Minister comments on NI Construction Bulletin

Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson, has highlighted the importance of public sector investment to the construction industry and the local economy.

Speaking after the release of the latest Northern Ireland Construction Bulletin, Minster Wilson said: “It is disappointing to see a 2.5% fall in overall construction output from the previous quarter, largely due to reductions in the new build private housing and commercial sectors. However, it is encouraging to see that this has been partially offset by increases in new public sector housing and other new public sector works and infrastructure spend.

“The Executive is committed to continuing capital investment to help local firms through these difficult times. Net capital investment by NI departments increased to £1.5billion in 2008-09. Capital spend in the Department for Social Development for example was £228million last year, an increase of 88.8% from 2004-2005. This has helped ensure that this is the third quarter in a row that new public sector housing has shown an increase”.

The Minister concluded: “The bulletin confirms that there has been a further decrease in employment levels within the industry. However, had it not been for the continued increase in public sector investment, the difficulties experienced by the industry would have been much worse and job losses would have been even higher. The Executive will continue to do its utmost for the sector and the future of the local economy”.

Notes to editors:

Media enquiries to DFP Communications Office on 028 9052 7375. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.