Commissioner Hubner is on a visit to Northern Ireland to discuss how the special European Commission Taskforce, announced by European President Jose Manuel Barroso on May 1, will be established.
Dr Paisley attended the lunchtime meeting with Finance Minister, Rt Hon Peter Robinson MP, MLA.
Afterwards, Dr Paisley said: “It was a very positive meeting with Commissioner Hübner and she is most welcome. We want to take every opportunity to harness support from Europe for the new Executive in Northern Ireland. We are determined to build the case for Northern Ireland in Europe and we have already made progress in this respect.
“I am very encouraged by the positive attitude the European Union has towards Northern Ireland. The Presidential Taskforce, set up after the deputy First Minister and I met with President Barroso, is a key vehicle in promoting, growth, innovation and jobs. The visit today by Commissioner Hübner is an important step in putting the promise arising from President Barroso’s visit, into action. After all, a Presidential Taskforce is fairly unique and represents a considerable opportunity for Northern Ireland.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
- Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was unable to attend the lunch due to previous diary commitments.
- For further information, please contact Philip Maguire First Minister’s Press Office telephone 02890 521375 mobile 07788108657.
