Rationale for Measure 1.3

This measure recognises that the skill demands of a growing economy require that needs are met at both ends of the spectrum. The Department for Employment and Learning has identified that there are very poor levels of performance in terms of literacy and numeracy, and that the lowest levels of performance often occur in those areas most disadvantaged by the years of conflict.

It is also recognised that at the other end of the spectrum regeneration will lead to a growth in higher value-added jobs requiring knowledge-based skills. There are consequences therefore in terms of re-skilling the current workforce and ensuring that new entrants to the labour market are appropriately equipped.