PRESS RELEASE
04 December 2008

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM REVIEWS IMPACT OF GLOBAL DOWNTURN AND CREDIT CRUNCH

The Economic Development Forum (EDF) chaired by the Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster, met in Belfast yesterday.
It discussed the current economic situation, the importance of developing skills, and the need for affordable credit for firms and customers.

EDF is made up of representatives from business, the voluntary and community sector, higher and further education, trade unions and government.

Speaking after the meeting the Minister said: "We have established a sub-group of EDF to bring forward urgent recommendations on further steps that might be taken to help businesses through the current economic downturn.

"Businesses in Northern Ireland are making hard choices to remain profitable and competitive in the current economic climate. I and my Executive colleagues will do everything, within our powers, to support companies through this difficult time."

Members welcomed the measures which the Executive and the Government has already put in place to respond to the current economic slowdown.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1. The 37th meeting of the Economic Development Forum (EDF) took place on Thursday 4 December at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast. The meeting included a special session on the current economic climate. A full representation of EDF members from business, the voluntary and community sector, higher and further education, trade unions and government took part in the discussions.

2. Dates of EDF meetings as well as background information on the work of the Forum are available from www.edfni.com. Minutes of all Forum meetings will be published on the Forum's website once agreed by Forum members. Papers for meetings are also available on request.

3. The agenda of the meeting on 4 December 2008 covered perspectives on the current economic situation from DETI, the Business Alliance and the Trade Unions. Under the Skills item the agenda focused on Managerial Skills, Training Our Way out of Recession, Skills in the Workplace, and Developing Literacy and Numeracy Skills in the School System. The terms of reference for the Review of Economic Development Policy (DETI / Invest NI) were also discussed.

4. Media enquires to DETI Press Office on 028 9052 9297 or email: pressoffice@detini.gov.uk. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.