Press Release
7 March 2001

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM MEETS IN LONDONDERRY

Creating a vibrant economy which produces employment and wealth for the future is a top priority for the Executive, Sir Reg Empey MLA, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, said at the seventh meeting of the Economic Development Forum, held today in Londonderry.

Sir Reg was joined in discussions by Dr Sean Farren, Minister for Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment and representatives of the major social partner organisations.

He said: "It is vital that we help and encourage Northern Ireland businesses to increase their productivity and improve their ability to compete successfully on a global basis."

The Economic Development Forum offers advice on all matters affecting the development and future competitiveness of the Northern Ireland economy. At the meeting today it considered the implications for medium term economic development priorities of the recent NIEC report "The Capabilities and Innovation Perspective: The Way Ahead in Northern Ireland" and provided its views on the priorities for a Regional Transportation Strategy for Northern Ireland.

The Forum also heard presentations from a number of local economic groups from the Londonderry area, chaired by the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce and including Derry Investment Initiative and The City Partnership Board. Cathal Logue, Chief Executive, Derry City Council, also addressed the Forum.

The Forum also discussed the present Foot and Mouth outbreak and its potential to impact severely in Northern Ireland where the agriculture sector is proportionately larger than for the UK as a whole.

Addressing the Forum Sir Reg said: "The Executive recognises the impact this highly infectious disease could have, not only on farming, but also on the wider economy, particularly the agri-food sector."

"I would stress the importance of each individual ensuring that they follow the advice issued yesterday by the Executive and act responsibly to help secure the containment and eradication of Foot and Mouth disease in Northern Ireland."

NOTES FOR EDITORS:

The membership of the Economic Development Forum is as follows: