British and Irish government initiative unveiled

The British and Irish governments are due to release a blueprint outlining a groundbreaking all-Ireland economy.

The move follows a meeting between Irish Foreign Minister Dermot Ahern and Northern Ireland Secretary of State - where they decided that co-ordinated policies would deliver benefits to citizens and businesses both in the north and south of the Irish border.

This will be done by combining resources in overseas trade promotions, by mixing the right skills to support sustained growth, greater collaboration in research and development, and developing a world class infrastructure.

The move is expected to focus on increasing co-operation in infrastructure, science, technology and innovation, trade and investment promotion, labour market and skills and enterprise and business development.

The Irish Foreign Minister said that the blueprint makes clear the strong economic imperative driving North/South co-operation.

Commenting on the initiative, Secretary of State, Peter Hain, said: "It sets out a compelling vision of a strong competitive and socially inclusive island economy with island wide clusters whose strength and development is not impaired by the existence of a political border.

"This must be our aim if we are to move forward and deliver sustained economic benefits for everyone. I look forward to further development and implementation of the goals and actions contained in the Study both in the weeks to come and as part of the agenda of the restored institutions."

The two governments, along with business representatives, trade unions and other key stakeholders, will now collaborate to develop a detailed programme of work in each of the areas identified, as well as searching for further opportunities for co-operation in the education and health sectors.

(EF)