Ministers Attend First Council Of Nations And Regions Meeting

Northern Ireland's First and deputy First Minister, Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly, have attended the first meeting of the Council of Nations and Regions in Edinburgh.

The theme of the inaugural meeting was 'Economic Growth and Inward Investment', and the Ministers highlighted why Northern Ireland is an attractive investment opportunity and discussed how best to grow the economy here.

The Ministers also held a bi-lateral meeting with the Prime Minister during which they pressed the need for a fair funding model.

Speaking after the meeting, First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "We had the opportunity to speak to political leaders from across all areas of government in England, Wales and Scotland. We discussed how we can work together to maximise opportunities to grow our economies.

"Strengthening co-operation across these islands is important and by sharing challenges and priorities we can all learn from each other. "We also met with the Prime Minister and raised a number of issues, including the need for the immediate reinstatement of the Mid South West deal and the Causeway Coast and Glens deal. We also underlined the need for proper investment in public services, infrastructure and our public sector workers."

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: "Engagement is essential when it comes to developing closer working relationships and the meeting was an opportunity to discuss how we can all work together to deliver against shared objectives, particularly when it comes to investment.

"As with other forums such as the East West Council, meetings like this ensure we can discuss our priorities and identify those opportunities where together, we can make a difference.

"It is vital Northern Ireland can access national and regional funding opportunities to help strengthen our economy and yesterday's discussions are part of wider conversations about how we can work together to maximise our potential."