provide employment opportunities.”
I would challenge the two ministers to analyse the employment figures sector by sector to identify areas for potential growth and those areas which most require support. Action plans must then be drawn up and aggressively implemented to focus on those areas in a bid to tackle the month on month rise in unemployment claimants. Action is required NOW."
ENDS