NOffLA’s RTC course wins IITD award
The award gives recognition to the innovative training initiative developed by NOffLA to ensure that all its members have access to training in the responsible retailing of alcohol.
This training programme began in 1996 and can now be completed by alcohol retailers through an online interactive e-learning programme. Completion of this together with an exam leads to qualification for a ‘Responsible Trading’ Certificate. NOffLA is the first and only organisation to provide an online training solution and certification to the off-trade in Ireland.
Representing independent off-licences across Ireland the Association works together with its 330 members (representing 5,600 jobs in 26 counties) to promote the responsible sale, marketing and consumption of alcohol and to share best practices with the entire trade.
NOffLA members’ outlets are generally owner-operated, located in the heart of the community and are specialist retailers with expert knowledge of their products.
The online module of this training programme was launched in June 2011 and has already trained over 200 employees from NOffLA’s member outlets.
The integrity of this programme is founded on the basis that companies and individuals involved on a day-to-day basis with consumers of alcohol need to make a binding commitment to conduct their trade in the most responsible and professional manner.
NOffLA Chairperson Evelyn Jones said, “We are very proud to have won this award as it provides our Association with validation and recognition that our online training programme is effective in bringing training to the retailer, which is important in these recessionary times. We hope our innovative approach will inspire and encourage decision-makers to introduce a nationwide and mandatory training programme for all staff retailing alcohol.
“Alcohol retail is highly regulated and as a result, this specialised training programme ensures that retailers of alcohol are fully familiar with the current legislation, the severe consequences of contravening the law and how to deal with the difficult situations that can arise. In the absence of mandatory training at government level, our members have undertaken this RTC training on a voluntary basis”.
