He was speaking ahead of an Alliance motion tomorrow (30 September), calling on the Economy Minister to fix Northern Ireland's skills gap by establishing a talent development agency to ensure greater alignment between skills development and higher education.

The Lagan Valley MLA has said: “In Northern Ireland, 25,000 of our young people, around one in ten 16-24 year olds, are not in education, employment, or training. This statistic is completely unacceptable.

“For too many, opportunities are limited, uncertain, or simply out of reach, leaving lives effectively put on hold. Every young person deserves the chance to develop their skills, to build a career, and to have hope for a better future here at home.

“That’s why Alliance has repeatedly campaigned for a joined-up and reliable skills pipeline — one that links apprenticeships, training, employment, and education, and ensures opportunities are available for everyone.

“Skills are the foundation of any economy, and an ever-growing skills base is vital if we are to deliver the economic and social transformation that Northern Ireland needs. No young person should be left without hope, and no business should be held back because the system is broken.

“Alliance is calling on the Economy Minister to establish a Talent Development Agency, modelled on Skillnet Ireland and other proven European approaches, which would connect education, training, and industry in a way that actually delivers, ensuring investment in skills goes hand-in-hand with investment in jobs.

“The skills gap must be addressed urgently. Businesses are calling for it and our young people deserve it, and with the right strategy and delivery plan, we can turn our incredible talent and vast potential into lasting prosperity for communities across Northern Ireland.”