Robinson & McGuinness - US investment key to local economy

Ahead of an upcoming investment mission to the United States, First Minister Rt Hon Peter D Robinson MP, MLA and deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA have outlined the importance of inward investment to the local economy.

The Ministers highlighted the difference that inward investment has already made to the local economy and outlined the potential for future investment.

Mr Robinson said: "This will be my third visit as First Minister to the US to discuss potential investment opportunities with US based companies. The results of these visits are there for all to see. In the past year alone we have seen some of America’s best know brand names invest in Northern Ireland. The New York Stock Exchange announced that it would expand its technologies division in Belfast, creating up to 400 new jobs.

“Universal Pictures completed the filming of ‘Your Highness’, a multi-million dollar feature film at the Paint Hall in Belfast. This film alone infused nearly £10million into the local economy, employing hundreds of cast and crew from Northern Ireland. In June, HBO will begin filming 'Game of Thrones' in the Paint Hall, a nine part television series that could potentially be worth £20million to the local economy."

Mr McGuinness said: "As the First Minister has pointed out, despite perhaps the most economically difficult year in living memory, we have succeeded in attracting significant inward investment. We have competed with other regions and have won significant investment. The reason that we are outperforming others is, I believe, quite simple, investors recognise we have the local talent and expertise to build and grow their businesses.

"Over the course of next week’s trip our comprehensive programme will see us meet with a wide range of potential investors and political leaders. We shall spend our time promoting and selling the benefits of investing in the North. I have no doubt that, as with previous trips, this trip will lead to investment and the creation of jobs in the future."

The Ministers will begin their visit with a series of investment meetings in Chicago where they will also meet the Mayor of the city Richard M Daley, before heading to Washington DC for further investment meetings. On St. Patrick's Day, the First Minister and deputy First Minister will meet with US President Barack Obama, having earlier met Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton.

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