OVER 400 people who want to work on Pembrokeshire's proposed multi-million pound LNG (liquified natural gas) terminals have already registered with a new job bank set up by Milford Haven Jobcentre.

Most are locals who have been forced to look for employment outside the county. They want to return to Pembrokeshire because their families are still living here.

The job bank was set up because of anticipated demand from contractors for local labour, for the construction of the LNG terminals at Waterston and South Hook, Milford Haven.

The aim is to see what skills gaps there are in the building, energy and mechanical engineering sectors in the county.

Representatives from a range of training interests recently met to look at how they can respond.

The group, chaired by the Pembrokeshire CCET - the body responsible for co-ordinating training in the county - is exploring ways of setting up training to industry standards.

Said Mr Eddie McCann, west Wales business development manager for JobCentre Plus: "The job bank has already had a good response. Over 400 people are registered. They have a range of skills - labourers, pipe fitters, welders, mechanical fitters, electricians and electrician's mates."

He added: "We hope to find out their training needs and put something in place prior to work beginning."

Mr Bernie George, who chairs the meetings of the training groups, said: "The next stage is to consult with local employers to ensure that the training we are proposing meets their needs. In this way we will ensure that the training undertaken will lead to offers of employment for those who wish to gain new skills or update their existing skills."

ANYONE seeking work on one of the LNG or oil refinery maintenance projects, or with previous experience in any occupation in the constructional engineering sector, should contact Sara Kenny at Milford Haven Jobcentre on 01646 483600 to register their details, including training needs.