Sammy Wilson visits one of Northern Ireland’s most promising successes

Finance Minister Sammy Wilson visited the Northern Ireland Science Park (NISP) in Queen’s Island, Belfast, to find out about its work and its plans for the future.
~ Friday, 3 February 2012

The Minister was greeted on arrival by the Chairman Frank Hewitt and met with Board members where he was briefed about the work of the NI Science Park.

Sammy Wilson said: “I was most impressed with what I heard and saw. The innovative work that goes on in the Science Park is one of Belfast’s best kept secrets, yet it is a striking example of how the NI economy can move forward in difficult times, by developing the talents of our people and turn these into flourishing businesses that are internationally respected.

“The Science Park provides the perfect environment for new creative businesses to spark off one another; providing not only support and nurture but direct access to equity finance.

“We, as an Executive also need to examine ways that we can further support these sorts of business in the high risk early years, when the good ideas are trying to evolve into viable businesses, that can then go on to attract funding. We need to ensure the scientific and engineering talent we have supported through our schools and universities doesn’t leave Northern Ireland but stays here to help grow our economy.”

The Minister also heard about the proposals and ambitions of the Board to develop a satellite site in the North West.

The Minister said: “It is clearly evident from the facilities provided at the NISP in Belfast - which has over 100 companies, employing over 1,500 people and with an impressive occupancy level of nearly 100% - that it is already making a valuable contribution to the Northern Ireland economy. It is proving its success and an extension to the Londonderry area could provide a real boost to the economy and fully exploit the intellectual resources of the North West.

“The top priority of the Executive’s Programme for Government (PfG) is about rebalancing and rebuilding our economy and the businesses such as those within NISP will only continue to add value and complement the strategies detailed in the PfG securing and developing Northern Ireland’s reputation as a source of high quality, high value-added business.”

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