Empey says regulation makes sound business sense

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Sir Reg Empey, has stressed the need for greater partnership between businesses and regulatory bodies

Speaking at the launch of a series of free seminars organised by DETI’s Trading Standards Service, Sir Reg said: "It is absolutely essential that regulators work closely with commerce and industry. Legal requirements need to be explained in terms that business people, particularly those working in small to medium sized enterprises, can easily understand.

"It is also important that businesses feel their concerns are being listened to and addressed. I believe that the way forward lies in the creation of partnership between businesses who must comply with the law and those who have the job of enforcing it."

The series of seminars aims to offer advice and information on how regulatory bodies can help businesses in Northern Ireland, and will take place in various locations throughout the province in October.

Entitled 'Unburden your business – how the regulators can help', the events will include input from the Food Standards Agency, the Health & Safety Executive, Inland Revenue and the Trading Standards Service.

Commenting on the announcement, Rosemary Armstrong of the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "This initiative is particularly welcomed by our members. Improving the flow of information and concerns between business and regulators can only be good for small businesses." (CL)