The SDLP has welcomed the announcement that over £17million has been allocated for apprenticeships in Northern Ireland.

Economy Minister Diane Dodds allocated a total of £17.2m for enhanced apprenticeships.

SDLP economy spokesperson Sinead McLaughlin said the move is a "very positive step".

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She said: "Apprenticeships and other skills training programmes are essential for the employment prospects of our workers. They are also essential to reduce the risks of social division, financial hardship and the further fracturing of our society if we have young people excluded from the prospect of gaining employment. And we must never forget that good skills, along with strong infrastructure, will improve our productivity and generate future wealth for the benefit of all of Northern Ireland."