Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many young people participated in the youth training programme schemes in the districts of Castlereagh and Ards during the past 12 months; how many of these persons subsequently gained apprenticeships; and if he will make a statement on the effectiveness of the youth training programme scheme in the constituency of Strangford.
§ Mr. ViggersThe total number of young people participating in all full-time training schemes in the 12 months ending 31 December 1987 in the districts of Castlereagh and Ards was 902 and 631 respectively. In addition, a number of 17-year-olds were in employment with training under YTP work scheme.
Figures relating specifically to apprenticeship training within the Castlereagh and Ards districts are not available.
I am satisfied that the effectiveness of this programme is as positive in the Strangford constituency as it is in the remainder of Northern Ireland.