A TRAINING package worth more than £40 million backed by Merseyside's Objective One programme has been announced.

It is being financed by £21 million from the European Social Fund, £18 million from UK public funds and £2 million from the private sector.

The package includes 269 projects which will: Boost career development by improving skills; Help get new business started; Foster equal opportunities; Help people excluded from the labour market find jobs; Help employers keep graduates on Merseyside; Link employers with schools and colleges to help young people understand the world of work.

The wide ranging plans were welcomed by Merseyside Minister Robin Squire. "I am delighted to see that the training support announced today is throwing its net wide," he said.

He added: "Merseyside's Objective One partnership is showing a breadth of vision that will bring the benefit of quality training to people with widely differing needs.

"There is a huge pool of talent to tap in Merseyside - whether it is the unemployed looking for new skills or graduates with much to offer local companies. They can all play their part in helping Merseyside compete with the rest of the world.

"I also welcome the initiative that will help ensure that women are able to compete equally with men for jobs, as well as helping those other groups who are currently disadvantaged."

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