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BUSINESS AND UNIONS BUILD WORLD CLASS
WORKFORCE FOR THE SOUTH EAST
5 December 2001
The 'World Class Workforce Conference' took place on Wednesday
28 November bringing together business and union leaders in wider
debate on fundamental workforce development issues in the South
East.
Organised jointly between the South East England Development
Agency (SEEDA) and the TUC Southern and Eastern Regional Council
(SERTUC) the conference aimed to advance pioneering work already
undertaken. The jointly formed SEEDA Workforce Development Group
has created an active forum for managers and union officials to
exchange ideas about best practice in industry.
TUC General Secretary, John Monks, SEEDA Chairman Allan Willett
CMG DL and Birds Eye Wall's Personnel Director, Richie Furlong,
joined the Minister of State for Employment Relations and Regions,
Alan Johnson MP, to encourage social dialogue at the regional
and local level. This will enable the South East to strengthen
its position as a leading player in both the UK and European economies.
More than 150 delegates represented employers from private and
public sectors, trade unions plus learning and skills organisations.
SEEDA, SERTUC officials and Government participated in discussion
groups developing themes including economic sustainability, competitiveness
with other EU regions, learning and skills initiatives, diversity
and partnership.
Supporting the joint conference initiative Allan Willett said:
"This is a milestone event in developing relationships with
trade union representation throughout the region. Creating a World
Class Workforce is a key element of our Regional Economic Strategy
and our trade union colleagues have a vital role to play in this."
Assistant General Secretary of the TGWU and SEEDA Board Member,
Barry Camfield, commented: "The general well being and social
cohesion of South East England relies heavily upon its ability
to succeed economically. This success involves many key players,
not least its workforce. This conference represents an important
step on the road to achieving a truly World Class Workforce across
the South East."
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