Stormont told to now focus on the economy
BUSINESS groups and the trades union movement responded with one voice to news of the deal on justice and policing yesterday, calling on all parties to refocus their efforts on restoring the economy.
As details of the agreement reached spread across the Province, Peter Bunting of the Irish Congress of Trades Unions said the Hillsborough deal promised the “unclogging” of the legislative system, clearing the way for real action from the Assembly.
Glyn Roberts of the independent retail group NIIRTA stressed the threat of crime to small businesses, while the Business Alliance representing the main employers groups said it was good news for the business community as a whole.
“It is crucial that the primacy of politics is seen to work and is seen to deliver, especially on the economy and we sincerely hope that the promise of a new US-backed investment conference delivers on what this society needs most – more high-quality and sustainable employment,” Mr Bunting, ICTU Assistant General Secretary.
“It is essential that all of the parties who have signed up to this deal now continue in the spirit of co-operation we saw this morning and work together to address all of the outstanding issues, such as jobs, action on sectarianism and a comprehensive Bill of Rights for all of the people of Northern Ireland.”
Mr Roberts said it was imperative that the parties build in such a significant advance.
“This has been a good day for our economy,” he said.
“Political stability is an essential element in building a successful economy and I hope that the Castle Agreement plays a role in that regard.
“There is no more important issue facing our small business community than that of tackling crime. Earlier this week we brought a delegation of small traders, victims of the recent ATM robberies, who need to see Policing and Justice deliver for their businesses”
CBI Northern Ireland Director Nigel Smyth said that the Executive had achieved much the agreement paved the way for a great deal more to be accomplished.
“The interests of all of the people of Northern Ireland are best served by having a local devolved administration, with an effective working Executive,” he said.
“Our members will welcome the package of measures announced today, including the commitment to tackle the ‘dysfunctionality’ of the Executive. They will also welcome the commitment to address the backlog of papers and legislation. We need an Executive which is agile and responsive and which puts the future of Northern Ireland first – the future of our younger generation rests in their hands.”
Joanne Stuart, Chairman of the Institute of Directors, said a return to economic issues was vital.
“We welcome the announcement of agreement by the parties on policing and justice. This will contribute to the image of stability in our political structures, which will in turn impact positively on the confidence of local businesses, and of external investors, in the future of Northern Ireland.”
Declan Kelly, the US Economic Envoy to Northern Ireland, described the agreement as another important step forward by Northern Ireland, its government and its people.
“It is a moment where the world can see yet again that through the co-operation and partnership of all political parties and communities of interest, Northern Ireland is taking a firm hand in shaping its own future.
“From a business standpoint this agreement sends a clear message to investors all over the world, including potential investors from the United States, that Northern Ireland continues to make tremendous progress in becoming one of the most attractive in the world for inward investment and economic development.’’
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Weather for Belfast
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
