Ritchie launches extern's new innovative business scheme

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie MLA, launched Extern’s innovative new computer recycling project in Newtownabbey today.

Extern Recycle ensures that computer data is wiped from used computers, which, rather than going to landfill, are handed over to the community, including education outlets and charities, for use.

Wishing Extern every success in its initiative, Margaret Ritchie said: “I am enthused by this project. What you are doing is right for the environment. Ensuring computers are not left rusting in landfills but being re-used in offices and classrooms. And what you are doing is also right for the community. Many charities and many education facilities will now benefit from these computers, IT technology that may have been previously unavailable to them.”

Referring to the business potential of the venture Margaret Ritchie said: “What I particularly like about the project is that you are giving hostel residents the opportunity to learn new skills, improve their self confidence and feeling of self worth. In essence, a possible pathway to full employment. Enhanced employment opportunities help prevent homelessness. Help prevent the repeat cycle of homelessness.

“There is a market for what you are doing. Grants have been forthcoming from Rehab Recycle, Belfast City Council, Invest NI, Extern and the Housing Executive and I thank them for that. But I’m confident that this project can not only become self sustaining, but profitable, in the coming years. You have captured a niche market and capitalised on the ever growing public awareness to reuse and recycle. I salute your initiative and enterprise and wish you every success for the future of the business.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Extern Recycle is a new and innovative project designed to meet the requirements of a European Directive, relating to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). The Directive requires that waste equipment, such as personal or business computers, is collected, treated, reused and recycled. Data Protection legislation demands that all information collected by an organisation must be destroyed when the medium on which it is stored becomes redundant. This is where Extern Recycle steps in, providing a full service which will ensure compliance with the Directive and an assurance for businesses that all data is securely destroyed.
2. For further information please contact Fionnuala Campbell DSD Information Office on 0289 0829 468. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.