Invest NI to open regional office in Fermanagh

Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment has confirmed that Invest NI is to site a new regional office in Enniskillen.

During a meeting with Fermanagh District Council the Minister said: “While the precise details of the new office have not been finalised, Invest NI recognises that having a presence in the town will mean that the combined services of the new Agency will be more accessible to new and indigenous businesses in the county. It will also help raise the profile of Invest NI and help Fermanagh raise its profile as an attractive business location.”

The Minister also discussed a range of issues of concern to the area, including job losses in the agriculture and textile sectors, the effect of the Foot and Mouth outbreak on local tourism revenue, the introduction of aggregate tax for quarries and the consequences of a tightening local economy for retailers in the area.

Sir Reg revealed that Fermanagh District Council area had one of the highest number of small businesses in Northern Ireland with over 99% of the total business base falling into the small business category.

He said: “Fermanagh is heavily reliant on micro business and this will continue to be the case until replacement investment is secured to counteract the significant job losses in 2000 and 2001 in the medium to large externally owned sector. Invest NI is actively seeking new investment from outside and efforts are being made to engender more competitiveness and innovation within its existing clients base.”

The Minister also said that he was keen to see the rollout of broadband which had the potential to offer the best opportunities for the development of business in rural areas.

He added: “My Department is fully committed to improving accessibility to broadband across Northern Ireland and we have the resources to make this happen. Fermanagh’s Councillors have an important role in helping stimulate demand and encouraging local businesses to look at the various options available. Invest NI’s e-Solutions Centre in Lisburn can help companies decide which broadband technology is suitable for their needs.”

Councillors also raised other issues including planning, insurance for business, hospital care and air access with the Minister.

(MB)