Trade NI, the alliance of Hospitality Ulster, Retail NI and Manufacturing NI spearhead a major business delegation at Westminster to press the case for reduced regulatory burden on businesses and a more favourable economic environment for Northern Ireland.
Supported by DWF, the event saw the major lobby super group, Trade NI, seize the critical opportunity to push for investment, support, and solutions to the challenges facing the region.
The event comes at a time when changes in National Insurance Contributions have increased costs for businesses; exorbitant hospitality VAT continues to place strain on profitability, and greater investment in skills is required to keep Northern Ireland competitive. Other challenges also remain, particularly around the apprenticeship levy and the wider UK migration regime not meeting the needs of the local economy.
The Trade NI delegation and guests were also hosted by the US Embassy in London at a reception.
Speaking jointly, the representatives of Trade NI, Colin Neill (Hospitality Ulster), Stephen Kelly (Manufacturing NI) and Glyn Roberts (Retail NI) said:
“Whilst it is easy to get caught up in the relentless news about tariffs and trade deals we must retain our focus on Northern Ireland and how we can collectively increase productivity, reduce the regulatory burden on businesses; increase the skills base; address VAT issues and deliver greater outputs. We can only do that if we have effective economic levers in place – some of which are within the gift of decision makers in Parliament and Whitehall.”
“Our Westminster lobby event was a vital opportunity to be able to discuss the key concerns of the business community with national political decision makers and help them understand the priorities needed for Northern Ireland, and to promote Northern Ireland as a great place to locate or start a business.”
“Of course we are not immune or insulated from what is going on internationally, we need to keep showcasing our region and how it is primed for new opportunities to grow and prosper. We have some of the best talent, best services, and best products available on the global stage, but greater responsiveness is needed if we are to meet our economic potential.”
Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP:
“The Prime Minister's recent announcements on new trade deals with the US, India, and the EU, are great news for businesses and consumers in NI, opening up further opportunities for Northern Ireland exporters and providing them with access to two of the world's largest economies.”
