News Item - Union Learning Fund

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Minister impressed by Liverpool John Lennon Airport's skills partnership

Workers and management from Liverpool John Lennon Airport, attended a unionlearn reception at the TUC conference (Wednesday 16 September) in Liverpool's Convention Centre where they told Pat McFadden MP, Business, Innovation and Skills Minister, how their trade union and management are working together to build the skills base in their workplace.

Picture caption: The Minister learned how the workers are gaining new skills, from left: David Otter, Liverpool John Lennon Airport's Head of Training and Development; Steve Penketh, GMB union learning rep; Pat McFadden, MP; Tom MacDonald, Unite union learning rep. ©2009 Copyright Rod Leon

Mark Whitworth, Liverpool John Lennon Airport's Chief Executive Officer, said: 'We have signed the Government's Skills Pledge. This means we will actively encourage and support our employees to gain the skills and qualifications that will support their future employability, and meet the needs of our business. Peel Airports Group recognises that our employees are fundamental to continued success and future growth. We also recognise the importance of training to enable our employees to achieve their full potential.'

Pat McFadden MP said: 'Tonight I've heard how people are being given the opportunity to maximise their learning potential. And that's why I came into politics, to help people make the best of their lives. These great achievements are thanks real commitment from management and unions to help their workforce gain new skills and experience, and from Government support through the Union Learning Fund'.

Tom Wilson, Director of unionlearn (the TUC's learning and skills organisation) said: 'This example of unions and employers working together in the North West should be followed by companies and organisations around the UK. Britain's trade unions pledge themselves to continue working enthusiastically with the Government and employers to upskill our countries' workforce. Through such partnership working we will all contribute ensuring Britain's economy is ready to benefit when the recession ends.'

Notes to Editor

- All unionlearn press releases can be found at www.unionlearn.org.uk

Contacts:

Media enquiries: Mike Power T:07900 914322 E: mpower@tuc.org.uk

Press release (400 words) issued 16 Sep 2009