Junior Ministers and have reaffirmed the
Executive's commitment to growing the economy and improving the
lives of all our people.
They were speaking at an investor showcase, hosted by Antrim and
Newtownabbey Borough Council, at the Houses of Parliament in
London.
The ‘Antrim Newtownabbey: AN Investment that delivers' event set
out the council's investment proposition in key growth sectors
such as advanced manufacturing, logistics and supply chain
management, aerospace, and health and life sciences.
Addressing more than 120 business leaders, political
representatives and potential investors at the event, the Junior
Ministers praised the council's ambition and determination to
attract inward investment, grow the economy and create jobs.
Junior Minister Bunting said: “This showcase provides a fantastic
platform to promote the borough's investment opportunities,
strategic assets and business environment, and to strengthen
relationships and create new pathways for partnerships and
growth.
“As an Executive, and through our Programme for Government, we
want to build an economy that is innovative, inclusive, and
outward-looking.
“We want the world to know that Northern Ireland can punch above
its weight on a global scale, and events like today's showcase
are key to realising that vision.”
Junior Minister Reilly said: “Attracting inward investment,
building strong partnerships, seizing new opportunities, and
creating the right conditions for growth are all essential to
delivering the Executive's economic vision: a productive,
regionally balanced economy that supports good, well-paid jobs.
“The Executive is committed to working with local government,
academia, industry and wider partners to drive sustainable
economic growth, strengthen our public services and build a
fairer, more prosperous society for everyone.”
During their visit to London, the Junior Ministers also attended
a research showcase, hosted by Queen's University Belfast.
The event, held in the Terrace Pavilion at the Houses of
Parliament, showcased the university's world-leading research and
innovation to politicians and policymakers.
Junior Minister Reilly said: “It was great that while we were in
London we got the opportunity to show our support for Queen's
University's latest research showcase.
“The impressive exhibits and live demonstrations showed how
Queen's is leading the way in research across areas such as
advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, clean energy and
life sciences – vital work which supports the Executive's
strategy aimed at driving innovation, skills, growth and regional
balance.”
Junior Minister Bunting added: “This important event highlights
how the globally-recognised expertise and research strengths of
Queen's University can play a key role in driving economic
growth, creating new jobs, and help us meet challenges such as
transforming our public services.
“It is vital that we continue to harness the potential offered by
forming partnerships and working collaboratively across
government, academia and industry to achieve those goals and
improve people's lives.”
