Londonderry Chamber President Dawn McLaughlin
Reacting to the publication of the Economy Minister’s Economic Recovery Action Plan, Londonderry Chamber President Dawn McLaughlin said:
“This is a welcome plan which will give businesses and our economy the foundation from which to recover and rebuild post-pandemic. The Chamber, alongside other business organisations, have been calling for a detailed plan and strategy from the Executive to support our businesses as they get back on their feet after an extremely difficult 12 months.
“Initiatives in the plan like the High Street Stimulus Scheme, a Tourism Voucher Scheme, more funding for skills, apprenticeships and a new Skills Strategy for NI, and the establishment of an AI Centre of Excellence are exciting proposals and will go some way to both stimulating economic activity again and building on existing strengths we have here in Northern Ireland.
“In particular, the commitment to support North West air connectivity with the rest of the UK with funding over the next two financial years is very welcome. Strong and reliable connectivity by air, road and rail is crucial for a region like ours and it is important that the Executive and the UK Government support these vital routes.
“This plan is a welcome first step for our economic recovery. We look forward to seeing the Executive’s roadmap out of restrictions next week to get a sense of when businesses can reopen, under what circumstances or stipulations, and when they can welcome their customers back.”