Co-operation Key For Building A Competitive And Dynamic Northern Economy - Donaldson

Speaking in the Great Hall at Queen's University in Belfast, Mr Donaldson acknowledged the work of the Institute Of Directors in promoting North/South economic links and stressed the importance the Executive places on developing such links.

Mr Donaldson said: "A strong and dynamic economy focused on high productivity is essential in building a peaceful, fair, and prosperous society where everyone can enjoy a better quality of life.

"One of our key tasks must be to create more jobs in highly productive, export-orientated sectors. Northern Ireland needs to be outward-looking. We need to have industries that can compete successfully in the global market place and move to a more knowledge-based economy."

Mr Donaldson told the audience that the government is pro-business and committed to building a vibrant economy for Northern Ireland.

"The Executive's message is clear - Northern Ireland is open for business. The publication of our Programme for Government, Budget and Investment Strategy set out the Executive's long term vision and direction and details measures we intend to take over the next three years to deliver on our commitment to build a peaceful, fair and prosperous society."

Mr Donaldson concluded: "The pace of globalisation continues unabated. All modern economies must manage the transition to high value added activity and Northern Ireland is no exception.

"There are challenges ahead, but North/South and East/West co-operation based on mutual benefit, can help to tackle these challenges. It is clear, to be competitive globally we must work together, where practical, to exploit the opportunities to grow our economy."