More than 50,000 people in Wales have been helped into work thanks to the Government’s New Deal initiatives.

SEVEN people are celebrating after picking up awards at a prestigious ceremony to mark over 50,000 people being helped into work thanks to the Government’s New Deal initiatives in Wales.

Since the first New Deal was introduced in Wales in 1998, over 50,000 people have found jobs.

And those who have been most successful were presented with Welsh Crystal rose bowls and £50 vouchers to mark their success at an awards ceremony at the Museum of Welsh Life, St Fagans, Cardiff.

These were award winners for New Deal for Young People; New Deal 25 Plus; New Deal 50 Plus; New Deal for Lone Parents and New Deal for Disabled People.

Welsh Office Minister Don Touhig was at the event. He said: "This is a milestone in the success of the Government’s New Deal initiative in Wales.

"The fact that no fewer than 50,000 people taking part in New Deal have found work in Wales shows how successful the scheme has been in helping unemployed people find work.

"I warmly congratulate all the winners in the various New Deal categories who have shown great enterprise in pursuing new careers. Such achievements could not happen without partnership, and I very much welcome the co-operation of Jobcentre Plus, the Government, National Assembly, local authorities, training providers, the voluntary sector and the employers who have all played their part in making this possible."

Jane Davidson, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: "Helping 50,000 long-term unemployed people into jobs is a remarkable achievement, and I commend the dedication of Jobcentre Plus and its partners for the magnificent work undertaken in Wales since January 1998.

"Welsh employers who have supported the New Deal should also be congratulated - around 8,000 in total. Their commitment for the New Deal has played a significant part in this success story. But let us not forget the hard work of the 50,000 people who have left unemployment for jobs. Each job is a personal triumph for everyone who has succeeded in gaining employment."

Sheelagh Keyse, Director of Jobcentre Plus, Wales, said: "I am delighted that Jobcentre Plus in Wales has achieved this significant milestone. This is a celebration of the hard work and commitment of all my colleagues in jobcentre plus, clients and partners.

"This shows how The New Deal initiatives in Wales are giving jobseekers a helping hand to overcome any barriers in getting back to work."

Malcolm Mumford, the Human Resources Manager of Dixons, spoke of the benefits of the New Deal initiatives to employers at the event. He said: "Dixons Group have been actively involved in supporting the New Deal initiative since its inception. I am delighted to fully support New Deal as an employer. I hope that Dixons' enthusiasm will encourage other employers to become involved in the programme."