§ Mr. SpellarTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is his Department's latest estimate of the need for and availability of skilled workers in Northern Ireland. [19961]
§ Mr. AncramThe demand for skilled labour in Northern Ireland is increasing and in general there is a sufficient supply of suitable workers. However, the situation differs in different sectors and localities. Demand is particularly noticeable, for example, in the tourism sector. Action is being taken through the Training and Employment Agency, working with sector representative.bodies, to identify needs and to ensure that they can be met.