Junior Minister Kelly addresses the Belfast Business Top 50 Awards ceremony

Junior Minister Gerry Kelly has attended the Belfast Business Top 50 Awards ceremony in the Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings at Stormont.

Speaking at the event the Minister emphasised that the economy was the number one priority for the Executive: “Clearly the fragile nature of our economy at the present time reinforces and validates the Executive’s decision to make growing a dynamic and innovative economy, our top priority.

“It is important that businesses balance cost cuttings with making the investment necessary to ensure they are in a position to continue to trade in the short term and to take advantage of any economic recovery."

The Minister added: “Achieving high levels of entrepreneurial activity is a key to success for economies. There are many issues that small businesses face on a day and daily basis, I would encourage you to discuss these issues with the support networks that exist.

"It is important that we recognise and pay tribute to the many small and medium enterprises operating in the North and the contribution they make to the local economy. This evening’s awards ceremony is an excellent way of recognising that contribution.”

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