The Minister of Labour, Home Affairs and Housing has presented national occupational certificates to 170 welders and electricians.

They are the first local tradesmen to complete the National Training Board programme.

Senator David Burch told the recipients during the event yesterday: "This occasion signals a major milestone in this country. Raising the bar to international standards."

The Ministry introduced the national certification scheme with assistance from local industry experts, to promote proficiency, competence and safety in vocational occupations.

The new regulations came into effect December 2009. They meet international standards and apply to automotive service technicians, electricians and welders.

In order to become qualified, workers must complete examinations and coursework, submit a work binder, and attend a customer service programme and interview with an industry board.

According to the Minister: "The Department of Immigration has aligned its policies with the requirements for national certification to ensure that our guest workers also demonstrate competence in their occupation.

"This will assuredly minimise fraudulent activity and provide a 'level playing field' in employment practices.

"Consumers can expect to encounter more qualified professional tradesmen, increased safety awareness and possibly reduced expenses. A nationally certified technical workforce adds credibility to industry."

The Minister said certification for carpentry, masonry, horticulture and plumbing for certification will begin next year.