Minister Launches NI Partnering For Growth

Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Arlene Foster launched an innovative strategy to secure the future prosperity of the Northern Ireland aerospace, defence, security and space sectors.

The document entitled Northern Ireland Partnering for Growth outlines plans to more than double revenues from the aerospace, defence, security and space sectors in Northern Ireland to over £2bn per year. In doing so, it is hoped that these high-value sectors will increase direct employment from 8,000 to 12,000 in the next decade.

Speaking at the official launch in Parliament Buildings, Arlene Foster said: "Northern Ireland aerospace, defence, security and space companies not only make an important contribution to the local economy, but they also ensure the UK remains Europe's number one aerospace manufacturer and second only to the US globally.

"The development of this strategy is the result of successful collaboration between industry and government to identify Northern Ireland's core industrial strengths and develop a strategic plan to maximise competitive advantage, boost jobs and increase trade opportunities.

"I welcome the emphasis that is being placed on skills development, supply chain excellence and research & development, as well as the extension of global reach. I have confidence that we will continue to make a vital contribution to sustaining UK aerospace’s position at the forefront of technology development and I look forward to seeing strong growth in the coming years."

The development of the strategy has been led by the Council of ADS Northern Ireland, the aerospace, defence, security and space trade organisation. It has been developed in close collaboration with Invest Northern Ireland, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Department for Employment and Learning.

(CD/JP)