Speaking at the event the Minister said: “Clearly we are in difficult economic times and it’s important that the Executive concentrates its endeavours and resources on giving people real hope that their circumstances can change for the better and that the economic climate will improve.
“The Executive is responding to the current economic downturn and laying sound foundations for the future through investment in infrastructure, enterprise, exporting, innovation, attracting foreign investment, tourism, sustainable energy and skills.
“During the last financial year spending under the Investment Strategy rose by 20% to £1.7billion helping to deliver regional projects on the ground and support local firms, suppliers and services.
“The importance of inter-trade on a North/South basis is also of critical importance in going forward, for the development of the island economy and the opportunities a single island market can present local businesses.
“The challenges of economic recovery are immense, however, I do believe that the priorities and energies of the Executive are properly focused on growth and how we position ourselves collectively going forward in achieving a sustainable prosperous future.”
Notes to Editors:
1. All media enquires to DRD Press Office, Tel: 028 9054 0817. Out of hours, contact the Deputy Press Officer via pager number 07699 71 5440, and your call will be returned.
