Birnie welcomes news of improved Economic Growth
Ulster Unionist candidate for South Belfast, Esmond Birnie has today welcomed news of improved economic growth that has created a record number of jobs.
An Ulster Bank survey has found January’s growth to be the highest since August 2002, with the number of posts set to double if economic growth continues. Growth levels are at their highest since 2004, above the UK average, and there was a marked rise in new business.
Mr Birnie said: “This is very welcome news, under a devolved Assembly, we could do so much to assist and facilitate this growth, we had some excellent debates in the Assembly concerning issues such as industrial de rating and workplace 2010.
“This marked contrast to how Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Wales described
“The hard work of Northern Ireland businesses deserve a devolved administration that will that work with our businesses and not – like Peter Hain – against them.
“Under devolved institutions, we could effectively build on this to develop our economy and really build up a new Northern Ireland for all of us.”