Economic Development Forum steps up action

Taking specific action to address weaknesses in the Northern Ireland economy to ensure that the region is in a strong position to prosper in the face of increasing global competition is a key objective of the Economic Development Forum.

This was the message from Ian Pearson, NIO Office Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, following the launch in Newry of the Forum’s Action Plan which details some 58 specific actions to be taken by key contributors to improve Northern Ireland’s economic performance over the next eight years.

The Minister said: “To help bring about the desired shift in economic performance, we need to be capable of successfully attracting inward investment in high technology based areas and improving the international competitiveness of indigenous business. These have been identified as key outcomes in the Action Plan, as has the need to increase links between businesses, universities and further education and to increase the level of company R&D activity.

“The creation of a more supportive culture for enterprise and greater celebration of the achievement of successful Northern Ireland entrepreneurs is another key outcome.”

The Minister said that today’s publication delivers a commitment made last June when the Forum published its strategic framework document, “Working Together for a Stronger Economy”.

He continued: “This Action Plan reinforces the Forum’s commitment to working in partnership to strengthen the local economy. In developing its Plan, the Forum focused attention on the key areas of greatest importance. Current and planned activity by all sectors has been reviewed and gaps identified. The agreed additional actions describe the specific activities to be taken by key contributors to help achieve the economic targets set by the Forum for the year 2010.”

Following the launch of the Action Plan, and a tour by EDF members of the Institute campus which included a visit to Phase I of the refurbishment of the Technology, Computing and Creativity Faculty, and the e-Learning Centre, Ian Pearson welcomed members to the 15th meeting of the Forum.

(MB)