Focus must remain on long term economic growth - Wilson

Finance Minister Sammy Wilson has said that the Executive should continue to support long term sustainable economic growth.

The Minister, who made the call against the background of a tightening financial environment, was speaking during a visit to the Port facilities in Warrenpoint Harbour, where he met with the Port’s Chief Executive, Peter C Conway and viewed the harbour facilities.

Speaking during his visit, Minister Wilson highlighted that because of the current difficult global economic climate, it was important for the Executive to maintain its focus on supporting the economy.

He said: "Northern Ireland’s Ports represent a key strategic asset, which benefits not only industry but also the wider public interest through their ability to drive economic growth. It is therefore essential that these continue to be successfully managed as they attract inward investment, enable our business to access overseas markets and make a significant contribution to economic growth and long term prosperity."

Minister Wilson also stressed that in light of the tighter financial environment, the economy should remain the lead priority for the Government.

He continued: "As announced last week, Northern Ireland’s public sector faces an additional budgetary reduction of £128million, with further constraints possible, as a result of the 2010 Spending Review. Given the likely restrictions that this tighter financial environment will place on Departments, it is essential that the Executive continues to focus investment on areas which not only represent sound value for money but also deliver long-term economic growth.

"The Executive faces difficult decisions in the coming years, but it remains my position that inefficiency in public services must be tackled to enable resources to be allocated to essential front line services and investment in our infrastructure."

Notes to editors:

Warrenpoint is Northern Ireland’s second largest port. As such, the Port operated by Warrenpoint Harbour Authority (WHA), has a vital role in serving the manufacturing, agricultural and construction sectors of the regional economy and handles a range of products including dry and liquid bulk, general cargo, Load On/Load Off (LoLo) and Roll On/ Roll Off (RoRo). The port is regarded as a major economic asset in the Newry and Mourne region.