The importance of engineering skills to the NI economy has been highlighted.

Stormont Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has just launched Engineers Week 2010.

At Victoria College, Belfast, the Minister said: "I am honoured to have been asked to launch Engineers Week 2010. Engineering is at the heart of modern life.

"That is why my Department is currently working hard to promote careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

"The promotion of these subjects cannot be overstated as the STEM agenda is vital for economic regeneration on an all-Ireland basis."

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Engineers Week 2010 will run from 8-13 February 2010 and is jointly facilitated by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and Engineers Ireland. It involves companies opening their doors for school children to come along and experience the practical application of engineering in the world of work.

The Minister added: "Initiatives such as Engineers Week are so important. I would encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity that Engineers Week offers them to explore more closely the world of engineering and the career opportunities open to them.

"I hope that through Engineers Week we can spark the enthusiasm that will drive our young people towards a career in engineering, particularly young women who are under-represented in the profession."

She concluded: "Engagement between business and the education system as a whole is vital to the STEM agenda.

"This engagement needs to be done in a strategic and coordinated manner and initiatives such as Engineers Week help us to do this. It is also necessary for industry to identify and cultivate new talent and fresh thinking in order to move forward and in new directions."

(NS/BMcC)