NI Must 'Grasp The Economic Opportunities Available' – SDLP

The Northern Ireland Investment Summit has highlighted the need to "grasp the economic opportunities available", SDLP Economy Spokesperson Sinéad McLaughlin has said.

Speaking after attending the summit on Wednesday, 13 September, Ms McLaughlin said that the summit was a "fantastic opportunity" to showcase what Northern Ireland can offer investors.

Ms McLaughlin said: "There was a real positivity in the room and it was inspiring to hear directly from businesses leaders, including local entrepreneurs, about the potential that exists. The Windsor Framework and dual market access have given us an advantage that we cannot afford to waste and that was the resounding message from those attending (the) summit.

"We have a supremely talented workforce and this has been cited time and time again by those opening companies here and as this summit and the recent visit by President Biden showed, we have huge potential to attract more investment in future. Continuing to invest in education, skills and infrastructure will be key to securing that funding."

Ms McLaughlin also highlighted the impact that the lack of a functioning Executive and Assembly at Stormont is having on attracting inward investment.

She continued: "Many businesses will think twice about investing somewhere without any political leadership or direction. We need to look to the future and focus on building an inclusive and cohesive community, rather than operating with one hand tied behind our backs."

Ms McLaughlin concluded: "It's clear from this summit that the North has a growing reputation as an attractive place for businesses. To make the most of the opportunities and potential that were discussed today, we need an Executive and Assembly up and running to send a clear message that we are open for business and the SDLP will keep fighting to ensure that communities across the North benefit as a result."