SDLP Foyle MLA and Economy spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin
Said the Foyle MLA: “The Covid-19 crisis has placed serious obstacles to the employment opportunities, in particular, for our young adults.
“That is why it is so important to shine a light on the organisations that are working hard to bring valuable opportunities to our city.
“Buy Social is one such organisation and the Altnagelvin North Wing Redevelopment Project is one of their many success stories.
“They worked closely with Farrans and the Department of Health to engage 4,686 young people in a range of opportunities, including New Entrant Trainee weeks, work experience and apprenticeships. Farrans won a well-deserved GO Social Value Award as a result.
“I recently met with Buy Social to discuss their other construction projects in Derry.
“It was great to learn more about their plans to create employment for long term unemployed and apprenticeships for young people.
“I wish the Buy Social Team continued success and hope to support them in their future projects.”
She added: “I have long championed apprenticeship programmes and successfully lobbied the Economy Minister Diane Dodds for additional funding.
“As they are amongst the groups most affected by this pandemic, I will continue to push for further investment in our young people.
“Indeed, I recently submitted a written Assembly question asking about plans to introduce the Kickstart scheme for businesses in the North to create job placements for 16 to 24 year olds.
“I am pleased that the Communities Minister has since provided confirmation that this scheme will start in November.
“It will play a key role in our economic recovery and help set our young people on a path to success.’’
