Patrick Gillian, an engineering apprentice with Fivemiletown Creamery, has been announced as Northern Ireland's Apprentice of the Year 2008.

The Apprentice of the Year competition, sponsored by City and Guilds, is open to young people currently on the Department for Employment and Learning's apprenticeship (Jobskills or Training for Success) programmes and showcases excellence in apprenticeship training. Presenting him with his award at a gala event in Belfast's Hilton Hotel, Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey said: "Patrick is an excellent example of the achievement that can be realised when a young person chooses an apprenticeship as a career path to highly skilled employment."

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"Patrick has emerged as a clear leader amongst his peer group and is recognised by his employer as a young man with a great desire to succeed, demonstrating a high degree of technical ability and commitment throughout his apprenticeship. He has made a significant and valuable contribution to Fivemiletown Creamery in improving efficiency and is a wonderful role model for others considering an apprenticeship."

There are now almost 8,000 apprentices currently training in Northern Ireland. All are following a training framework developed with the relevant industry sector, which includes attainment of a National Vocational Qualification, a technical certificate and specified essential skills.

(JM)