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13/09/2004
Social economy sector 'to prosper' under new strategy
NIO Minister Barry Gardiner has today unveiled a three-pronged social economy plan designed to boost the sector's small businesses.
Launching the three-year plan, the Economy Minister said that social economy enterprises - including community businesses, credit unions, housing associations, local enterprise agencies and co-operatives - would be in line for support.
Recognised the role of the social economy as a "significant employer", Mr Gardner said that the new plan was designed to raise the profile of the social economy sector, increase its business strengths and provide a more supportive environment in which it can prosper.
"I value the strong social purpose and energetic entrepreneurial drive of businesses in the social economy," he said.
“We can help businesses access advice and support, gain better access to finance, and compete more successfully for public procurement opportunities. We can help by taking a more integrated approach within and outside government. We can assess business support needs, identify gaps and recommend priority areas."
He added: “In turn, not only will the economy prosper, but the social fabric of society will be strengthened as well.”
(MMCG/GMCG)
Launching the three-year plan, the Economy Minister said that social economy enterprises - including community businesses, credit unions, housing associations, local enterprise agencies and co-operatives - would be in line for support.
Recognised the role of the social economy as a "significant employer", Mr Gardner said that the new plan was designed to raise the profile of the social economy sector, increase its business strengths and provide a more supportive environment in which it can prosper.
"I value the strong social purpose and energetic entrepreneurial drive of businesses in the social economy," he said.
“We can help businesses access advice and support, gain better access to finance, and compete more successfully for public procurement opportunities. We can help by taking a more integrated approach within and outside government. We can assess business support needs, identify gaps and recommend priority areas."
He added: “In turn, not only will the economy prosper, but the social fabric of society will be strengthened as well.”
(MMCG/GMCG)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A mostly dry day, rather cloudy, but some sunny spells, best of these in the afternoon. A few showers spread south from late morning, turning wintry in the afternoon. Maximum temperature 5 °C.Tonight:A cold evening and night with a frost. It will be largely dry, but a few wintry showers towards the north coast overnight. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
