Strong economy will bring a prosperous future - Dodds

Newly appointed Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Investment, Nigel Dodds has outlined his commitment to build a strong, stable economy in Northern Ireland.

Speaking at Netherleigh, Mr Dodds said: “A strong economy is vital to ensure that we have a prosperous, vibrant and sustainable future for Northern Ireland. I am looking forward to building on the accomplishments of recent years and to strengthening Northern Ireland’s place as an integral part of the United Kingdom economy. I am of course aware that there are also many challenges ahead if our Province is to respond positively in the face of global competition and world-wide markets.

“We need to ensure continuing investment in skills, innovation and economic infrastructure if we are to attract and secure the quality investment on which to build the private sector. We must also demonstrate that Northern Ireland is a good place in which to do business and encourage our companies – mostly SMEs - to have the confidence to grow and to pursue international markets.”

The Minister continued: “DETI is a diverse department, with a wide range of issues and responsibilities. I am looking forward very much to learning about the opportunities and challenges which lie ahead in my new portfolio, and I am committed to making the Northern Ireland economy a strong and sustainable foundation, on which the prosperity of our current and future generations can be built.”